Integrated electrode plate frame and flow battery
By integrating the positive and negative electrode flow channels into the flow battery using an integrated electrode plate frame, the sealing surface is reduced and the flow path is adjusted, thus solving the problems of leakage and energy loss in flow batteries and achieving both safety and energy-saving effects.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HANGZHOU OXYGEN PLANT GRP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-01
AI Technical Summary
The existing AB plate structure of flow batteries results in a large number of sealing surfaces, a high risk of leakage, a long electrolyte flow path, high flow resistance, and high energy loss.
An integrated electrode plate frame is adopted, which integrates the positive and negative electrode flow channels on the plate frame body, reducing the number of sealing surfaces. The flow resistance can be adjusted by adjusting the electrolyte flow path through the sliding flow channels.
It reduces the risk of leakage, improves safety and reliability, reduces energy consumption, adapts to different working conditions, and has good applicability.
Smart Images

Figure CN121964701A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to an integrated electrode plate frame and flow battery. Background Technology
[0002] Flow batteries are a crucial technology in the energy storage field, and the performance and cost of their core working unit, the fuel cell stack, directly determine the overall system's market competitiveness. Vanadium redox flow batteries, due to their relatively low single-cell power, require multiple cells to be connected in series to form a stack to increase overall power. However, current flow battery stacks face the critical issue of excessively high costs. Among the core materials of the stack, bipolar plates and ion-conducting membranes account for a relatively high proportion of the price, becoming a major bottleneck restricting their large-scale adoption.
[0003] A conventional single-cell flow battery consists of core components such as electrodes, ion-conducting membranes, electrode frames, bipolar plates, current collectors, and end plates. These components work together to ensure the stable operation of the stack. The bipolar plates play a crucial role in isolating the electrolyte between individual cells and collecting and conducting current; the ion-conducting membranes perform the key function of ion transfer. Structurally, conventional single-cell flow batteries often employ an AB plate structure, where electrode frame A, ion-conducting membrane, electrode frame B, and bipolar plates are stacked sequentially, and then other components such as electrodes are added layer by layer, ultimately assembling dozens of individual cells into a complete stack.
[0004] However, flow batteries using the AB plate structure have several drawbacks. First, the AB plate structure requires sealing a large number of surfaces, significantly increasing the risk of battery leakage and threatening the stability of the stack operation. Second, because the stack consists of multiple individual flow batteries, the electrolyte has a longer internal flow path, resulting in greater flow resistance and higher energy loss. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an integrated electrode plate and frame and a flow battery that has a low risk of leakage, high safety and reliability, low energy loss, and good energy-saving effect.
[0006] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0007] On one hand, an integrated electrode plate frame is provided for use in a flow battery, the integrated electrode plate frame comprising:
[0008] The plate frame body has a positive electrode reaction area and a negative electrode reaction area on both sides along the first direction, and has two positive electrode mounting slots and two negative electrode mounting slots.
[0009] Two positive electrode flow channels are provided, which are used for the inflow and outflow of positive electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of each positive electrode flow channel is provided with a first positive electrode opening that communicates with the positive electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the positive electrode mounting groove. The other end is provided with a second positive electrode opening that communicates with the positive electrode electrolyte channel and is slidably disposed in the positive electrode mounting groove to be close to or away from the first positive electrode opening.
[0010] Two negative electrode flow channels are provided, which are used for the inflow and outflow of negative electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of each negative electrode flow channel is provided with a first negative electrode opening that communicates with the negative electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the negative electrode mounting groove. The other end is provided with a second negative electrode opening that communicates with the negative electrode electrolyte channel and is slidably disposed in the negative electrode mounting groove to be close to or away from the first negative electrode opening.
[0011] Optionally, the positive electrode mounting groove includes a positive electrode fixing groove section, a positive electrode intermediate groove section, and a positive electrode sliding groove section. The positive electrode fixing groove section and the positive electrode reaction zone are located on the same side of the plate frame body. The positive electrode intermediate groove section and the positive electrode sliding groove section are located on the same side of the plate frame body as the negative electrode reaction zone. The positive electrode mounting groove also includes a through hole that penetrates the plate frame body and connects the positive electrode fixing groove section and the positive electrode intermediate groove section. The positive electrode flow channel component includes a positive electrode elastic tube and a positive electrode sliding ring. One end of the positive electrode elastic tube with a first positive electrode opening is embedded in the positive electrode fixing groove section. The other end of the positive electrode elastic tube with a second positive electrode opening passes through the through hole and is embedded in the positive electrode intermediate groove section and the positive electrode sliding groove section. The positive electrode sliding ring is slidably placed in the positive electrode sliding groove section and connected to the positive electrode elastic tube. The positive electrode sliding ring also has a positive electrode flow channel hole that communicates with the second positive electrode opening.
