EP2923142A1

EP2923142A1 - Method and device for filling a tank with liquefied gas

Info

Publication number: EP2923142A1
Application number: EP13785544.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Olivier BEUNEKEN; Fouad Ammouri; Sitra COLOM; Marie DELCLAUD; Arthur Thomas; Olga WOJDAS
Original assignee: LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Current assignee: LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Priority date: 2012-11-23
Filing date: 2013-10-10
Publication date: 2015-09-30
Anticipated expiration: 2033-10-10
Also published as: US20150330571A1; FR2998643B1; BR112015011814A2; US20150345704A1; US9982841B2; EP2923143A1; WO2014080101A1; CN104884857A; CA2887108A1; CN104797876A; BR112015011816A2; WO2014080100A1; EP2923142B1; US9759381B2; ES2617740T3; CA2887114A1; FR2998643A1

Abstract

A method for filling a tank (1) with liquefied gas, in particular a tank with cryogenic liquid, from a liquefied gas container (2), in particular a cryogenic liquid container (2), which container (2) is in fluid communication with the tank (1) via a filling pipe (3), wherein the method uses a pressure differential generation member (4) for transferring liquid from the container (2) to the tank (1) at a predetermined pressure, characterized in that, at or following the switching on time (M) of the pressure differential generation member (4), the method comprises a step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) via a measurement of a first pressure in the filling pipe (3), and, following the determination of the pressure (PT4) in the tank, a step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) to a level below a maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup), said maximum pressure threshold being defined on the basis of the determined value of the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) and exceeding said determined value of the pressure (PT4) in the tank by two to twenty bars and preferably by two to nine bars.

Description

Method of filling a tank of liquefied gas

The present invention relates to a method and filling device. The invention relates more particularly to a method for filling a liquefied gas tank, in particular a cryogenic liquid tank, from a liquefied gas tank, in particular a cryogenic liquid tank, the tank being fluidly connected to the tank via a filling line, the method using a pressure differential generating member for transferring liquid from the tank to the tank at a predetermined pressure, the pressure differential generating member being switchable between a pressure state, operating and a stopped state, the filling line comprising a fluid flow regulating member disposed downstream of the pressure differential generating member, the flow regulating member being movable between a non-conducting position in which the flow of liquid is interrupted and at least one passing position in which the flow of liquid is transferred v The method comprises measuring a first instantaneous pressure in the filling line downstream of the flow control member.

More generally, the invention can be applied to the filling of any cryogenic container (mobile or otherwise) from any other cryogenic container (mobile or otherwise).

The increasing demand from users of cryogenic liquid storage or tanks at higher pressure leads to equip the filling systems of these tanks with high pressure pumps, that is to say operating at pressures between 24bar and 40bar. These same filling systems equipped with high pressure pump are made to fill low pressure storage designed for pressures ranging from 2 to 15 bar.

It is thus necessary to equip the receiving tank and / or the filling device with a safety system preventing overfilling or excessive pressure buildup of the tank which would cause the latter to break. The number of tanks to be filled is significantly greater than the number of filling devices, the safety system is preferably applied to the filling devices.

Various security systems exist to prevent such a phenomenon.

Thus, a known solution consists in equipping the filling port of the reservoir with a pneumatic valve which closes when the pressure in the reservoir reaches a predetermined threshold. This solution, however, presents disadvantages among which the need to provide maintenance of this pneumatic valve, a high cost of installation on all tanks requiring protection.

Another known solution is to provide a calibrated orifice at the filling port of the tank to maintain the filling rate in secure ranges, typically at a rate that can be evacuated by the existing security organs of the storage. This solution is also installed on the tanks and penalizes the filling time.

Another solution uses a rupture disk or a safety valve at the reservoir. This type of equipment must be sized carefully. However, this dimensioning may be incompatible with the internal pipes of the tank. In addition, in case of activation, liquid splashes must be treated in an area without risk for the operators. Finally rupture discs may be subject to corrosion or mechanical fatigue that require replacement by a qualified technician.

Another solution consists in providing an electrical system for detecting overpressure at the reservoir (if necessary via a thermistor at the overflow gauge valve) which, in response, stops the filling pump. This solution, however, requires a specific connection between each tank and each filling device and if necessary is based on an action by the operator.

Another solution (see for example WO2005008121A1) is to measure the pressure at the tank via a safety hose provided for this purpose so as to stop the pump in case of problems. This solution, however, requires an additional hose connection and circuitry adapted to the level of the tank.

Another solution detects a possible overconsumption of the pump and stops it if necessary. This solution, however, only applies to variable speed electric pumps and untimely shutdowns can be generated.

Another solution consists in providing specific fluidic connections between filling devices and the reservoirs according to determined pressure ranges. This solution imposes obvious constraints in terms of logistics in particular.

US6212719 discloses a system for automatically stopping a filling pump in case of rupture of the supply hose via two pressure sensors disposed at both ends of the transfer hose. The detection of a pressure drop triggers the shutdown of the pump. An object of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art noted above.

This object is achieved according to claim 1. In a variant, the method according to the invention, which moreover conforms to the generic definition given in the preamble above, may essentially be characterized in that, at the moment or after the start of the generation device a differential pressure, the method comprises a step of determining the pressure in the tank via a first pressure measurement at the filling line, the method comprising, after the determination of the pressure in the tank, a step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure below a maximum pressure threshold, the maximum pressure threshold being defined as a function of the determined value of the pressure in the reservoir and exceeding the determined value of the pressure in the reservoir from two to twenty bar and preferably from two to nine bar.

Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following features:

the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure below a maximum pressure threshold is carried out when the flow control member is in the traveling position,

when the determined value of the pressure in the reservoir is less than or equal to a first determined level of between three and five bar, the maximum pressure threshold is a predetermined fixed pressure value of between 5 and 9 bar and preferably equal to between 5.2 and 8 bar,

the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below a maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) comprises at least one of: manual or automatic regulation of the flow of fluid transferred via the regulating member flow, a manual or automatic regulation of the pressure differential generated by the pressure differential generating member,

the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) is carried out for a finite determined limiting time, when the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) remains greater than the maximum pressure threshold ( PT3sup) at the end of the determined limitation period, the filling is interrupted automatically,

during the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank, this pressure (PT4) in the tank is equal to the value of the first pressure (PT3) measured at the line (3) of filling ( PT3 = PT4) possibly corrected via a predetermined corrective coefficient, during the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3), the method comprises measuring the quantity of fluid transferred from the tank to the tank and, when this quantity of fluid transferred exceeds a threshold quantity before the end of the defined limitation period, the initially planned limitation period is reduced,

the start-up of the pressure differential generating member is preceded by a stability check of the first instantaneous pressure in the filling line, the stability control of the pressure being positive if unless the following conditions are fulfilled:

(i) the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the line is greater than a predetermined pressure, preferably between 15 and 25 bar,

(ii) the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) during at least one determined time interval is less than a determined level of variation corresponding to a variation of between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second and preferably 0.01 bar per second ,

the start-up of the pressure differential generating member (4) being possible only after a positive stability check of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3),

