Flow Characterization of a Polymer Electronic Membrane Fuel Cell Manifold and Individual Cells Using Particle Image Velocimetry

摘要: Detailed measurements of flow through a model fuel cell stack were made using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The objective was to obtain high caliber sets velocity fields in both the inlet manifold and within cells over range Reynolds numbers order provide benchmark for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data demonstrate relationships between distributions those along stack. A scaled up built placed wind tunnel under uniform conditions. Using PIV technique, instantaneous flowfields captured which then averaged mean fluctuating statistics. Based on analysis data, found distributions. Within manifold, magnitudes normalized streamwise velocities increase towards aft with number. This believed be associated more severe maldistributions exist increasing numbers. Examination demonstrated existence discrete vortical structures complex motions aft, resulting increased fluctuations this region. Velocity also stack, leading higher unsteadiness these cells.