System Integration for PEM Fuel Cell With Water and Heat Recovered

A 1 kW proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power system with heat and water recovery was successfully integrated. This power generation system is designed for the stationary application. The waste heat can be recovered into hot water, which store in a tank with temperature higher than 60°C. This hot water may be suitable for bath and kitchen use in a small family. The adjustment for the power generation system is now on going and promoting. Now 38% in the electrical efficiency (AC110V output) for the system is achieved. With waste heat recovery involved, the system will potentially have overall energy efficiency more than 70%. In order to optimize the system, some technologies should be studied and pre-tested before integration work, which mainly included water management for the fuel cell stack, water and thermal conditions on the performance of fuel cell, air and water pumping power needed for the fitting of optimum system performance.