Fuel Cell Stack
Hydrogen-powered fuel cells promise a means to deliver clean, renewable and reliable energy. While there are many components associated with these systems, one key system is known as the fuel cell stack. What is a fuel cell stack and why is it such an important element?
A general fuel cell stack definition involves a series of individual cells that have been arranged in a series. However, we are only beginning to scratch the surface. What is the purpose of a hydrogen fuel cell stack? Why are these elements positioned in such a manner? What benefits can stacks provide for a larger fuel cell or battery? Let’s examine these questions in more detail.
What Exactly is a Fuel Cell Stack?
Why is a fuel cell stack arranged in a series? The main reason involves the fact that each cell is capable of producing (roughly) one DC volt of power. Thus, fuel cell stack efficiency will be increased when each unit is combined with the others. A single fuel cell stack could therefore consist of hundreds of individual cells. This depends on the amount of power that needs to be produced as well as its application.[1]
How Does a Fuel Cell Stack Manage to Generate Electricity?
Traditional fossil fuels would use combustion to create electricity. Common examples include coal, natural gas and even wood. A fuel cell stack will instead generate power via electrochemical reactions. In this case, hydrogen and oxygen are combined in order to produce a measurable voltage. Here is a basic breakdown of the process:[2]
- The anode allows hydrogen atoms to enter into the fuel cell stack.
- Electrons are stripped away from the hydrogen atoms.
- The remaining positively charged protons will become attracted to the cathode.
- The electrons are sent through a circuit; resulting in an electrical charge.
- Finally, the electrons recombine with oxygen and the protons. This creates two primary byproducts: heat and water.
We can therefore see that while hydrogen is the primary source of energy, other fuel cell stack components such as the anode and the cathode are equally important. Due to the ability to create energy through the breakdown of chemical bonds as opposed to combustion, fuel cell stacks are much more efficient and reliable when compared to other methods.
Furthermore, there are times when a fuel cell stack can be combined with secondary systems in order to harness the byproducts (heat and water) for additional applications such as heating or cooling.
How Long Will a Typical Fuel Cell Stack Last Before it Needs to be Replaced?
How long will a fuel cell stack be able to provide a continuous power supply before it needs to be replaced? Most fuel cell stacks at the moment are engineered to last for between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. This is due to the fact that internal components (such as the anode and cathode) will eventually degrade. These can then be removed and recycled for future use.[3]
It is wise to highlight that while a fuel cell stack may last for up to 200,000 miles, most hydrogen-powered vehicles will still need to be recharged every 300 to 400 miles. This also depends on the make and model of the car as well as the type of fuel cell stack that is present.[4]
Conclusion – What is The Future of Fuel Cell Stacks
We have already seen that fuel cell stacks can be placed within automobiles as a means to generate a cleaner and more reliable source of power. However, there are other applications to consider. Specific types of measurement technology (such as monitoring systems) will often require an uninterruptible power supply in the event that mains electricity fails. In this case, a fuel cell stack can be used as an additional means of redundancy; ensuring on-site safety and productivity.
A fuel cell stack can likewise be employed within commercial and/or industrial settings as a way to provide backup power. As these cells become even more advanced, there is little doubt that EFOY fuel cells will remain one step ahead of emerging trends. From powering electric vehicles to guaranteeing that sensitive monitoring systems are not placed in jeopardy, hydrogen fuel cells are set to enjoy a massive increase in popularity well into the foreseeable future.
