Method for a fuel cell air system leakage diagnostic
US8877402B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 2012 |
| Grant date | Nov 4, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 24, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for identifying leaks in a cathode sub-system of a fuel cell system. An air flow meter is provided up-stream of a compressor and monitors the air flowing into the compressor. When an air leakage diagnostic is commanded, a fuel cell stack by-pass valve and back-pressure valve are closed so that no air flows through or around the stack, and the recirculation valve is opened so that the air flows around the compressor. By knowing the leakage through the by-pass valve and the back-pressure valve, any flow above those values measured by the air flow meter gives an indication of air leakage out of the cathode sub-system components.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.