REZEBT

In order to increase the efficiency and service life of PEM fuel cells, the hydrogen remaining at the outlet must be recirculated and reused. However, conventional recirculation blowers are often large, heavy, and energy-intensive, which makes them difficult to use, especially in mobile applications. The REZEBT project addresses this problem by developing a novel, compact anode recirculation blower that efficiently recirculates unused hydrogen while removing water droplets from the gas stream during operation. The basis for this is the patented media gap motor from G+L innotec, which enables a hermetically sealed flow and a robust, highly efficient drive thanks to a large gap between the rotor and stator.

The TFD is responsible for the aerodynamic and structural design of the blower and for developing a numerical model of the entire anode circuit. Particular attention is being paid to the integrated droplet separation system, which generates a vortex to divert water from the main flow and minimize pressure losses. In close cooperation with the project partners, the aim is to develop a lightweight, powerful, and reliable recirculation blower that is suitable for fuel cell outputs of up to 200 kW and can be scaled for use in commercial vehicles, rail vehicles, and other applications. The results will form the basis for future industrial implementation.

The project is managed by the Institute for Turbomachinery and Fluid Dynamics.

The project is supported by the Center for Fuel Cell Technology (ZBT).

The project is supported by the G+L innotec GmbH.