JP7399013B2 - Seal member repair method and fuel cell system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a method for repairing a seal member and a fuel cell system.

The fuel cell system of Patent Document 1 includes a manifold that supplies fuel gas and a cell stack that receives the supply of fuel gas from the manifold. The cell stack is configured such that a plurality of elliptical cylindrical cells extending in the longitudinal direction are erected in parallel so that the longitudinal direction thereof projects from the manifold. The cell receives fuel gas and air from the manifold and generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction.

In Patent Document 1, one longitudinal end of a cell is inserted into an insertion port provided in a manifold, joined together, and sealed with a sealing member. Furthermore, one ends of adjacent cells are also sealed with a sealing member. The sealing member of Patent Document 1 is composed of a dense portion in the surface layer portion, a porous portion below the dense portion, and other portions. The lower end of the porous portion reaches the lower end of the sealing member. With this configuration of the seal member, stress due to thermal contraction inside the seal member can be alleviated, and peeling of the seal member can be suppressed from progressing to the surface layer of the seal member. Therefore, it is possible to suppress peeling of the seal member at locations where the seal member is provided, such as the joint portion between a cell and a manifold, and the joint portion between cells.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-112045

However, if a sudden temperature change occurs in the seal member at the joint, or if stress exceeding the allowable value is applied to the seal member at the joint due to vibrations such as transportation or earthquakes, the seal member may break. . If this happens, fuel gas etc. will leak from the damaged part. Currently, if the seal member is damaged, it is difficult to use the fuel cell.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system and a fuel cell system.

The characteristic configuration of the seal member repair method according to the present invention is as follows:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature is executable, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a combustion temperature threshold for starting. The point is to execute .
The characteristic configuration of the fuel cell system according to the present invention is as follows:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature is executable, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a combustion temperature threshold for starting. The point is to execute.

Fuel cell systems use fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Additionally, if the temperature of the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section becomes higher than the starting combustion temperature threshold, the operation control section determines that the seal member is damaged and fuel gas, etc. is leaking. A second operating mode for melting and repairing is executed.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. It is in the point of doing.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. It is in the point of doing.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
In addition, if the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes higher than the starting catalyst temperature threshold, the operation control section determines that the seal member is damaged and fuel gas is leaking, and melts the seal member. and executes the second operation mode for repair.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. At the point.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. At the point.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Additionally, if the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes lower than the starting voltage threshold, the operation control section determines that the seal member is damaged and fuel gas is leaking, and melts the seal member. and executes the second operation mode for repair.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the combustion section temperature detection section The point is that execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the combustion section temperature detection section The point is that execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
In addition, when the temperature of the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section becomes lower than the combustion temperature threshold for shutdown, the operation control section assumes that the damaged part of the seal member has been repaired and the leakage of fuel gas etc. has been suppressed. 2 Stop execution of the operation mode.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the catalyst temperature detection unit is The point is that execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a catalyst temperature threshold for stopping.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the catalyst temperature detection unit is The point is that execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a catalyst temperature threshold for stopping.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
In addition, when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes smaller than the catalyst temperature threshold for shutdown, the operation control section determines that the damaged part of the seal member has been repaired and the leakage of fuel gas, etc. has been suppressed, and the operation control section starts the second operation. Stop the mode from running.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the voltage detection unit detects When the generated voltage becomes larger than a voltage threshold for stopping, execution of the second operation mode is stopped.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the voltage detection unit detects When the generated voltage becomes larger than a voltage threshold for stopping, execution of the second operation mode is stopped.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Further, when the generated voltage of the fuel cell detected by the voltage detection section becomes larger than the voltage threshold for stopping, the operation control section assumes that the damaged part of the seal member has been repaired and leakage of fuel gas etc. has been suppressed. Execution of the second operation mode is stopped.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to be operated at a high temperature can be executed, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the supply amount of the fuel gas is controlled in the second operation mode. The present invention is characterized in that the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by increasing the temperature of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to be operated at a high temperature can be executed, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the supply amount of the fuel gas is controlled in the second operation mode. The present invention is characterized in that the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by increasing the temperature of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Furthermore, when the operation control unit increases the amount of fuel gas supplied in the second operation mode than in the first operation mode, the combustion amount increases in accordance with the increase in fuel gas. Thereby, the temperature of the fuel cell can be increased, and the sealing member can be melted and repaired.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the oxidant gas is supplied in the second operation mode. The point is that the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by decreasing the amount of fuel compared to the first operation mode.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the oxidant gas is supplied in the second operation mode. The point is that the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by decreasing the amount of fuel compared to the first operation mode.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Further, when the operation control unit reduces the supply amount of oxidant gas in the second operation mode than in the first operation mode, cooling of the fuel cell is suppressed. Thereby, the temperature of the fuel cell can be increased, and the sealing member can be melted and repaired.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled in the second operation mode. The point is to gradually increase it.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled in the second operation mode. The point is to gradually increase it.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control unit executes the second operation mode and controls the fuel cell to operate at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.
Further, the operation control section gradually increases the temperature of the fuel cell from the normal operating temperature before controlling the temperature to the high temperature of the second operation mode. Thereby, the operation control section can gradually increase the temperature while monitoring the state of the fuel cell. Further, deformation and cracking of the fuel cell due to rapid generation of thermal stress can be suppressed more than when the temperature is rapidly increased.

A further characteristic configuration of the seal member repair method according to the present invention is that, when gradually increasing the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode, the operation control section increases the temperature of the fuel cell. After the operation, the normal operating temperature is returned to the normal operating temperature, and it is determined whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell has improved. If the power generation performance has not improved in the determination, the temperature of the fuel cell is adjusted first. The fuel cell is operated at a temperature further raised than the temperature raised above, and if the power generation performance is improved in the judgment, the further increase in the temperature of the fuel cell is stopped.
In a further characteristic configuration of the fuel cell system according to the present invention, when the operation control section gradually increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode, the operation control section increases the temperature of the fuel cell and operates the fuel cell system. After that, the temperature is returned to the normal operating temperature, and it is determined whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell has improved, and if the power generation performance has not improved in the determination, the temperature of the fuel cell is increased first. The fuel cell is operated at a temperature further raised than the temperature set, and if the power generation performance is improved in the judgment, the further rise in temperature of the fuel cell is stopped.

