Development of a 1.6-kW range extender based on the hydrogen proton exchange membrane fuel cells stack for 1 ton class automated guided vehicles

Abstract

Electrification of logistics equipment for carbon neutrality is a global trend. Automated Guided Vehicles are unmanned logistics/transportation equipment that are rapidly spreading to industrial sites. Currently, Automated Guided Vehicles run on batteries, but their usability is limited by their short operating and long charging times. Hydrogen fuel cells, particularly proton exchange membrane fuel cells, can be used to overcome these limitations while maintaining the environmental friendliness of Automated Guided Vehicles. In this study, we investigate the development of proton exchange membrane fuel cell for 1 ton class Automated Guided Vehicles. The results indicate that a 1.6-kW proton exchange membrane fuel cell with graphite bipolar plates can be applied to 1 ton class Automated Guided Vehicles. To maximize the fuel cell performance, stacking pressure optimization was performed. Also, the cell voltage deviation was analyzed. We confirm the stable performance of 1.6 kW and vibration durability of the Automated Guided Vehicles using two vibration modes. In addition, the applicability of the 1.6 kW proton exchange membrane fuel cell is verified using the power characteristics from an actual 1 ton class Automated Guided Vehicle.