Model formulation and design of an efficient control algorithm for fuel cell power system

In this research work a Fuel cell based power system is explicitly modeled and analyzed under the various possible operating conditions. In order to ensure a reliable, efficient, durable and cost effective operation, a control system based on the management of air and fuel flow regulations can be designed. Fuel cell systems produce clean energy and they have got higher energy conversion efficiencies as compared to Internal Combustion Engines based power plants. In order to make this technology economically viable, feed of the air and fuel, pressure regulations, flow rates and the heat produced must be optimally controlled. Oxygen depletion, during the transient reactions is the major cause of low performance and subsequent deteriorations. In order to overcome the stated limitations, internal subsystem reactions are modeled deliberately and examined carefully. Based on the mathematical deductions and feedback control techniques, optimal pressures and flow rates for hydrogen and oxygen are selected. Breath control unit can be efficiently controlled by using this model to avoid degradation. The output voltage model is also delineated in terms of internal electrochemical dynamics to confirm the maximum power gain by the selected parameters. Results are also verified using MATLAB/ Simulink tool. The Proposed methodology is equally valid for both Polymer Electrolyte Membrane and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells based power systems with some modifications.