According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control section raises the temperature of the fuel cell and operates the fuel cell, and then returns the temperature to the normal operating temperature, and determines whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell has improved. By returning the temperature to normal operating temperature, it is easier to confirm the improvement in the power generation performance of the fuel cell.

Further characteristic configurations of the seal member repair method according to the present invention include:
A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed at regular timing or at a timing when a leak of the fuel gas is detected. At the point.
Further characteristic configurations of the fuel cell system according to the present invention include:
A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed at regular timing or at a timing when a leak of the fuel gas is detected. At the point.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the fuel cell system uses fuel gas when generating electricity. When a leak of gas containing at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas occurs, the power generation performance of the fuel cell deteriorates. Therefore, in fuel cell systems, seal members are used to prevent leakage of fuel gas and the like. The sealing member is provided at a portion through which fuel gas or the like flows, and is provided, for example, at a joint between members constituting a fuel gas supply path, a joint between a supply path and a fuel cell, and the like. Therefore, when the seal member is damaged, fuel gas and the like leak from the damaged portion. According to the characteristic configuration described above, the operation control section executes the second operation mode at regular timing or at the timing when the fuel gas leak is detected, and operates the fuel cell at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. Control to drive. When the fuel cell is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature, the sealing member melts and the damaged portion is repaired by making up for it. Thereby, even if the seal member is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member. Furthermore, the seal member can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a fuel cell system. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of fuel gas in a flat fuel cell module. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of oxidizing gas in a flat fuel cell module. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of seal members in a flat fuel cell module. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing a damaged portion of a seal member in a flat fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is a side view showing a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is a top view showing a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged perspective view of a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing the arrangement of seal members in a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing a damaged portion of a seal member in a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module. FIG. 2 is a side view showing a cylindrical fuel cell module. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing damage to a seal member in a cylindrical fuel cell module.

[Embodiment]
A method for repairing a seal member according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

(1) Configuration of fuel cell system (1-1) Overall configuration The fuel cell system 100 includes a fuel cell power generation device 1, as shown in FIG. The fuel cell system 100 also includes a fuel gas pump 2 for supplying fuel gas, a boost pump 5, and a desulfurizer 3 in order to supply fuel gas, reformed water, and oxidizing gas to the fuel cell power generation device 1. , a reformed water tank 9 for supplying reformed water, and an air blower 15 for supplying oxidizing gas. The fuel cell system 100 also includes a heat exchanger 17 as an exhaust heat utilization section that reuses heat discharged from the fuel cell power generation device 1, and a heat medium such as water that is circulated between the heat exchanger 17. A hot water storage tank 19 is provided. Further, the fuel cell system 100 includes an operation control section 71 that controls the operation of the fuel cell system 100.

The operation control unit 71 of this embodiment executes a second operation mode in which the fuel cell A, which will be described later, is controlled to be operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. This repairs the seal member and suppresses leakage of various gases such as fuel gas and oxidizing gas (hereinafter also simply referred to as fuel gas etc.). This point will be discussed later.

Hydrocarbon raw fuel such as city gas (for example, city gas 13A) is supplied to the boost pump 5 with the output of a predetermined flow rate controlled by the fuel gas pump 2. Furthermore, the raw fuel is supplied to the desulfurizer 3 through the raw fuel supply path 41 by the operation of the boost pump 5 .

The desulfurizer 3 removes (desulfurizes) sulfur compound components contained in raw fuel. When the raw fuel contains sulfur compounds, by providing the desulfurizer 3, it is possible to suppress the influence of the sulfur compounds on the reformer 28 or the fuel cell power generation device 1.

Reformed water is supplied from the reformed water tank 9 to the fuel cell power generation device 1 through the reformed water supply path 43 by the operation of the reformed water pump 7 .

The reformed water tank 9 collects condensed water from catalyst combustion exhaust gas, which will be described later. Further, the condensed water supplied to the reformed water tank 9 is purified by a water purifier (not shown). Specifically, condensed water is collected from the catalytic combustion exhaust gas, which will be described later, discharged from the outlet of the heat exchanger 17 via the discharge passage 51 through the condensed water recovery passage 45 into a water purifier (not shown). . Condensed water purified by a water purifier (not shown) is collected in the reformed water tank 9.

Furthermore, water can be supplied to the reformed water tank 9 from a water supply section 13 independently of the condensed water.

The fuel cell power generation device 1 is housed in a storage container 40 and includes a fuel cell module 23, a vaporizer 27, a reformer 28, and a combustion section 29.

The vaporizer 27 is supplied with reformed water from the reformed water tank 9 via the reformed water supply path 43, and is supplied with desulfurized raw fuel via the raw fuel supply path 41. The raw fuel supply path 41 is downstream of the desulfurizer 3 and merges with the reformed water supply path 43, and the reformed water and raw fuel that are combined outside the storage container 40 are fed to the vaporizer 27. Supplied. The vaporizer 27 supplied with reformed water and raw fuel generates steam from the reformed water. The raw fuel containing steam generated in the vaporizer 27 is supplied to the reformer 28 through a steam-containing raw fuel supply path 31 .

The reformer 28 uses the steam generated in the vaporizer 27 to steam-reform the raw fuel desulfurized in the desulfurizer 3 to produce a fuel gas containing hydrogen gas as a main component (containing a reducing component). gas). At this time, the reformer 28 performs steam reforming of the raw fuel using combustion heat generated by combustion of unburned gas including fuel component gas in a combustion section 29, which will be described later.

The fuel gas generated in the reformer 28 is supplied to the fuel cell module 23 through a fuel gas supply path 33. The fuel gas is distributed and supplied to the plurality of fuel cells A that constitute the fuel cell module 23. Each fuel cell A has an anode to which fuel gas is supplied, a cathode to which oxidant gas is supplied through the air blower 15, and an electrolyte between the anode and the cathode. Generates electricity by reacting gases.

The inverter 39 adjusts the output voltage generated by the fuel cell module 23 to make it the same voltage and frequency as the power received from the commercial grid (not shown).

