Control Module CM

A CM is the brain of a fuel cell system and is responsible for controlling the entire fuel cell system during its idling and operating time periods. The CM is composed of software and hardware, and the software is embedded in the hardware. 

The CM is crucial for a fuel cell system, and it reflects how well the system integrator understands the entire fuel cell system. Without a sound understanding of the fuel cell system and all its components, a good CM cannot be made. The important things that the CM should cover include when and how to start the fuel cell system, how to respond when abnormal events happen, what actions to take to avoid component damage, and when and how to shut down the fuel cell system. 

Picture of a mother control board. Courtesy of Wuhan Intepower Fuel Cells Co., Ltd. 

A PEMFC uses a solid membrane that conducts protons as the electrolyte. Since it can start at ambient temperatures instantly, it is ideal for backup, portable, and motive power applications. The most important technologies concern the stack (like the heart of a human being) and the system controls (like the brain of a human being). The key components in a stack include the catalyst, PEM, GDM, plates, and gasket, while the controls include the operation algorithm, software, and electronic circuits. A fuel cell also needs various auxiliary components such as fans, blowers, compressors, pumps, heat exchangers, humidifiers, converters, valves, sensors, and batteries to work. A fuel cell system involves multidisciplinary skills and knowledge, and therefore it requires a team effort to develop. 

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