Steady State Thermal and Structural Simulation of SS 316L Bipolar Plates used in 250 Watt PEMFC

Abstract

Abstract Design and optimisation of bipolar plates play a crucial role in determining the overall efficiency of the PEM (proton exchange membrane) fuel cell. These plates are designed in such a way that the PEM fuel cell achieves the best water and thermal management capability. The conventionally used graphite-based bipolar plates are getting replaced by metallic plates for powering space applications and portable devices due to its good mechanical and electrical properties. In this paper, we present the thermal and structural simulation of the stainless-steel type 316L bipolar plates used in 250W PEM fuel cell after the preheating process but before the supply of the fuel into the stack.