Fault detection and isolation for PEM fuel cell stacks using fuzzy clusters

Using polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stacks as power supply in technical systems, a long life time and safe operation of the stack are important issues. Therefore, methods are needed to detect deviations from the chosen operating point before any damage to the stack or the environment occurs. In this paper, a fault detection and isolation (FDI) method for PEMFC stacks is described. Based on the measurement of current and voltage of the stack, deviations of other parameters like gas pressure, stoichiometry, or humidification of the supplied air can be detected and isolated.