Abstract: A fuel cell stack configuration and method of removing gas from the coolant flow path within a fuel cell stack is provided. The fuel cell stack has an internal vent passageway that communicates with the coolant supply header to enable gas entrapped therein to be vented from the fuel cell stack. The vent passageway can be formed by a plurality of apertures in the components that comprise the fuel cell stack and run parallel and adjacent to the coolant supply header. Alternatively, a vent line can be connected to the coolant supply header with a valve therein to selectively vent gas from the coolant supply header.

Abstract: A housing that retains a fuel cell stack includes a casing that defines a cavity. A first plate is retained within the cavity at a first-end of the casing. A second plate is partially received into the cavity at a second end of the casing and is secured to the casing. The fuel cell stack is disposed between the first and second plates. The first and second plates exert a compressive force on the fuel cell stack.

Abstract: An integrated cell voltage unit for monitoring the voltage of each fuel cell in a fuel cell stack that is easily and reliably electrically coupled to the bipolar plates of the fuel cell stack. The bipolar plates of the fuel cell stack are equipped with a specialized tab connector that engages with a corresponding electrical connector on the cell voltage unit. Either the tab connectors on the bipolar plates or the corresponding connectors on the cell voltage unit include flexible members to provide a suitable electrical friction engagement. The cell voltage unit is attached to the bipolar plates and does not require its own separate housing. In one embodiment, the housing of the fuel cell stack includes a recessed portion in which the cell voltage unit is positioned.