Patent ID: 9077004
Filing Date: 2015-07-07
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A fuel cell system, comprising: (A) a fuel cell stack having (i) a plurality of fuel cells, each comprising an anode; and (ii) an anode exhaust flowpath operably coupled to said anodes and configured to direct flow of a water-containing exhaust away from said anodes; (B) a water separator operably coupled to said flowpath and configured to remove at least a portion of water from said exhaust; (C) a valve comprising (i) a first portion operably coupled to said flowpath and configured to accept said exhaust therefrom, and (ii) a second portion operably coupled to said water separator and configured to discharge said accepted exhaust thereto; and (D) a valve inlet throat comprising (i) a proximate end portion operably coupled to said first portion of said valve; (ii) a substantially curved distal end portion having an orifice disposed therein, said orifice operably coupled to said flowpath; and (iii) a sidewall portion disposed between said proximate end portion and said distal end portion and defined around an axis; wherein the fuel cell system is configured to operate under at least freeze start conditions.