Dynamic model of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell during load changes

An equivalent circuit model of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell is used to study the dynamic voltage responses during load changes. The electrical energy generated inside the PEM fuel cell is set equivalent to a voltage source. The active losses, the ohmic losses and the concentration losses inside the PEM fuel cell are modeled as three resistances. The model for the voltage response during load changes is solved in Matlab. The simulation results agree well with the single cell test results. The model is also used to predict the voltage responses during large load changes with good predictions of the voltage undershoot and voltage reversal. The model can predict the dynamic response of a PEM fuel cell during load changes to design PEM fuel cell controls. ©, 2014, Press of Tsinghua University. All right reserved.