Abstract
Characteristics of velocity-fields and pressure-fields of a swirling flow in a disk shape planar solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) were experimentally investigated with the aid of a particle image velocimetry (PIV). In the case of applying circle involute shape current collectors, a swirling flow was generated and its velocity in a core region was kept at nearly constant value toward the channel exit. Furthermore, pressure gradient normal to the current collector surface was observed at higher flow rate. In order to understand the above mentioned flow behavior, a swirling fluid motion was examined by using steady state Euler's equation of motion, and then we confirmed that a centripetal acceleration term contributes a production of the pressure gradient.
