Hydrogen On Board! Optimize H2 Marine Propulsion Systems with Simulation

Modeling a PEMFC System with Simcenter Amesim

A preconfigured model in Simcenter Amesim enables the study and optimization of PEM fuel cell integration in lightweight marine systems. The model includes the following subsystems:

• Vessel model and electric propulsion system ⛵
• Electrical network and support batteries 🔋
• PEM fuel cell stack 🔄
• Air supply system and cathode control 🌬️
• Hydrogen recirculation circuit and anode management ⚗️
• Stack cooling system ❄️

Subsystem Analysis and Available Outputs

Propulsion and System Control

• Navigation cycle management: predicts speed variations, acceleration, and braking based on defined routes.

• Electric Motor and Transmission: Generates the necessary power for propulsion.
  

• Energy Control Strategies between Battery and Fuel Cells: Determines which energy source powers the system at each stage.

Air Supply System and Cathode Control

• Air compressor and stoichiometry management: Ensures the correct oxygen-to-hydrogen ratio in the electrochemical reaction.
• Membrane humidifier: Regulates the humidity of incoming air to prevent membrane degradation.
• Cathode pressure and temperature analysis: Monitors operating conditions to maximize efficiency and lifespan.

Hydrogen Recirculation Circuit and Anode Control

• Hydrogen tank and pressure regulator: Supply the necessary fuel for the reaction.
• Water separator and purge valve: Remove the water produced by the reaction, ensuring proper system operation.
• Gas composition monitoring at the anode: Prevents hydrogen dilution and ensures consistent performance.

Thermal Management and Cooling

• Cooling pump and coolant circuit: Maintain the stack temperature within an optimal operating range.
• Thermostat and fans: Activate additional cooling systems when needed.
• Stack heat loss analysis: Optimizes thermal balance.

Simulation of Navigation Conditions

Using Simcenter Amesim, it is possible to define the vessel’s operating conditions, including:

• Routes and GPS-defined paths
• Water salinity and temperature
• Wind speed and direction
• Wave height and period
• Marine current speed

These parameters allow for the evaluation of the vessel’s dynamic behavior and optimization of energy management based on environmental conditions.

Simulation Results

Through simulation, key data can be obtained for system design:

1. Vessel autonomy and battery state of charge ⛽
2. Hydrogen consumption and pressure management in the tank 📏
3. Control strategy between fuel cells and battery ⚡
4. Analysis of energy losses in the propulsion system 🔍
5. Compressor efficiency and pressure management in the cathode 🔄
6. Cell temperature monitoring and cooling circuit performance ❄️

The system’s response curves enable the evaluation of:

• The motor torque behavior in relation to controller demands.
• Mechanical and thermal losses during navigation.
• The cooling system’s efficiency in maintaining optimal temperature.
• The fuel cell’s behavior in terms of voltage, current, and membrane resistance.

Conclusions

The use of PEMFC fuel cells represents the most suitable solution for light marine mobility, thanks to their fast dynamic response, compactness, and ease of integration with electric propulsion systems. System simulation with Simcenter Amesim  enables the modeling and optimization of every aspect of fuel cell integration, enhancing the efficiency, autonomy, and reliability of light vessels.

The adoption of predictive simulation accelerates the development of innovative solutions, reduces design costs, and facilitates the integration of hydrogen technologies in the maritime sector. If you want to explore how our expertise and simulation tools can support your projects, contact us for a personalized demo.