Customization GR1/GR2 Titanium Bipolar Plates for PEM Electrolyzer

Customization GR1/GR2 Titanium Bipolar Plates for PEM Electrolyzer

Product Name: Bipolar Plate
Application: Hydrogen production via water electrolysis, new energy batteries, hydrogen-generating fuel cells
Material: Titanium, Stainless Steel, Copper, Nickel
Titanium Purity: 99.7%
Grade: GR1 / GR2
Specification: Custom according to drawings
Processing Method: CNC / Etching

1. Production Process of Titanium Bipolar Plates

Titanium bipolar plates are essential components in PEM fuel cells and PEM water electrolyzers. They are responsible for distributing gases/liquids, conducting electricity, and supporting the membrane-electrode assembly. The production process involves several key steps:

1.1. Raw Material Selection

• Material: Commercially pure titanium (e.g., Grade 1 or Grade 2) or titanium alloys.

• Thickness: Typically ranges from 0.1 mm to 1 mm depending on application.

1.2. Surface Pretreatment

• Pickling: Removes surface oxide layers and contaminants.

• Sandblasting or Mechanical Polishing: Enhances surface roughness for better coating adhesion.

1.3. Flow Field Forming

Flow channels are designed to manage the flow of gases or liquids. Common forming methods include:

(a) Stamping

• High-speed forming using precision dies.

• Suitable for mass production.

• Requires durable and high-cost molds.

(b) Roll Forming

• Continuous production technique.

• Used for simpler or straight channel patterns.

(c) Chemical Etching

• Precise patterning via photolithography and acid etching.

• Best for complex or fine structures.

• Higher cost and involves chemical waste management.

(d) Laser or EDM Machining

• High-precision techniques suitable for R&D or small batches.

• Enables very fine and custom flow field structures.

1.4. Welding (For Assembly)

Two patterned titanium sheets may be joined to create a sealed bipolar plate:

• Laser Welding or Diffusion Bonding: Ensures high sealing performance and structural integrity.

1.5. Surface Coating Treatment

Titanium tends to form a non-conductive oxide layer (TiO₂), which affects electrical performance. Surface coatings are applied to improve conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Typical Coating Types:

• Carbon-based Coatings: Graphene, carbon nanotubes.

• Noble Metals: Platinum or gold (excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, but costly).

• Conductive Ceramics: Titanium nitride (TiN), niobium nitride (NbN).

1.6. Quality Testing

• Gas Tightness Test: To ensure sealing.

• Electrical Conductivity Test

• Corrosion Resistance Testing

• Dimensional Accuracy Inspection

2. Applications of Titanium Bipolar Plates

Titanium bipolar plates are used in various electrochemical systems, including:

2.1. Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers (PEMWE)

• Harsh acidic environment and high voltage conditions.

• Titanium offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability.

2.2. PEM Fuel Cells (PEMFC)

• Lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties are ideal for portable, automotive, and aerospace applications.

2.3. Electrolytic Cells

• Used in chemical processing, water treatment, and green hydrogen production.

3. Advantages of Titanium Bipolar Plates

4. Challenges

While titanium bipolar plates have many advantages, some challenges include:

• High Material Cost: Titanium and its coatings are expensive.

• Processing Difficulty: Titanium is harder to form and machine than steel.

• Surface Conductivity Needs Optimization: Natural oxide layer requires effective surface treatment to maintain conductivity.

Baoji City Changsheng Titanium Co.,Ltd is registered in 2006. Registered capital of 10 million yuan, the legal person is Zhao Wenhua. Before 2006, the factory is formed as forged workshop, no been registered. The year of 2006 was exist as a starting for Changsheng Titanium Co. The factory is located in today’s No.26 Baotai Road Weibin District, Baoji City,Shaanxi Province. The factory is major in forging ,continuing the previous processing mode, but the scales has expanded nearly 30 times, and was on the right track. In 2008, it passed ISO 9001 certification.
In 2010, Baoji City Changtai Metals Trading Co.,Ltd was registered, with capital of one million yuan. The legal person was Zhao Wenli. It was located in today’s No.26 Baotai Road Weibin District, Baoji City,Shaanxi Province.