EP3286486A1 - Interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz - Google Patents

Interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz

Info

Publication number
EP3286486A1
EP3286486A1 EP16718365.6A EP16718365A EP3286486A1 EP 3286486 A1 EP3286486 A1 EP 3286486A1 EP 16718365 A EP16718365 A EP 16718365A EP 3286486 A1 EP3286486 A1 EP 3286486A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
composite
metal
gas
flange
interface
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP16718365.6A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Brian Spencer
Zachary SPENCER
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Blue Wave Co SA
Original Assignee
Blue Wave Co SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Blue Wave Co SA filed Critical Blue Wave Co SA
Publication of EP3286486A1 publication Critical patent/EP3286486A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • F17C13/04—Arrangement or mounting of valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L25/00—Constructive types of pipe joints not provided for in groups F16L13/00 - F16L23/00 ; Details of pipe joints not otherwise provided for, e.g. electrically conducting or insulating means
    • F16L25/0072—Joints for pipes of dissimilar materials
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L23/00—Flanged joints
    • F16L23/04—Flanged joints the flanges being connected by members tensioned in the radial plane
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L47/00—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics
    • F16L47/20—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics based principally on specific properties of plastics
    • F16L47/24—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics based principally on specific properties of plastics for joints between metal and plastics pipes
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C1/00—Pressure vessels, e.g. gas cylinder, gas tank, replaceable cartridge
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C1/00—Pressure vessels, e.g. gas cylinder, gas tank, replaceable cartridge
    • F17C1/02—Pressure vessels, e.g. gas cylinder, gas tank, replaceable cartridge involving reinforcing arrangements
    • F17C1/04—Protecting sheathings
    • F17C1/06—Protecting sheathings built-up from wound-on bands or filamentary material, e.g. wires
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/01—Shape
    • F17C2201/0104—Shape cylindrical
    • F17C2201/0109—Shape cylindrical with exteriorly curved end-piece
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0602—Wall structures; Special features thereof
    • F17C2203/0604—Liners
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0636—Metals
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0658—Synthetics
    • F17C2203/066—Plastics
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0658—Synthetics
    • F17C2203/0663—Synthetics in form of fibers or filaments
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0658—Synthetics
    • F17C2203/0663—Synthetics in form of fibers or filaments
    • F17C2203/0673—Polymers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0305—Bosses, e.g. boss collars
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0352—Pipes
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/037—Quick connecting means, e.g. couplings
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/037—Quick connecting means, e.g. couplings
    • F17C2205/0373—Adapters
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0388—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters
    • F17C2205/0394—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters in direct contact with the pressure vessel
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/013—Carbone dioxide
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/014—Nitrogen
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/016—Noble gases (Ar, Kr, Xe)
    • F17C2221/017—Helium
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/03—Mixtures
    • F17C2221/032—Hydrocarbons
    • F17C2221/033—Methane, e.g. natural gas, CNG, LNG, GNL, GNC, PLNG
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/03—Mixtures
    • F17C2221/037—Containing pollutant, e.g. H2S, Cl
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
    • F17C2223/0107—Single phase
    • F17C2223/0123—Single phase gaseous, e.g. CNG, GNC
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/035—High pressure (>10 bar)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/036—Very high pressure (>80 bar)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/01—Improving mechanical properties or manufacturing
    • F17C2260/011—Improving strength
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/03—Dealing with losses
    • F17C2260/035—Dealing with losses of fluid
    • F17C2260/036—Avoiding leaks
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
    • F17C2270/0102—Applications for fluid transport or storage on or in the water
    • F17C2270/0105—Ships

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a gas-tight metal-composite interface for compressed gas systems comprising metal and composite portions that must be joined in a gas-tight manner.
  • a compressed gas system having one or more of these interfaces is particularly suitable for containment and transport of compressed gasses, particularly compressed natural gas (CNG), particularly in the cargo holds of marine transport vessels.
  • compressed gasses particularly compressed natural gas (CNG)
  • a problem is how to reduce the weight of type I pressure vessels while maintaining their currently approved features, so as to avoid or substantially reduce the usually lengthy approval process associated with introduction of entirely new types of lighter pressure vessels.
  • a solution to this problem lies in the use of composite end domes and/or composite end bosses. Such composite end domes and bosses are respectively described in PCT patent applications number WO 2013/083177 A1 and WO 2013/083174, the contents of which is herein fully incorporated by way of reference, and can provide substantial savings in terms of pressure vessel weight.
  • Composites may show an undesired degree of permeability to gases, and particularly to compressed gases. With the introduction of light composite parts in pressure vessels, it may therefore be necessary to provide a barrier to impermeably contain the compressed gas.
  • This barrier is usually provided in the form of a pressure vessel liner.
  • This discontinuity may represent a point of weakness for lined pressure vessels, both in terms of mechanical strength and impermeability. It is therefore desirable to prevent any such mechanical discontinuities from becoming exposed to high levels of pressure, by isolating them from the compressed gas, while maintaining design simplicity. It is an object of the present invention to solve, or at least mitigate, at least one of the aforementioned problems in light of the drawbacks associated with the prior art.
