Abstract: A bipolar plate assembly with integrated seal for a fuel cell with a subassembly having a formed metal cathode plate bonded to a formed metal anode plate. On at least one of the plates, two raised continuous ridges are formed on the outward surface of and around the perimeter of the plate, thereby creating a channel to contain the seal. In this design, a substantial portion of the channel area on the inward surface of the plate is in direct contact with and supported by the other plate. The channel and hence the seal are thus well supported during molding and under compression in the assembled fuel cell. Further, ducts traversing the seal region can advantageously be formed without affecting the functioning of the seal.