- after starting the generation member of a pressure differential and moving the flow regulating member from its non-conducting position to a passing position, in the event of detecting a decrease in the first pressure (PT3) instantaneous in the filling line at a rate of at least one bar per second, the pressure differential generation member is automatically shut down,

the method comprises starting up the pressure differential generating member, the operation of the pressure differential generating member being interrupted automatically in response to at least one of the following situations:

the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line for a determined duration (T) before actual transfer of a flow of liquid to the reservoir is greater than a variation (V) determined (APT3> V),

a determined change in flow rate (Q) and / or a determined variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the pipe downstream of the pressure differential generating member is detected while the generating member a pressure differential is not in working order, after a determined duration following the start of the pressure differential generating member (4), the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the pipe remains below a determined level,

after a determined duration following the start of the pressure differential generating member, a predetermined quantity of fluid has been transferred into the reservoir and the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the pipe remains above the maximum threshold. pressure (PT3sup),

the differential (PT2-PT3) between, on the one hand, a second instantaneous pressure (PT2) measured at the output of the generating member of a pressure differential, upstream of the flow control member, and on the other hand, the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured in the pipe downstream of the flow control member (12) is less than a minimum differential preferably of between 0.5 bar and 2 bar,

the flow of fluid from the tank to the tank remains below a determined level,

after the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup), and during the transfer of liquid into the tank, the method comprises a comparison of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line or an average (mPT3) of this first instantaneous pressure with a high threshold (Pmax) determined and, when the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line or, respectively, the average of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3), exceeds the high threshold (Pmax), an interruption step (AR) of the filling (R), the high threshold (Pmax) being defined by the sum of a part of a first pressure value (PT3ref) said reference reference measured in the pipe (3) of filling at the end of the limiting step or respectively of an average of several measured values of the first reference pressure (mPT3ref) instantaneous measured in the filling line at the end of the limiting step (called "reference average mPT3ref") and, on the other hand, a determined pressure jump (Po) between 0.2 and 2bar: (Pmax = PT3ref + Po, respectively Pmax = mPT3ref + Po),

the value of the pressure jump (Po) is a function of the value of the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref), or respectively, of the reference average mPT3ref, and, when the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref) or respectively , the reference average mPT3ref, is lower or equal to a value of between 6 and 9 bar, the pressure jump is between 0.1 and 0.9 bar and preferably between 0.3 and 0.7 bar

the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref) or, respectively, the reference average mPT3ref, is greater than a determined value of between 6 to 9bar, and less than a determined value of between 15 and 25 bar and preferably between 18 and 22bar; the pressure jump is between 0.8 and 1.4 bar and preferably between 0.9 and 1.2 bar,

when the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref) or, respectively, the reference average mPT3ref), is greater than a determined value comprised between 15 and 25 bar and preferably between 18 and 22 bar, the pressure jump is between 1 , 2 and 3bar and preferably between 1, 2 and 2bar,

- during filling and after the determination of the first reference pressure (PT3ref) or a reference average (mPT3), the first pressure

(PT3) in the pipe (3) is measured regularly and, if the first pressure (PT3) instantaneous measured in the pipe (3), respectively its average (mPT3), becomes lower than the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref), respectively less than the reference average (mPT3), previously selected, a new reference instantaneous pressure (PT3refb), respectively a new reference average (mPT3refb) is used to define a new high threshold (Pmax = PT3refb + Po), respectively Pmax = mPT3refb + Po,

the duration of the determined limiting step can be between fifteen and two hundred and forty seconds or between fifteen and one hundred and eighty seconds or between fifteen and sixty seconds or between thirty and one hundred and eighty seconds and for example equal to ninety seconds,

during the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the reservoir, this pressure (PT4) in the reservoir is equal to the value of the first pressure (PT3) measured in the corrected reservoir via a predetermined corrective coefficient comprising a correction coefficient K multiplicative dimensionless included for example between 0.8 and 1, 2 (PT4 = KPT3) and / or an additive correction coefficient C in bar for example between -2bar and + 2bar (PT4 = PT3 + C),

- during the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank, this pressure (PT4) in the tank is equal to the value of the first pressure (PT3) measured at the level of the filling pipe (PT3 = PT4 ) or, this pressure (PT4) in the reservoir is equal to the value of the first pressure (PT3) measured in the corrected reservoir via a correction factor predetermined, for example a multiplicative correction factor K dimensionless for example between 0.8 and 1, 2 (PT4 = KPT3) or an additive correction coefficient C in bar for example between -2bar and + 2bar (PT4 = PT3 + C )

the determination of the pressure (PT4) in the reservoir is carried out while the flow control member is in the non-conducting or passing position,

the step of determining the pressure (P4) in the tank is carried out only by measuring the first pressure (PT3) via a first pressure sensor in the filling line communicating with the interior of the tank,

when the pressure (PT4) determined in the reservoir is situated between the first level and a second level, the second level exceeding the first level of one to three bar, and preferably being equal to 4bar, the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) ) in bar is given by the following formula:

PT3sup = z.PT4 + PA, with z a fixed predetermined coefficient and without unit between 1, 5 and 3 and preferably equal to two, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar between zero and two bar and preferably equal to zero,

when the pressure (PT4) determined in the reservoir is situated between the second level and a third level, the third level exceeding the second level from four to ten bar, and preferably being equal to 8bar, the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) ) in bar is given by the following formula

PT3sup = z.PT4 + PA, with z a fixed predetermined coefficient and without unit between 0.80 and 1 and preferably equal to 0.98, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar between two and four bar and preferably equal to four bar

when the pressure (PT4) determined in the reservoir is situated between the third level and a fourth level, the fourth level exceeding the third level of eight to fifteen bar, and preferably being between 18 and 20 bar, the maximum threshold of pressure (PT3sup) in bar is given by the following formula

PT3sup = z.PT4 + PA, with z a fixed predetermined coefficient without unit of between 1.00 and 1.5, and preferably equal to 1.20, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar of between one and four bar and preferably equal to 2.5bar

when the pressure (PT4) determined in the reservoir is located above the fourth level and the variation of the first pressure (PT3) is less than a determined vanation level between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second, the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) in bar is given by the following formula:

PT3sup = z.PT4 + PA, with z a fixed predetermined coefficient without unit of between 0.50 and 1, 00 and preferably equal to 0.80 and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar of between 7 and 12 bar and of preferably between 8 and 10bar

- when the pressure (PT4) determined in the tank is above the fourth level and the variation of the first pressure (PT3) is greater than a determined level of variation of between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second, the maximum pressure (PT3sup) in bar is a fixed value determined between 30 and 50 bar and preferably between 32 and 40 bar,

the method comprises a pre-control of transfer of liquid from the tank to the tank via the filling line for a predetermined duration (TQ) of transfer pre-control, and when the transfer of liquid into the tank does not reach a threshold (S) determined during the determined transfer pre-check duration (TQ), the filling is interrupted and the value of the first measured pressure in the filling line during the pressure determining step (PT4) in the tank is not retained to determine the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup),

the method comprises starting the pressure differential generating member and a liquid flow regulating step downstream of the pressure differential generating member via at least one opening valve; variable disposed on the filling line, when the generating member of a pressure differential is started, at least a portion of the liquid delivered by the pressure differential generation member being firstly returned at least mainly to the tank via a return line, then progressively delivered mainly to the tank, and, when the transfer of liquid in the tank does not reach a determined threshold during the determined duration (TQ) of pre-control of transfer, the method comprises a step of stopping (AR) the operation of the generating member of a pressure differential,

the determination of a transfer of liquid in the reservoir comprises a measurement of the flow rate (Q) of instantaneous liquid in the filling line downstream of the generating member of a pressure differential and upstream of the reservoir, a step for comparing this instantaneous flow rate (Q) of liquid with a determined minimum flow rate threshold (Qmin) and, when the measured instantaneous liquid flow rate (Q) does not reach the minimum flow threshold (Qmin) for the duration (TQ) ) determined pre-flow control, a step of interruption (AR) of the operation of the member (4) for generating a pressure differential,

the minimum flow rate threshold (Qmin) determined is between one and fifty liters per minute and preferably between two and ten liters per minute and even more preferably between three and eight liters per minute,

the determination of a transfer of liquid in the reservoir comprises at least one measurement of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line downstream of the generating member of a pressure differential and upstream of the reservoir, a step of comparing this instantaneous first pressure (PT3) with a reference level (PT5) and, when this measurement of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line does not reach the reference level (PT5) during the determined duration (TQ) of pre-flow control, an interruption step (AR) of the operation of the pressure differential generating member,

the determination of a transfer of liquid in the reservoir comprises at least one measurement of an instantaneous pressure differential (PT3-PT5) between the first pressure (PT3) and the driving back, a step of comparing this instantaneous pressure differential (PT3-PT5) with a reference differential and, when this instantaneous pressure differential (PT3-PT5) does not reach the reference differential over the duration (TQ) determined pre-flow control, a step of stopping (AR) the operation of the generating member of a pressure differential,

the predetermined period of pre-check of flow is between twenty and two hundred and forty seconds and preferably between thirty and one hundred and twenty seconds,