[0012] Optionally, the positive electrode sliding groove segment includes a positive limit groove, a positive electrode insertion groove, and a positive electrode sliding through hole. The positive limit groove is located on the side of the positive electrode sliding groove segment near the positive electrode reaction zone. The positive electrode insertion groove is formed within the positive limit groove. The positive electrode sliding through hole is formed within the positive electrode insertion groove and penetrates the plate frame body. The portion of the positive electrode elastic tube embedded in the positive electrode sliding groove segment is placed within the positive electrode sliding through hole. The positive electrode sliding ring includes a positive electrode insertion part and a positive limit part. The positive electrode insertion part is located on the side of the positive electrode elastic tube facing the positive electrode reaction zone and is inserted into the positive electrode insertion groove. The positive limit part is located on the side of the positive electrode insertion part away from the positive electrode elastic tube and is inserted into the positive limit groove. The positive electrode flow channel hole penetrates the positive limit part, the positive electrode insertion part, and the positive electrode elastic tube.
[0013] Optionally, the negative electrode mounting groove includes a negative electrode fixing groove section and a negative electrode sliding groove section. The negative electrode fixing groove section and the negative electrode sliding groove section are located on the same side of the plate frame body as the negative electrode reaction area. The negative electrode fixing groove section is Z-shaped and connects the negative electrode reaction area and the negative electrode sliding groove section. The negative electrode flow channel component includes a negative electrode elastic tube and a negative electrode sliding ring. One end of the negative electrode elastic tube with the first negative electrode opening is embedded in the negative electrode fixing groove section, and the other end of the negative electrode elastic tube with the second negative electrode opening is embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove section. The negative electrode sliding ring is slidably placed in the negative electrode sliding groove section and connected to the negative electrode elastic tube. The negative electrode sliding ring also has a negative electrode flow channel hole communicating with the second negative electrode opening.
[0014] Optionally, the negative electrode sliding groove section includes a negative limit groove, a negative electrode insertion groove, and a negative electrode sliding through hole. The negative limit groove is located on the side of the negative electrode sliding groove section near the positive electrode reaction zone. The negative electrode insertion groove is formed within the negative limit groove. The negative electrode sliding through hole is formed within the negative electrode insertion groove and penetrates the plate frame body. The portion of the negative electrode elastic tube embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove section is placed within the negative electrode sliding through hole. The negative electrode sliding ring includes a negative electrode insertion part and a negative limit part. The negative electrode insertion part is located on the side of the negative electrode elastic tube facing the positive electrode reaction zone and is inserted into the negative electrode insertion groove. The negative limit part is located on the side of the negative electrode insertion part away from the negative electrode elastic tube and is inserted into the negative limit groove. The negative electrode flow channel hole penetrates the negative limit part, the negative electrode insertion part, and the negative electrode elastic tube.
[0015] Optionally, the flow battery includes a bipolar plate and an ion-conducting membrane. The plate frame body has a first receiving groove and a second receiving groove on both sides along the first direction for accommodating the bipolar plate, and a through structure that passes through the plate frame body to connect the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove. The ion-conducting membrane is disposed at the through structure and separates the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove. The positive electrode reaction region is disposed in the first receiving groove, and the negative electrode reaction region is disposed in the second receiving groove.
[0016] Optionally, the first receiving groove is provided with an assembly groove, and the integrated electrode plate frame further includes a fixing plate frame, which is placed in the assembly groove, and the ion conduction membrane is sandwiched between the fixing plate frame and the plate frame body.
[0017] Optionally, a positive electrode receiving groove is formed on the side of the fixed plate frame away from the ion conducting membrane, and a negative electrode receiving groove is formed in the second receiving groove. The flow battery also includes a positive electrode sheet and a negative electrode sheet, with the positive electrode sheet placed in the positive electrode receiving groove and the negative electrode sheet placed in the negative electrode receiving groove.
[0018] Optionally, the positive electrode flow channel for the inflow of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode flow channel for the inflow of the negative electrode electrolyte are both located below the plate frame body along the second direction and spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel for the outflow of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode flow channel for the outflow of the negative electrode electrolyte are both located above the plate frame body along the second direction and spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel for the inflow of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode flow channel for the outflow of the negative electrode electrolyte are located on the same side of the third direction, and the positive electrode flow channel for the outflow of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode flow channel for the inflow of the negative electrode electrolyte are located on the same side of the third direction.
[0019] On the other hand, a flow battery is provided, the flow battery including an integrated electrode plate frame as described in any of the preceding claims.