  • the invention provides a method of forming a gas-tight metal-composite interface for use in compressed gas systems including those intended for marine transportation of compressed gases such as CNG.
  • Compressed gas systems comprising one or more gas-tight metal-composite interfaces formed in accordance with one or more of the methods disclosed herein are also an aspect of the invention.
  • marine transport vessels comprising one or more gas-tight metal-composite interfaces formed in accordance with one or more of the methods disclosed herein are also an aspect of the invention.
  • gas-tight metal-composite interfaces formed in accordance with one or more of the methods disclosed herein may however still be desired due to the dramatic effect of substituting metallic parts with lighter composite parts on the weight of the containment system.
  • gas-tight metal-composite interfaces formed in accordance with one or more of the methods disclosed herein, but with added one or more threaded fittings may be used to either provide the primary measure of gas tightness as described hereinbelow, or to provide a secondary measure of assurance that the interface is gas-tight.
  • a method of forming a gas-tight metal-composite interface for compressed gas systems We provide a hollow metal portion of a compressed gas system, the metal portion having a metal flange at or near an end of the metal portion, the metal flange comprising a metal flange chamfered surface.
  • a hollow composite portion of the compressed gas system the composite portion having a composite flange at or near an end of the composite portion, the composite flange comprising a composite flange chamfered surface.
  • Each segment comprises proximal and distal clamping arms.
  • the clamping arms define the generally C-shaped profile of the cross section of the collar.
  • the proximal arms comprise each a proximal arm chamfered surface.
  • the proximal arm chamfered surfaces are each chamfered as a mirror image with respect to the metal flange chamfered surface.
  • the distal arms comprise each a distal arm chamfered surface.
  • the distal arm chamfered surfaces are each chamfered as a mirror image with respect to the composite flange chamfered surface.
  • the end of the metal portion is then placed contiguous to the end of the composite portion.
  • the C-shaped segments are then pressed onto the metal and composite flanges.
  • the collar is formed by mechanically securing at least a pair of the C-shaped segments together, to form the gas-tight metal-composite interface between the two contiguous ends, i.e. the end of the metal portion and the end of the composite portion.
  • a distance between the proximal and distal arm chamfered surfaces is less than a corresponding distance measured between the metal and composite flange chamfered surfaces when the ends of the metal and composite portions are contiguous and the collar is not in use, that is when the collar is not yet assembled to the metal and composite portions. This provides for an interference coupling of the collar to the metal and composite portions after that these portions have been placed contiguous one to the other, in order to form the gas-tight metal composite interface.
  • the hollow metal portion and/or the hollow composite portion may have a generally cylindrical configuration, a cylindrical configuration, or a configuration according to a hollow solid of revolution with respect to an axis passing through the hollow metal and composite portions.
  • the collar may have an interrupted annular configuration (i.e. gaps between consecutive segments may be present) or a full, i.e. continuous or uninterrupted, annular configuration (i.e. without such gaps).
  • the C-shaped segments may be pressed onto the metal and composite flanges until adjacent segment end surfaces meet, or are disposed in closer proximity to each other. Forming the collar by mechanically securing together at least a pair of the C- shaped segments may comprise welding together at least two end surfaces of respective adjacent or contiguous C-shaped segments.
  • forming the collar by mechanically securing together at least a pair of the C-shaped segments may comprise securing at least one threaded fitting.
  • the threaded fitting may comprise two aligned through holes, each formed on a respective C-shaped segment, and a bolt cooperating with these through holes.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface may be formed by, at or between opposing surfaces provided at or near the metal and composite portion ends.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface may be formed by, or comprise, a mechanical seal disposed between the ends of the metal and composite portions.
  • the mechanical seal may be an O-ring.
  • the O-ring may be made of a metallic or elastomeric material.
  • the compressed gas system may comprise a pressure vessel having a composite boss, the composite boss comprising said composite portion.
  • the pressure vessel may be lined, i.e. it may comprise a pressure vessel liner.
  • the composite boss may be internally lined with the liner.
  • the liner may be folded to extend between the ends of the metal and composite portions.
  • the metal portion may comprise, or be provided as part of, a pipe, through which compressed gas can be loaded into and unloaded from the pressure vessel.
  • the metal portion may comprise a gas transfer appendix, or projection, for insertion into an inlet of the pressure vessel. Said pressure vessel inlet may be formed through the composite boss.
  • the gas transfer appendix/projection may comprise an outer surface configured to form the gas-tight metal-composite interface in cooperation with an inner surface of the composite boss, or with the liner, if a liner lines the composite boss.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface isolates a mechanical discontinuity present between the material of which the composite boss is made and the material of which the liner is made from the compressed gas stored in the pressure vessel.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface is responsible for protecting the discontinuity from exposure to pressure.
  • the outer surface of the fluid transfer appendix or projection and the inner surface of the pressure vessel's inlet, which inner surface may be lined, may have cooperating frusto-conical profiles.
  • the profile of the appendix or projection may be press-fitted to (i.e. forced or compressed against) the profile of the inner surface of the composite boss.
  • the frusto-conical profiles may be fully or partially mating.
  • the mechanical seal may be disposed around the outer surface of the fluid transfer appendix or projection.
