A fuel cell power generation system gas-liquid separation and emission device

Abstract

The utility model relates to fuel cell technical field discloses a kind of fuel cell power generation system gas-liquid separation dispersion drainage device, including fuel cell power generation system, first limit support, silk screen, second limit support, hydrops tower and dispersion tower;The fuel cell power generation system is connected with hydrops tower by pipeline, and the top of hydrops tower is connected with the bottom of dispersion tower by flange;The silk screen is set in hydrops tower, and is limited by the first limit support of dispersion tower bottom and the second limit support of hydrops tower top.This utility model carries out gas-liquid separation to fuel cell reaction generation gas-liquid mixture by silk screen, and gas is dispersed by dispersion tower structure, and liquid can also be drained by pipeline with solenoid valve, to ensure that the reaction product of fuel cell is effectively separated, dispersed and drained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to a gas-liquid separation and discharge device for a fuel cell power generation system. Background Technology

[0002] In fuel cell power generation, hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells are a common type. Their core reaction involves hydrogen and oxygen reacting chemically with a catalyst inside the stack to produce electricity, water, and heat. During this process, the generated water vapor is not entirely in gaseous form. Due to uneven temperature distribution within the stack and variations in humidity in the reaction environment, some water vapor condenses into liquid water. This liquid water mixes with unreacted hydrogen and oxygen, forming a complex gas-liquid mixture, which is then discharged through the exhaust system.

[0003] Liquid water in the gas-liquid mixture can severely impact the lifespan and efficiency of fuel cells. Firstly, liquid water can accumulate in the flow channels of the fuel cell stack, causing flooding. These channels are the pathways for transporting fuel and oxidant to the reaction zone. If blocked by liquid water, it hinders gas flow, preventing reactants from reaching the catalyst surface in time, causing localized reaction cessation and a sharp decline in the stack's output performance. For example, in proton exchange membrane fuel cells, the proton exchange membrane needs to maintain a certain level of humidity to ensure proton conductivity. However, excessive liquid water can accumulate in the flow channels and diffusion layer, disrupting the membrane's humidity balance and increasing resistance to gas transport.

[0004] Secondly, the presence of liquid water accelerates the corrosion of internal components of the fuel cell stack. A fuel cell stack consists of multiple individual cells, each containing components such as electrodes, catalyst layers, and diffusion layers. The electrodes are typically made of metal or graphite, and prolonged contact with liquid water and electrolytes that may be dissolved in the water (such as hydrogen ions leaking from the proton exchange membrane) can lead to electrochemical or chemical corrosion. Corrosion products contaminate the catalyst, reducing its activity and shortening its lifespan. Simultaneously, corrosion can damage the electrode structure, affecting the stack's sealing and potentially causing cross-leakage of fuel and oxidizer, posing safety hazards.

[0005] In the long run, the adverse effects of gas-liquid mixtures accumulate gradually, leading to a significant reduction in fuel cell lifespan. Repeated flooding causes fatigue of the materials inside the stack, and the catalyst frequently operates inefficiently due to insufficient reactant supply, accelerating its deactivation. Simultaneously, the continuous effects of corrosion and wear gradually deteriorate the stack's performance parameters, such as decreased open-circuit voltage and increased internal resistance, ultimately preventing the fuel cell from meeting normal power generation demands.

[0006] To address these issues, effective gas-liquid separation and treatment technologies are crucial. Currently, commonly used gas-liquid separation methods include gravity separation, centrifugal separation, and membrane separation. Gravity separation utilizes the density difference between gas and liquid, causing liquid water to settle and separate under gravity, making it suitable for low flow rates. Centrifugal separation uses the centrifugal force generated by rotation to separate liquid water from the mixture, offering high separation efficiency and making it suitable for high-flow-rate gas-liquid mixtures. Membrane separation uses selectively permeable membrane materials, allowing gas to pass through while blocking liquid water, achieving highly efficient separation; however, the cost and durability of the membrane materials are factors that need to be considered.

