Fuel Cell System Efficiency Increase by the Use of Expansion Turbines

The article delves into the efficiency improvements of fuel cell systems for mobile applications by integrating expansion turbines with cathode air compressors. It highlights the significant power demand reduction and overall system efficiency increase achieved through this integration. The study focuses on Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) and details the optimization of compressor and turbine designs, including the use of variable geometry turbines (VGTs). The Design-of-Experiments (DoE) approach is employed to maximize system efficiency under various operating conditions and constraints. The article also compares the efficiency of single versus multiple compressor setups, showcasing the advantages of using one large compressor over two smaller ones. The research is validated through vehicle simulations and test rig infrastructure, making it a comprehensive resource for professionals in the field.