This paper investigates air supply subsystem configurations for multi-stack fuel cell systems (MFCS) requiring coordinated stack operation. Several viable solutions are proposed and analyzed: distributed, integrated-parallel, and integrated with a common rail buffer tank (CRBT). The analysis evaluates the applicability of different compressor types to each solution and assesses the impact of incorporating a CRBT on subsystem performance. Key findings are: (1) Regarding energy consumption, the integrated-parallel structure utilizing a centrifugal compressor delivers optimal performance. However, when considering equipment/integration costs and specific scenario applicability, the integrated structure incorporating a CRBT and a piston compressor presents a favorable alternative. This piston-based solution offers significant integration potential at a lower cost compared to the centrifugal approach. (2) A CRBT volume of approximately 200 L is identified as a critical design point. Volumes below 200 L result in substantial pressure drops, elevated peak power demands, and increased energy consumption. Expanding the volume beyond 200 L yields only marginal improvements in compressor power or energy efficiency, although pressure stability continues to improve gradually. Consequently, a 200 L CRBT effectively balances performance gains (enhanced pressure stability, reduced peak power, energy savings) against the practical constraints of increased physical size and cost associated with larger tanks.

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Study of a Novel Integrated Structure for Multi-stack Fuel Cell Air Supply System

  • Jianhua Gao,
  • Wei Zhou,
  • Liwei Zhu,
  • Xiao Li,
  • Haitao Yu,
  • Hongxue Zhao,
  • Runze Gao,
  • Yujiang Song

摘要

This paper investigates air supply subsystem configurations for multi-stack fuel cell systems (MFCS) requiring coordinated stack operation. Several viable solutions are proposed and analyzed: distributed, integrated-parallel, and integrated with a common rail buffer tank (CRBT). The analysis evaluates the applicability of different compressor types to each solution and assesses the impact of incorporating a CRBT on subsystem performance. Key findings are: (1) Regarding energy consumption, the integrated-parallel structure utilizing a centrifugal compressor delivers optimal performance. However, when considering equipment/integration costs and specific scenario applicability, the integrated structure incorporating a CRBT and a piston compressor presents a favorable alternative. This piston-based solution offers significant integration potential at a lower cost compared to the centrifugal approach. (2) A CRBT volume of approximately 200 L is identified as a critical design point. Volumes below 200 L result in substantial pressure drops, elevated peak power demands, and increased energy consumption. Expanding the volume beyond 200 L yields only marginal improvements in compressor power or energy efficiency, although pressure stability continues to improve gradually. Consequently, a 200 L CRBT effectively balances performance gains (enhanced pressure stability, reduced peak power, energy savings) against the practical constraints of increased physical size and cost associated with larger tanks.