Multi-stage filtration system for fuel cell hybrid propulsion system

A system for a machine having a fuel cell hybrid propulsion system, the system comprising:

• a filtration assembly including a plurality of filter stages including at least a first stage filter having a first mean pore size and a second stage filter having a second mean pore size less than the first mean pore size, at least one of the first stage filter or the second stage filter includes a chemical catalyst that reacts with one or more chemicals;
• a plurality of pressure sensors positioned to acquire pressure data regarding a first pressure differential across the first stage filter and a second pressure differential across the second stage filter;
• one or more chemical sensors positioned to acquire chemical data regarding a chemical downstream of at least one of the first stage filter or the second stage filter;
• and
• a controller having programmed instructions to:
• monitor the pressure data and the chemical data;
• provide a first notification in response to the first pressure differential indicating that the first stage filter is in a plugged condition;
• provide a second notification in response to the second pressure differential indicating that the second stage filter is in the plugged condition;
• and
• provide a third notification in response to the chemical data indicating that the chemical catalyst is chemically saturated.

A system comprising:

• a filtration assembly configured to be positioned upstream of a fuel cell assembly, the filtration assembly including a plurality of filter stages;
• an air inlet positioned upstream of the filtration assembly, the air inlet is selectively closable or restrictable;
• an onboard air storage configured to store an air supply and facilitate selectively providing the air supply to the filtration assembly or the fuel cell assembly;
• a controller having programmed instructions to:
• acquire air quality data regarding an air quality of air upcoming, proximate, or entering the air inlet;
• close or restrict the air inlet in response to the air quality data indicating that the air upcoming, proximate, or entering the air inlet is of a quality lower than a quality threshold to prevent dirty ambient air from entering the filtration assembly;
• activate the onboard air storage to provide the air supply to the filtration assembly or the fuel cell assembly when the air inlet is closed or restricted;
• and
• provide power to an electric motor using a battery when the air inlet is closed or restricted and the onboard air storage is below a predefined threshold.