  • the mechanical seal may be disposed at or near an edge of the fluid transfer appendix or projection. Said edge may be inserted into the pressure vessel's inlet to couple the fluid transfer appendix or projection to the pressure vessel.
  • the mechanical seal may be configured to increase its sealing action in response to an increase of pressure in the pressure vessel.
  • a method of forming a gas-tight metal-composite interface for compressed gas systems We provide a hollow metal portion of a compressed gas system, the metal portion having a metal flange at or near an end of the metal portion, the metal flange comprising a metal flange clamping surface. We also provide a hollow composite portion of the compressed gas system, the composite portion having a composite flange at or near an end of the composite portion, the composite flange comprising a composite flange clamping surface. We also provide a clamp assembly for pressing the metal and composite flanges towards each other.
  • the clamp assembly may comprise at least two clamping units.
  • At least one of the clamping units may comprise a first clamping unit surface for clamping the metal flange. At least one of the clamping units may comprise a second clamping unit surface for clamping the composite flange.
  • the end of the metal portion is then placed contiguous to the end of the composite portion.
  • a load may then be applied on the clamping units until ends of the clamping units meet or are displaced closer to each other.
  • We form the clamping assembly by welding the clamping units together at the meeting, or closely spaced apart, ends to form the gas-tight metal- composite interface between the end of the metal portion and the end of the composite portion.
  • the clamp assembly is adapted such that a distance between the first and the second clamping unit surfaces when the clamp assembly is in use to form the gas-tight metal-composite interface is less than a corresponding distance between the metal flange and the composite flange clamping surfaces when the ends of the metal and composite portions are placed contiguous to one another and the clamp assembly has not yet been applied. This provides for a coupling of the clamp assembly to the metal and composite portions after that these portions have been placed contiguous one to the other, in order to form the gas-tight metal composite interface.
  • a method of separating a mechanical discontinuity present in lined pressure vessels from compressed gas stored in the pressure vessels comprises providing a hollow metal portion, the metal portion comprising a pipe through which the compressed gas can be loaded into and unloaded from the pressure vessel, wherein the metal portion has a metal flange at or near an end of the metal portion, the metal flange comprising a metal flange clamping surface.
  • the pressure vessel has a composite boss defining a composite portion lined with a liner.
  • the mechanical discontinuity may be defined between a first material of which the composite portion is made and a second material of which the liner is made.
  • the composite portion has a composite flange at an end of the composite portion, the composite flange comprising a composite flange clamping surface.
  • the clamp assembly comprises at least two clamping units, at least one of the clamping units comprising a first clamping unit surface for clamping the metal flange, and at least one of the clamping units comprising a second clamping unit surface for clamping the composite flange.
  • the end of the metal portion is then placed contiguous to the end of the composite portion.
  • the clamping units are then loaded (i.e. compressed against one another) to compress the metal and composite portions against one another.
  • the clamp assembly By securing the clamping units, the clamp assembly is formed and, consequently, the gas-tight metal-composite interface between the metal portion and the liner.
  • a distance between the first and the second clamping unit surfaces when the clamp assembly is assembled to clamp the metal and composite flanges is less than a corresponding distance (i.e. measured using the same criterion, e.g. along the same direction) between the metal flange and the composite flange clamping surfaces when the ends of the metal and composite portions are contiguous but the clamp assembly has not yet been applied.
  • This provides for a coupling of the clamp assembly to the metal and composite portions after that these portions have been placed contiguous one to the other, in order to form the gas-tight metal composite interface.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an external flange that may be used with either or both of the portions of a gas-tight metal-composite interface as described herein;
  • Figure 2 is a schematic representation of an internal flange that may be used with either or both of the portions of a gas-tight metal-composite interface as described herein;
  • Figures 3A and 3B are, respectively, schematic plan and cross-sectional representations of an annular collar as described herein;
  • Figure 4 illustrates the concept of chamfered surfaces that are formed as mirror images of one another;
  • Figures 5A and 5B are, respectively, schematic cross-sectional and plan representations of a compressed gas containment system comprising gas-tight metal- composite interfaces according to two different embodiments of the invention
  • Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a method of forming a gas-tight metal- composite interface according to another embodiment of the invention that includes a sleeve with a mechanical seal;
  • Figure 7 is a schematic representation of two gas-tight metal-composite interfaces according to embodiments of the invention.
  • Figures 8A and 8B are schematic representations each showing one or more gas-tight metal-composite interfaces according to embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 9 is a cross-sectional representation, slightly in perspective, of a gas-tight metal-composite interface according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 10 is a perspective representation of a CNG system incorporating the gas-tight metal-composite interface of Figure 9;
  • Figure 11 is a cross-sectional representation of a gas-tight metal-composite interface according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 12 is a further cross-sectional representation of the gas-tight metal- composite interface of Figure 1 1 .
  • any term of approximation such as, without limitation, near, about, approximately, substantially, essentially, and the like, mean that the word or phrase modified by the term of approximation need not be exactly that which is written but may vary from that written description to some extent. The extent to which the description may vary will depend on how great a change can be instituted and have one of ordinary skill in the art recognize the modified version as still having the properties, characteristics and capabilities of the word or phrase unmodified by the term of approximation. In general, but with the preceding discussion in mind, a numerical value herein that is modified by a word of approximation may vary from the stated value by around ⁇ 10%, unless expressly stated otherwise.