[0020] The beneficial effects of this invention are:
[0021] This invention provides an integrated electrode plate frame. This integrated electrode plate frame not only integrates a positive electrode reaction region and a negative electrode reaction region on the main body of the frame, but also integrates two positive electrode flow channels for positive electrolyte inflow and outflow onto the main body via two positive electrode mounting slots, and two negative electrode flow channels for negative electrolyte inflow and outflow onto the main body via two negative electrode mounting slots. This integrates the traditional AB plate structure into one unit, reducing the number of components and the number of sealing surfaces required, thus simplifying the sealing structure and improving efficiency. This improves the reliability of the seal, reduces the risk of leakage, and because the end of the positive electrode flow channel with the second positive electrode opening and the end of the negative electrode flow channel with the second negative electrode opening can slide along the positive electrode mounting groove and the negative electrode mounting groove respectively, the length of the flow path of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode electrolyte in the positive electrode flow channel and the negative electrode flow channel can be changed by adjusting the distance between the first positive electrode opening and the second positive electrode opening and the distance between the first negative electrode opening and the second negative electrode opening, respectively. This allows for the adjustment of flow resistance, thereby reducing energy consumption and achieving energy saving.
[0022] The present invention also provides a flow battery that, by applying the above-mentioned integrated electrode plate frame, has fewer sealing surfaces, thereby reducing the risk of leakage, improving the safety and reliability of use, and having good applicability by changing the flow resistance to match different operating conditions. Attached Figure Description
[0023] Figure 1 This is a front view of the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0024] Figure 2This is a rear view of the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0025] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the integrated electrode plate frame structure provided by the present invention;
[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the front structure of the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of the structure of the middle W section;
[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the back structure of the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0029] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of the structure of section X in the middle;
[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode flow channel component in the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0031] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode flow channel component in the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixed plate frame in the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention;
[0033] Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the structure of the flow battery using the integrated electrode plate frame provided by the present invention.
[0034] In the picture:
[0035] 100. Bipolar plate; 200. Ion-conducting membrane; 300. Positive electrode; 400. Negative electrode;
[0036] 1. Plate frame body; 11. Positive electrode mounting groove; 111. Positive electrode fixing groove section; 112. Positive electrode intermediate groove section; 113. Positive electrode sliding groove section; 1131. Positive limit groove; 1132. Positive electrode insertion groove; 1133. Positive electrode sliding through hole; 114. Through hole; 12. Negative electrode mounting groove; 121. Negative electrode fixing groove section; 122. Negative electrode sliding groove section; 1221. Negative limit groove; 1222. Negative electrode insertion groove; 1223. Negative electrode sliding through hole; 13. First receiving groove; 14. Second receiving groove; 15. Through structure; 16. Assembly groove; 17. Negative electrode receiving groove;
[0037] 2. Positive electrode flow channel component; 21. First positive electrode opening; 22. Second positive electrode opening; 23. Positive electrode elastic tube; 24. Positive electrode sliding ring; 241. Positive electrode insertion part; 242. Positive limit position part; 25. Positive electrode flow channel hole;
[0038] 3. Negative electrode flow channel component; 31. First negative electrode opening; 32. Second negative electrode opening; 33. Negative electrode elastic tube; 34. Negative electrode sliding ring; 341. Negative electrode insertion part; 342. Negative limit position part; 35. Negative electrode flow channel hole;
[0039] 4. Fixed plate frame; 41. Positive electrode receiving slot. Detailed Implementation
[0040] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, and not all of the structures.
[0041] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0042] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0043] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for distinction in description and have no special meaning.
[0044] Traditional single-cell flow batteries use an AB plate structure, which results in a large number of sealing surfaces, a higher risk of battery leakage, and a long internal flow path for the electrolyte, leading to greater flow resistance and higher energy loss.
[0045] Therefore, to reduce the risk of leakage, improve safety and reliability, reduce energy loss, and enhance energy efficiency, this embodiment provides an integrated electrode plate frame for use in a flow battery. For ease of description, the thickness direction of the integrated electrode plate frame is defined as the first direction, the height direction as the second direction, and the length direction as the third direction.
[0046] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, the integrated electrode plate frame includes a plate frame body 1, two positive electrode flow channels 2, and two negative electrode flow channels 3. The plate frame body 1 has positive electrode reaction zones and negative electrode reaction zones on both sides along a first direction, and has two positive electrode mounting slots 11 and two negative electrode mounting slots 12. The two positive electrode flow channels 2 are used for the inflow and outflow of the positive electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of the positive electrode flow channel 2 has a first positive electrode opening 21 communicating with the positive electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the positive electrode mounting slot 11; the other end has an opening communicating with the positive electrode electrolyte. The second positive electrode opening 22 is connected to the channel and is slidably disposed in the positive electrode mounting groove 11 to be close to or away from the first positive electrode opening 21. The two negative electrode flow channels 3 are used for the inflow and outflow of the negative electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of the negative electrode flow channel 3 is provided with a first negative electrode opening 31 connected to the negative electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the negative electrode mounting groove 12. The other end is provided with a second negative electrode opening 32 connected to the negative electrode electrolyte channel and is slidably disposed in the negative electrode mounting groove 12 to be close to or away from the first negative electrode opening 31.