after the step of interrupting the generation of a differential pressure generating device, the latter can only be restarted after a determined waiting period preferably comprised between one second and fifteen minutes,

the step of interrupting filling comprises at least one of: stopping the pressure differential generating member, decreasing or stopping the flow of liquid in the filling line upstream of the pressure differential generating member, purging at least a portion of the filling line located downstream of the pressure differential generating member towards a separate discharge zone of the reservoir activating a bypass returning the liquid downstream of the pressure differential generation member to the tank,

the start-up of the generation member of a pressure differential comprises a control of the flow of liquid delivered by the generating member a pressure differential for maintaining the flow rate (Q) of instantaneous liquid in the filling line downstream of the pressure differential generating member above a determined minimum flow rate (Qmin),

the at least one filling interruption member comprises at least one of:

a switch controlling the stopping of the generating member of a pressure differential,

a purge pipe provided with a controlled valve and connected to the electronic logic, the purge pipe comprising a first end connected to the filling pipe (3) downstream of the pressure differential generating member, and a second end opening into a separate evacuation zone of the reservoir,

a return pipe provided with a controlled valve and connected to the electronic logic, the return pipe comprising a first end connected to the filling pipe downstream of the generating member of a pressure differential and a second end opening into the tank,

a controlled isolation valve connected to the electronic logic and located upstream of the generating member of a pressure differential,

the step of measuring the instantaneous first pressure (PT3) in the filling line downstream of the pressure differential generating member is carried out continuously or periodically,

- The stop of the generation member of a pressure differential is achieved by switching to a passive mode including stopping its drive motor in the case of a pump,

the pressure in the tank is maintained above a determined value via a liquid withdrawal from the tank, the vaporization of this liquid taken and the reinjection of the vaporized liquid into the tank,

during filling, the fluid pressure downstream of the pressure differential generating member is maintained above the pressure value in the reservoir,

the fluid pressure downstream of the pressure differential generating member is maintained above the pressure value (PT4) in the reservoir by decreasing / interrupting the direct return of fluid from the generating a pressure differential towards the tank,

the filling pipe comprises an integral upstream portion of the tank and a downstream portion, the downstream portion is preferably flexible and has a first end removably connected to the upstream portion and a second downstream end removably connected to a filling inlet of the tank,

the method is implemented by an installation comprising an electronic logic receiving the instantaneous pressure measurements (PT3) in the filling line, the electronic logic ensuring the control of the operation of the generating member of a pressure differential,

- The filling line is provided with a variable opening valve disposed downstream of the pressure differential generating member for regulating the flow of liquid delivered to the reservoir, said variable opening valve disposed downstream of the a pressure differential generating member preferably being of the one-way type, ie preventing backflow of fluid upstream of the pressure differential generating member,

- The start of the generating member of a pressure differential is prevented when the measurement of the first pressure (PT3) instant in the filling line downstream of the generating member of a pressure differential is unavailable,

the selective purge of at least a portion of the filling line located downstream of the pressure differential generating member towards a separate discharge zone of the tank uses a discharge pipe comprising an open end towards the atmosphere, said discharge pipe being provided with a valve, said selective purge being carried out for a specified purge time of between two and sixty seconds and preferably between five and thirty seconds,

- The by-pass selectively returning the liquid exiting the generating member of a pressure differential to the tank comprises a return line provided with at least one return valve,

the step of interrupting the filling by activation of the by-pass returning the liquid downstream of the generating member of a pressure differential towards the tank comprises an opening of the at least one return valve for a given period of time preferably between two and sixty seconds,

- The tank and the pressure differential generation member belong to a mobile installation including a mobile container and / or a delivery truck trailer.

The invention may also relate to any alternative device or method comprising any combination of the above or below features.

Other particularities and advantages will appear on reading the following description, made with reference to the figures in which: FIG. 1 represents a schematic and partial view illustrating a first example of structure and operation of a device for filling a tank according to the invention,

FIG. 2 represents a schematic and partial view illustrating a second example of structure and operation of a filling device according to the invention,

FIGS. 3 to 8 show schematic, simplified and partial views respectively illustrating six other possible embodiments of structure and operation of a filling device according to the invention; FIG. 9 represents a schematic and partial view illustrating still further another example of structure and operation of a filling device according to the invention,

FIG. 10 illustrates a possible example of a succession of steps optionally implemented during a filling according to one embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a succession of steps that can be implemented during a filling according to one embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 12 illustrates a third example of a succession of steps that can be implemented during a filling according to one embodiment of the invention,

- Figure 13 shows a schematic, simplified and partial view similar to Figures 3 to 8 illustrating yet another possible embodiment of structure and operation of a filling device according to the invention.

FIGS. 1 and 9 illustrate in simplified manner an example of a filling installation that can be used according to the invention.

The filling device comprises a tank 2 of cryogenic liquid. This tank 2 is for example a double-walled tank whose inter-wall is isolated under vacuum. The tank 2 is for example mobile and transportable if necessary on a delivery truck such as a semi-trailer.

The tank 2 contains liquefied gas and can be selectively fluidically connected to a tank 1 to be filled via a filling line 3.

The filling pipe 3 comprises an upstream end connected to the storage volume of the tank 2 and a downstream end selectively connectable to the tank 1. The filling line 3 is provided with a member 4 for generating a fluid pressure differential and, downstream of the latter, a valve 12 with variable opening. For example the member 4 for generating a pressure differential is a pump. Of course, the invention is not limited to this embodiment. Thus, the device for generating a differential of pressure can typically comprise a vaporizer and / or a heater associated with at least one valve for raising the pressure in the tank 2 and allow its transfer to a tank. Any other member for generating a pressure differential for causing the transfer of fluid from the tank 2 to the tank 1 can also be used.

The valve 12 with variable opening is preferably a manually operated valve (although this is not limiting for all that).

The device further comprises a first pressure sensor 13 disposed on the filling pipe 3 downstream of the variable opening valve 12.

The device further comprises an electronic logic 16 connected to the pump 4 and the pressure sensor 13. The electronic logic 16 comprises for example a microprocessor and an associated memory. In the case where the device does not include a pump, the electronic logic 16 may be connected to at least one controlled valve 128, 12 located on the filling pipe 3. As illustrated in particular in an example of FIG. 13, the pressure differential generating member comprises a vaporizer 11 located in a pressurization pipe 10 associated with a valve 128 in order to increase the pressure in the tank 2. The pressure is increased by removing liquid from the tank 2, vaporizing it and reintroducing it into the tank 2. This rise in pressure in the tank 2 generates a pressure differential which makes it possible to create a flow of liquid in the filling line 3. The actual filling and stopping of the filling can be defined by the state or not of a valve 12 on the pipe 3 filling.

The electronic logic 16 is configured to control or detect an M start or an AR stop of the generation member 4 of a pressure differential. In the case of a pump 4, the operating state M or AR stop can respectively correspond to the on or off state of its drive motor. In the case of a vaporization system intended to increase the pressure in the tank 2, the on and off state can correspond to the open / closed state of at least one valve or the actual pressurization or 2. The description which follows relates to the case of a pump but can be applied by analogy to the case of another member for generating a pressure differential.

In particular, the electronic logic 16 controls the start-up A of the pump 4 (see step 100, FIG. 10 or step 300, FIG. 11) and can trigger an optional delay A to notably allow the stabilization of the liquid transfer conditions. to the tank 1. In one possible variant, the control logic 16 receives as input parameter the setting information. run M of the pump and / or the opening information of a controlled valve in the filling pipe 3.

An example of stabilization of the operating conditions of the pump 4 during its independent start from the rest of the filling process will now be described with reference to FIG. 11.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, before the start M of the pump 4 (the pump is stopped ("4 = AR", reference 300, FIG. 11), the device can optionally perform a stability check 301 ST of the first PT3 pressure in the filling line 3 (reference 301, Figure 1 1) .This first pressure PT3 is that measured (sensor 13) while the filling pipe 3 communicates with the interior of the tank 1. say that this stable pressure reflects the pressure in the tank 1 to fill (opening of the valves of the tank 1 downstream of the first pressure sensor 13).

