Procedure for filling a fuel cell anode supply manifold with hydrogen for start-up
US8097375B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for filling a fuel cell anode supply manifold with hydrogen prior to a start-up operation to facilitate a substantially even hydrogen distribution across the fuel cell is disclosed. The anode supply manifold is in fluid communication with a source of hydrogen. A first valve in fluid communication with the anode supply manifold and a second valve in fluid communication with an anode exhaust manifold are initially in a closed position while hydrogen is supplied to the anode inlet conduit to pressurize the fuel cell stack. The first valve is then opened to purge at least a portion of a fluid from the anode supply manifold to facilitate a filling of the manifold with hydrogen.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.