Patent ID: 9029037
Filing Date: 2015-05-12
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A fuel cell system comprising: at least one fuel cell having an anode area and a cathode area separated from the anode area by an electrolyte, the cathode area having a cathode gas output line; a first liquid separator having a first liquid outlet; a second liquid separator having a reservoir and a level sensor for measurement of a liquid level in the reservoir, the second liquid separator having a second liquid outlet connected to a liquid output line, the second liquid separator having a valve arranged in the liquid output line, the valve opening the liquid output line when the liquid level in the reservoir has reached a predetermined height; a first bypass line extending from the liquid outlet of the first liquid separator to the second liquid separator or to the cathode gas output line; and an orifice plate in the first bypass line, the first bypass line being heated by at least one of an electrical heater and operational heat to ensure melting of any frozen fluid in the first bypass line, the first liquid separator not including a level sensor for measurement of the liquid level in the first liquid separator or a valve for emptying the liquid out of the first liquid separator in a controlled manner such that the liquid separated out by the first liquid separator is carried away from the first liquid separator to the second liquid separator continuously via the first bypass line.