A proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system of residential power generator (RPG) has a different operating strategy from the PEMFC system of transportation application because of its environmental difference. In this study, a dynamic simulation model of the PEMFC system is introduced, which has a model for a turbo blower, a membrane humidifier, two cooling circuits, and a PEMFC stack. The thermal efficiency of the PEMFC system for the RPG is very high because it supplies the electricity and hot water to the house. This study is designed to study the dynamic response of individual components during the dynamic change of current density. In particular, since the operation of the turbo blower is very sensitive at low current density, the parasitic power consumption of the blower is significant. Additionally, the system performance and the operating strategy are also presented.

Issue Section:
Research Papers
Keywords:
cooling, energy conservation, fuel cell power plants, power consumption, proton exchange membrane fuel cells, proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system, residential power generator (RPG), cooling circuit, balance of plant (BOP)
Topics:
Circuits, Cooling, Current density, Fuel cells, Humidifiers, Membranes, Proton exchange membrane fuel cells, Water, Reservoirs, Temperature, Energy consumption, Pumps, Energy generation, Simulation
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Copyright © 2010
 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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