The combustion section 29 is supplied with unburned gas containing fuel component gas that is discharged without being used for the power generation reaction in the fuel cell module 23 . The combustion section 29 burns the supplied unburned gas. From the combustion section 29, cell combustion exhaust gas (an example of combustion exhaust gas) generated by combustion of unburned gas is discharged.

The cell combustion exhaust gas is supplied to the reformer 28 and is discharged to the outside of the storage container 40 from the gas outlet 37 via the combustion catalyst section 35. As described above, the reformer 28 performs steam reforming using the heat of the cell combustion exhaust gas, that is, the combustion heat generated by combustion of the fuel component gas.

A combustion catalyst section 35 is disposed at the gas outlet 37, and burns off unburned gas, which is a reducing component such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen contained in the cell combustion exhaust gas. The combustion catalyst section 35 is made of, for example, a platinum-based catalyst.

Catalyst combustion exhaust gas (an example of combustion exhaust gas) generated by combustion of unburned gas in the combustion catalyst section 35 is discharged from the gas outlet 37 . The catalyst combustion exhaust gas is sent to the heat exchanger 17 via the exhaust path 52.

Each part of the fuel cell power generation device 1 is provided with various detection parts for detecting temperature and voltage. In this embodiment, a cell temperature detection section T1 for detecting the temperature in the fuel cell A, a combustion section temperature detection section T2 for detecting the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas in the combustion section 29, and a combustion section temperature detection section T2 for detecting the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas in the combustion section 29, It includes a catalyst temperature detection section T3 for detecting the temperature of catalyst combustion exhaust gas, and a voltage detection section V for detecting the generated voltage in the fuel cell A. The detection results of these detection units are transmitted to the operation control unit 71.

In the heat exchanger 17 , heat exchange is performed between the catalytic combustion exhaust gas discharged from the gas outlet 37 and the heat medium discharged from the hot water storage tank 19 . For example, when the heat medium is water, heat exchange is performed between the catalyst combustion exhaust gas and water to generate hot water, which is stored in the hot water storage tank 19 . The catalyst combustion exhaust gas is discharged into the discharge passage 51 in a state where the temperature has been lowered by heat exchange with water. The heat medium exiting the heat exchanger 17 is discharged into the heat medium circulation path 61 and introduced into the hot water storage tank 19. Further, the hot water flows through the heat medium circulation path 61 that exits the hot water storage tank 19 and is introduced into the heat exchanger 17 again. Therefore, the heat medium circulates between the heat exchanger 17 and the hot water storage tank 19 through the heat medium circulation path 61.

The hot water storage tank 19 is provided with a hot water outlet path 19a for discharging the hot water in the hot water storage tank 19, and a water supply channel 19b for supplying water to the hot water storage tank 19 according to the hot water discharge. The hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 19 can be used to supply a bath, washroom, etc., and the exhaust heat of the catalytic combustion exhaust gas from the fuel cell power generation device 1 can be reused.

Further, the heat medium circulation path 61 is equipped with a circulation pump 63 and a radiator 65. The circulation pump 63 controls the rotation speed and supplies the heat medium from the hot water storage tank 19 to the heat exchanger 17 at a desired rotation speed. The radiator 65 includes a heat radiation fan 65a for radiating the heat of the heating medium flowing through the heating medium circulation path 61, and a temperature sensor (not shown).

(1-2) Structure of fuel cell module and sealing member Next, the structure of the fuel cell module 23 will be explained. In the following, the fuel cell module 23 will be explained using a flat plate type fuel cell module, a cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module, and a cylindrical type fuel cell module as examples.
Furthermore, the fuel cell module 23 is provided with a seal member to prevent leakage of various gases such as fuel gas and oxidant gas, and the structure of the seal member will also be explained along with the explanation of the structure of each fuel cell module. do.

(a) Flat-plate fuel cell module The flat-plate fuel cell module 23 will be explained using FIGS. 2 to 5.
The flat plate type fuel cell module 23 includes a first separator 101 that accommodates the fuel cell A, and a second separator 101 in which grooves 103a and 103b for supplying fuel gas and oxidant gas to the plane of the fuel cell A are formed. Separators 103 are alternately stacked.

The fuel cell A is housed in the center of the first separator 101. The fuel cell A is formed by laminating an air electrode layer 115, an electrolyte layer 113, and a fuel electrode layer 111 in this order, and by laminating a current collecting member 117 on the fuel electrode layer 111. The first separator 101 has an opening formed in the center so as to expose the upper and lower surfaces of the fuel cell A.

The second separator 103 has a groove 103a and a groove 103b at a position corresponding to the center portion of the first separator 101 where the fuel cell A is arranged. The groove 103a is formed on the lower surface of the second separator 103 in order to supply fuel gas to the fuel electrode layer 111 of the fuel cell A. That is, according to FIG. 2, in the second separator 103 facing the fuel electrode layer 111 side of the first separator 101, the groove 103a on the lower surface thereof corresponds to the fuel electrode layer 111. In this embodiment, the groove 103a is formed to extend along the X direction in FIG. Furthermore, four grooves 103a are formed spaced apart in the Y direction.

On the other hand, the groove 103b is formed on the upper surface of the second separator 103 in order to supply oxidant gas to the air electrode layer 115. That is, according to FIG. 2, in the second separator 103 facing the air electrode layer 115 side of the first separator 101, the groove 103b on the upper surface thereof corresponds to the air electrode layer 115. In this embodiment, the groove 103b is formed to extend along the Y direction in FIG. Further, four grooves 103b are formed spaced apart in the X direction. Note that the grooves 103a and 103b are formed to be separated from each other by a predetermined interval.

In order to allow fuel gas and oxidant gas to flow through the grooves 103a and 103b of the second separator 103, openings are formed at the periphery of the stacked first separator 101 and second separator 103, respectively. The openings include an opening for supplying fuel gas and an opening for supplying oxidant gas. Specifically, the openings include a fuel gas supply path 121 inch for supplying fuel gas to the fuel cell A, a fuel gas discharge path 121 out for discharging fuel gas not used for power generation in the fuel cell A, An oxidizing gas supply path 123 inches for supplying oxidizing gas to the fuel cell A, and an oxidizing gas discharge path 123out for discharging the oxidizing gas not used for power generation in the fuel cell A are provided. .

