Mobilised
MicronAir For Fuel Cell Stacks
Fuel cell vehicles are just as dependent on air filters to function efficiently. Prateek Pardeshi looks at the Freudenberg MicronAir ® filter in a Hydrogen fuel cell stack deployed on a bus.
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AUTO COMPONENTS INDIA // MAY 2022
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attery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are getting stiff competition from Fuel Cell Hydrogen and Electric Vehicles. The technology is making remarkable progress, riding on efficiency and reliability. For an automotive component that converts hydrogen gas into electricity, there is a lot that goes on beneath the surface. Hydrogen molecules are broken down into protons and electrons. Protons pass through a membrane, while electrons are diverted to generate direct current, which powers the motor. On the other side of the membrane, they combine with oxygen. As a by product, H20 is emitted. Here the efficiencies are credited to the clean air fed to the Fuel cell which in turn allows it to function efficiently. In an ICE, we change the air filters after predefined service intervals, which result in clean engine intake and efficient performance. Similarly, fuel cells demand clean filtered air,
which Freudenberg Filtration Technologies has made possible with its MicronAir filter series. Commenting on the Fuel cell technology, Felix Herberg, Sales Manager Automotive Filters at Freudenberg Filtration Technologies said, “Fuel cell vehicles are particularly wellsuited for long distances thanks to their great range. Because electric cars are most attractive for shorter distances, this alternative drive technology perfectly complements the sustainable mobility mix of tomorrow.” Filters here play a crucial role, he informs.
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For efficient running of fuel cells, air quality plays an important role in helping to get rid of contaminants like sulphur, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can affect the cell to varying degrees. Some might decrease performance temporarily. Others, such as fine dust, WWW.AUTOCOMPONENTSINDIA.COM
