Thermal analysis of fuel cell NEXA ballard power system

During operation, fuel cells do not only generate electricity but also heat, which is emitted through surface of the cell. This article aims to determine surface temperature of a low-temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell under varying load, where the temperature is measured via infrared thermography. With this method, the thermal field dispersal is quantified remotely. To contrast with surface temperature, internal temperature of the fuel cell is also measured. Based on the obtained data, heating curves of the fuel cell and other characteristics are evaluated. The tests have been carried out in cooperation with Technical University of Ostrava, Czech Republic.