Allengra’s Hydrogen Flow Meter for Controlling Anode Recirculation in PEM Fuel Cells

May 27, 2024, 4 minute read

Allengra's Hydrogen Flow Meter on a table with paperwork around

Controlling anode recirculation in PEM fuel cells is crucial for optimizing performance and efficiency. By carefully managing the recirculation of hydrogen gas within the anode, engineers can enhance fuel utilization, mitigate water flooding, and improve overall system durability, where Allengra's Hydrogen Flow Meter stands as the prime candidate.

The usage of conventional flow meters for anode recirculation control in PEM fuel cells is delayed by several limitations. These meters often struggle to provide the necessary precision and responsiveness required for optimal fuel cell operation.  

A few disadvantages are: 

  • Limited accuracy and precision: Difficulty in achieving precise flow rate measurements. 
  • Slow response time: Inability to quickly adapt to changing operating conditions. 
  • Susceptibility to environmental factors: Performance affected by pressure and temperature fluctuations. 


Innovating PEM Fuel Cell Efficiency 

Allengra's Hydrogen Flow Meter is tailored to bring solutions to a wide range of hydrogen and different types of gas mixtures related issues, via Ultrasonic Technology.  

Allengra’s Hydrogen Flow Meter can offer: 

  • Density and Mass Flow: Accurate measurement of both mass flow and gas concentration for optimized efficiency and lifespan. 
  • Comprehensive Data: Real-time data on volume flow, temperature, humidity, and pressure for precise anode recirculation control. 
  • Ideal Hydrogen/Nitrogen Ratio: Precise concentration readings for optimal fuel cell performance and longevity. 

Hydration and Anode Circulation in PEM Fuel Cells  

The main purpose for anode circulation in PEM fuel cells is to optimize the performance and water balance, ensuring that the hydrogen flowing into the fuel cell stack is used as efficiently as possible. To ensure an even distribution of hydrogen throughout the stack, there is an abundance of hydrogen. 

Such an abundance of hydrogen, may it be beneficial to the even distribution, it leads to the anode outlet to be enriched with nitrogen as well, leading to a negative impact on the service of the stack. Therefore, a purge cycle takes place which blows out the anode gas, where is essential to have an optimal balance.

By using Allengra’s Hydrogen Flow Meter, the anode gas from the stack outlet can be recirculated back to the stack inlet. This process saves the excess hydrogen from being unnecessarily wasted, thereby increasing the efficiency of the fuel cell, as there is more hydrogen available for the electrochemical reaction. 


A Cost-Efficient Automotive Solution for a more Sustainable Future 

Allengra tailored the Hydrogen Flow Meter for seamless integration in any application, along with a compact design.  

Utilizing CAN bus as the main communication interface, Allengra has OEM solutions that can suit your specific requirements for your application. 

With such flexibility for integration, this meter can be converted into a cost-efficient solution for the automotive industry. While our Hydrogen Flow Meter indeed offers exceptional performance and longevity, its impact expands beyond these factors. 

By utilizing this advanced flow meter, you contribute to significant environmental benefits, by drastically reducing hydrogen waste and improving efficiency.

We stand firm on our commitment to a more sustainable energy future.