Patent ID: 7615299
Filing Date: 2009-11-10
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A fuel cell stack assembly comprising: a plurality of fuel cells arranged into a plurality of sub-stacks, wherein respective cathode and anode gas outlets of a first sub-stack are connected serially to respective cathode and anode gas inlets of a second sub-stack such that cathode air exhaust and anode fuel gas exhaust from said first sub-stack are the respective oxidant and fuel for said second sub-stack; a first heat exchanger disposed between said first sub-stack and said second sub-stack for changing the temperature of said cathode air exhaust and said anode fuel gas exhaust prior to entry thereof into said second sub-stack; and a second heat exchanger disposed ahead of said first sub-stack for changing the temperature of cathode air and anode fuel gas prior to entry thereof into said first sub-stack, wherein a heat exchange fluid is directed through said first and second heat exchangers, wherein said heat exchange fluid is separate from said cathode air and anode fuel.