[0047] This integrated electrode plate frame not only integrates the positive and negative electrode reaction areas on the plate frame body 1, but also integrates two positive electrode flow channels 2 for positive electrolyte inflow and outflow onto the plate frame body 1 via two positive electrode mounting grooves 11, and two negative electrode flow channels 3 for negative electrolyte inflow and outflow onto the plate frame body 1 via two negative electrode mounting grooves 12. This integrates the traditional AB plate structure into one unit, reducing the number of parts and the number of sealing surfaces required, simplifying the sealing structure, improving sealing reliability, and reducing leakage. The risk of liquid leakage is mitigated. Furthermore, since one end of the positive electrode flow channel 2 with the second positive electrode opening 22 and the other end of the negative electrode flow channel 3 with the second negative electrode opening 32 can slide along the positive electrode mounting groove 11 and the negative electrode mounting groove 12 respectively, the length of the flow path of the positive electrode electrolyte and the negative electrode electrolyte in the positive electrode flow channel 2 and the negative electrode flow channel 3 can be changed by adjusting the distance between the first positive electrode opening 21 and the second positive electrode opening 22 and the distance between the first negative electrode opening 31 and the second negative electrode opening 32, thereby adjusting the flow resistance, reducing energy consumption, and achieving energy saving.
[0048] Optionally, such as Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the positive electrode mounting groove 11 includes a positive electrode fixing groove section 111, a positive electrode intermediate groove section 112, and a positive electrode sliding groove section 113. The positive electrode fixing groove section 111 and the positive electrode reaction area are located on the same side of the plate frame body 1. The positive electrode intermediate groove section 112 and the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 are located on the same side of the plate frame body 1 as the negative electrode reaction area. The positive electrode mounting groove 11 also includes a through hole 114, which penetrates the plate frame body 1 and connects the positive electrode fixing groove section 111 and the positive electrode intermediate groove section 112. The positive electrode flow channel component 2 includes a positive electrode... The positive electrode elastic tube 23 and the positive electrode sliding ring 24 are provided. One end of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 with a first positive electrode opening 21 is embedded in the positive electrode fixed groove section 111. The other end of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 with a second positive electrode opening 22 passes through the through hole 114 and is embedded in the positive electrode intermediate groove section 112 and the positive electrode sliding groove section 113. The positive electrode sliding ring 24 is slidably placed in the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 and connected to the positive electrode elastic tube 23. The positive electrode sliding ring 24 is also provided with a positive electrode flow channel hole 25 that communicates with the second positive electrode opening 22.
[0049] By setting up a positive electrode mounting groove 11 consisting of a positive electrode fixing groove 111, a positive electrode intermediate groove 112, and a positive electrode sliding groove 113, on the one hand, by embedding a part of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 in the positive electrode fixing groove 111 and the positive electrode intermediate groove 112, and embedding another part of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 in the positive electrode sliding groove 113 and connecting it with the positive electrode sliding ring 24, it is possible to fix the part of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 near the first positive electrode opening 21, and to allow the part of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 connected to the positive electrode sliding ring 24 to slide, thereby adjusting the distance between the first positive electrode opening 21 and the second positive electrode opening 22; on the other hand, by using the through hole 114 through the plate frame body 1 to connect the positive electrode fixing groove 111 and the positive electrode intermediate groove 112, the positive electrode elastic tube 23 can be inserted into the through hole 114, so that the positive electrode elastic tube 23 is fixed on the plate frame body 1 and prevents it from falling off. Furthermore, since the positive electrode fixing groove section 111 and the positive electrode reaction area are located on the same side of the plate frame body 1, the positive electrode intermediate groove section 112 and the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 are located on the same side of the negative electrode reaction area. This allows the various groove sections of the positive electrode mounting groove 11 to be staggered and partitioned, avoiding their placement on the same side of the plate frame body 1, which would weaken the structural strength of the plate frame body 1.
[0050] In this embodiment, multiple integrated electrode plate frames within the fuel cell stack are stacked sequentially, causing the positive electrode sliding rings 24 on each positive electrode flow channel 2 to be stacked sequentially. This results in the positive electrode flow channel holes 25 on the positive electrode sliding rings 24 forming positive electrode electrolyte channels for the flow of positive electrode electrolyte. The fuel cell stack is externally equipped with a device for supplying and recovering positive electrode electrolyte. This device includes a positive electrode flow channel tube for conveying and recovering the positive electrode electrolyte. The positive electrode flow channel tube is inserted into the positive electrode electrolyte channel formed by the multiple positive electrode sliding rings 24. Inside the channel, the positive electrode flow channel tube is connected to the telescopic device. The telescopic device can control the positive electrode flow channel tube to drive the positive electrode sliding ring 24 to slide along the positive electrode sliding groove section 113. Since one end of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 with the second positive electrode opening 22 is connected to the positive electrode sliding ring 24, the sliding of the positive electrode sliding ring 24 on the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 causes the second positive electrode opening 22 to move closer to or further away from the first positive electrode opening 21, thereby changing the length of the flow path of the positive electrode electrolyte in the positive electrode flow channel component 2 and realizing the adjustment of the flow resistance.
