Abstract: A compression mechanism comprises a planar spring sheet having a plurality of openings rendering the spring sheet resilient. An electrochemical fuel cell assembly with resilient compression mechanism includes a plurality of fuel cell assemblies interposed between first and second endplates. The mechanism for securing the fuel cell assemblies in their assembled, compressed state includes at least one resilient compression spring sheet extending between first and second endplates.

Abstract: A compression mechanism comprises a planar spring sheet having a plurality of openings rendering the spring sheet resilient. An electrochemical fuel cell assembly with resilient compression mechanism includes a plurality of fuel cell assemblies interposed between first and second endplates. The mechanism for securing the fuel cell assemblies in their assembled, compressed state includes at least one resilient compression spring sheet extending between first and second endplates. Each of the spring sheets urge the first endplate towards the second endplate, thereby applying compressive force to the fuel cell assemblies to promote sealing and electrical contact between the layers of the assemblies. Each spring sheet may be joined at one or both ends to another corresponding opposite spring sheet.

Abstract: An electrochemical fuel cell stack comprises a first end plate, a second end plate, and fuel cell assemblies interposed between the first and second end plates. The stack further includes a compression assembly comprising a compression mechanism and a restraining mechanism. The compression mechanism urges the first end plate towards the second end plate applying an internal compressive force to the fuel cell assemblies, even as the thickness of the fuel cell assemblies changes. The restraining mechanism prevents movement of the first end plate away from the second end plate by preventing deflection of the compression mechanism, which may occur, for example, when internal fluid pressure is increased.