A mathematical model and software set for computer simulation of operational metal-hydride cooling system are developed. The numerical model is able to take into account the coupled heat- and mass-transfer equations of the two reactors. Thus the model allows us to know and to foresee the effects of operational and design parameters on the performance of the metal-hydride cooling system. The model was validated by being compared to experimental data obtained by other authors and good agreements were obtained. Using this model, the effects of operating parameters are presented and discussed. (C) 2009 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.