Fuel Cell Separator Hot Pressing Position Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing method of separators for fuel cells often results in variations in the shape and position of metal plates, affecting the consistency and performance of the separators.
Innovation Solution
A manufacturing method involving the use of dies with specific protruding portions to positionally define the metal plate during hot pressing, ensuring consistent shape and position by forming protruding portions on the side surfaces of the dies to sandwich the metal plate between electro-conductive resin sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the metal plate is hot pressed in a state of being sandwiched between the electro-conductive resin layers, then the separator can be manufactured with integrated flow channels, but variations in shape and position of the metal plate occur
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding portions are formed on the dies before the hot pressing process begins. These pre-formed protruding portions serve as position-defining structures that guide and constrain the metal plate during subsequent hot pressing, preventing shape and position variations while maintaining the integrated manufacturing approach
2Manufacturing precision
If protruding portions are formed on the side surfaces of the dies, then the position of the metal plate is defined during hot pressing, but the die structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The die structure is segmented into functional zones: the protruding portions that define position, the electro-conductive resin layers that provide conductivity and sealing, and the flow channel formation zones. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving precise position definition without requiring complete redesign of the entire die structure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method effectively suppresses variations in the shape and position of the metal plate, enhancing the consistency and performance of the separators by maintaining uniform thickness and conductivity.
Implementation Method 1
forming a flow channel in the metal plate and the first and second electro-conductive resin sheets by hot pressing with the first and second dies
Data Source
AI summary
A manufacturing method of a separator for a fuel cell, includes: setting a metal plate and first and second electro-conductive resin sheets between first and second dies; and forming a flow channel in the metal plate and the first and second electro-conductive resin sheets by hot pressing with the first and second dies.