The fuel gas supply path 121in and the fuel gas discharge path 121out are formed at the periphery of the first separator 101 and the second separator 103 so as to face each other in the X direction. Furthermore, the fuel gas supply path 121in and the fuel gas discharge path 121out communicate with each other via the groove 103a. The fuel gas is supplied from below the fuel cell module 23, flows upward in the Z direction through the fuel gas supply path 121 inch (FGin in FIGS. 2 and 3), and is also supplied into the groove 103a. be done. As a result, fuel gas is supplied to the fuel electrode layer 111. The fuel gas not used for power generation in the fuel cell A is introduced into the fuel gas exhaust path 121out through the groove 103a. The discharged fuel gas flows downward in the Z direction through the fuel gas discharge path 121out (FGout in FIGS. 2 and 3), and is discharged to the outside of the fuel cell module 23.

The oxidant gas supply path 123in and the oxidant gas discharge path 123out are formed at the periphery of the first separator 101 and the second separator 103 so as to face each other in the Y direction. Further, the oxidant gas supply path 123in and the oxidant gas discharge path 123out communicate with each other via the groove 103b. The oxidizing gas is supplied from below the fuel cell module 23, flows upward in the Z direction through the oxidizing gas supply path 123in (OGin in FIGS. 2 and 4), and flows into the groove 103a. will also be supplied. As a result, the oxidant gas is supplied to the air electrode layer 115. The oxidizing gas that is not used for power generation in the fuel cell A is introduced into the oxidizing gas discharge path 123out through the groove 103b. The discharged oxidant gas flows downward in the Z direction through the oxidant gas discharge path 123out (OGout in FIGS. 2 and 4) and is discharged to the outside of the fuel cell module 23.

In the flat plate type fuel cell module 23 as described above, the seal member 80 is, for example, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. It is arranged at the joint portion (sealing member 80b) between the separator 101 and the second separator. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing the seal member 80a disposed at the joint between the fuel cell A and the first separator 101. As shown in FIG. By arranging the seal member 80a at the joint between the fuel cell A and the first separator 101, leakage of fuel gas and the like can be suppressed. Note that damage to the seal member 80b can be repaired in the same manner.

In this embodiment, if damage such as cracking or peeling occurs in the seal member 80, the fuel cell A is operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature (operation in the second operation mode described later), and the seal member 80 is By melting the seal member 80, the damaged portion of the seal member 80 is compensated for and repaired. The normal operating temperature is, for example, 700 to 750°C, although it is not limited thereto. Further, the temperature higher than the normal operating temperature is, for example, 900 to 950°C.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6, it is assumed that a damaged portion 85 occurs in the seal member 80a at the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the first separator 101. In this embodiment, the sealing member 80a is melted by operating the fuel cell A at a higher temperature (higher temperature in the second operating mode) than the normal operating temperature (normal operating temperature in the first operating mode). . By melting the seal member 80a, the seal member 80a becomes fluid, and the damaged portion 85 is compensated for and repaired. As a result, the seal member 80a is restored to the state shown in FIG. 5. Thereby, even if damage such as cracking or peeling occurs in the sealing member 80, the damaged portion 85 can be repaired.

Note that the shape of the damaged portion 85 is various and is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 6; for example, damage may occur in the seal member 80 that connects from the fuel electrode layer 111 side to the air electrode layer 115 side. If such damage occurs from the fuel electrode layer 111 side to the air electrode layer 115 side, fuel gas or the like will leak from the fuel electrode layer 111 side to the air electrode layer 115 side. However, as described above, even if such damage occurs, the damaged portion of the seal member 80 can be repaired, so the damaged portion can be repaired to suppress leakage of fuel gas and the like.

When the seal member 80 is damaged as described above, the damaged portion 85 of the seal member 80 is repaired by melting the seal member 80 into a fluid state. In this case, although the fuel cell A is heated to a high temperature so that the seal member 80 becomes fluid to some extent, it is necessary to prevent the seal member 80 from melting too much and flowing out from the joint portion.

Therefore, the sealing member 80 has a softening point temperature higher than the normal operating temperature of the fuel cell A (for example, 700 to 750°C) and higher than the normal operating temperature (for example, 900 to 950°C). It is preferable that the material is made of a material that has the same properties and whose fluidity is suppressed to some extent. By forming the seal member 80 with such a material, the seal member 80 does not melt at the normal temperature in the first operation mode, which is normal operation, and the seal member 80 remains in a fluid state to some extent in the high temperature second operation mode. It is suppressed from flowing out from the joint part of the material.

Note that the sealing member 80 may be melted by controlling the temperature to be higher than the normal operating temperature (for example, 900 to 950°C), and the sealing member 80 may be melted by controlling the temperature to a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature (for example, 900 to 950°C). The temperature may be lower than the high temperature (for example, 900 to 950°C), or may be about the same level. That is, the softening point temperature of the sealing member 80 may be lower than the above-mentioned high temperature (for example, 900 to 950° C.), or may be approximately the same. The same applies to the following.

Examples of materials that can be used for the sealing member 80 include amorphous glasses and crystallized glasses such as SiO ₂ -B ₂ O ₃ series, SiO ₂ -CaO series, MgO-B ₂ O ₃ series, α-alumina, etc. Glass or the like whose shape is maintained by a filler such as heat-resistant ceramic particles can be used. For the seal member 80, a material is selected from among these materials that becomes fluid to some extent at high temperatures (for example, 900 to 950° C.) in the second operation mode.
Note that crystallized glass is, for example, glass in which the volume occupied by the crystalline phase is 60% or more and the volume occupied by the amorphous phase or the like is less than 40% of the total volume.

(b) Cylindrical and flat plate type fuel cell module The cylindrical and flat plate type fuel cell module 23 will be explained using FIGS. 7 to 10.
The cylindrical and flat type fuel cell module 23 includes a plurality of cylindrical and flat type fuel cells A, a current collecting member 213, a conductive member 214, a current extraction part 215, and a manifold M into which fuel gas is introduced. are doing. The plurality of cylindrical and flat fuel cells A are arranged in parallel to each other with current collecting members 213 interposed therebetween, and are provided so as to stand up from the manifold M. The conductive members 214 are provided at both ends of the fuel cells A in the arrangement direction so as to sandwich the plurality of fuel cells A and the current collecting member 213. The current extraction section 215 is connected to the conductive member 214 and extracts the current generated by the power generation of the fuel cell A.

