Impact of Boost Converter Switching Frequency on Optimal Operation of Fuel Cell Systems

In this paper results obtained from analysis and design of a soft-switching boost converter for a fuel-cell-system is discussed. Key benefits of soft-switching such as high efficiency operation, reduced EMI, and decreased device power stresses were verified. It is demonstrated that by utilizing ZVS and ZCS techniques, high-frequency/high-power density converters can be designed to match the high power density of fuel cells. Also a converter design for fuel cells requires additional considerations due to some limitations of fuel cell systems. Current ripple limitation of fuel cells is discussed in this paper