FUEL CELL MODULE AND BATTERY BUILT AROUND IT Russian patent published in 2002 - IPC

FIELD: fuel cells for producing modules and batteries around them. SUBSTANCE: fuel cell module has at least two rectangular fuel cells each incorporating anode with current collector and insulating frame over its periphery to form anode chamber; cathode with current collector and insulating frame over periphery to form cathode chamber; and electrolyte chamber with insulating frame between anode and cathode; insulating frames arranged over periphery are provided with holes for inlet and outlet of hydrogen, oxygen/air, and electrolyte as well as ducts to provide communication between these holes and respective chambers. All holes and ducts are made on upper and lower sides of insulating frames; current collectors are brought out of fuel cells through sides of insulating frames. Holes for admitting hydrogen to anode chambers and discharging it therefrom are located on upper side of insulating frames. Those for oxygen/air inlet to cathode chambers are arranged on upper side of frame and holes for oxygen/air outlet, on lower side of insulating frames; ratio of areas of oxygen/air outlet and inlet holes is 1.9 to 2.2. Holes for admitting electrolyte to electrolyte chambers are provided on lower side of frames and those for its discharging, on upper side of insulating frames; ratio of areas of electrolyte outlet and inlet holes is 1.7 to 2.0. Each of electrolyte inlet and outlet holes communicates with respective electrolyte chamber by means of two bow-shaped ducts; electrolyte inlet and outlet holes and bow-shaped ducts embrace all remaining holes over outer perimeter to form heat shield. Process holes are made on lower side of insulating frames which communicate with anode chambers of fuel cells. Fuel cell battery is built around mentioned modules. EFFECT: facilitated harnessing, enhanced operating reliability. 28 cl, 2 dwg