Analysis of Fuel Cell System through Project Based Learning for Application of Classical Thermal Fluid Concepts in Mechanical Engineering Laboratory Course

A hands-on project involving analysis of air noncircular channels in Fuel Cell to measure the pressure was introduced in a thermal fluid laboratory course. Although the students studied fluid mechanics as a theoretical course, this project gave them the opportunity to build an experimental setup from scratch to help showcase their hands-on skills and to apply their understanding of relevant concepts of fluid sciences. The results of the project included a successful test of a conceptual procedure, designed to measure and calculate pressure drop and flow rates across the anode and cathode sides of a fuel cell. The students enjoyed completing and learning from the project. They also provided very useful feedback on the project by incorporating a functional experimental system for the future laboratory project. This project based learning opportunity allowed students to build their confidence in what they are learning as well as provide a glimpse of what the real world may hold.