SAE J2617_200711

This recommended practice is intended to serve as a procedure to verify the functional performance, design specifications or vendor claims of any PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) type fuel cell stack sub-system for automotive applications. In this document, definitions, specifications, and methods for the functional performance characterization of the fuel cell stack sub-system are provided. The functional performance characterization includes evaluating electrical outputs and controlling fluid inputs and outputs based on the test boundary defined in this document. In this document, a fuel cell stack sub-system is defined to include the following: Fuel cell stack(s) – An assembly of membrane electrode assemblies (MEA), current collectors, separator plates, cooling plates, manifolds, and a supporting structure. Connections for conducting fuels, oxidants, cooling media, inert gases and exhausts. Electrical connections for the power delivered by the stack sub-system. Devices for monitoring electrical loads. Devices for monitoring cell voltage. Humidification devices. Instrumentation for detecting normal and/or abnormal operating conditions. Enclosures (that may qualify as pressure vessels), and ventilation systems for the enclosure. Not included in the sub-system are the following: Fuel and air processors Thermal management system Power conditioner and distributor Controllers The goal of this Recommended Practice is to provide a method for users to conduct fuel cell stack sub-system functional tests on a common basis that will allow the comparison of fuel cell stack sub-systems with different designs where no specific fuel cell system design has been identified. Alternatively, the functional performance of a specific fuel cell stack sub-system can be assessed in the context of a specific fuel cell system design based on the agreement of the testing parties.