Patent ID: 6663992
Filing Date: 2003-12-16
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
An air-coaled fuel cell stack comprising a plurality of discrete fuel cells each having a surface defining a cooling gap between said fuel cells, said gap being adapted to flow air between said fuel cells in a direction of flow extending from an inlet to said gap toward an outlet from said gap and having (1) a first region adjacent said inlet and defined by a first portion of said surface having a first cooling surface area and first heat transfer coefficient, and (2) a second region downstream of said first region adjacent said outlet and defined by a second portion of said surface (i) having a second cooling surface area and heat transfer coefficient greater than said first cooling surface area and heat transfer coefficient, and (ii) comprising a series of cooling fins which (a) are spaced apart in the direction of flow, (b) project from said second portion into said gap, and (c) are aligned in a plurality of substantially parallel rows extending in said direction of flow.