Performance prediction of proton exchange membrane fuel cell engine thermal management system using 1D and 3D integrating numerical simulation

The cooling system of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) engine was simulated by 1D and 3D collaborative simulation method. Firstly, the resistance characteristics of the flow channel are obtained by simulating the airside flow model. A three-dimensional simulation model including dual fans and radiator is also established to simulate the airflow distribution. The one-dimensional simulation model of 30 kW PEMFC engine cooling system that are mainly composed of a thermostat, water pump, and fan and radiator model is established. Secondly, the heat dissipation performance of the cooling system is calculated by using the coupled simulation model. It is found that the simulation results of the amount of heat transferred are in good agreement with the experimental data by compromising, which proves that the model is reasonable. Finally, the thermal performance of the extreme operating conditions of the PEMFC system is simulated by means of a simulation model. By monitoring the flow of the pump and the fan speed, we can maintain the stack internal heat balances, so that the stack efficient and stable operation. The results demonstrate that the 3D simulation can get the distribution of fluid flow more accurately, while the simulation time of 1D thermal system is short and can guide the matching of heat transfer parts quickly.