The fuel cell A is formed into a cylindrical and flat plate shape, and includes a conductive member 201, a fuel electrode layer 203, an electrolyte layer 204, an intermediate layer 205, an air electrode layer 206, an adhesive layer 207, and an interconnector. 208. The conductive member 201 is provided with a fuel gas passage 202 that penetrates the conductive member 201 along the direction in which the fuel cells A are installed. Fuel gas supplied from the manifold M flows through the fuel gas passage 202 .

On one side of adjacent fuel cells A, a fuel electrode layer 203, an electrolyte layer 204, an intermediate layer 205, and an air electrode layer 206 are laminated in order from the conductive member 201 toward the outside. The fuel electrode layer 203 and the electrolyte layer 204 are formed to extend to a part of the other side of the adjacent fuel cell A. Then, an interconnector 208 is formed with an adhesive layer 207 interposed in a portion on the other side of the adjacent fuel cell A where the fuel electrode layer 203 and the electrolyte layer 204 are not formed.

In the cylindrical and flat plate type fuel cell module 23 as described above, the sealing member 80 connects the fuel cell A and the manifold M, which are vertically arranged to communicate with the manifold M, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, for example. It is applied to the joints. In the examples shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a seal member 80 is applied to the upper surface of the manifold M, and the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the manifold M is sealed by the seal member 80. By arranging the seal member 80 at the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the manifold M in this manner, leakage of fuel gas and the like can be suppressed.

For example, suppose that in the cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module 23, a damaged portion 85 occurs in the sealing member 80 at the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the manifold M, as shown in FIG. In this case, fuel gas leaks from the manifold M. Therefore, by operating the fuel cell A at a higher temperature (higher temperature in the second operating mode) than the normal operating temperature (normal operating temperature in the first operating mode), the sealing member 80 becomes in a fluid state, as shown in FIG. Recovers to the state shown in. The material of the seal member 80 is as described above.

(c) Cylindrical Fuel Cell Module The cylindrical fuel cell module 23 will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.
The cylindrical fuel cell module 23 includes a cylindrical fuel cell A, a current collecting member 319, a fuel electrode terminal 321, and an air electrode terminal 325. In the fuel cell A, a fuel electrode layer 311, an electrolyte layer 313, and an air electrode layer 315 are laminated in order from the inside of the cylinder. The innermost fuel electrode layer 311 of the fuel cell A constitutes a fuel gas flow section 317 through which fuel gas flows. The current collecting member 319 is provided in contact with the outer surface of the air electrode layer 315 and receives supply of oxidizing gas.

The electrolyte layer 313 and the fuel electrode layer 311 are formed to protrude from the fuel cell A in the axial direction. A fuel electrode side terminal 321 is attached to the protruding electrolyte layer 313 and fuel electrode layer 311. On the other hand, an air electrode side terminal 325 is attached to a current collecting member 319 provided on the outer surface of the air electrode layer 315. The fuel electrode side terminal 321 is provided with a through hole 321a, and the air electrode side terminal 325 is provided with a through hole 325a. The through hole 321a, the fuel gas flow section 317, and the through hole 325a are in communication with each other, and fuel gas flows therethrough.

In the cylindrical flat plate type fuel cell module 23 as described above, the sealing member 80 includes, for example, the fuel electrode side terminal 321, the electrolyte layer 313 and the fuel electrode layer protruding from the fuel cell A, as shown in FIGS. 311, and as shown in FIG. 12, it is arranged at the joint between the air electrode side terminal 325 and the air electrode layer 315. By arranging the seal member 80 at the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the terminal in this manner, leakage of fuel gas and the like can be suppressed.

For example, suppose that in the cylindrical fuel cell module 23, a damaged portion 85 occurs in the sealing member 80 at the joint portion between the fuel cell A and the fuel electrode side terminal 321, as shown in FIG. Therefore, by operating the fuel cell A at a higher temperature (higher temperature in the second operating mode) than the normal operating temperature (normal operating temperature in the first operating mode), the sealing member 80 becomes in a fluid state, as shown in FIG. Recovers to the state shown in. The material of the seal member 80 is as described above.
Note that the shape of the damaged portion 85 is various and is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. , fuel gas and the like leak to the outside of the fuel cell A from the through hole 321a side. However, as described above, even if such damage occurs, the damaged portion of the seal member 80 can be repaired, so the damaged portion can be repaired to suppress leakage of fuel gas and the like.

(2) Seal Member Repair Method Executed by Operation Control Unit The operation control unit 71 of the fuel cell system 100 described above executes a repair method for repairing the seal member 80 when it is damaged.
(2-1) Overall flow of the repair method First, the overall flow of the repair method for the seal member 80 will be explained.
The operation control unit 71 operates in a first operation mode in which the fuel cell A is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and in a second operation mode in which the fuel cell A is controlled to be operated at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature. mode, and executes the second operation mode at a predetermined timing.

The first operation mode means, for example, normal operation in which the power generated by the fuel cell system 100 is supplied to a load or the like. The normal operating temperature in the first operating mode is the temperature of the fuel cell A in normal operation. Typical operating temperatures are, for example, 700 to 750°C, but are not limited thereto.

The operation control unit 71 controls the fuel gas supply amount by controlling the fuel gas pump 2, the oxidant gas supply amount by controlling the air blower 15, and the reforming water pump 7. The temperature of the fuel cell A is controlled by controlling the amount of water vapor, etc. Note that the operation control unit 71 refers to various temperatures and voltages detected by the cell temperature detection unit T1, combustion section temperature detection unit T2, catalyst temperature detection unit T3, voltage detection unit V, etc., and determines the temperature of the fuel cell A. control.

