Effect of various stack parameters on temperature rise in molten carbonate fuel 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 model 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 the simulation of temperature profiles in a larger stack to analyze the effect of various stack parameters on temperature rise and cooling. The results verify that the cathode gas flow has a predominant effect on the maximum temperature inside the stack while the inlet and heating temperatures have limited influence. This explains the need for pressurized operations for control of stack temperature.