초록 ▼

The coolant plate component of a fuel cell assembly is formed from a plate made from graphite particles that are bonded together by a fluorocarbon polymer binder and which encapsulate a serpentine coolant circulation tube. The coolant plate component is non-porous. The graphite particles are prefera

The coolant plate component of a fuel cell assembly is formed from a plate made from graphite particles that are bonded together by a fluorocarbon polymer binder and which encapsulate a serpentine coolant circulation tube. The coolant plate component is non-porous. The graphite particles are preferably flakes which pack together very tightly, and require only a minor amount of the polymer binder to form a solid plate. The plate will provide enhanced heat transfer, will conduct electrons, and will block electrolyte migration from cell to cell in a fuel cell stack due to its construction. The composition of the plate is graded so as to provide a varied coefficient of thermal expansion as measured through the thickness of the plate so as to reduce thermal stresses imposed on the fuel cell stack. The coolant circulation tube has a roughened outer surface which enhances adhesion of the encapsulating graphite flake/binder mixture without inhibiting heat transfer.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A cooler assembly for use in a fuel cell stack, said cooler assembly comprising:a) a tubular conduit for containing a flowing stream of a coolant fluid; andb) a plate formed from a flake graphite-polymer binder mixture, said mixture including a major percentage of flake g

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A cooler assembly for use in a fuel cell stack, said cooler assembly comprising:a) a tubular conduit for containing a flowing stream of a coolant fluid; andb) a plate formed from a flake graphite-polymer binder mixture, said mixture including a major percentage of flake graphite and a minor percentage of polymer binder, said plate surrounding said tubular conduit.