Enhancement of PEMFC Performance Using Symmetric V-Tapered Flow Channels

Abstract

This study presents an optimized symmetric V-tapered cross-section (SVTC) flow-field geometry for a single-channel Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC). Its performance is evaluated through three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations conducted using ANSYS FLUENT 18.1. The SVTC architecture incorporates angled sidewalls that progressively taper the channel width, aiming to accelerate mass diffusion and increase reactant effectiveness in the cell. Performance metrics including current density, pressure drop, and net power output were analyzed across six SVTC configurations with varying taper ratios. Comparative evaluation with a conventional rectangular channel indicates that the SVTC design enhances the hydrogen and oxygen distribution, improves water management, and reduces mass transport losses. Specifically, the R5 configuration exhibited the most favorable results, achieving a peak net power density of 0.297031 W/cm2 while reducing the pressure drop by approximately 21% relative to the R1 configuration. Furthermore, the SVTC configuration enhance both current density and power density, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving mass transport and overall cell performance. The design also demonstrated improved reactant distribution uniformity and operational stability across varying load conditions. These findings underscore the critical role of channel geometry in PEMFC performance and highlight the potential of SVTC designs to enable more efficient and scalable fuel cell systems through targeted geometric optimization.