2020 Virtual Spring Meeting and 16th GCPS

(60an) Analysis of Fuel Cell System through Project Based Learning for Application of Classical Thermal Fluid Concepts in Mechanical Engineering Laboratory Course

Author

Biswas, M. - Presenter, University of Texas At Tyler
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.