IIT Bombay Develops Innovative Method for Enhancing Efficiency of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
Key Ideas
  • Researchers at IIT Bombay have created a new optimization method for determining the ideal weight and size distribution of components in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).
  • The method focuses on optimizing weight, cost, and range by recommending the optimal size for the radiator and thermal energy storage unit, enhancing vehicle efficiency for commercialization.
  • The study proposes a unique combination of Electrical Energy Storage systems with Thermal Energy Storage units, utilizing paraffin wax as a phase change material to improve overall vehicle performance.
  • Future steps include lab-scale experiments and real-time vehicle testing to validate the proposed thermal management system's effectiveness under various driving conditions.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay have developed a novel optimization method for determining the ideal weight and size distribution of components in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). This method focuses on optimizing weight, cost, and range by recommending the optimal size for the radiator and thermal energy storage unit, thus enhancing vehicle efficiency and aiding in commercialization. FCEVs are gaining popularity as a green alternative to fossil fuels, utilizing hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity and emitting only water vapor. However, the excess heat generated by fuel cells necessitates large radiators for cooling, leading to increased vehicle weight and size. To address this challenge, IIT Bombay's team has proposed a compact radiator coupled with a Thermal Energy Storage (TES) unit that uses paraffin wax as a phase change material to store thermal energy, reducing radiator size and maintaining constant coolant temperature. The study integrates Electrical Energy Storage (EES) systems with TES units using pinch analysis to determine optimal sizes for radiators, fuel cells, EES, and TES components, potentially reducing radiator size in heavy-duty vehicles by up to 2.5 times. Future plans involve lab-scale experiments and real-time vehicle testing to validate the proposed thermal management system's effectiveness under different driving conditions.
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