Model-Based Approach for Fuel Cell Compressor Monitoring Development and Calibration

Nowadays, fuel cell is a growing technology in automotive industry. It is an electrochemical device that offers a promising avenue for sustainable, efficient, and clean energy generation. In recent years, with many countries and regions implementing strict regulations and standards for emissions, there has been an increasing demand and focus on fuel cell technology due to its ability to reduce emissions. It plays a crucial role in sustainable energy production by minimizing emissions. However, ensuring its efficient operation and achieving emission reduction targets require regular maintenance and diagnostics. Therefore, diagnostics represents a significant and evolving area within fuel cell systems. This paper focuses on the diagnostic methodology of compressors in fuel cell systems. After the literature review, diagnostic methodology studies have started. This methodology is developed to improve the reliability and efficiency of fuel cell systems by implementing real-time simulation capabilities of MATLAB Simulink's modelling environment and AVL Cruise™ M. A comprehensive validated fuel cell model was utilized to analyze system performance in detail with various driving cycles in AVL Cruise™ M. Then, modelling and fault injection studies are developed in MATLAB Simulink. After that, a concept of fuel cell diagnostics for compressor efficiency and pressure controller deviation monitoring are developed. The proposed methodology demonstrates promising results in terms of early fault detection and diagnosis, offering a valuable contribution to the optimization and maintenance of fuel cell systems in various applications.