Fuel Cell Plates

 fuel cell document.pdf

Bi-polar plates used in fuel cell stacks are conductive plates that act both as an anode for one cell and a cathode for adjacent cells. These plates incorporate a complex pattern of flow channels for the fluid feeds and conduits for heat transfer.

PRECISION MICRO is a world leader in the manufacture of metallic plates and mesh for the fuel cell industry. Manufactured from stainless steels, titanium, nickel and a range of exotic alloys. These custom designed components offer considerable benefits when compared to non-metallic plates:

• Superior heat and electrical conductivity
• Greater durability for longer life, particularly in mobile applications
• Outstanding corrosion resistance
• Superior volumetric and gravimetric power densities
• Thinner plates (typically 1.25mm) enable shorter stacks, saving space
• Lower cost per kW performance, lowering overall system cost

Although metallic plates may be machined mechanically, Photochemical Machining is a more economical, proven alternative. A leader in this field, PRECISION MICRO operates the largest etching plant of its kind in Europe, dedicated to the manufacture of metal fuel cell plates, producing thousands of tonnes of bespoke plates each year.

With a flexible manufacturing technology that does not cost penalise complexity, PRECISION MICRO offers:

• Rapid prototyping (in days)
• Economical, high volume manufacture in weeks
• Digital tooling for low set-up costs and design flexibility
• Laser Direct Imaging for faster response and greater accuracy
• Multiple channel depths and precise interlacing channel capabilities
• Burr-free, stress-free plates
• No tooling or expensive time consuming mould making

Metal Meshes
Some applications, typically alcohol fuelled cells, utilise coated metal mesh for anodes, inter-cell connectors or electrode supports. PRECISION MICRO has the technology to produce high precision, non-woven meshes for these purposes with guaranteed percentage open areas from a broad spectrum of metals.

Quality Assured
PRECISION MICRO has developed quality control procedures to ensure reproducible tolerances on all critical plate dimensions including gas track depth and manifold geometry, and has demonstrated the capability to manufacture parts to stringent pressure-drop specifications. 

Markets Served

• Micro / Portable fuel cells
            - Direct methanol fuel cells
            - Micro-reactors, mixers and heat exchangers
• Stationary
            - PEM
            - Solid oxide
• Automotive / mobile
  - PEM fuel cell stacks
• Fuel Provision
            - Electrolysis
            - Reformation