On the other hand, the second operation mode, unlike the first operation mode, refers to an operation when performing a repair method for repairing the seal member 80. The temperature of the fuel cell A in the second operation mode is higher than the normal operation temperature in the first operation mode, and is a temperature at which the seal member 80 can be melted and repaired. The operating temperature in the second operating mode is, for example, 900 to 950°C, although it is not limited thereto. It is. A method of controlling the operating temperature in the second operating mode will be described later.

The operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode for repairing the seal member 80 at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing may be any timing or periodic timing. In addition, the operation control unit 71 may execute the second operation mode at the timing when a leak of fuel gas or the like is detected.
After starting the second driving mode, the driving control unit 71 may end the second driving mode at any timing, or may end the second driving mode after executing the second driving mode for a predetermined period. In addition, the second operation mode may be terminated based on the state of the fuel cell system 100 as described later.

As described above, by executing the second operation mode, the seal member 80 is melted and the damaged portion 85 is compensated for and repaired. Thereby, even if the seal member 80 is damaged, leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed by repairing the seal member 80. Therefore, a decrease in power generation performance in the fuel cell A due to leakage of fuel gas or the like can be suppressed. Further, the seal member 80 can be repaired by adjusting the operating temperature of the fuel cell.

(2-2) Example of temperature control in second operation mode In the second operation mode, the operation control unit 71 controls the operation of the fuel cell A at a higher temperature than the normal operating temperature in the first operation mode. Below, an example of a method for controlling the fuel cell A in the second operation mode to operate at a high temperature will be described.

In the second operation mode, the operation control unit 71 controls the fuel gas pump 2 to increase the amount of fuel gas supplied than in the first operation mode, thereby increasing the temperature of the fuel cell A. The amount of combustion increases in accordance with the increase in the amount of fuel gas supplied. Thereby, the temperature of the fuel cell A can be increased and the fuel cell A can be operated at a high temperature.

In the second operation mode, the operation control unit 71 controls the air blower 15 to reduce the amount of oxidant gas supplied than in the first operation mode, thereby increasing the temperature of the fuel cell A. When the supply amount of oxidant gas is reduced, cooling of the fuel cell A is suppressed. Thereby, the temperature of the fuel cell A can be increased and the fuel cell A can be operated at a high temperature.

Note that when controlling the temperature to increase as described above, the operation control unit 71 monitors the temperature of the fuel cell A detected by the cell temperature detection unit T1, and raises the temperature to a predetermined high temperature (for example, 900 to 950). ℃). Then, when the temperature of the fuel cell A rises to a predetermined high temperature, the operation control unit 71 can stop the control to further increase the temperature.

Further, when controlling the temperature to a high temperature as described above, the operation control unit 71 can control the temperature to be gradually raised to the high temperature. This makes it possible to suppress deformation and cracking of the fuel cell A due to sudden thermal stress caused by a sudden temperature rise.

Further, the operation control unit 71 can gradually increase the temperature while checking whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has recovered. If fuel gas or the like leaks due to damage to the seal member 80, the amount of fuel gas or the like supplied to the fuel cell A decreases, resulting in a decrease in power generation performance. Therefore, the operation control unit 71 determines that if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A remains degraded and has not recovered even though the temperature has been increased by a predetermined amount, the damage to the seal member 80 has not been repaired. As a result, the temperature is further increased to melt the sealing member 80 so that it can be repaired. Even in this case, it is preferable to stop the temperature increase at a predetermined high temperature from the viewpoint of preventing deformation, cracking, etc. of the fuel cell A. Note that, when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit V is lower than the generated voltage in normal operation, the operation control unit 71 controls the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas detected by the combustion section temperature detection unit T2 to be lower than that in normal operation. If the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit T3 remains higher than that during normal operation, the damage to the seal member 80 has not been repaired, and the power generation performance It is determined that the patient has not recovered.

On the other hand, if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A is recovered by increasing the temperature by a predetermined temperature, the operation control unit 71 controls to stop the further increase in temperature or return the temperature to normal operation. do. Note that, when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit V is equal to or higher than the generated voltage in normal operation, the operation control unit 71 determines that the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas detected by the combustion section temperature detection unit T2 is normal. If the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit T3 becomes the same as that during normal operation, the damage to the seal member 80 is repaired and power generation resumes. It is determined that performance has recovered.

Specifically, the control for determining whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has recovered by gradually increasing the temperature is preferably performed as follows. For example, first, the operation control unit 71 raises the operating temperature of the fuel cell A by a predetermined temperature to 900° C. from the normal operating temperature, for example, 700 to 750° C. Thereafter, the operation control unit 71 temporarily returns the temperature to the normal operating temperature, for example, 700 to 750° C., and determines whether the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has recovered. Here, if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has not recovered, the operation control unit 71 increases the operating temperature of the fuel cell A from the above-mentioned 900°C to, for example, 925°C. Conversely, if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has recovered, the operation control unit 71 stops the further increase in the operating temperature of the fuel cell A. If the power generation performance of fuel cell A has not recovered and the temperature of fuel cell A is raised to 925°C, then the temperature should be returned to the normal operating temperature, for example 700 to 750°C, and the fuel Determine recovery of power generation performance of battery cell A. Here, if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has not recovered, the operation control unit 71 increases the operating temperature of the fuel cell A from the above-mentioned 925°C to, for example, 950°C. Conversely, if the power generation performance of the fuel cell A has recovered, the operation control unit 71 stops the temperature of the fuel cell A from further increasing. In this way, by operating fuel cell A at high temperature and then returning it to the normal operating temperature to determine whether the power generation performance of fuel cell A has improved, it is possible to determine whether or not the power generation performance has improved, rather than determining the power generation performance at high temperature. It is easier to check whether

(2-3) Example of start condition for second operation mode The operation control unit 71 starts the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, such as an arbitrary timing, a regular timing, or a timing when a leak of fuel gas or the like is detected. Execute. Here, a description will be given of the start of the second operation mode at the timing when a leak of fuel gas or the like is detected.

