Closed anode fuel cell startup method
A process for starting a PEM fuel cell module includes blowing air through the cathode side of the module using external power. An amount hydrogen is released into the anode side of the module under a pressure greater than the pressure of the air on the cathode side, while the anode is otherwise closed. Cell voltages in the module are monitored for the appearance of a charged state sufficient to start the module. When the charged state is observed, the module is converted to a running state.
1. A method of starting a fuel cell module comprising the steps of,
dispersing hydrogen through an anode side of the module, wherein an outlet from the anode side of the module remains closed with a purge valve;
blowing air through a cathode side of the module using power from a battery while providing a pressure of the hydrogen on the anode side of the module effective to allow cells of the module to increase in voltage;
regulating the pressure of the hydrogen on the anode side of the module to be lower than a previous pressure of the hydrogen on the anode side, and
converting the module to a running state after the cells of the module reach at least a minimum voltage.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein air is blown through a cathode at a rate that is 20% or less of a lowest rate used in normal running conditions.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein dispersing hydrogen comprises opening and then closing a hydrogen inlet valve.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein dispersing hydrogen comprises releasing hydrogen through a forward pressure regulator.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the minimum voltage is indicated by at least one charged cell or a monitored group of cells being charged to not have a negative voltage when the module is run.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the minimum voltage is indicated by at least one charged cell or a monitored group of cells being above a threshold charge.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the running state is characterized by fuel cells of the module powering a balance of plant.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the running state is characterized by the module being provided with a continuous supply of hydrogen.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising monitoring voltages of the cells in the module for the appearance of the minimum voltage in each cell or monitored group of cells.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein air is blown through a cathode by a fan.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the fan is smaller than a fan used under normal running conditions.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the outlet from anode side of the module is closed with the purge valve without being vented.
13. The method of claim 1 , wherein the outlet from anode side of the module is closed the purge valve without recirculating hydrogen.
14. The method of claim 6 , wherein the threshold charge is 25-50% of its nominal voltage.
15. The method of claim 7 , wherein the balance of plant comprises an air blower in communication with the cathode side.