Dataset and mesh of the CFD numerical model for the modelling and simulation of a PEM fuel cell

Abstract

A CFD mesh corresponding to a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) with an active area of 50 cm2, serpentine channels and cross-flow field distribution is presented. The mesh was developed using ANSYS ICEM CFD hexa (v12.0) and it is divided into 3D regions corresponding to the different components of the fuel cell: bipolar plates (anode and cathode), gas diffusion layers (GDLs), catalytic layers (CLs) and membrane. The mesh was generated following Best Practice Guidelines, and mesh quality parameters are reported including minimum cell angle or maximum aspect ratio amongst others. Mesh independence results were checked in the corresponding CFD model and simulation of an experimental fuel cell ANSYS FLUENT with the PEM Fuel Cell module. Simulation results were also validated with the experimental data available from a fuel cell test bench for a set of different operating conditions. The experimental validation provides credibility to the CFD model and supports the use of the proposed mesh for fuel cell research, ensuring accurate results and enabling further validation works and