Performance Analysis of a PEM Fuel Cell

Abstract

In this paper, both a theoretical and an

experimental study of the dynamic performance of a

commercial fuel cell are described. The analysis has been

focused in the start up and shutdown processes because they

allow analysing the influence of different parameters. In this

sense, the evolution of the stack and the environment

temperatures can be observed, which allows measuring the heat

released by the fuel cell. Moreover, the analysis of the flow of

hydrogen and air allow obtaining various models for simulating

the fuel cell system. Finally, the graphics associated with the

variation of the stack voltage and current make possible to

obtain the characteristic equations of these fuel cell systems, in

order to provide power for auxiliary devices when the battery is

not operating.