The operation control section 71 executes the second operation mode when the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas detected by the combustion section temperature detection section T2 becomes larger than the starting combustion temperature threshold. When the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section 29 becomes higher than the starting combustion temperature threshold, the power generation performance of the fuel cell A using the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas decreases, and the combustion This is a case where the combustion of unburned gas in the section 29 increases and the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas increases. In this case, the operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode to repair the seal member 80, assuming that the seal member 80 is damaged and fuel gas, oxidant gas, etc. leak, resulting in a decrease in power generation performance. do. Note that the starting combustion temperature threshold is set, for example, to a temperature higher than the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas in the combustion section 29 during normal operation.

The operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode when the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit T3 becomes larger than the starting catalyst temperature threshold. When the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst section 35 becomes higher than the starting catalyst temperature threshold, the power generation performance of the fuel cell A using the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas decreases, This is a case where the combustion of unburned gas in the combustion catalyst section 35 increases and the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas rises. In this case, the operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode to repair the seal member 80, assuming that the seal member 80 is damaged and fuel gas, oxidant gas, etc. leak, resulting in a decrease in power generation performance. do. Note that the starting catalyst temperature threshold is set, for example, to a temperature higher than the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas in the combustion catalyst section 35 during normal operation.

The operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit V becomes smaller than the starting voltage threshold. A case where the power generation voltage of the fuel cell A detected by the voltage detection unit V becomes smaller than the starting voltage threshold is a case where the power generation performance of the fuel cell A using the fuel gas and the oxidizer gas decreases. It is. In this case, the operation control unit 71 executes the second operation mode to repair the seal member 80, assuming that the seal member 80 is damaged and fuel gas, oxidant gas, etc. leak, resulting in a decrease in power generation performance. do. Note that the starting voltage threshold is set, for example, to a voltage lower than the power generation voltage in fuel cell A during normal operation.

(2-4) Example of end condition for second operation mode The operation control unit 71 may control the fuel cell system 100 at any timing after starting the second operation mode, at any timing after executing the second operation mode for a predetermined period, or at any timing after the second operation mode has been executed for a predetermined period. The second operation mode is ended at a predetermined timing, such as a timing based on the state of. Here, the termination of the second operation mode at a timing based on the state of the fuel cell system 100 will be described.

When the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section 29 becomes lower than the combustion temperature threshold for stopping, the operation control section 71 stops execution of the second operation mode. Note that the case where the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section 29 becomes lower than the combustion temperature threshold for shutdown means that the power generation performance of the fuel cell A using the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas is improved. This is a case where the combustion of unburned gas in the combustion section 29 is reduced and the temperature of the combustion section 29 is lowered. In this case, the operation control unit 71 stops execution of the second operation mode, assuming that the damage to the seal member 80 has been repaired, leakage of fuel gas, oxidizing gas, etc. is suppressed, and deterioration in power generation performance is suppressed. .
Note that the combustion temperature threshold for shutdown is set, for example, to the temperature of the cell combustion exhaust gas in the combustion section 29 during normal operation.

When the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst section 35 becomes lower than the catalyst temperature threshold for stopping, the operation control section 71 stops execution of the second operation mode. Note that when the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst section 35 becomes lower than the catalyst temperature threshold for shutdown, the power generation performance of the fuel cell A using the fuel gas and the oxidant gas is improved. However, this is a case where the combustion of unburned gas in the combustion catalyst section 35 is reduced and the temperature is lowered. In this case, the operation control unit 71 stops execution of the second operation mode, assuming that the damage to the seal member 80 has been repaired, leakage of fuel gas, oxidizing gas, etc. is suppressed, and deterioration in power generation performance is suppressed. .
Note that the catalyst temperature threshold for stopping is set, for example, to the temperature of the catalyst combustion exhaust gas in the combustion catalyst section 35 during normal operation.

When the generated voltage of the fuel cell A detected by the voltage detection unit V becomes larger than the voltage threshold for stopping, the operation control unit 71 stops execution of the second operation mode. Note that when the power generation voltage detected by the voltage detection unit V becomes larger than the voltage threshold for stopping, the power generation performance of the fuel cell using fuel gas and oxidizer gas improves, and the power generation voltage increases. This is the case. In this case, the operation control unit 71 stops execution of the second operation mode, assuming that the damage to the seal member 80 has been repaired, leakage of fuel gas, oxidizing gas, etc. is suppressed, and deterioration in power generation performance is suppressed. .
Note that the stop voltage threshold is set, for example, to the power generation voltage of the fuel cell A during normal operation.

[Other embodiments]
Note that the configuration disclosed in the above embodiment (including other embodiments, the same applies hereinafter) can be applied in combination with the configuration disclosed in other embodiments, as long as there is no contradiction, and The embodiments disclosed in this specification are illustrative, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the purpose of the present invention.

In the above embodiment, the normal operating temperature in the first operating mode is 700 to 750°C, and the operating temperature in the second operating mode is 900 to 950°C. And so. The softening point temperature of the seal member was set at 900 to 950°C. However, the normal operating temperature, the second operating mode, and the softening point temperature are not limited thereto. The softening point temperature of the seal member 80 is higher than the normal operating temperature, and the seal member 80 does not soften at the normal operating temperature and maintains its shape while suppressing the leakage of fuel gas, etc., and the seal member 80 remains stable at the operating temperature in the second operating mode. It is only necessary to select a material for the sealing member 80 that is in a fluid state and can repair damage, but does not flow out from the joint portion.

A: Fuel cell 29: Combustion section 35: Combustion catalyst section 71: Operation control section 100: Fuel cell system T1: Cell temperature detection section T2: Combustion section temperature detection section T3: Catalyst temperature detection section V: Voltage detection section

Claims (40)