Preferably, the start of the pump 4 is possible only after the positive character "O" of this stability control (PT3 = ST, step 301, Figure 1 1).

For example, this stability check of the first pressure PT3 is positive if at least one of the following conditions is met:

- (i) the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in line (3) is greater than a predetermined pressure, for example between 15 and

25 bar,

- (ii) the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) during at least one determined interval is less than a determined level of variation corresponding, for example, to a change in absolute value between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second, and preferably 0 , 01 bar per second.

Optionally, another possible cumulative condition could be that the first measured pressure PT3 is greater than the atmospheric pressure.

The first condition (i) above fulfilled indicates that the tank 1 to be filled is of the high pressure type and therefore that it is configured to withstand high pressures.

The second condition (ii) above filled can be measured in various ways. For example, the value of the first pressure PT3 can be read over several successive intervals of ten seconds, for example five intervals of ten seconds each. Within each time interval of ten seconds, the value of the first PT3 pressure must not diverge by more than 0.1 bar. Preferably, the five ten-second intervals overlap in part. By For example, the five ten-second intervals begin successively every second. Alternatively, an average of this pressure can be observed. The definition of the intervals depends in particular on the accuracy of the pressure sensor. This check is preferably carried out after sweeping the filling pipe 3, especially if the latter comprises a nonreturn valve 1 19.

This second condition (ii) is fulfilled, for example, if, during five consecutive time intervals (if any overlapping), the first pressure PT3 within each interval does not diverge by more than 0.1 bar.

Preferably, if the first stability control 301 of the pressure is positive

("O", FIG. 11), pump 4 can be started ("4 = M", step 100), otherwise it can not be started ("N", step 301 and return to step previous 300).

Turning on pump 4 ("4 = M", step 100) can determine a measurement of pressure PT4 in tank 1.

For example, at the moment of switching on M of the pump 4, the pressure

PT4 in the tank 1 is determined solely by a first pressure measurement (PT3-> PT4) at the filling line 3 (step 302).

For example, this pressure PT4 in the tank 1 can be considered equal to the value of the first pressure PT3 measured by the sensor 13 at the line 3 at this time PT3 = PT4. Of course, a predetermined correction coefficient (multiplicative K and / or additive C) can be used to determine the pressure PT4 in the tank 1 from the first measured pressure PT3. These coefficients can be obtained by tests, the inventors have determined that the coefficient multiplier K dimensionless dimension can be for example between 0.8 and 1, 2 (PT4 = KPT3) and that the correction coefficient additive C in bar can be for example between -2bar and + 2bar (PT4 = PT3 + C).

Of course, the pressure PT4 in the tank 1 can be determined by a measurement of the first pressure PT3 at the filling line 3 (for example via the sensor 13 while all the valves are open between the sensor 13 and the tank 1 ) even before starting the pump 4.

In this case, preferably, this measurement (PT3 = PT4) is performed at a time when a pressure stability test is positive (see example above or any other appropriate equivalent method).

When determining the pressure PT4 in the tank 1 before starting the pump (PT4 = PT3), preferably and for safety, this PT4 pressure in the tank can be checked again at the moment or after the start of the pump 4 (by measuring again the pressure PT3 in line 3 as before).

The method may comprise a flow test to determine that the flow rate supplied by the pump 4 is sufficient and that the pump 4 is not hollow. Thus, the method may comprise a verification of a minimum flow rate at the pump outlet 4 to the reservoir (1), for example 30 liters per minute and / or a minimum pressure increase at the pump outlet 4 at the sensor level at the same time. pressure 1 13 of the bypass line 8 and the first pressure sensor 13, for example 6bar and 1 bar respectively (step 303, Figure 1 1 and Figure 9). If this check is negative, the pump 4 is stopped automatically (N, return to step 300). If this condition is positive, "O" the filling process can continue.

The method then comprises a step 304 for limiting the first instantaneous pressure PT3 below a maximum pressure threshold PT3sup.

This step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure PT3 below the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup is preferably performed for a finite determined duration of limitation.

The limitation of the first instantaneous pressure PT3 below a maximum pressure threshold PT3sup is preferably performed by the operator via a manual regulation of the fluid flow transferred via the flow control member 12 and / or via a regulating the pressure differential generated by the pump 4.

When the first instantaneous pressure PT3 remains greater than the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup at the end of the determined limitation period, the filling is interrupted automatically AR ("N" return to step 300).

On the other hand, when the first instantaneous pressure PT3 is lower than the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup at the end of the determined limitation period, the filling is continued ("O" then step 103 of control under a high threshold

P max).

The determined limitation period is for example between thirty and one hundred and eighty seconds and preferably equal to ninety seconds.

The limitation period can be variable, in particular as a function of the rate delivered in the storage. If the flow is high, the duration is lower and vice versa.

Preferably, during this step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure PT3, the method comprises a measurement of the quantity Q of fluid transferred from the tank 2 to the tank 1. When this quantity of fluid Q transferred exceeds a threshold quantity Qs before the end of the determined limitation period, said limitation period initially provided is reduced, for example, a duration of five seconds is granted at most to complete the step 304 of limitation.

The maximum pressure threshold PT3sup is defined according to the previously determined value of the pressure PT4 in the tank 1 (before, at the moment or after the start of the pump 4).

The inventors have demonstrated that this determination of the PT4 pressure in the tank under these stabilized pressure conditions (before, at the time or after the start of the pump 4) makes it possible to obtain a reliable value of this pressure. This pressure value PT4 then makes it possible, if necessary, to define a reliable pressure threshold that must not be exceeded (see below) for this first pressure PT3.

For example, when this determined value of the pressure PT4 in the tank 1 is less than or equal to a first determined level between three and five bar, for example equal to three bar, the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup is preferably a value of predetermined fixed pressure between 5 and 9 bar and preferably equal to 7bar.

For example, when the pressure PT4 determined in the tank 1 is between three and four bar, the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup in bar can be given by the following formula:

PT3sup z.PT4 = + PA

z being a fixed predetermined coefficient and without unit between zero and two and preferably equal to one, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar between zero and eight bar and preferably equal to four bar.

Similarly, when the pressure PT4 determined in the tank 1 is between 4 and 8.1 bar, the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup in bar can be given by the following formula:

PT3sup z.PT4 = + PA

with z a fixed predetermined coefficient and without unit between 0.80 and 1 and preferably equal to 0.98, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar between two and four bar and preferably equal to four bar.

When the pressure PT4 determined in the tank 1 is between 8.1 and 19.5 bar, the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup in bar can be given by the following formula

PT3sup z.PT4 = + PA

with z a fixed predetermined coefficient without unit between 1, 00 and 1, 50 and preferably equal to 1, 20, and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar between one and four bar and preferably equal to 2.5bar . When the pressure PT4 determined in the tank 1 is greater than 19.5bar and the variation of the first pressure PT3 is less than a determined level of variation of between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second and preferably less than 0.01 bar by second, the threshold of maximum pressure PT3sup in bar is given by the following formula:

PT3sup z.PT4 = + PA

with z a fixed predetermined coefficient without unit of between 0.50 and 1, 00 and preferably equal to 0.80 and with PA a fixed pressure increase in bar of between 7 and 12 bar and preferably equal to 9.3 bar.

On the other hand, when the pressure PT4 determined in the tank 1 is greater than 19.5bar and the variation of the first pressure PT3 is greater than the value described above, the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup in bar can be a fixed value. determined between 30 and 50 bar and preferably equal to 37bar.

The inventors have demonstrated that this step prior limitation of the first pressure PT3 allows better subsequent detection of a dangerous overpressure during filling which requires a stop filling.

After a step 304 of positive limitation ("O"), the process can continue by then comparing the first instantaneous pressure PT3 with a high threshold Pmax and interrupting the filling if the high threshold Pmax is exceeded as described in more detail. hereinafter with reference to FIG. 10 (steps referenced 103, 104, 105 and 106 in particular).