[0051] Optionally, such as Figure 5 , Figure 8As shown, the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 includes a positive limit groove 1131, a positive electrode insertion groove 1132, and a positive electrode sliding through hole 1133. The positive limit groove 1131 is located on the side of the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 near the positive electrode reaction zone. The positive electrode insertion groove 1132 is formed within the positive limit groove 1131. The positive electrode sliding through hole 1133 is formed within the positive electrode insertion groove 1132 and penetrates through the plate frame body 1. The portion of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 embedded in the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 is placed in the positive electrode sliding groove. Inside the through hole 1133, the positive electrode sliding ring 24 includes a positive electrode insertion part 241 and a positive limit position part 242. The positive electrode insertion part 241 is located on the side of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 facing the positive electrode reaction area and is inserted into the positive electrode insertion groove 1132. The positive limit position part 242 is located on the side of the positive electrode insertion part 241 away from the positive electrode elastic tube 23 and is inserted into the positive limit position groove 1131. The positive electrode flow channel hole 25 passes through the positive limit position part 242, the positive electrode insertion part 241 and the positive electrode elastic tube 23.
[0052] On the one hand, by setting a positive limit slot 1131 and a positive insertion slot 1132 in the positive electrode sliding groove section 113, the positive electrode insertion part 241 of the positive electrode sliding ring 24 is inserted into the positive electrode insertion slot 1132, and the positive limit part 242 of the positive electrode sliding ring 24 is inserted into the positive limit slot 1131, thereby achieving a double limiting effect on the positive electrode sliding ring 24. Under the synergistic effect of the positive electrode insertion part 241 and the positive limit part 242, the positive electrode sliding ring 24 moves along a fixed path, avoiding the offset risk of the traditional single positioning method. On the other hand, by placing the part of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 located in the positive electrode sliding groove section 113 inside the positive electrode sliding through hole 1133 that penetrates the plate frame body 1, the extension and retraction path of the positive electrode elastic tube 23 is limited, ensuring that the positive electrode elastic tube 23 extends and retracts along the extension direction of the positive electrode sliding through hole 1133. In this embodiment, the positive limit position portion 242 and the positive electrode insertion portion 241 are two concentric rings, which are used to form a stepped positive electrode sliding ring 24.
[0053] Optionally, such as Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the negative electrode mounting groove 12 includes a negative electrode fixing groove section 121 and a negative electrode sliding groove section 122. The negative electrode fixing groove section 121 and the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 are located on the same side of the plate frame body 1 as the negative electrode reaction area. The negative electrode fixing groove section 121 is Z-shaped and connects the negative electrode reaction area and the negative electrode sliding groove section 122. The negative electrode flow channel component 3 includes a negative electrode elastic tube 33 and a negative electrode sliding ring 34. One end of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 with a first negative electrode opening 31 is embedded in the negative electrode fixing groove section 121, and the other end of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 with a second negative electrode opening 32 is embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove section 122. The negative electrode sliding ring 34 is slidably placed in the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 and connected to the negative electrode elastic tube 33. The negative electrode sliding ring 34 also has a negative electrode flow channel hole 35 that communicates with the second negative electrode opening 32.
[0054] By setting a negative electrode mounting groove 12 consisting of a negative electrode fixing groove 121 and a negative electrode sliding groove 122, on the one hand, the negative electrode elastic tube 33 can be fixed by embedding the first part into the negative electrode fixing groove 121, and the other part of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 can be embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove 122 and connected to the negative electrode sliding ring 34, thereby adjusting the distance between the first negative electrode opening 31 and the second negative electrode opening 32; on the other hand, by making the negative electrode fixing groove 121 Z-shaped, the contact area between the negative electrode elastic tube 33 placed in the negative electrode fixing groove 121 and the plate frame body 1 is increased, and the corners of the negative electrode fixing groove 121 are used to enhance the limiting effect on the negative electrode elastic tube 33 and prevent the negative electrode elastic tube 33 from falling off.
[0055] In this embodiment, multiple integrated electrode plate frames within the fuel cell stack are stacked sequentially, causing the negative electrode sliding rings 34 on each negative electrode flow channel 3 to be stacked sequentially. This results in the negative electrode flow channel holes 35 on the negative electrode sliding rings 34 forming a negative electrode electrolyte channel for the flow of negative electrode electrolyte. The fuel cell stack is externally equipped with a device for supplying and recovering negative electrode electrolyte. This device includes a negative electrode flow channel pipe for conveying and recovering the negative electrode electrolyte. The negative electrode flow channel pipe is inserted into the negative electrode electrolyte channel formed by the multiple negative electrode sliding rings 34. Inside the channel, the negative electrode flow channel tube is connected to the telescopic device. The telescopic device can control the negative electrode flow channel tube to drive the negative electrode sliding ring 34 to slide along the negative electrode sliding groove section 122. Since one end of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 with the second negative electrode opening 32 is connected to the negative electrode sliding ring 34, the sliding of the negative electrode sliding ring 34 on the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 causes the second negative electrode opening 32 to move closer to or further away from the first negative electrode opening 31, thereby changing the length of the flow path of the negative electrode electrolyte in the negative electrode flow channel component 3 and realizing the adjustment of the flow resistance.
