Simulation Based Analysis of Fuel Cell Charging Battery in Non Road Mobile Machinery Applications

Non-Road Mobile Machinery sector is gradually adopting hybrid and electric powertrain solutions to reduce the pollutant emissions. These machines perform a wide range of tasks. However, for high-power, intensive applications, the limited energy storage capacity and long charging time can hinder full electrification. Even with hybrid and electrified working machines, remote working sites often lack sufficient grid connection, or the grid might not be stable enough. Therefore, there is a need for fossil-free power solution to decarbonize individual machines or to supply power to them. Fuel cells systems, which generate power with zero emission have low maintenance due to absence of moving parts, present a potential solution. This paper examines the feasibility of using fuel cells as a power source for non-road mobile machinery application based on experimental data and simulations. The primary focus of the paper is on the development of a master control strategy to integrate existing fuel cell system and battery to ensure efficient energy transfer from the fuel cell to stationary battery.