Effect of various stack parameters on temperature rise in molten carbonatefuel cell stack operation

A mathematical stack model is used to predict the temperature at a constant -load operation of molten-carbonate fuel cell stacks. The validity of the m odel is proved by a comparison with measured temperature data obtained from the operation of a 5-kW test stack. The model is applied extensively for t he simulation of temperature profiles in a larger stack to analyze the effe ct of various stack parameters on temperature rise and cooling. The results verify that the cathode gas flow has a predominant effect on the maximum t emperature inside the stack while the inlet and heating temperatures have l imited influence. This explains the need for pressurized operations for con trol of stack temperature. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserv ed.