Transient heat transfer model of proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack with internal humidification

A transient heat transfer model of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack with internal humidification, based on mass transportation phenomena in cathode, was developed. Factors affecting the stack temperature were considered. Equations were solved with Runge-Kutta-Felhberg method. Results indicate that the stack temperature can't be maintained below 80°C itself when current exceed 25A. Influence of current, pressure, stoichiometric ration and water flow rate on stack temperature were researched as well. Heat management tests were carried out on a 5 kW PEMFC stack, and a good agreement was found between tests and model prediction.