  • providing refers simply to the provision of the indicated materials to the inventive methods per se and is not intended nor should it be construed as in any manner referring to any sort of participation in the method by any third party not directly involved in the performance of the method.
  • a compressed gas system can refer to a pressure vessel alone, such as, without limitation, a cylindrical pressure vessel made of metal with a polymeric dome. It also, however, can refer to a pressure vessel coupled to an external pipe for introducing and extracting a compressed gas from the pressure vessel, wherein the gas-tight metal-composite interface comprises at least the connection of a composite boss or nozzle to the external, metal pipe.
  • a compressed gas system can refer to a marine transport vessel laden with pressure vessels comprising one or more gas-tight metal-composite interfaces according to embodiments of this invention.
  • a compressed gas system can refer to any combination of the foregoing.
  • a "pressure vessel” refers to a tank comprising an internal volume that can be completely isolated from the external environment.
  • the pressure vessel is presently preferably for use as a vessel for the containment and transport of compressed gasses, in particular marine transport of such compressed gassed, in particular CNG.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interfaces described herein may be incorporated into pressure vessels of any size and shape including but not limited to cylindrical, geodesic, toroidal, spherical and oblate spheroidal.
  • a presently preferred pressure vessel comprises that having a cylindrical center section and one or two domed end sections.
  • a “mechanical seal” refers to a device that helps to join systems together to form the gas-tight metal-composite interface so as to help prevent, or greatly reduce, leakage from the formed joint.
  • a mechanical seal can comprise, without limitation, an O-ring seal, a lip seal, a cup seal, a V-seal, a bore seal and a face seal.
  • a "boss,” sometimes referred to as a "nozzle,” refers to a component as such would be understood by those skilled in the art.
  • a boss or nozzle is a component used to connect a pressure vessel with external piping through which the pressure vessel is filled with or emptied of a fluid, in particular a compressed gas, preferably CNG.
  • a fluid in particular a compressed gas, preferably CNG.
  • Bosses in current use are made of metals such as stainless steel, nickel alloys, aluminum and the like.
  • these bosses in particular with regard to large pressure vessels, are extremely heavy and have been estimated to comprise as much as 70% of the weight of a type III (composite structural shell and metal liner) or type IV (composite structural shell and polymeric liner) pressure vessel.
  • bosses made of polymeric composites referred to, not surprisingly, as “composite bosses.”
  • a "one-piece composite boss” refers to a boss that is fabricated as a single construct as set forth in patent application WO 2013/083174, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth, including the drawings.
  • proximal and distal simply refer to opposite ends of a construct with respect to an axial direction, and are used herein as a manner of orienting an object with relation to another object such as the orientation of a flange or surfaces thereof with regards to the ends of the metal and composite portions of the gas-tight metal- polymer interfaces described herein, or the orientation of clamping arms of a C-shaped clamping collar as described herein.
  • which end is designated as proximal and which as distal is purely arbitrary, unless the context unambiguously expresses otherwise.
  • contiguous refers to two surfaces that are adjacent and that are in direct contact or would be in direct contact were it not for an intervening layer of another material.
  • a metal surface would be considered contiguous to a composite surface, these surfaces forming a gas-tight metal-composite interface as described herein, if there is nothing interspersed between the surfaces but also if a portion of a liner is placed between the two surfaces, the liner in fact being the entity that is in direct contact with the metal surface and the polymer surface.
  • the use of "preferred,” “presently preferred,” “preferably,” or “more preferred,” and the like refers to preferences as they exist at the time of filing of this patent application.
  • a "metal-composite interface” refers to a metal surface that is contiguous with a polymeric surface of a composite portion. The surfaces cooperate (with or without the presence of a mechanical seal) to create a contact line or a contact area, as the case may be, which are impenetrable or virtually impenetrable to the compressed gas (note that a minor degree of permeability to the compressed gas may be acceptable depending on the application).
  • gas-tight refers to a property of the interface wherein the interface is impermeable or virtually impermeable to the gas, in particular when under pressure, held within a confined space delimited by the interface, that is, in simple terms the interface does not leak gas (or it does so at very minimal, acceptable rates).
  • the interfaces described herein do not leak gas when used in a pressure vessel containing a gas under low, medium or high pressure.
  • the terms low, medium and high refer to CNG storage and transportation and are readily understood by the skilled person. For example, 30bar would be categorized as low pressure, 1 10bar as medium pressure and 250bar as high pressure.
  • a "portion" of a construct such as metal "portion” of a gas-tight metal-composite interface refers to any part of a whole construct.
  • a bicycle wheel spoke is a portion of a wheel as well as a portion of the bicycle and the wheel itself is also a portion of the bicycle.
  • a metal portion of a gas-tight metal-composite interface may be considered a portion of the interface per se or a portion of a compressed gas system as described elsewhere herein.
  • portion is intended to be generic and requires further investigation to determine exactly what "portion” it refers to. Such, however, will be apparent to the skilled artisan both from the context of the written description as aided by the figures.
