Alternative path cooling of a high temperature fuel cell
US10069150B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2015 |
| Grant date | Sep 4, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/40
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods provide for the thermal management of a high temperature fuel cell. According to embodiments described herein, a non-reactant coolant is routed into a fuel cell from a compressor or a ram air source. The non-reactant coolant absorbs waste heat from the electrochemical reaction within the fuel cell. The heated coolant is discharged from the fuel cell and is vented to the surrounding environment or directed through a turbine. The energy recouped from the heated coolant by the turbine may be used to drive the compressor or a generator to create additional electricity and increase the efficiency of the fuel cell system. A portion of the heated coolant may be recycled into the non-reactant coolant entering the fuel cell to prevent thermal shock of the fuel cell.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.