Performance of a square, cross-corrugated, polymer film, compact, heat-exchanger with potential application in fuel cells

• Published in: Journal of power sources Vol. 140; no. 2; pp. 304 - 310
• Main Authors: Zaheed, L., Jachuck, R.J.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Elsevier B.V 02.02.2005; Elsevier Sequoia
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Devices using thermal energy; Direct energy conversion and energy accumulation; Electrical engineering. Electrical power engineering; Electrical power engineering; Electrochemical conversion: primary and secondary batteries, fuel cells; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Equipments for energy generation and conversion: thermal, electrical, mechanical energy, etc; Exact sciences and technology; Fuel cells; Heat exchangers (included heat transformers, condensers, cooling towers); Heat-transfer; Poly ether ether ketone; Polymer compact heat-exchanger; Process intensification; Process intensification; Polymer compact heat-exchanger; Poly ether ether ketone; Fuel cells; Heat-transfer; Costs; Secondary cell; Experimental study; Case study; Heat exchanger; Performance; Fuel cell; Heat transfer
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2004.08.024

This paper describes an experimental investigation of the performance characteristics of a novel, cross-corrugated, polymer film, compact, heat-exchanger (PFCHE) made from poly ether ether ketone (PEEK). The aim is to develop Jh and f correlations over a range of Reynolds numbers under laminar conditions to be used in alternative heat-exchanger designs for potential applications in the fuel-cell industry. The incentive for adopting these designs is the huge weight, energy and cost savings involved. Design correlations for square units are key tools in obtaining alternative designs for applications that are presently monopolized by metallic heat-exchangers. The design correlations are establised and then used to perform case studies in selected applications in the fuel-cell industry to suit the fluids and the configuration.