Bipolar Plates

 

The Schunk Group is already able to produce compression molded and extruded bipolar plates in large series. We take care of the entire process, from the procurement of raw materials and the shaping of the bipolar sheet to its final, customer-specific finishing. 

 

From the inquiry to sampling and series production 

Before we manufacture our bipolar plates in series according to your individual requirements, we receive a customer inquiry. This is followed by coordination of the initial ideas based on your drawings and requirements. We will then send you standard plates in the form of test samples on request. You can use these for initial functional evaluations, for example. Based on the findings of the sampling, we then manufacture functional prototypes, which are produced by milling a standard plate.  Once the functional prototype has been sufficiently tested in your application, bipolar plates can be manufactured in series. Our state-of-the-art machinery and equipment is available for the precise and economical series production of bipolar plates. 

 

Molded bipolar plates 

Schunk Kohlenstofftechnik has the entire value chain for the production of graphite bipolar plates under its own control. The composition of the material, the production technology and the finishing are closely coordinated and can be customized. This combination of material and manufacturing expertise is one of our great strengths. 

 

Extruding bipolar plates with a high graphite fill level 

The extrusion process also requires a special formulation of purchased raw materials such as graphite, carbon black and binders before production of the bipolar plates can begin. High-quality extruded foils for use as bipolar plates in redox flow batteries are characterized by a high graphite content. 

Expert tip:  The electrical, mechanical and thermal properties of a bipolar plate can be precisely adjusted by optimizing the formulation. 

In the extrusion process, the high-performance material, which has a thermoplastic bond, is converted into a continuously produced film. This makes it possible to produce bipolar sheets in sizes that can exceed lengths of 1000 mm and widths of 380 mm. The film can be given additional properties through the application of surface modifications. The flexible, extruded bipolar plate can be welded directly to the frame of the battery stack, eliminating the need for conventional sealing solutions and resulting in an extremely compact design. 

 

Schunk Group - Efficient production of bipolar plates 

The Schunk Group manufactures bipolar plates for use in fuel cells in series production and with outstanding quality. If you would like to see our expertise along the entire value chain for yourself, please contact our team of experts. We will be happy to advise you personally and send you samples of our bipolar plates on request. 

 

How are bipolar sheets manufactured? 

Bipolar sheets can be manufactured using both compression molding and extrusion processes. Which process is chosen for a specific application depends on the customer's requirements and the individual needs of the application.