  • flange refers to an external or internal ridge or rim used for the coupling of one object to another.
  • flanges are used for the coupling of a metal portion to a composite portion of a gas-tight metal-composite interface.
  • An external flange is shown in Fig. 1 and 4
  • an internal flange is shown in Fig. 2.
  • the flange of the metal portion and/or the polymeric portion may be independently external or internal.
  • chamfer or "chamfered surface” has the meaning ordinarily associated with the term. That is, specifically with regard to this invention, a “chamfered surface” refers to a surface that is beveled with respect to a horizontal line perpendicular to the centerline axis of a cylindrical portion of a construct herein. This is depicted graphically in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 in which surface 7 is chamfered at an angle ⁇ with respect to horizontal line 6.
  • a chamfered surface is angled such that a complementary annular collar, or alternative clamping device, i.e.
  • annular collar or clamping device designed to cooperate with the chamfered surface, can be used so as to press against one another a flanged metal portion and a flanged composite portion to form a gas-tight metal-composite interface as described herein.
  • an "annular collar” refers to a construct comprising two concentric rings, one forming inside diameter 1 1 of the collar and defining cylindrical lumen 102 as shown in Fig. 3A and the other, diameter 12 shown in Fig. 3A, describing outer surface 103 of the collar.
  • the annular collar according to aspects of the present disclosure comprises two half-circular segments 13 and 14. This annular collar is referred to as "C-shaped," for reasons that are evident from Fig. 3B. Proximal and distal arms 15 and 16 of the C-shape are clearly shown in Fig. 3B.
  • a “weldable-metal” simply refers to any metal that can be welded such as, without limitation, iron, steel, aluminum and alloys thereof.
  • a "mirror-image" surface has the general meaning associated with the term, that is, a reflected duplication of at least a portion of one object wherein the two versions are essentially identical but are reversed.
  • mirror-image chamfered surfaces of a collar (or other clamping device) and of respective flanges are used to form a gas-tight metal-composite interface.
  • a first conical coupling may be formed between a first chamfered surface of the collar (or other clamping device) and a chamfered surface of a metal flange
  • a second, opposite conical coupling may be formed between a second chamfered surface of the collar (or other clamping device) and a chamfered surface of a composite flange, as shown in the figures.
  • These two, opposed conical couplings are adapted so as to allow the half circular segments of the collar to be pressed horizontally, radially around the flanges so that as a result the flanges are simultaneously pressed against one another, as shown in the figures.
  • An example of conical coupling is schematically shown in Fig. 4, wherein chamfered surface 17 of construct 18 is the mirror-image of chamfered surface 19 of construct 20.
  • pressing when referring, for example, to the fitting of the C-shaped segments onto the flanges of the metal and composite portions may refer to applying sufficient pressure to force-fit the chamfered surfaces of the C-shaped segments onto the chamfered surfaces of the metal and polymer portions when the chamfered surfaces of the C-shaped segments are closer together than the chamfered surfaces of the flanges prior to application of the collar.
  • the pressure can be applied, without limitation, using a vice, hammering the C-shaped segments into place, or placing a strap around the C-shaped segments after alignment with the contiguous flanges of the metal and polymer portions and then tightening the strap. Other manners of application will be known to the skilled person.
  • a diameter is “slightly smaller” than another diameter, it is understood to mean that a construct having the smaller diameter will fit with some clearance into a lumen described by the larger diameter.
  • a flange is "set back" from the proximal end of a boss when a length of the boss extends beyond an unchamfered surface of the flange.
  • flange 410 is set back from proximal end 430 of boss 400.
  • An unchamfered surface of a flange refers to the surface of the flange opposite a chamfered surface. That is, surface 460 of metal pipe 440 is unchamfered and opposite chamfered surface 470 of metal pipe 440 in Fig. 6.
  • a "liner” refers to a polymeric material that is disposed contiguous to the inner surface of a pressure vessel and that separates the material of which the structural shell of the pressure vessel is constructed from a gas contained in the pressure vessel.
  • a liner can be fabricated of any suitable polymer, in view of the gas to be contained, such as, without limitation, Teflon ® , high molecular weight polyethylene or polydicyclopentadiene.
  • a “composite” refers to two or more distinct but structurally complementary substances such as metals, ceramics, glasses and polymers which combine to produce structural or functional properties not present in the individual components.
  • polymeric composite or, simply, “composite” we refer specifically to a composite material in which a polymer forms a matrix in which a fibrous or filamentous material is dispersed as a "filler.”
  • the composites referred to in the present application comprise polymeric surfaces defined by the polymer matrix in which the filler is embedded.
  • a “filamentous composite” refers to a composite comprised of long threads of a filler material that is impregnated with or embedded in a matrix material.
  • a “fibrous composite” refers to a composite comprised of short lengths of the thread described above; that is, a fibrous material can be considered a filamentous material that is cut into shorter lengths.
  • the polymeric matrix of the polymeric composite can be selected from the group consisting of epoxy resins, polyester resins, vinyl ester resins, polyimide resins, dicyclopentadiene resins and combinations thereof. Presently preferred are dicyclopentadiene polymers.
