Reduced-order Robust Control of a Fuel Cell Air Supply System

This paper presents the design of several reduced order robust control strategies for the air supply of a hybrid fuel cell power generator. The management of the air dynamic entering the fuel cell is assured by the control of the air flow of a compressor. The air supply subsystem is controlled to keep a desired oxygen excess ratio, thus improving the fuel cell dynamic performance. Robustness analysis studies are performed, these robust properties are contrasted with classic control strategies, demonstrating the advantage of the multivariable reduced order robust methodologies.