A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature is executable, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a combustion temperature threshold for starting. How to repair the seal member. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. A method for repairing seal members. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. , a method for repairing a seal member. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the combustion section temperature detection section A method for repairing a seal member, wherein execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the catalyst temperature detection unit is A method for repairing a seal member, wherein execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a catalyst temperature threshold for stopping. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the voltage detection unit detects A method for repairing a seal member, wherein execution of the second operation mode is stopped when the generated voltage becomes larger than a voltage threshold for stopping. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to be operated at a high temperature can be executed, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the supply amount of the fuel gas is controlled in the second operation mode. A method for repairing a seal member, the method comprising increasing the temperature of the fuel cell by increasing the temperature of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the oxidant gas is supplied in the second operation mode. A method for repairing a sealing member, the method comprising increasing the temperature of the fuel cell by decreasing the amount of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled in the second operation mode. A method of repairing a seal member by gradually raising it. A method for repairing a seal member used in a fuel cell system comprising a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the fuel cell, the method comprising:
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed at regular timing or at a timing when a leak of the fuel gas is detected. , a method for repairing a seal member. The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The seal member according to any one of claims 1 to 10 , wherein the operation control section executes the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting combustion temperature threshold. How to repair. The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The sealing member according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the operation control unit executes the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. Repair method. The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The repair of a seal member according to any one of claims 1 to 12 , wherein the operation control unit executes the second operation mode when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. Method. The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
Claims 1 to 13 , wherein the operation control section stops execution of the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping in the second operation mode. The method for repairing a seal member according to any one of the above . The fuel cell system includes:
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
Any one of claims 1 to 14 , wherein the operation control unit stops execution of the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit becomes smaller than a stop catalyst temperature threshold in the second operation mode. The method for repairing a seal member according to item 1 . The fuel cell system includes:
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
Any one of claims 1 to 15 , wherein the operation control unit stops execution of the second operation mode when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit becomes larger than a stop voltage threshold in the second operation mode. The method for repairing the seal member according to item 1 . Any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the operation control unit increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode by increasing the supply amount of the fuel gas more than in the first operation mode. The method for repairing the seal member described in . 18. The operation control unit increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode by decreasing the supply amount of the oxidant gas compared to the first operation mode. The method for repairing the seal member according to item 1 . The method for repairing a seal member according to claim 1, wherein the operation control unit gradually increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode. When gradually increasing the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode, the operation control unit operates with the temperature of the fuel cell raised, and then returns the temperature to the normal operating temperature, and controls the temperature of the fuel cell. Determine whether the power generation performance of the cell has improved or not, and if the power generation performance has not improved in the determination, operate the fuel cell with the temperature further raised than the temperature at which it was raised earlier, and perform the determination. 20. The method for repairing a seal member according to claim 9 or 19 , further comprising stopping further increase in temperature of the fuel cell when power generation performance has improved. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature is executable, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a combustion temperature threshold for starting. Running, fuel cell system. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. fuel cell system. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. , fuel cell system. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and detect the temperature of the combustion section in the second operation mode. The fuel cell system stops execution of the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the unit becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the catalyst temperature detection unit is A fuel cell system that stops execution of the second operation mode when the detected temperature becomes smaller than a catalyst temperature threshold for stopping. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and execute the second operation mode at a predetermined timing, and in the second operation mode, the voltage detection unit detects A fuel cell system that stops execution of the second operation mode when the generated voltage becomes larger than a voltage threshold for stopping. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to be operated at a high temperature can be executed, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the supply amount of the fuel gas is controlled in the second operation mode. A fuel cell system, wherein the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by increasing the temperature of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the oxidant gas is supplied in the second operation mode. A fuel cell system in which the temperature of the fuel cell is increased by decreasing the amount of the fuel cell compared to the first operation mode. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. It is possible to execute a second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature, and the second operation mode is executed at a predetermined timing, and the temperature of the fuel cell is controlled in the second operation mode. A fuel cell system that gradually raises the temperature. A fuel cell module having a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidant gas, and in which the constituent members are joined together by a sealing member applied to a joint portion where the constituent members are joined; A fuel cell system comprising an operation control unit that controls operation of a battery cell,
The operation control unit has a first operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a normal operating temperature, and a first operation mode that is higher than the normal operating temperature and higher than the softening point temperature of the sealing member. A second operation mode in which the fuel cell is controlled to operate at a high temperature can be executed, and the second operation mode is executed at regular timing or at a timing when a leak of the fuel gas is detected. , fuel cell system. a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The fuel cell according to any one of claims 21 to 30, wherein the operation control section executes the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection section becomes larger than a starting combustion temperature threshold. system. a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection section that detects the temperature of the combustion catalyst section,
The fuel cell system according to any one of claims 21 to 31, wherein the operation control unit executes the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit becomes larger than a starting catalyst temperature threshold. . comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
33. The fuel cell system according to claim 21, wherein the operation control section executes the second operation mode when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection section becomes smaller than a starting voltage threshold. a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion part temperature detection part that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion part,
The operation control unit stops execution of the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the combustion section temperature detection unit becomes smaller than a combustion temperature threshold for stopping in the second operation mode. The fuel cell system according to any one of the items. a combustion section that burns unburned gas discharged from the fuel cell;
a combustion catalyst section that burns unburned gas that is a combustion component in the combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion section;
a catalyst temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of combustion exhaust gas discharged from the combustion catalyst unit,
Any one of claims 21 to 34, wherein the operation control unit stops execution of the second operation mode when the temperature detected by the catalyst temperature detection unit becomes smaller than a stop catalyst temperature threshold in the second operation mode. The fuel cell system according to item 1. comprising a voltage detection unit that detects the voltage generated by the fuel cell,
Any one of claims 21 to 35, wherein the operation control unit stops execution of the second operation mode when the generated voltage detected by the voltage detection unit becomes larger than a stop voltage threshold in the second operation mode. The fuel cell system according to item 1. Any one of claims 21 to 36, wherein the operation control unit increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode by increasing the supply amount of the fuel gas more than in the first operation mode. The fuel cell system described in Section. 38. The operation control unit increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode by decreasing the supply amount of the oxidant gas compared to the first operation mode. The fuel cell system according to item 1. 39. The fuel cell system according to claim 21, wherein the operation control section gradually increases the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode. When gradually increasing the temperature of the fuel cell in the second operation mode, the operation control unit operates with the temperature of the fuel cell raised, and then returns the temperature to the normal operating temperature, and controls the temperature of the fuel cell. Determine whether the power generation performance of the cell has improved or not, and if the power generation performance has not improved in the determination, operate the fuel cell with the temperature further raised than the temperature at which it was raised earlier, and perform the determination. 40. The fuel cell system according to claim 29 or 39, wherein the further increase in temperature of the fuel cell is stopped when the power generation performance is improved.

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