OPTIMIZATION OF FLUID FLOW IN 3D BIPOLAR PLATES

In order to enhance the performance of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) hydrogen production or fuel cell, optimizing of water flow distribution between channels is a necessary and effective way. To achieve this, 3D numerical simulations of the water flow along bipolar plate were performed. One baseline design and other five types of modified bipolar plates were investigated, which are under one design conception with gradually increasing contact angles to the header axle. The simulation showed that the high velocity appears at the lateral channels and the most promising velocity distribution, in this design, appears at the last case, which has the largest contact angle with header line.