After stabilization of the liquid transfer conditions to the tank 1 and the possible optional limitation of the first instantaneous pressure PT3, the actual filling R of the tank 1 can begin (see reference 101, Figure 10).

The delay step A (see FIG. 10, FIG. 10) preferably starts when the pump 4 is turned on and has a finite duration.

After this optional delay step, the electronic logic 16 can be configured to automatically interrupt the filling AR R as soon as the first instantaneous pressure PT3 measured in the filling line 3 during the filling exceeds a predetermined high threshold Pmax (see references 103 "O" and 104, Figure 10).

On the other hand, during step A of delaying, the variations of the first pressure PT3 in the filling line 3 beyond the high threshold Pmax do not interrupt the filling (reference 102, FIG. 10). This configuration makes it possible to detect effectively and early enough an overflow at the tank 1 that can lead to an overpressure in the reservoir 1 during filling without the need for expensive auxiliary systems for detection or communication. The inventors have in fact found that this configuration also makes it possible to avoid untimely detections of overfilling. In addition, the operator is not forced to additional operations during a filling. This configuration also contributes to stabilizing the tank filling conditions. This makes it possible to increase the life of the equipment by reducing harmful pressure variations.

Instead of interrupting the filling when the first instantaneous PT3 pressure exceeds the high threshold Pmax, alternatively (or in combination), the electronic logic 16 can be configured to control an average of first instantaneous pressures PT3max measured in the filling line 3 . That is to say that the device controls the stop filling as soon as this average of first pressure PT3 exceeds a predetermined high threshold Pmax.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 9, the filling device preferably comprises a return line 8 (or bypass) provided with a bypass valve. The bypass pipe 8 comprises a first end connected to the filling pipe 3 downstream of the pump 4 and a second end opening into the tank 2 for selectively returning pumped liquid.

As also illustrated, the filling device may comprise a pipe 10 for selective pressurization of the tank 2. The pressurizing pipe 10 may comprise two first ends connected to the filling pipe 3 respectively upstream and downstream of the pump 4 (cf. Figures 1 and 2). The pressurizing line comprises a second end connected to the storage volume of the tank 2. The pressurizing line comprises a heat exchanger 11 for selectively vaporizing the pumped liquid before it is reintroduced into the tank 2.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the filling pipe 3 may comprise an upstream portion 20 integral with the tank 2 and a downstream portion 30. The downstream portion 30 is preferably flexible and has a first end 14 removably connected to the portion upstream 20 and a second downstream end 15 demountably connected to a filling inlet of the tank 1. The downstream circuitry 40 of the second end 15 of the downstream portion 30 may comprise a check valve 1 19 preventing the backflow of fluid from the tank 1 to the filling pipe 3. The circuitry 40 may then comprise two lines 21, 22 connected to the lower and lower parts respectively. tank 1 through respective valves 121, 122. The tank 1 is for example a vacuum insulated cryogenic tank.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the tank 1 also preferably comprises a lower pressure measurement system 25 and a higher pressure measurement system 24 (or a system for measuring a pressure differential between the parts). upper and lower tank 1).

FIG. 2 illustrates another more detailed example of a filling device architecture corresponding in particular to the upstream portion 20 of the filling line of FIG. 1.

The filling pipe 3 is connected to the lower part of the tank 2 and may comprise, from upstream to downstream (that is to say from the tank 2 towards the end connected to a hose), a first 1 1 1 and a second 107 valves arranged in series upstream of the pump 4. As shown, a safety valve 207 and a filter 26 may be arranged upstream of the pump 4. Downstream of the pump 4, the pipe 3 filling comprises the valve 12 with variable opening.

As shown, between the pump 4 and the valve 12 with variable opening, the filling pipe 3 may comprise at least one of: a temperature sensor 27 and a flow measurement member 9 such as a flow meter. Downstream of the variable opening valve 12, the pipe preferably comprises the first pressure sensor 13 mentioned above. The filling line 3 may also comprise, downstream of the first pressure sensor 13, a purge line 60 provided with at least one controlled valve 6 for discharging liquid to a discharge zone 18.

A bypass pipe 28 may be provided to pressurize the tank via the pump 4. This bypass pipe 28 comprises an upstream end connected downstream of the pump 4 and a downstream end connected to the tank 2. The bypass pipe 28 comprises for example two pump bypass valves 128, 228 arranged in series. As in the example of FIGS. 1 and 9, the device comprises a pipe 10 for selective pressurization of the tank 2. The pressurizing pipe 10 comprises a first end connected between the two pump bypass valves 128, 228 and one end. downstream connected to the tank 2.

As shown, the downstream end of the pressurizing pipe 10 may also be connected to a discharge line 17 having a discharge valve 310 and a valve 410.

As before, a bypass pipe 8 is provided to selectively return the pumped liquid to the tank 2. The bypass pipe 8 pass to an upstream end connected to the filling line 3, downstream of the pump 4 (for example between the temperature sensor 27 and the optional flow meter 9). The bypass pipe 8 has a downstream end connected to the tank 2.

The bypass line 8 comprises at least one bypass valve 5 and, in the example shown, two bypass valves 5, 55 arranged in parallel, one of which is preferably controlled.

The bypass line 8 may comprise a pressure sensor 1 13 PT2 upstream of the valves 5, 55 by-pass. This sensor 1 13 actually measures a second pressure PT2 in the filling line 3 upstream of the valve 12 with variable opening. By-pass line 8 optionally includes another PT50 pressure sensor 29 disposed downstream of the bypass valves 5, 55.

Downstream of the first valve 1 1 1, the circuit may include a pipe 21 1 to fill the tank 2 which is parallel to the pipe 3 filling. This pipe 21 1 comprises, from upstream to downstream, a first safety valve 41 1, a valve 31 1, a second safety valve 51 1 and an end 61 1 connectable to an application. This pipe 21 1 can be connected to the bypass line 8, downstream of the bypass valves 5, 55 via a branch 31.

Preferably the filling operation of a tank 1 is at least partially manual and in particular an operator can manually control the valve 12 with variable opening. Of course, all or part of these actions can be automated, in particular by using appropriate controlled devices (valve controlled in particular).

Preferably, in the case where the device uses a pump 4, and without however being limiting, the pump 4 is of the type delivering a rate controlled by a frequency converter, including a centrifugal type pump. Of course, any other type of pump is also appropriate.

Before starting the filling, if the pump model 4 requires it, the pump 4 is first cooled and stabilized for a determined period of time. To do this, the operator can return the liquid pumped via the bypass line 8 to the tank 2 (for example by opening the bypass valve 5 and keeping the variable opening valve 12 closed).

Once the operating conditions of the pump 4 are stabilized (to limit the intensity of the pump), for example in terms of the temperature of the pump 4 and / or the pressure downstream of the pump 4 and / or in terms of flow provided by the pump 4, the operator can decrease gradually close the bypass valve 5 and begin the actual filling of the tank by opening the valve 12 with variable opening. During filling, the first instantaneous PT3 pressure on the filling line 3 can be measured downstream of the variable opening valve 12 via the first sensor 13. The variations of this first measured pressure PT3 reproduce the pressure variations in the tank 1 during filling.

According to an advantageous feature already mentioned above, at the end of the delaying step A, abnormal increases in this pressure PT3 are defined and, when they are detected, they lead to the automatic shutdown of the filling.

The examples described below and in particular the numerical values are indicative and may be adapted if necessary depending in particular on the performance of the filling system and the types of tanks considered.

The delaying step A has for example a duration of between five and one hundred and eighty seconds and preferably between ten and ninety seconds and even more preferably between thirty and sixty seconds. This duration of the delay step A is preferably chosen as a function, in particular, of the technical characteristics of the pump 4 and the procedures necessary to control it.

At the end of the delay step A, an abnormal increase of the first pressure PT3 can be detected by monitoring the first instantaneous pressure PT3.

Thus, for example, at the end of the delay step A, the device can determine a first reference instantaneous pressure PT3ref in the filling line 3. The high threshold Pmax can be defined as being the sum of the first reference instantaneous pressure PT3ref recorded and, on the other hand, of a determined pressure jump Po. That is to say that the high threshold Pmax (in bar) which triggers the stop of filling is given by:

Pmax = PT3ref + Po.