[0007] With the continuous development of fuel cell technology, higher demands are being placed on the separation and processing of gas-liquid mixtures. Future research will mainly focus on the development of efficient, compact, and low-cost separation devices, as well as the application of intelligent control systems. In short, effectively separating and properly processing the gas-liquid mixture generated during fuel cell power generation is a key aspect of ensuring the efficient, stable, and long-term operation of fuel cells. This requires not only a deep understanding of the formation mechanism and hazards of gas-liquid mixtures, but also continuous innovation and optimization of separation and processing technologies to promote the widespread application of fuel cell technology in the energy sector.

[0008] In summary, during fuel cell power generation, the water vapor generated by the reaction of fuel and oxidant inside the stack is discharged along with unreacted gases. These gas mixtures contain not only unreacted fuel and oxidant but also a certain amount of liquid water. Failure to effectively separate and properly handle these gas-liquid mixtures will impact the lifespan and efficiency of the fuel cell. Utility Model Content

[0009] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention proposes a gas-liquid separation and discharge device for a fuel cell power generation system. This device effectively separates gaseous and liquid components, dissipates excess gas generated during fuel cell operation, and removes the liquid produced in the reaction. Furthermore, the device features intelligent liquid level monitoring and linkage capabilities, enabling it to activate the fuel cell power generation system and related valves in case of abnormal liquid levels, ensuring the safe and stable operation of the system.

[0010] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is as follows:

[0011] A gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system includes a fuel cell power generation system, a first limiting support, a wire mesh, a second limiting support, a liquid collection tower, and a venting tower. The fuel cell power generation system is connected to the liquid collection tower via a pipeline, and the top of the liquid collection tower is connected to the bottom of the venting tower via a flange. The wire mesh is disposed inside the liquid collection tower and is limited by the first limiting support at the bottom of the venting tower and the second limiting support at the top of the liquid collection tower.

[0012] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and venting device also includes a level switch, which is installed on the liquid collection tower.

[0013] Furthermore, the liquid level switch includes a first liquid level sensor, a second liquid level sensor, a third liquid level sensor, and a fourth liquid level sensor, wherein the detection positions of the first liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor are higher than the detection positions of the third liquid level sensor and the fourth liquid level sensor.

[0014] Furthermore, the detection positions of the first and second liquid level sensors are lower than the inlet pipe connecting the liquid accumulation tower to the fuel cell power generation system, while the detection positions of the third and fourth liquid level sensors are higher than the bottom of the liquid accumulation tower.

[0015] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and discharge device also includes a solenoid valve and a controller. The solenoid valve and the controller are connected via a dry joint, the controller is connected to a level switch via a dry joint, and the controller is connected to the fuel cell power generation system via a dry joint.

[0016] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and venting device also includes an inspection port, which is located on the venting tower.

[0017] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and venting device also includes a level gauge, which is installed on the liquid collection tower.

[0018] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and venting device also includes a water inlet valve, which is installed on the liquid collection tower.

[0019] Furthermore, the height of the pipe opening connecting the water filling valve to the liquid accumulation tower is lower than the height of the inlet pipe connecting the liquid accumulation tower to the fuel cell power generation system.

[0020] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation and venting device also includes a drain valve, which is installed on the liquid collection tower.

[0021] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0022] 1. The gas-liquid mixture generated by the fuel cell reaction is separated by a wire mesh, the gas is released by a venting tower structure, and the liquid is drained through a pipeline with a solenoid valve, thus ensuring effective separation, release and drainage of the fuel cell reaction products.

[0023] 2. The liquid level in the accumulator is detected by a liquid level sensor, and the controller is used to open the solenoid valve to drain the liquid in real time, as well as to control the shutdown of the fuel cell system. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to an embodiment of this utility model.

