A low cost method and signal processing algorithm for rapidly detecting abnormal operation of a single fuel cell in multiple series connected fuel cells

摘要

A system and method for determining reactant gas flow through a fuel cell stack to identify potential stack problems, such as a possible underperforming fuel cell. The method includes applying a perturbation frequency to the fuel cell stack and, in response, measuring the stack current and voltage. The measured voltage and the measured current are used to determine an impedance of the stack fuel cells, which can then be compared with a predetermined fuel cell impedance for normal stack operation. If an abnormal fuel cell impedance is detected, then the fuel cell system can take corrective action that addresses the potential problem.