The determination of the first reference instantaneous pressure PT3ref can comprise at least one measurement of the first instantaneous pressure PT3 in the line 3 in a time interval comprised between zero and ten seconds around the end of the delaying step A. This first instant reference pressure PT3ref can be a point value, a maximum or minimum value measured by the sensor 13 during the at least one measurement or an average of several measurements.

The value of the pressure jump Po can itself be a value (in bar) fixed in bar and between 0.1 bar and 2 bar and preferably between 0.3 and 1 bar and even more preferentially between 0.4 and 0.6 bar. For example, preferably value of the pressure jump Po as well as the duration of the delay step can be adjusted according to the characteristics of the filling device (type of pump, type of circuit, type of tank, etc.). Preferably, the value of the pressure jump is a function of the value of the first instantaneous reference pressure PT3ref.

This pressure jump Po is defined according to the characteristics of the filling device. Thus, for example, if after step A of delay the device is stabilized and that the first pressure PT3 downstream of the valve 12 with variable opening is reached 9.5 bar and the pressure jump is defined at 0.5bar , so

PT3max = 9.5bar and Pmax = PT3ref + Po = 9.5 + 0.5 = 1 Obar.

Thus, in the subsequent filling, if the first pressure PT3 measured by the first sensor 13 continuously reaches or exceeds this high threshold Pmax of 10bar, the device automatically interrupts the filling.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the example described above.

Thus, instead (or in addition) of controlling the first instantaneous pressure PT3 downstream of the variable opening valve 12, the device can control an average mPT3ref of the first instantaneous maximum pressure PT3ref measured by the sensor 13. that is, the device calculates an average mPT3ref of several first measured maximum instantaneous PT3 pressures. In this case, the high threshold Pmax is then defined by the sum of one part of the average of the first maximum instantaneous pressures (mPT3ref), and, on the other hand, of a determined pressure jump (Po): Pmax = mPT3ref + Po.

Thus, at the end of the delay step A, if the first instantaneous pressure PT3 and / or an average exceeds this high threshold, the filling is interrupted.

The average of the first instantaneous pressure mPT3 is, for example, the average of several instantaneous pressures PT3 measured successively during a time interval of, for example, between 0.1 and 10 seconds and preferably between 0.25 seconds and 1 second.

Of course, the control of an overpressure can use other parameters that result from the first measured pressure PT3.

According to an advantageous feature, preferably, during filling if subsequently the first measured pressure PT3 (respectively the mean of the first pressure mPT3) should decrease below the reference value PT3ref retained (respectively mPT3ref), then this new value of reference PT3refb replaces the previous value (see steps 105 and 106 figure 10). In this way, a new updated high threshold Pmax is recalculated Pmax = PT3refb + Po. This new high threshold, which is reduced compared to the previous high threshold, thus adapts to a decrease in the first pressure PT3 during filling, in particular due to the thermodynamic conditions of the filling. In the opposite case, if the first pressure PT3 does not decrease ("N reference 105 in FIG. 10), the high threshold Pmax is unchanged.

That is, the first measured measured reference pressure PT3ref is the most recent minimum measured value.

This decrease of the high threshold Pmax can be updated as often as necessary.

This calculation of the high threshold Pmax, the monitoring of not exceeding the high threshold Pmax and the stopping if necessary of the filling can be carried out automatically by the electronic logic 16. In a non preferred variant, it could be envisaged that the exceeding of the high threshold Pmax is signaled to the operator who will then have the task of stopping the filling.

For security reasons, if the signal of the first pressure sensor 13 is unavailable, the electronic logic 16 preferably controls the automatic shutdown of the filling.

Figures 3 to 8 illustrate in a simplified manner embodiments of the filling device. The elements identical to those described above are designated by the same reference numerals. In particular, FIG. 3 represents the electronic logic 16 connected to the first pressure sensor 13 and to the pump 4. The electronic logic 16 is also connected, if appropriate, to a display member 7 such as a man-machine interface for signaling. all or part of the operating state of the device during filling.

To interrupt the filling, according to a possible characteristic, the operation of the pump 4 can be interrupted. That is to say that the control setpoint of the pump 4 is reduced to a minimum and / or the motor of the pump 4 is switched from a running state to a stopped state and / or a pump member 4 driven by a motor is disconnected from the motor of the pump 4 (set "freewheeling"). If necessary the control of the pump 4 is achieved via a speed converter (not shown for the sake of simplification).

According to another possible characteristic (alternative or cumulative), stopping the filling can be achieved by decreasing or eliminating the circulation of liquid in the filling line 3 upstream of the pump 4. As illustrated in FIG. be achieved by closing a valve 1 1 1 of the filling line (for example the first valve 1 1 1 or the second valve 1 12 of Figure 2). This measurement used in a complementary manner to the stopping of the pump 4 makes it possible to increase the efficiency of stopping the filling. in particular by decreasing the effect of inertia of the system and in particular the inertia of the pump 4. In fact, even after stopping the pump 4 can continue to supply liquid for a certain time. This feature also makes it possible to reduce the possible effects of a vaporization of cryogenic liquid present in the circuit. It is thus possible to stop upstream several liters of liquid present in the circuit. In this way, the stop filling is faster and more effective to avoid overpressure in the tank 1.

According to another possible feature (alternative or cumulative), stopping the filling can be achieved by purging at least a portion of the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 to a separate discharge zone 18 of the tank 1. As illustrated in FIG. 5 (and also in FIG. 2), the device may comprise, for this purpose, downstream of the pump 4, a purge line 60 provided with at least one valve 6 controlled by the electronic logic 16 for discharging liquid to an evacuation zone 18.

This characteristic thus makes it possible to drain at least cryogenic fluid into the filling line 3 to the atmosphere.

For safety reasons, this purge operation downstream of the pump 4 is preferably carried out during a limited purge time of for example between two and sixty seconds and preferably between five and thirty seconds. The purge time can be adapted according to the characteristics of the purge valve (typically the flow coefficient Cv of the valve) and those of the pipe to be purged (typically length and diameter). This makes it possible in particular to limit the risk of hypoxia of the operators depending on the nature of the gas released. This purge thus makes it possible at least partially to empty, in particular, the downstream portion of the filling pipe 3, in particular in the flexible part.

According to another possible characteristic (alternative or cumulative), the stop filling can be achieved by activating a by-pass returning the liquid downstream of the pump 4 to the tank 2. As shown in Figure 6, this can be achieved by opening the bypass valve 55 of the bypass line 8.

This solution also increases the efficiency and speed of stopping the filling and avoids rejecting a dangerous fluid around the tank 2.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, if the valve 12 with variable opening is of the type preventing the return of fluid upstream, this return of fluid to the tank 2 does not make it possible to evacuate the fraction of fluid present downstream of this valve 12. However, this characteristic still makes it possible to improve the stopping of the rise in pressure in the tank 1. Preferably, this opening of the bypass valve 8 of the bypass line 8 is preferably performed for a limited period, for example between two and sixty seconds and preferably between two and thirty seconds. In this way, the device avoids any risk of cavitation of the pump 4 and any risk of fluid return from the tank 1 to the tank 2 in the case where the valve 12 variable opening leaks.

Preferably, after an interruption of the filling, the electronic logic 16 or the pump 4 itself prevents a restart of the pump 4 after a determined waiting time preferably between one second and fifteen minutes.

While being simple and inexpensive structure, the device described above and allows to detect sufficiently rapidly and non-inadvertently abnormally high pressure in the tank 1 during filling. The device also makes it possible to limit this abnormally high pressure by effectively stopping the filling to avoid a rupture of the tank 1.

We will now describe a second possible and optional example of stabilization of the operating conditions of the pump 4 during its startup (that is to say before the filling control described above especially in connection with Figure 10).