[0025] Reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Fuel cell power generation system, 2-Inspection hole, 3-First limit bracket, 4-Wire mesh, 5-Second limit bracket, 6-Liquid collection tower, 7-Level gauge, 8-Water filling valve, 9-Drain valve, 10-Solenoid valve, 11-Controller, 12-Ventilation tower, 13-Level switch; T1-First level sensor, T2-Second level sensor, T3-Third level sensor, T4-Fourth level sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To provide a clearer understanding of the technical features, objectives, and effects of this utility model, specific embodiments are now described. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this utility model and are not intended to limit it; that is, the described embodiments are only a part of, and not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this utility model without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment provides a gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system, including a fuel cell power generation system 1, a first limiting support 3, a wire mesh 4, a second limiting support 5, a liquid collection tower 6, and a venting tower 12. The fuel cell power generation system 1 is connected to the liquid collection tower 6 via a pipeline, and the top of the liquid collection tower 6 is connected to the bottom of the venting tower 12 via a flange. The wire mesh 4 is disposed inside the liquid collection tower 6 and is limited by the first limiting support 3 at the bottom of the venting tower 12 and the second limiting support 5 at the top of the liquid collection tower 6.

[0028] In this embodiment, the gas-liquid mixture generated by the fuel cell power generation system 1 is separated into gas and liquid by the wire mesh 4 inside the liquid collection tower 6. A very small amount of liquid is carried by the gas and discharged into the atmosphere through the vent of the vent tower 12, while the liquid is discharged from the bottom of the liquid collection tower 6.

[0029] Specifically, the gas-liquid mixture of the fuel cell power generation system 1 enters the liquid collection tower 6 at a certain flow rate under pressure. After entering the liquid collection tower 6, some of the larger diameter droplets fall into the liquid collection tower 6 due to gravity, while the remaining liquid is carried by the gas through the wire mesh 4 and enters the venting tower 12. Under the action of the wire mesh 4, the liquid carried by the gas is broken up and falls into the liquid collection tower 6 due to gravity. The remaining small amount of liquid (generally less than 30 μm in diameter) carried by the gas is discharged into the atmosphere through the vent of the venting tower 12.

[0030] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and discharge device further includes a level switch 13 for level detection, which is installed on the liquid collection tower 6.

[0031] Preferably, the liquid level switch 13 includes a first liquid level sensor T1, a second liquid level sensor T2, a third liquid level sensor T3, and a fourth liquid level sensor T4, wherein the detection positions of the first liquid level sensor T1 and the second liquid level sensor T2 are higher than the detection positions of the third liquid level sensor T3 and the fourth liquid level sensor T4.

[0032] More preferably, the detection positions of the first liquid level sensor T1 and the second liquid level sensor T2 are lower than the inlet pipe connecting the liquid accumulation tower 6 to the fuel cell power generation system 1, and the detection positions of the third liquid level sensor T3 and the fourth liquid level sensor T4 are higher than the bottom of the liquid accumulation tower 6.

[0033] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and discharge device further includes a solenoid valve 10 and a controller 11. The solenoid valve 10 and the controller 11 are connected by a dry joint, the controller 11 is connected by a dry joint to the liquid level switch 13, and the controller 11 is connected by a dry joint to the fuel cell power generation system 1.

[0034] During the operation of the fuel cell power generation system 1, the liquid level in the accumulator 6 continuously rises. When the liquid level rises to the detection value of the second liquid level sensor T2, the second liquid level sensor T2 sends a signal to the controller 11, and the controller 11 opens the solenoid valves 10 (M1 and M2), causing the liquid level to begin to drop. When the liquid level drops to the detection value of the third liquid level sensor T3 or the fourth liquid level sensor T4, the third liquid level sensor T3 or the fourth liquid level sensor T4 sends a signal to the controller 11, and the controller 11 closes the solenoid valves 10 (M1 and M2). When both solenoid valves 10 (M1 and M2) fail simultaneously or the drain pipe is blocked, the liquid level in the accumulator 6 will continue to rise. When it rises to the detection value of the first liquid level sensor T1, the first liquid level sensor T1 sends an alarm signal to the controller 11, and at the same time, the controller 11 closes the relevant valves in the fuel cell power generation system 1, causing the fuel cell power generation system 1 to shut down.

