Separator Plate Web Geometry for Springback and Bulging Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochemical systems, such as fuel cell systems, face challenges with bulging effects and shape deviations due to springback during the embossing process of separator plates, which can lead to inefficiencies and compatibility issues.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a separator plate with a transverse stiffening region that has a reduced inclination of web flanks relative to the plate plane, which helps to counteract springback and bulging effects by stiffening the plate at the radius where springback occurs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a high number of embossed webs and channels are created to improve media distribution and cooling efficiency, then the functionality of the separator plate is enhanced, but springback leads to increased bulging effects and shape deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The separator plate features regions with different web flank inclinations: steeper inclinations in areas requiring high media distribution efficiency, and reduced inclinations in regions prone to bulging. This local differentiation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function while compensating for springback effects in vulnerable areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the embossed structure by varying the web flank inclination angle across different regions of the separator plate. This parameter change addresses springback by using smaller inclination angles in regions where bulging occurs, thereby maintaining shape accuracy while preserving overall functionality.
2Weight of moving object
If the web flanks are embossed with high inclination to reduce plate thickness and weight, then the weight of the separator plate is reduced, but bulging effects increase due to springback
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the separator plate have different web flank inclinations: steeper inclinations where weight reduction is prioritized and less critical for shape stability, and reduced inclinations in regions where shape accuracy is crucial. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between weight reduction and shape maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acknowledges that springback causes bulging, but instead of avoiding embossing entirely, it uses controlled embossing with adjusted inclination angles that account for expected springback. The design anticipates and compensates for the harmful effect, converting the springback phenomenon into a predictable factor in the design process.
3Productivity
If embossing depth is increased to improve channel definition and media flow control, then fluid flow control is enhanced, but springback causes greater shape deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The separator plate employs varying web flank inclinations in different regions: steeper inclinations in areas where deep embossing is needed for efficient media distribution, and reduced inclinations in regions where dimensional accuracy is critical. This spatial differentiation allows deep embossing where beneficial while minimizing springback-induced deviations where precision is required.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a separator plate for an electrochemical system, comprising a first individual plate, wherein the first individual plate has, embossed on a first side, webs with web flanks that at least in sections delimit channels for guiding a first fluid, the web flanks having a first inclination relative to a plate plane, wherein the first individual plate has at least one transverse stiffening region that extends transversely to a longitudinal direction of extension of the webs and in which a second inclination of the web flanks relative to the plate plane is less than the first inclination outside the transverse stiffening region.