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the start M of the pump 4 (reference

100) may comprise a pre-control of the flow actually delivered by the pump 4 to the tank 1 for a predetermined pre-check flow time TQ (step 200, FIG. 12). This pre-flow control comprises a determination of an effective transfer of liquid in the tank 1 by the pump 4 during this time TQ pre-flow control. The determination of an actual transfer of liquid in the tank 1 by the pump 4 may consist of determining whether the operator (or the device if it is partially automated) begins the actual transfer of liquid to the tank 1. Indeed, before starting the filling, the pump 4 can be cooled and stabilized during a determined period of time during which the liquid pumped into the tank 2 is returned to the tank via the bypass line 8 (for example by opening the by-pass valve 5 and by keeping the valve 12 with variable opening closed).

That is to say that, when the pump 4 is turned on, at least a portion of the liquid delivered by the pump 4 can initially be returned at least mainly to the tank 2 via a return line 8 Then gradually the liquid is delivered mainly to the tank 1, especially when the pump 4 reaches a steady state. According to an advantageous feature, the electronic logic 16 is configured to compare the transfer of liquid in the tank 1 with a determined threshold S and, when the transfer of liquid in the tank 1 does not reach this threshold S during the duration TQ of pre - Flow control, the electronic logic 16 interrupts AR operation of the pump 4 (see references 201 and 202 Figure 12). Such a stoppage of the pump 4 means that the start is not satisfactory to continue the process of priming the filling.

In fact, the inventors have found that this initial measurement makes it possible to avoid operating conditions which are detrimental to the good progress of the subsequent filling and in particular to the future detection of an abnormal pressure triggering the stoppage of the filling as described above.

The determination of a transfer of liquid in the tank 1 may for example comprise a measurement 9 of the flow rate Q of instantaneous liquid in the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 and upstream of the tank 1 (see FIG.

For this purpose and as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the filling line may comprise a flow meter 9 connected to the electronic logic 16. Thus, the electronic logic 16 can compare the instantaneous flow rate Q of the measured liquid with a minimum flow rate threshold Qmin determined and, when the instantaneous flow rate Q of the measured liquid does not reach the threshold of minimum flow rate Qmin during the determined duration TQ of pre - flow control, an interruption step AR of the operation of the pump 4.

The minimum flow rate threshold Qmin determined can be chosen beforehand according to the technical characteristics of the filling device (type of pump, etc.). This threshold minimum flow Qmin is for example between one and fifty liters per minute and preferably between ten and forty liters per minute or between three and eight liters per minute, for example five liters per minute.

The predetermined duration TQ pre-flow control may be between twenty and two hundred and forty seconds and preferably between thirty and one hundred and twenty seconds, for example ninety seconds.

Of course, alternatively or cumulatively, the determination of a transfer of liquid in the tank 1 can be performed differently.

For example, the determination of a transfer of liquid in the tank 1 may comprise a measurement of the first instantaneous pressure PT3 in the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 and upstream of the tank 1, in particular downstream of the valve 12 with variable opening via the first pressure sensor 13 described above. This instantaneous pressure PT3 can be compared with a predetermined reference level and, when this measurement of the first instantaneous pressure PT3 in the filling line 3 does not reach the reference level during the predetermined time TQ pre-flow control, pump 4 is stopped.

Preferably, however, the determination of a transfer of liquid in the tank 1 is carried out by controlling the evolutions or pressure differentials. For example, the device controls in real time the instantaneous PT3 and PT50 pressures respectively at the filling line 3 downstream of the variable opening valve 12, and at the return line 8.

For this purpose the device can use the PT50 pressure sensor 29 upstream of the bypass valves 5, 55 (see Figure 2).

For example, an increase of the first pressure PT3 above a threshold determined simultaneously with a decrease in the pressure PT50 determined in the bypass line 8 corresponds to a sufficient effective transfer.

If this sufficient effective transfer is not performed during the determined pre-control time TQ, the pump 4 is stopped.

When the transfer of liquid in the tank 1 reaches this threshold (flow rate or pressure or differential pressure determined) during the determined time TQ, the operation of the pump 4 is maintained and the filling R becomes effective ("O" and reference 203, Figure 12).

In addition, preferably, the first instantaneous pressure PT3 in the filling line 3 is measured downstream of the pump 4 at the moment when the transfer of liquid into the tank 1 reaches the determined threshold S (PT3 (S), see reference 204, Figure 12). This value can be stored by the electronic logic. This value can be stored by the electronic logic.

Also preferably, the method further comprises an additional pre-check of the first pressure PT3 in the filling line.

More precisely, the method may then comprise a step of pre-checking the first pressure PT3 in the filling line 3 downstream of the variable opening valve 12 during a determined period of pressure pre-control TP.

Thus, for example, when the first pressure PT3 measured by the first sensor 13 in the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 exceeds a maximum pressure threshold PT3sup or is lower than a minimum pressure threshold PT3min during the determined duration TP of pre-pressure control, the operation of the pump 4 is interrupted AR (see references 205 and 206, Figure 10). This pre-pressure control is preferably provided to ensure that the pressure regulated in the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 is maintained in a determined range. The inventors have indeed determined that such an action improves the filling and in particular the possible subsequent detection of abnormal overpressure as previously described.

The maximum pressure threshold PT3sup in bar may be identical to that described in the example of FIG. The determined value of the pressure PT3 = PT4 in the tank 1 may be the value of the first pressure PT3 recorded for example at the moment when the transfer of liquid in the tank 1 reaches the determined threshold of the step 204 described above.

Preferably, the minimum pressure threshold PT3min is a predetermined fixed value, possibly adjustable, for example between two bar and ten bar and preferably between four and ten bar, in particular five bar.

The determined duration TP pre-pressure control is for example between five and one hundred eighty seconds and preferably between ten and thirty seconds, for example fifteen seconds.

When this first measured pressure PT3 remains below the maximum pressure threshold PT3sup and higher than the minimum pressure threshold PT3min during the determined duration TP pre-pressure control, the operation of the pump 4 is maintained and the filling of the tank 1 is continued .

The method may then comprise a filling control as described above with reference in particular to FIG. 10. Thus, FIG. 12 reproduces, by way of example, the steps 103, 104, 105 and 106 of FIG. concisely this process will not be described a second time.

According to a preferred advantageous but nonlimiting particularity, the predetermined high threshold Pmax used to interrupt the filling, if any, mentioned above is calculated or defined at the end of the determined duration TP pre-pressure control. That is, the first PT3 pressure measurement or measurements used to define the first reference pressure PT3ref (or an average of these pressures mPT3ref) is carried out at the end of the determined pre-control duration TP. pressure (in the case of course where the pump 4 is not stopped).

That is, timer A mentioned above may include the controls described with reference to FIG.

These processes make it possible to regulate the pressure in the filling line 3 downstream of the pump 4 to values close to those of the pressure PT4 prevailing in the tank 1 and for an optimal operation of the In addition, the filling performed at these pressure levels makes it possible to better detect, at the level of the filling line 3, any excess pressures in the tank 1 which necessitate a stoppage of the filling. Better detect these overpressures means in particular detect earlier and more accurately the possible pressure in the tank 1 only. In particular, the process described with reference to FIG. 12 makes it possible to reduce the pressure differential between, on the one hand, the filling pipe 3 downstream of the pump 4 and, on the other hand, the inside of the tank 1.

In addition, the value of first reference pressure PT3ref used initially to calculate the first high threshold Pmax is for example the value of the first pressure PT3 measured at the end or after a step 304 of positive limitation of the process of Figure 1 1.

Alternatively, the value of the first reference pressure PT3ref used initially to calculate the first high threshold Pmax is, for example, the value of the first pressure PT3 measured in line 3 in a time interval between zero and 180s seconds after an implementation. running the pump 4.

Alternatively, this first reference pressure PT3ref is measured in a determined time interval between zero and 180s seconds after the start of the actual transfer of a flow of liquid to the tank 1. As before, the first instantaneous reference pressure PT3ref is the value measured during the at least one pressure measurement or an average of this at least one pressure measurement.

Preferably, during the entire filling process (from start-up 100 of the pump 4) and after displacement of the flow regulating member 12 from its non-conducting position to its passing position, in case of detection of a lowering the first instantaneous PT3 pressure in the filling line 3 at a rate of at least one bar per second, the pump 4 is automatically stopped (reference 400, Figure 1 1).