[0035] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and venting device further includes an inspection hole 2, which facilitates the regular cleaning and unblocking of the wire mesh 4. The inspection hole 2 is located on the venting tower 12.

[0036] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and discharge device further includes a level gauge 7, which is installed on the liquid collection tower 6.

[0037] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and venting device further includes a water inlet valve 8 for adding water to the device before the fuel cell power generation system 1 is put into operation. The water inlet valve 8 is located on the liquid collection tower 6. Specifically, the height of the pipe opening connecting the water inlet valve 8 to the liquid collection tower 6 is lower than the height of the inlet pipe connecting the liquid collection tower 6 to the fuel cell power generation system 1.

[0038] Preferably, the gas-liquid separation and venting device further includes a drain valve 9 for draining water during equipment maintenance, and the drain valve 9 is installed on the liquid collection tower 6.

[0039] Preferably, the pipeline connecting the fuel cell power generation system 1 to the liquid collection tower 6 and the drainage pipeline of the liquid collection tower 6 can be provided with a certain slope to prevent water backflow.

[0040] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model. It should be understood that this utility model is not limited to the forms disclosed herein and should not be construed as excluding other embodiments. It can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be altered within the scope of the concept described herein through the above teachings or related technologies or knowledge. Modifications and variations made by those skilled in the art that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this utility model should be protected within the scope of the appended claims.

[0041] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when this utility model is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, 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 this utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

Claims

1. A gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system, characterized in that, The system includes a fuel cell power generation system (1), a first limiting bracket (3), a wire mesh (4), a second limiting bracket (5), a liquid collection tower (6), and a venting tower (12). The fuel cell power generation system (1) is connected to the liquid collection tower (6) through a pipeline, and the top of the liquid collection tower (6) is connected to the bottom of the venting tower (12) through a flange. The wire mesh (4) is installed inside the liquid collection tower (6) and is limited by the first limiting bracket (3) at the bottom of the venting tower (12) and the second limiting bracket (5) at the top of the liquid collection tower (6).

2. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a level switch (13), which is mounted on the liquid collection tower (6).

3. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The liquid level switch (13) includes a first liquid level sensor (T1), a second liquid level sensor (T2), a third liquid level sensor (T3), and a fourth liquid level sensor (T4). The detection positions of the first liquid level sensor (T1) and the second liquid level sensor (T2) are higher than the detection positions of the third liquid level sensor (T3) and the fourth liquid level sensor (T4).

4. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The detection positions of the first liquid level sensor (T1) and the second liquid level sensor (T2) are lower than the inlet pipe of the liquid accumulation tower (6) connected to the fuel cell power generation system (1), and the detection positions of the third liquid level sensor (T3) and the fourth liquid level sensor (T4) are higher than the bottom of the liquid accumulation tower (6).

5. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a solenoid valve (10) and a controller (11), the solenoid valve (10) and the controller (11) being connected by a dry joint, the controller (11) being connected by a dry joint to a level switch (13), and the controller (11) being connected by a dry joint to a fuel cell power generation system (1).

6. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an inspection hole (2), which is provided on the venting tower (12).

7. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a level gauge (7), which is mounted on the liquid collection tower (6).

8. The gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a water inlet valve (8), which is installed on the liquid collection tower (6).

9. A gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The height of the pipe opening connecting the water valve (8) to the liquid accumulation tower (6) is lower than the height of the inlet pipe connecting the liquid accumulation tower (6) to the fuel cell power generation system (1).

10. A gas-liquid separation and venting device for a fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a drain valve (9), which is installed on the liquid collection tower (6).

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