Fuel cells and electrolyzers share similar structures and functions, with fuel cells producing energy through a reverse process of electrolyzers. Central to both systems is the stack, where the chemical reactions occur. Within these stacks, bipolar plates are integral, functioning as conduits for gases and fluids and connecting individual cells.

Sealing these bipolar plates effectively is critical to system performance. Utilizing overmolded technology, elastomeric seals are permanently molded to fuel cell plates to prevent leaks and electrolyte depletion, which could otherwise diminish efficiency or raise safety concerns. Overmolding eliminates problems commonly associated with the installation of separate elastomer seals so that the bi-polar plate can endure the rigors of high pressure, temperature extremes, and corrosive substances and prevent the escape of reactants, products, or electrolytes.

Bi-Polar Plate Design Considerations:

Parker works with customers to engineer bespoke bipolar plates that are straightforward, reliable, and conducive to mass production without compromising quality. Utilizing our extensive supplier network we source plate components that precisely meet customer specifications. This collaborative design process takes into consideration:

Fluid Management:
Bipolar plates channel hydrogen gas to the anode side and oxygen (or air) to the cathode side. In addition, they efficiently direct the flow of water and heat away from the cell. The design of flow channels on the plates plays a crucial role in ensuring even distribution of reactants over the surface of the electrodes and effective removal of byproducts (like water in PEM fuel cells).

Materials and Design:

Material Requirements: Parker's comprehensive lineup of sealing solutions includes engineered elastomeric seal geometries permanently bonded and directly overmolded to the bipolar plate or other stack components,

Structural Design Considerations: These plates must exhibit key characteristics such as structural integrity, electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, chemical stability, gas impermeability, light weight, and meet suitability requirements for overmolding of the sealing elastomer.

Product Benefits:

Eliminates problems associated with separate elastomeric seal installation
Excellent resistance to high pressure
A broad spectrum of media resistance
Suitability across a wide temperature range
Long operational lifespan
Designed for simple installation
Available in extra-large sizes
Highly resilient against deformation
Crafted from specialty materials that exhibit superior permeation characteristics as necessary

Range of Application:
Bipolar plates are designed for application in sealing stacks within both fuel cell and electrolyzer systems, ensuring integrity and performance in sustainable energy conversion processes.

Bipolar plates for fuel cells and electrolyzers