[0056] Optionally, such as Figure 5 , Figure 9As shown, the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 includes a negative limit groove 1221, a negative electrode insertion groove 1222, and a negative electrode sliding through hole 1223. The negative limit groove 1221 is located on the side of the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 near the positive electrode reaction zone. The negative electrode insertion groove 1222 is formed within the negative limit groove 1221. The negative electrode sliding through hole 1223 is formed within the negative electrode insertion groove 1222 and penetrates through the plate frame body 1. The portion of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 is placed in the negative electrode sliding groove. Inside the through hole 1223, the negative electrode sliding ring 34 includes a negative electrode insertion part 341 and a negative limit position part 342. The negative electrode insertion part 341 is located on the side of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 facing the positive electrode reaction area and is inserted into the negative electrode insertion groove 1222. The negative limit position part 342 is located on the side of the negative electrode insertion part 341 away from the negative electrode elastic tube 33 and is inserted into the negative limit position groove 1221. The negative electrode flow channel hole 35 passes through the negative limit position part 342, the negative electrode insertion part 341 and the negative electrode elastic tube 33.
[0057] On the one hand, by setting a negative limit groove 1221 and a negative electrode insertion groove 1222 in the negative electrode sliding groove section 122, the negative electrode insertion part 341 of the negative electrode sliding ring 34 is inserted into the negative electrode insertion groove 1222, and the negative limit part 342 of the negative electrode sliding ring 34 is inserted into the negative limit groove 1221, thereby achieving a double limiting effect on the negative electrode sliding ring 34. Under the synergistic effect of the negative electrode insertion part 341 and the negative limit part 342, the negative electrode sliding ring 34 moves along a fixed path, avoiding the offset risk of the traditional single positioning method. On the other hand, by placing the part of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 located in the negative electrode sliding groove section 122 inside the negative electrode sliding through hole 1223 that penetrates the plate frame body 1, the extension and contraction path of the negative electrode elastic tube 33 is limited, ensuring that the negative electrode elastic tube 33 extends and contracts along the extension direction of the negative electrode sliding through hole 1223. In this embodiment, the negative limit position portion 342 and the negative electrode insertion portion 341 are two concentric rings, which are used to form a stepped negative electrode sliding ring 34.
[0058] Optionally, such as Figures 4 to 7 , Figure 11 As shown, the flow battery includes a bipolar plate 100 and an ion-conducting membrane 200. The plate frame body 1 has a first receiving groove 13 and a second receiving groove 14 on both sides along a first direction for accommodating the bipolar plate 100, and a through structure 15 that passes through the plate frame body 1 and connects the first receiving groove 13 and the second receiving groove 14. The ion-conducting membrane 200 is disposed at the through structure 15 and separates the first receiving groove 13 and the second receiving groove 14. The positive electrode reaction region is disposed in the first receiving groove 13 and the negative electrode reaction region is disposed in the second receiving groove 14.
[0059] By opening a first receiving groove 13 and a second receiving groove 14 for accommodating the bipolar plate 100 and a through structure 15 for accommodating the ion conduction membrane 200 on both sides of the plate frame body 1 along the first direction, the area of the bipolar plate 100 and the ion conduction membrane 200 is reduced, thus lowering the manufacturing cost. Furthermore, the bipolar plate 100 is kept away from the flow channel area, preventing electrochemical corrosion between the bipolar plate 100 and the electrolyte and extending the service life of the bipolar plate 100.
[0060] Optionally, such as Figure 4 , Figure 11 As shown, the first receiving groove 13 has an assembly groove 16. The integrated electrode plate frame also includes a fixing plate frame 4, which is placed in the assembly groove 16. The ion-conducting membrane 200 is sandwiched between the fixing plate frame 4 and the plate frame body 1. By setting the assembly groove 16 in the first receiving groove 13 and fixing the ion-conducting membrane 200 in the assembly groove 16 by the fixing plate frame 4, the connection between the ion-conducting membrane 200 and the plate frame body 1 is realized. Furthermore, the ion-conducting membrane 200 separates the first receiving groove 13 and the second receiving groove 14, thereby separating the positive electrode reaction region and the negative electrode reaction region on the plate frame body 1.
[0061] Optionally, such as Figure 4 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, a positive electrode receiving groove 41 is formed on the side of the fixed plate frame 4 opposite to the ion conduction membrane 200, and a negative electrode receiving groove 17 is formed in the second receiving groove 14. The flow battery also includes a positive electrode 300 and a negative electrode 400. The positive electrode 300 is placed in the positive electrode receiving groove 41, and the negative electrode 400 is placed in the negative electrode receiving groove 17. By forming a positive electrode receiving groove 41 on the fixed plate frame 4 of the first receiving groove 13 and a negative electrode receiving groove 17 in the second receiving groove 14, both the positive electrode 300 and the negative electrode 400 are embedded in the plate frame body 1, thereby effectively reducing the thickness of a single flow battery and resulting in a stack with higher energy density.
