Abstract
Keywords PEMFC, EGR, System Control, Optimization
Abstract This paper describes the dynamic modeling of a pressurized PEM fuel cell system with and without a controlled (forced) EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) loop. The step response of both systems was simulated using a low-frequency dynamic model approach and the effect of the various control variables on the dynamic behaviours of the internal system states and output variables were examined and contrasted for the two systems. The additional degree of freedom for system control afforded by the EGR loop, while penalizing mildly the overall efficiency of the system, potentially provides important gains in dynamic response, particularly with respect to the humidification of the air into the cathode.