Ford Motor Company
IMPROVED ENCLOSED FUEL CELL STACK ROW
Last updated:
Abstract:
Solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell stacks require a significant nominal compressive loading for proper operation and sealing. This loading is typically provided using relatively thick end plates and tight straps. In certain fuel cell applications, one or more solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell stacks are secured in larger enclosures (e.g. for isolation and crashworthiness in automotive applications). The enclosures however can themselves be sturdy enough to provide the necessary loading on the fuel cell stacks within. The present invention takes advantage of that to allow for use of thinner end plates and/or weaker straps which would otherwise be insufficient for use.
Status:
Application
Type:
Utility
Filling date:
7 May 2019
Issue date:
29 Jul 2021