[0062] Optionally, such as Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, the positive electrode flow channel 2 for positive electrode electrolyte inflow and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for negative electrode electrolyte inflow are both located below the plate frame body 1 along the second direction and are spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel 2 for positive electrode electrolyte outflow and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for negative electrode electrolyte outflow are both located above the plate frame body 1 along the second direction and are spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel 2 for positive electrode electrolyte inflow and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for negative electrode electrolyte outflow are located on the same side of the third direction.
[0063] By placing the positive electrode flow channel 2 for the positive electrode electrolyte to flow into and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for the negative electrode electrolyte to flow into below the plate frame body 1, and placing the positive electrode flow channel 2 for the positive electrode electrolyte to flow out and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for the negative electrode electrolyte to flow out above the plate frame body 1, the positive electrode flow channel 2 for the positive electrode electrolyte to flow into and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for the negative electrode electrolyte to flow out are located on the same side in a third direction, and the positive electrode flow channel 2 for the positive electrode electrolyte to flow out and the negative electrode flow channel 3 for the negative electrode electrolyte to flow into are located on the same side in a third direction, thereby increasing the flow path and duration of the positive and negative electrode electrolytes in the positive and negative electrode reaction zones, respectively, so that the electrochemical reaction can proceed fully.
[0064] In this embodiment, as Figure 11 As shown, a flow battery is also provided, which includes the integrated electrode plate frame described above. By applying the integrated electrode plate frame, this flow battery has fewer sealing surfaces, thereby reducing the risk of leakage, improving safety and reliability, and by changing the flow resistance, it can be matched to different operating conditions, thus exhibiting good applicability.
[0065] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. An integrated electrode plate frame, said integrated electrode plate frame being used in a flow battery, characterized in that, The integrated electrode plate frame includes: The plate frame body (1) has a positive electrode reaction area and a negative electrode reaction area on both sides along the first direction, and has two positive electrode mounting slots (11) and two negative electrode mounting slots (12). Two positive electrode flow channels (2) are provided for the inflow and outflow of positive electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of the positive electrode flow channel (2) is provided with a first positive electrode opening (21) that communicates with the positive electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the positive electrode mounting groove (11). The other end is provided with a second positive electrode opening (22) that communicates with the positive electrode electrolyte channel and is slidably disposed in the positive electrode mounting groove (11) to be close to or away from the first positive electrode opening (21). Two negative electrode flow channels (3) are provided, which are used for the inflow and outflow of negative electrode electrolyte, respectively. One end of the negative electrode flow channel (3) is provided with a first negative electrode opening (31) that communicates with the negative electrode reaction zone and is fixed in the negative electrode mounting groove (12). The other end is provided with a second negative electrode opening (32) that communicates with the negative electrode electrolyte channel and is slidably disposed in the negative electrode mounting groove (12) to be close to or away from the first negative electrode opening (31).
2. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive electrode mounting groove (11) includes a positive electrode fixing groove section (111), a positive electrode intermediate groove section (112), and a positive electrode sliding groove section (113). The positive electrode fixing groove section (111) and the positive electrode reaction area are located on the same side of the plate frame body (1). The positive electrode intermediate groove section (112) and the positive electrode sliding groove section (113) are located on the same side of the plate frame body (1) as the negative electrode reaction area. The positive electrode mounting groove (11) also includes a through hole (114), which penetrates the plate frame body (1) and connects the positive electrode fixing groove section (111) and the positive electrode intermediate groove section (112). The positive electrode flow channel component (2) includes a positive electrode. The positive electrode elastic tube (23) and the positive electrode sliding ring (24) are provided. One end of the positive electrode elastic tube (23) with the first positive electrode opening (21) is embedded in the positive electrode fixing groove (111). The other end of the positive electrode elastic tube (23) with the second positive electrode opening (22) passes through the through hole (114) and is embedded in the positive electrode intermediate groove (112) and the positive electrode sliding groove (113). The positive electrode sliding ring (24) is slidably placed in the positive electrode sliding groove (113) and connected to the positive electrode elastic tube (23). The positive electrode sliding ring (24) is also provided with a positive electrode flow channel hole (25) communicating with the second positive electrode opening (22).
3. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positive electrode sliding groove section (113) includes a positive limit groove (1131), a positive electrode insertion groove (1132), and a positive electrode sliding through hole (1133). The positive limit groove (1131) is located on the side of the positive electrode sliding groove section (113) near the positive electrode reaction zone. The positive electrode insertion groove (1132) is formed within the positive limit groove (1131). The positive electrode sliding through hole (1133) is formed within the positive electrode insertion groove (1132) and penetrates the plate frame body (1). The portion of the positive electrode elastic tube (23) embedded in the positive electrode sliding groove section (113) is placed within the positive electrode sliding through hole (1133). In 133), the positive electrode sliding ring (24) includes a positive electrode insertion part (241) and a positive limit position part (242). The positive electrode insertion part (241) is located on the side of the positive electrode elastic tube (23) facing the positive electrode reaction zone and is inserted into the positive electrode insertion groove (1132). The positive limit position part (242) is located on the side of the positive electrode insertion part (241) away from the positive electrode elastic tube (23) and is inserted into the positive limit position groove (1131). The positive electrode flow channel hole (25) passes through the positive limit position part (242), the positive electrode insertion part (241) and the positive electrode elastic tube (23).
4. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative electrode mounting groove (12) includes a negative electrode fixing groove section (121) and a negative electrode sliding groove section (122). The negative electrode fixing groove section (121) and the negative electrode sliding groove section (122) are located on the same side of the plate frame body (1) as the negative electrode reaction zone. The negative electrode fixing groove section (121) is Z-shaped and connects the negative electrode reaction zone and the negative electrode sliding groove section (122). The negative electrode flow channel component (3) includes a negative electrode elastic tube (33) and a negative electrode sliding ring (34). The negative electrode elastic tube (33) One end of the negative electrode with the first negative electrode opening (31) is embedded in the negative electrode fixing groove (121), and the other end of the negative electrode elastic tube (33) with the second negative electrode opening (32) is embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove (122). The negative electrode sliding ring (34) is slidably placed in the negative electrode sliding groove (122) and connected to the negative electrode elastic tube (33). The negative electrode sliding ring (34) is also provided with a negative electrode flow channel hole (35) communicating with the second negative electrode opening (32).
5. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 4, characterized in that, The negative electrode sliding groove section (122) includes a negative limit groove (1221), a negative electrode insertion groove (1222), and a negative electrode sliding through hole (1223). The negative limit groove (1221) is located on the side of the negative electrode sliding groove section (122) near the positive electrode reaction zone. The negative electrode insertion groove (1222) is opened in the negative limit groove (1221). The negative electrode sliding through hole (1223) is opened in the negative electrode insertion groove (1222) and penetrates the plate frame body (1). The portion of the negative electrode elastic tube (33) embedded in the negative electrode sliding groove section (1222) is placed in the negative electrode sliding through hole (1223). Within 223), the negative electrode sliding ring (34) includes a negative electrode insertion part (341) and a negative limit part (342). The negative electrode insertion part (341) is located on the side of the negative electrode elastic tube (33) facing the positive electrode reaction zone and is inserted into the negative electrode insertion groove (1222). The negative limit part (342) is located on the side of the negative electrode insertion part (341) away from the negative electrode elastic tube (33) and is inserted into the negative limit groove (1221). The negative electrode flow channel hole (35) penetrates the negative limit part (342), the negative electrode insertion part (341), and the negative electrode elastic tube (33).
6. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow battery includes a bipolar plate (100) and an ion-conducting membrane (200). The plate frame body (1) has a first receiving groove (13) and a second receiving groove (14) for accommodating the bipolar plate (100) on both sides along the first direction, and a through structure (15) that passes through the plate frame body (1) and connects the first receiving groove (13) and the second receiving groove (14). The ion-conducting membrane (200) is disposed at the through structure (15) and separates the first receiving groove (13) and the second receiving groove (14). The positive electrode reaction area is disposed in the first receiving groove (13), and the negative electrode reaction area is disposed in the second receiving groove (14).
7. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first receiving groove (13) has an assembly groove (16) and the integrated electrode plate frame also includes a fixing plate frame (4). The fixing plate frame (4) is placed in the assembly groove (16) and the ion conduction membrane (200) is sandwiched between the fixing plate frame (4) and the plate frame body (1).
8. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fixed plate frame (4) has a positive electrode receiving groove (41) on the side away from the ion conduction membrane (200), and a negative electrode receiving groove (17) is provided in the second receiving groove (14). The flow battery also includes a positive electrode plate (300) and a negative electrode plate (400). The positive electrode plate (300) is placed in the positive electrode receiving groove (41), and the negative electrode plate (400) is placed in the negative electrode receiving groove (17).
9. The integrated electrode plate frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive electrode flow channel (2) for the positive electrode electrolyte inflow and the negative electrode flow channel (3) for the negative electrode electrolyte inflow are both located below the plate frame body (1) along the second direction and are spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel (2) for the positive electrode electrolyte outflow and the negative electrode flow channel (3) for the negative electrode electrolyte outflow are both located above the plate frame body (1) along the second direction and are spaced apart along the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel (2) for the positive electrode electrolyte inflow and the negative electrode flow channel (3) for the negative electrode electrolyte outflow are located on the same side of the third direction. The positive electrode flow channel (2) for the positive electrode electrolyte outflow and the negative electrode flow channel (3) for the negative electrode electrolyte inflow are located on the same side of the third direction.
10. A flow battery, characterized in that, The flow battery includes the integrated electrode plate frame as described in any one of claims 1-9.
Citation Information
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