Optimization of parametric performance of a PEMFC

Abstract

In this study, the Taguchi method was applied to determine optimum working conditions in obtaining maximum power density of a PEMFC. Performance measure analysis was also followed by performing a variance analysis, in order to determine the optimum levels and relative magnitude of the effect of parameters. The optimum working conditions were found to be system pressure, 5 bar; flow rate ratio of H-2 and O-2, 1/2; temperature of fuel cell, 75 degrees C and temperature of humidifiers, 75 degrees C. Under these conditions, the amount of maximum power density was predicted as 353 mW cm(-2) by using experimental results obtained according to Taguchi's orthogonal array (OA) L-9(34). Verification experiment was done for the same optimum conditions and maximum power density was observed as 379.64mWcm(-2). According to the results of this optimization, it was seen that pressure and humidification temperature were the effective parameters.