Numerical Investigation of the Impact of Pin Dimensions on the Performance of a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell with a Honeycomb Pin Flow Field

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 esfahan university

2 b Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran

10.22104/hfe.2025.7177.1327

Abstract

The effectiveness of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells relies significantly on the configuration of the gas flow field, particularly on the cathode side. Proper design leads to appropriate distribution of reactant gases and current density, efficient water and heat management, and improved fuel cell performance. An innovative flow field design featuring a honeycomb structure with hexagonal pins, as opposed to traditional channels, has the potential to improve cell performance. The geometric dimensions of the pins and the channels in which they are embedded are crucial in designing this arrangement. This paper introduces a three-dimensional model that integrates and numerically solves the continuity, momentum, energy, and charge conservation equations, as well as electrochemical kinetic relationships across various regions of the fuel cell using a single-domain approach. The impact of channel and pin dimensions in the honeycomb flow field on fuel cell performance is investigated. A uniform distribution of reactant gases and current density, coupled with increased voltage and power density while minimizing pressure drop, are regarded as essential design criteria. Results show that in a fuel cell with a honeycomb flow field, the velocity in the pin region increases, leading to higher oxygen transport to the catalyst layer. Thanks to the proper arrangement and design of the pins, a consistent distribution of oxygen and power density is accomplished. Increased cell voltage and power density are characteristics of this new flow field, although the pressure drop is also higher compared to parallel channels.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Hydrogen, Fuel Cell & Energy Storage

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 May 2025

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