Three-dimensional CFD modeling of a planar membrane humidifier for PEM fuel cell systems

A three-dimensional numerical model is developed to investigate and compare the performance of humidifiers with counter-flow and parallel-flow configurations. This model has a set of coupled equations including conservations of mass, momentum, species and energy. The results indicate that in counter-flow humidifier, water and heat transfer is more than that of the parallel-flow that leads to a higher dew point at dry side outlet, consequently, a better humidifier performance. An increase in temperature and a decrease in mass flow rate at dry side inlet lead to a better humidifier performance. However at the low flow rates the humidifier performance does not change a lot by preheating the inlet dry gas. An increase in relative humidity at dry side inlet does not offer any advantage.