Fuel Cell Pressure Measurement

Measure, view, and evaluate dynamic forces during fuel cell stack assembly

Measurement & Analysis of Fuel Cell Pressure Distribution

In a fuel cell, numerous thin plates are stacked in close proximity to separate the flows of hydrogen or hydrocarbons and oxygen. Maintaining and improving the uniformity of the contact pressure between these plates over a large area is an important factor in the design and performance of fuel cells. Eliminating parasitic leakage paths is essential to obtaining efficient operation.

In addition to proper stacking pressure, applied clamping torque may also affect contact distribution within a fuel cell. A recent study, conducted by the University of Messina, Italy examines this procedure.

I-Scan offers fuel cell manufacturers tremendous insight into the behavior of components and assembly alternatives. Data from I-Scan allows for direct comparison of the pressure patterns from different designs thus saving time in design verification and re-engineering costs. Sensors are available in different shapes and pressure ranges, are reusable, and provide accurate pressure data. With the help of Tekscan's highly qualified sales and engineering support team, each system can be configured to meet your specific needs.

fuel cell pressure distribution

Pressure around ports and in flow field before and after pressurization

Fuel Cell Pressure Measurement Applications

Identify peak pressures, localized pressure, and spatial pressure
R&D for new fuel cells
Design validation testing

Benefits of Pressure Mapping

Improve assembly technique
Improve clamping fixtures
Determine which materials are best for uniform contact distribution

Typical Pressure Sensors used for Fuel Cell Pressure Measurement

Sensor Model 5027

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

1.10 in. 1.10 in. 1,936 1600.0 in.²

27.9 mm 27.9 mm 1,936 248.0 cm²
Sensor Model 5076

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

3.30 in. 3.30 in. 1,936 177.8 in.²

83.8 mm 83.8 mm 1,936 27.6 cm²
Sensor Model 5101

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

4.40 in. 4.40 in. 1,936 100.0 in.²

111.8 mm 111.8 mm 1,936 15.5 cm²
Sensor Model 5250

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

9.68 in. 9.68 in. 1,936 20.7 in.²

245.9 mm 245.9 mm 1,936 3.2 cm²
Sensor Model 5260

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

18.98 in. 8.14 in. 2,288 14.8 in.²

482.1 mm 206.8 mm 2,288 2.3 cm²
Sensor Model 7501

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

3.94 in. 3.47 in. 8,800 644.2 in.²

100.1 mm 88.1 mm 8,800 99.9 cm²
Sensor Model 8050

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

11.52 in. 10.56 in. 33,792 277.8 in.²

292.6 mm 268.2 mm 33,792 43.1 cm²