  • a "dicyclopentadiene polymer” refers to a polymer that comprises predominantly, that is 85% or more, dicyclopentadiene monomer. The remainder of the monomer content then would comprise other reactive ethylene monomers.
  • any type of fibrous material may be used to create polymeric composites.
  • Such materials include, without limitation, natural (silk, hemp, flax, etc.), metal, ceramic, basalt and synthetic polymer fibers and filaments.
  • Presently preferred materials include glass fibers, commonly known as fiberglass, carbon fibers, aramid fibers, which go mostly notably under the trade name Kevlar ® and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, such as Spectra ® (Honeywell Corporation) and Dyneeva ® (Royal DSM N.V.).
  • FIG. 5A shows in cross section two gas-tight metal-composite interfaces according to embodiments of this invention combined into one system.
  • One interface is created between a composite boss that is coupled to a pressure vessel and an external metallic pipe through which a compressed gas is introduced and withdrawn from the pressure vessel.
  • the other interface is created between a composite dome and a metallic cylindrical center section of the pressure vessel.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interfaces shown in Fig. 5A may be used independently one from the other, and may also be used in other types of pressure vessels as those may be known to those skilled in the art.
  • the gas-tight interface of this invention may find applications in any field where gases are contained in a vessel under pressure
  • the pressure vessel be one intended for use in the marine transport of compressed gasses, in particular CNG.
  • current regulations as set forth by the American Bureau of Shipping for the marine transport of compressed gasses prohibits, or at least limits, the use of threaded fittings at any location on or close to a pressure vessel that is contained in the cargo hold of a ship.
  • any two surfaces cannot be otherwise interfaced, such as by welding if the surfaces are both constructed of an appropriate metal, the surfaces cannot be bolted together with or without a gasket between the surfaces to establish a gas-tight interface.
  • Interfaces according to at least some embodiments of this invention are intended to solve this problem.
  • Embodiments of the present invention eliminate the use of any threaded fasteners.
  • a pressure vessel for the containment and transportation of compressed gas is shown in Fig. 5A.
  • the vessel is comprised of a cylindrical center section 21 and one or two domed end sections of which one, 22 in Fig. 5A, is shown.
  • Boss 23 in Fig. 5A is coupled to the pressure vessel through an opening in one of the domed end sections.
  • patent applications WO 2013/083177 A1 and WO 2013/083174 one piece composite bosses and composite domes for use with metal cylindrical center sections are respectively described.
  • a composite boss 23 is shown coupled to an external metal pipe 24 using a gas-tight metal-composite interface 25. Also shown is the use of such an interface to couple composite dome 22 to metal cylindrical center section 21 . It is, of course, not necessary that both gas-tight metal-composite interfaces be used. Such an interface may only apply to the boss-external piping connection or, in another embodiment, a metal boss, which can be welded to external piping, can be used with a composite dome that is coupled to a metal cylindrical center section of a pressure vessel.
  • a pressure must be applied to the half-circular portions 13, 14 because, as noted previously, the distance between the chamfered surfaces of the half-circular portions 13, 14 is less than the distance between the chamfered surfaces of the contiguous flanges 300, 310. This distance can be measured, for example, in the axial direction. However, the skilled person will appreciate that other direction can be taken for reference.
  • the pressure may be applied, without limitation, using a vice or vice-like device or using a band that is tightened around the entire annular collar. Pressure is applied until end surfaces 35, 36 of the half circular segments 13, 14 are contiguous, as shown in Fig. 5B. While maintaining the pressure, in this embodiment, the end surfaces 35, 36 are welded together to complete the gas-tight metal composite interface between the flanges 300, 310.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of this invention in which the method further comprises using a boss 400 having set-back flange 410 wherein outside diameter 405 of boss 400 along section 450 of boss 400 is slightly less than inside diameter 445 of pipe 440.
  • Mechanical seal 480 is placed onto segment 450 and then segment 450 is inserted into pipe 440.
  • Section 450 of boss 400 is inserted into the end of pipe 440 until unchamfered surface 420 of flange 410 is contiguous with unchamfered surface 460 of pipe flange 470.
  • the unchamfered surfaces 420, 460 are contiguous, the C- shaped semi-circular segments 13, 14 are fitted onto contiguous pipe and boss flanges 410, 470.
  • the C-shaped segments are then pressed together until the respective end surfaces 35, 36 of the semi-circular segments 13, 14 are contiguous. Then, while maintaining the pressure used to press the segments together, the end surfaces 35, 36 are welded together to complete the gas-tight metal-composite interface and boss-pipe junction 490.
  • Fig. 7 shows a similar pressurized gas containment system to that shown in Fig. 5A and 5B except that in this embodiment a mechanical seal 250 is disposed between surface 210 of metallic cylindrical center section 21 and surface 220 of composite dome 22 prior to bringing the surfaces contiguous.
  • the mechanical seal 250 is provided to improve the gas tightness of the metal-composite interface.
  • C-shaped segments 13 and 14 are then fitted over flanges 300 and 310 as described with regard to Fig. 5A and 5B, and the C-shaped segments 13, 14 are pressed together until ends 35, 36 meet, that is, are contiguous, as shown in Fig. 5B, at which time, the C-shaped segments are welded together to form the annular collar 100 and, as a consequence, the gas-tight metal-composite interface.