This safety measure makes it possible to detect a pressure drop that is synonymous with an abnormally late opening of the valves of the tank 1. That is to say, if this decrease in the first pressure PT3 occurs during filling, this means that previously the tank 1 was isolated from the filling pipe 3 and the previous measurements and calculations were incorrect, in particular determining the PT4 pressure in the tank.

Claims

1. Method for filling a tank (1) of liquefied gas, in particular a cryogenic liquid tank, from a filling device comprising a tank (2) of liquefied gas, in particular a tank (2) of cryogenic liquid, the tank (2) being fluidly connected to the tank (1) via a filling line (3), the filling device comprising using a pressure differential generating member (4) for transferring liquid from the tank (2) to the reservoir (1) at a predetermined pressure, the pressure differential generating member (4) being switchable between a running state (M) and a stopped state (AR), the filling pipe (3) comprising a member (12) for regulating the flow of liquid disposed downstream of the pressure differential generating member (4), the flow regulating member (12) being movable between a non-conducting position in which the flow of liquid is inter broken and at least one passing position in which the flow of liquid is transferred to the reservoir (1) at a determined flow rate, the method comprising a measurement of a first pressure (PT3) instantaneous in the pipe (3) downstream filling of the flow control member (12), the method comprising a step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the reservoir (1) via a measurement of the first pressure at the filling line (3) while the filling line (3) communicates fluidly with the interior of the tank (1), ie the pipe (3) is passing between the measuring point of the first pressure (PT3) and the interior of the tank, the method comprising a step of switching the flow regulating member (12) in the passing position to transfer fluid from the tank to the tank (1), characterized in that the method comprises, after the determination pressure (PT4) d in the tank a step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below a maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup), the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below a maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) being performed when the flow regulating member (12) is in the passing position, the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below a maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) comprising at least one one of: a manual or automatic regulation of the fluid flow transferred via the flow control member (12), a manual or automatic regulation of the pressure differential generated by the differential generating member (4); pressure, the limiting step of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) being effected during a finite determined limitation period of between fifteen and one hundred and eight seconds and in that, when the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) remains higher than at the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup) at the end of the determined limitation period, the filling is interrupted (AR) automatically, the maximum pressure threshold being defined as a function of the determined value of the pressure (PT4) in the reservoir ( 1) and exceeding the determined value of the pressure (PT4) in the tank from two to twenty bar and preferably from two to nine bar.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) via a measurement of the first pressure at the level of the filling line is performed before the start-up (M) of the member (4) for generating a pressure differential.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) via a measurement of the first pressure at the level of the filling line is performed at the moment or after switching on (M) the pressure differential generating member (4).

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) via a measurement of the first pressure at the level of the filling line is performed after at least one of the following conditions is met:

(i) the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured in the pipe

(3) is greater than a predetermined pressure, preferably between 15 and 25 bar,

(ii) the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured during at least one determined time interval is less than a determined level of variation corresponding to a variation of between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second and preferably 0.01 bar per second.

5. Method according to any one of claims 1 or 4, characterized in that, when the determined value of the pressure (PT4) in the reservoir (1) is less than or equal to a first determined level between three and five bar the maximum pressure threshold is a predetermined fixed pressure value of between five and ten bar and preferably equal between six six and nine bar.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the duration of the determined limiting step is between thirty and ninety seconds and preferably equal to sixty seconds.

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that during the step of determining the pressure (PT4) in the tank (1), this pressure (PT4) in the tank (1) is equal to the value of the first pressure (PT3) measured at the level of the filling line (3) (PT3 = PT4) possibly corrected via a predetermined corrective coefficient.

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the start of the member (4) for generating a pressure differential is preceded by a stability control of the first pressure ( PT3) in the filling line (3), the pressure stability control being positive if at least one of the following conditions is met:

(i) the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured in line (3) is greater than a predetermined pressure, preferably between 15 and 25 bar,

(ii) the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured during at least one determined time interval is less than a determined level of variation corresponding to a variation of between 0.005 and 0.020 bar per second and preferably 0.01 bar per second,

and in that the activation of the pressure differential generating member (4) is possible only after a positive stability check of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3).

9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, after starting (M) of the member (4) for generating a pressure differential and displacement of the member (12) for regulating from the flow of its non-conducting position to a passing position, if a decrease of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line (3) is detected at a rate of at least one bar per second, the member (4) for generating a pressure differential is automatically shut down.

10. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises a start (M) of the member (4) for generating a pressure differential and in that the operation of the pressure differential generating member (4) is automatically interrupted (AR) in response to at least one of the following situations:

the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line (3) for a determined duration (T) before the actual transfer of a flow of liquid to the reservoir (1) is greater than a variation (V) determined (APT3> V)

a determined change in flow rate (Q) and / or a determined variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the pipe (3) downstream of the pressure differential generating member (4) is detected while the member (4) for generating a pressure differential is not in working order,

after a determined duration following the start of the pressure differential generating member (4), the variation of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in line (3) remains below a determined level,

after a determined duration following the start of the pressure differential generating member (4), a predetermined quantity of fluid has been transferred into the reservoir (1) and the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the duct (3) remains above the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup),

the differential (PT2-PT3) between, on the one hand, a second instantaneous pressure (PT2) measured at the outlet of the pressure differential generating member (4), upstream of the member (12) for regulating the flow, and secondly, the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) measured in the pipe downstream of the flow regulating member (12) is less than a minimum differential preferably of between 0.5 bar and 2 bar,

- The fluid flow from the tank (2) to the tank (1) remains below a certain level.

1 1. Process according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, after the step of limiting the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) below the maximum pressure threshold (PT3sup), and during the transfer of liquid into the reservoir (1), the method comprises a comparison of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line (3) or an average (mPT3) of this first instantaneous pressure with a determined high threshold (Pmax) and, when the first instantaneous pressure (PT3) in the filling line (3) or, respectively, the mean of the first instantaneous pressure (PT3), exceeds the high threshold (Pmax), an interruption step (AR) of the filling (R), the high threshold (Pmax) being defined by the sum of a part of a reference instantaneous first pressure value (PT3ref) measured in the line (3) of filling at the end of the step limiting or averaging a plurality of measured values of the first reference instantaneous pressure (mPT3ref) measured in the filling line (3) at the end of the limiting step (referred to as the "reference average mPT3ref") and, on the other hand, a determined pressure jump (Po) of between 0.2 and 2bar: (Pmax = PT3ref + Po, respectively Pmax = mPT3ref + Po).

12. Method according to claim 1 1, characterized in that the value of the pressure jump (Po) is a function of the value of the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref), or respectively, of the reference average mPT3ref, and when the first reference pressure (PT3ref) or, respectively, the reference average mPT3ref, is less than or equal to a value between 6 and 9bar, the pressure jump is between 0.1 and 0.9bar and preferably between 0.3 and 0.7 bar.

13. The method of claim 12, characterized in that when the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref) or respectively, the reference average mPT3ref, is greater than a determined value between 6 to 9bar, and less than a determined value included between 15 and 25 bar and preferably between 18 and 22 bar, the pressure jump is between 0.8 and 1.4 bar and preferably between 0.9 and 1.2 bar.

14. The method of claim 12 or 13, characterized in that when the first reference instantaneous pressure (PT3ref) or, respectively, the reference average mPT3ref), is greater than a determined value of between 15 and 25 bar and preferably between 18 and 22 bar, the pressure jump is between 1, 2 and 3bar and preferably between 1, 2 and 2bar.

15. Method according to any one of claims 1 1 to 14, characterized in that, during filling and after the determination of the first reference pressure (PT3ref) or a reference average (mPT3), the first pressure ( PT3) instantaneous in the pipe (3) is measured regularly and, if the first pressure (PT3) instantaneous measured in the pipe (3), respectively its average (mPT3), becomes lower than the first reference pressure (PT3ref), respectively below the reference average (mPT3), previously selected, a new instant reference pressure (PT3refb), respectively a new reference average (mPT3refb) is used to define a new high threshold (Pmax = PT3refb + Po), respectively Pmax = mPT3refb + Po.