Active disturbance rejection-based coordinated control for high-power PEMFC systems with parameter identification

• A high-power PEMFC model was established based on parameter identification. • An ADRC-based coordinated cathode-anode control architecture was proposed. • The proposed strategy realized rapid-response and high-precision coordinated control of both cathode/anode pressure and flow rates. • Experimental results demonstrated 63.8-83.85% improvements in dynamic performance compared to baseline controllers. To address the critical challenges of insufficient model accuracy, slow dynamic response, and poor robustness in high-power proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems, this study proposes an integrated solution combining advanced parameter identification with coordinated control strategies. A semi-empirical dynamic model for megawatt-scale PEMFC systems was developed, enhanced by an immune algorithm-based parameter identification method that achieves broad current density applicability. The optimized model demonstrates a maximum relative error of 4.62% within typical operational ranges, with a 76.66% improvement in performance prediction accuracy under high-power conditions compared to conventional empirical models. Building upon this foundation, a cathode-anode coordinated active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) strategy was implemented. Experimental validation reveals that during step load changes, the proposed coordinated control strategy reduces the λ O2 settling time by 2.378s compared to PID control, while achieving cathode pressure control with a root mean square error (RMSE) of only 0.2 kPa and anode tracking control with an RMSE of 0.68 kPa. Under parametric variations, the ADRC strategy further demonstrates a 2.12-second reduction in cathode pressure settling time and an 83.85% decrease in steady-state error compared to PID controllers. The synergistic integration of parameter identification and ADRC-based multivariable control effectively ensures stable and efficient operation of high-power PEMFC systems, providing both theoretical foundations and technical references for engineering applications in renewable energy integration and heavy-duty transportation.