  • Fig. 8A and 8B show yet another embodiment of the invention.
  • a liner 500 is provided so as to fully cover the internal surfaces of the composite dome 522 and boss 523, but not those of metal center section 521 .
  • An end 510 of the liner 500 extends beyond the end of the composite boss 523 and is folded over a flange surface 520 of the composite boss 523.
  • surface 535 of flange 530 is brought contiguous to flange surface 520 with the end 510 of the liner 500 interspersed between these surfaces.
  • the C-shaped segments 13, 14 are pressed onto the contiguous flanges 530, 540 until the end surfaces of the segments 35, 36 meet.
  • the C-shaped segments are then, in the present embodiment, welded together along the interface of surfaces 35, 36 to complete the formation of the gas-tight metal-composite interface.
  • the opposite end of the liner (not labelled in Fig. 8A) is folded between the flange of the composite dome and the corresponding flange of the metal center section 521 .
  • the pressure vessel shown in Fig. 8B is instead a type IV pressure vessel having an outer composite shell and an inner polymeric liner 500 extending over the whole internal surface of the outer shell, i.e. no metal center section is present. The only interface is however formed following the same procedure.
  • a gas-tight metal-composite interface according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated.
  • This interface is formed between either a flanged metallic pipe 704 or a flanged metallic interface component 1004, and a composite nozzle 701 , 1001 of a pressure vessel 702, 1002.
  • the pressure vessel 702, 1002 and the flanged metallic pipe 704 or flanged metallic interface component 1004 form compressed gas systems 700, 1000, 2000 for storage and transportation of CNG.
  • An annular clamp 1 10, 1 1 10 is provided to clamp the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004 to the composite nozzle 701 1001 thereby forming the interface, as previously discussed.
  • the interface is formed between an outer surface 707, 1007 of a conical projection 705, 1005 of the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004, and an inner surface 709, 1009 of the composite nozzle 701 , 1001.
  • This conical projection 705, 1005 is inserted into the composite nozzle through an opening thereof, and then secured thereto by means of the annular clamp 1 10, 1 1 10.
  • CNG can flow in and out of the pressure vessel via a passageway 710, 1010, 2010 that extends through the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004.
  • the system 2000 shown in Fig. 12 shows a further length of pipe 1017 which has been welded to the flanged metallic interface component 1004.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface prevents, in use, the CNG (which, as previously described, can be stored at pressures of up to hundreds of bars in the pressure vessel) from reaching through to a mechanical discontinuity 71 1 , 101 1 which, in this embodiment of the invention, would otherwise be accessible to the compressed gas.
  • this mechanical discontinuity is defined at the inlet of the composite nozzle, between a liner 720, 1020 (which lines the composite nozzle as well as the inner surfaces of the pressure vessel), and the composite material of the nozzle itself.
  • Such a configuration promotes safety of the fluid connection between the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004 and the composite nozzle while maintaining simplicity in the design of the compressed gas system comprising a liner, a composite nozzle and a pressure vessel, thus keeping manufacturing costs down.
  • the CNG is prevented from flowing through the gas-tight metal composite interface 71 1 , 101 1 , since the interface is gas-tight.
  • the interface therefore, isolates the mechanical discontinuity 71 1 , 101 1 , which discontinuity is a potential point of weakness for the structural integrity of the pressure vessel if exposed to the pressure of the gas.
  • the inventors have appreciated that it is possible to advantageously exploit the necessity of having to fluidly connect a metallic pipe to a lined composite nozzle to achieve a simple, straightforward yet safe design of pipe, nozzle and pressure vessel assembly.
  • the liner is embedded into the nozzle or other structure of the pressure vessel so that no mechanical discontinuity can ever be exposed to the pressure of the gas stored in the pressure vessel.
  • a conical projection 705, 1005 for insertion into the composite nozzle presents, in the described embodiment, a conical projection 705, 1005 for insertion into the composite nozzle.
  • the conical projection has a tapered, frusto-conical profile having a conical outer surface 707, 1007.
  • the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004 also present a flanged portion 720, 1020 in the form of an annular flange surrounding a corresponding tubular portion 730, 1030.
  • the annular flange 720, 1020 and the tapered profile of the conical projection form a shoulder which determines a maximum insertion length of the conical projections 705, 1005 of the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004 into the composite nozzle 701 , 1001 through the inlet thereof.
  • Such an insertion length is determined when the shoulder becomes contiguous with the end surface of the composite boss.
  • the insertion length of the conical projections 705, 1005 of the flanged metallic pipe 704 or the flanged metallic interface component 1004 is greater than the diameter of the passageway 710, 1010. This provides for ease of insertion and facilitates the creation of a stable gas-tight interface.
  • the gas-tight metal-composite interface may, if desired and if intended for use where threaded fitting are not forbidden as is presently the case with marine transport of compressed gases in the holds of ships, include threaded fittings in addition to or in place of a welded connection between the two C-shaped half-circular segments described above.
  • a collar 1 10 adapted to be fastened to form the metal-composite interface by means of threaded fittings is illustrated in connection with the compressed gas containment system 700 depicted in Fig. 9 and 10.
  • Fig. 9 one of the C-shaped half-circular segments 1 13 is shown end on.
  • the C-shaped half segment now has flanges 600, 610, which include through-holes 605, 615.
  • the through-holes may have smooth inner surfaces or threaded inner surfaces.
  • the other, corresponding C-shaped half segment (not shown) is similarly configured such that when the two half segments are brought together to form the metal-composite interface, the four through-holes 605, 615 align.
  • Bolts 616 can then be passed through the aligned through-holes and tightened down with corresponding nuts (not shown) to secure the collar 1 10 thus forming the gas-tight metal-composite interface.
  • the resulting exemplary compressed gas system 700 configuration including the pressure vessel 702 joined to the external flanged metallic interface component 704, 1004 by means of the collar 1 10 is also illustrated in perspective view in Fig. 10.
  • a presently preferred use of a pressure vessel having one or more gas-tight metal-polymer interfaces is for the containment and marine transport of natural gas, often referred to as “compressed natural gas” or simply “CNG.”
  • CNG may be contained and transported in pressure vessels forming compressed gas systems according to embodiments of this invention both as a purified gas and as "raw gas.”
  • Raw gas refers to natural gas as it comes, unprocessed, directly from the well. It contains, of course, the natural gas (methane) itself but also may contain liquids such as condensate, natural gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas.
  • Water may also be present as may other gases, either in the gaseous state or dissolved in the water, such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and helium. Some of these may be reactive in their own right or may be reactive when dissolved in water, such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide which produces an acid when dissolved in water.
  • the metal of the center section of a pressure vessel of this invention is well- suited for containment and transport of raw gas.
  • the composite dome on the other hand may be, due to its inherent structure, somewhat permeable and possibly reactive toward some components of raw gas in which case the use of an impervious and inert liner over those portions of the dome that will come in contact with the raw gas can be used.

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  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention se rapporte à un procédé de formation d'une interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz pour des systèmes à gaz comprimé et à des systèmes à gaz comprimé comprenant ladite interface. L'invention concerne des parties métalliques et composites d'un système à gaz comprimé ayant des brides respectives. Les brides sont pressées les unes contre les autres à l'aide d'un collier ou d'un autre dispositif de serrage. Le collier peut comprendre au moins deux segments en partie annulaires, généralement en forme de C en section transversale ayant des bras de serrage proximaux et distaux. Les brides et les bras de serrage peuvent être chanfreinés de telle sorte que la pression des bras contre les brides entraîne une compression des extrémités des parties métalliques et composites qui forment l'interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz. Le collier peut être fixé par soudage ou à l'aide de raccords filetés. De telles interfaces métal-composite étanches aux gaz conviennent particulièrement à des applications marines de gaz naturel comprimé (CNG pour Compressed Natural Gas).
EP16718365.6A 2015-04-23 2016-04-25 Interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz Withdrawn EP3286486A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1506946.1A GB2537828A (en) 2015-04-23 2015-04-23 Gas-tight metal-composite interface
PCT/EP2016/059211 WO2016170192A1 (fr) 2015-04-23 2016-04-25 Interface métal-composite étanche aux gaz

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EP3286486A1 true EP3286486A1 (fr) 2018-02-28

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GB (1) GB2537828A (fr)
WO (1) WO2016170192A1 (fr)

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US11141930B1 (en) * 2016-06-09 2021-10-12 Spencer Composites Corporation Method and tool for molding a composite pressure vessel liner to a boss
EP3558848B1 (fr) 2016-12-20 2023-01-25 Titan Trailers Inc. Construction de conteneur de fret cylindrique
USD915945S1 (en) 2016-12-20 2021-04-13 Michael Kloepfer Cylindrical semi-trailer
WO2018112618A1 (fr) 2016-12-20 2018-06-28 Michael Kloepfer Semi-remorque cylindrique
CA3218391A1 (fr) 2017-09-22 2019-03-28 Titan Trailers Inc. Conteneur a marchandises quasi cylindrique et fabrication
US11858727B2 (en) 2019-01-28 2024-01-02 Michael Kloepfer Cargo container nose cone assembly
KR102377244B1 (ko) * 2020-09-08 2022-03-22 주식회사 전진엔텍 플랜지 결합 구조

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CH475506A (it) * 1967-12-05 1969-07-15 Balzarotti Alvaro Contenitore di gas liquido per ricaricare accendisigari
EP0856696B1 (fr) * 1997-01-29 2004-01-02 ContiTech Schlauch GmbH Connexion d'un tuyau souple sur un appareil de refroidissement intermédiaire
AT4835U1 (de) * 2000-11-13 2001-12-27 Tesma Motoren Getriebetechnik Treibstoffbehälter mit einem rohr
US20050200129A1 (en) * 2004-03-15 2005-09-15 Bongiorno Louis C. Aseptic flanged joint
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EP2788666A1 (fr) * 2011-12-05 2014-10-15 Blue Wave Co S.A. Cuve sous pression de type ii comportant un dôme composite

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Publication number Publication date
WO2016170192A1 (fr) 2016-10-27
GB2537828A (en) 2016-11-02
GB201506946D0 (en) 2015-06-10

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