EP4043709A2 - Electrical generator based on liquefied petroleum gas - Google Patents
Electrical generator based on liquefied petroleum gas Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4043709A2 EP4043709A2 EP20872769.3A EP20872769A EP4043709A2 EP 4043709 A2 EP4043709 A2 EP 4043709A2 EP 20872769 A EP20872769 A EP 20872769A EP 4043709 A2 EP4043709 A2 EP 4043709A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- electric generator
- gas
- lpg
- compartment
- generator
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000003915 liquefied petroleum gas Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 56
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 45
- 239000007791 liquid phase Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000002828 fuel tank Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000003345 natural gas Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000011490 mineral wool Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000012071 phase Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000004873 anchoring Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000007792 gaseous phase Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000035508 accumulation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000010924 continuous production Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002360 explosive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000020169 heat generation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000737 periodic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003208 petroleum Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012808 vapor phase Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000006200 vaporizer Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02D—CONTROLLING COMBUSTION ENGINES
- F02D19/00—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures
- F02D19/06—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures peculiar to engines working with pluralities of fuels, e.g. alternatively with light and heavy fuel oil, other than engines indifferent to the fuel consumed
- F02D19/0602—Control of components of the fuel supply system
- F02D19/0613—Switch-over from one fuel to another
- F02D19/0615—Switch-over from one fuel to another being initiated by automatic means, e.g. based on engine or vehicle operating conditions
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02B—INTERNAL-COMBUSTION PISTON ENGINES; COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL
- F02B63/00—Adaptations of engines for driving pumps, hand-held tools or electric generators; Portable combinations of engines with engine-driven devices
- F02B63/04—Adaptations of engines for driving pumps, hand-held tools or electric generators; Portable combinations of engines with engine-driven devices for electric generators
- F02B63/044—Adaptations of engines for driving pumps, hand-held tools or electric generators; Portable combinations of engines with engine-driven devices for electric generators the engine-generator unit being placed on a frame or in an housing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02D—CONTROLLING COMBUSTION ENGINES
- F02D19/00—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures
- F02D19/02—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures peculiar to engines working with gaseous fuels
- F02D19/021—Control of components of the fuel supply system
- F02D19/023—Control of components of the fuel supply system to adjust the fuel mass or volume flow
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02D—CONTROLLING COMBUSTION ENGINES
- F02D19/00—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures
- F02D19/02—Controlling engines characterised by their use of non-liquid fuels, pluralities of fuels, or non-fuel substances added to the combustible mixtures peculiar to engines working with gaseous fuels
- F02D19/025—Failure diagnosis or prevention; Safety measures; Testing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02D—CONTROLLING COMBUSTION ENGINES
- F02D29/00—Controlling engines, such controlling being peculiar to the devices driven thereby, the devices being other than parts or accessories essential to engine operation, e.g. controlling of engines by signals external thereto
- F02D29/06—Controlling engines, such controlling being peculiar to the devices driven thereby, the devices being other than parts or accessories essential to engine operation, e.g. controlling of engines by signals external thereto peculiar to engines driving electric generators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02M—SUPPLYING COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL WITH COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURES OR CONSTITUENTS THEREOF
- F02M21/00—Apparatus for supplying engines with non-liquid fuels, e.g. gaseous fuels stored in liquid form
- F02M21/02—Apparatus for supplying engines with non-liquid fuels, e.g. gaseous fuels stored in liquid form for gaseous fuels
- F02M21/0203—Apparatus for supplying engines with non-liquid fuels, e.g. gaseous fuels stored in liquid form for gaseous fuels characterised by the type of gaseous fuel
- F02M21/0209—Hydrocarbon fuels, e.g. methane or acetylene
- F02M21/0212—Hydrocarbon fuels, e.g. methane or acetylene comprising at least 3 C-Atoms, e.g. liquefied petroleum gas [LPG], propane or butane
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02M—SUPPLYING COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL WITH COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURES OR CONSTITUENTS THEREOF
- F02M21/00—Apparatus for supplying engines with non-liquid fuels, e.g. gaseous fuels stored in liquid form
- F02M21/02—Apparatus for supplying engines with non-liquid fuels, e.g. gaseous fuels stored in liquid form for gaseous fuels
- F02M21/0218—Details on the gaseous fuel supply system, e.g. tanks, valves, pipes, pumps, rails, injectors or mixers
- F02M21/0293—Safety devices; Fail-safe measures
Definitions
- the present invention relates to the development of an electric generator that integrates in a single frame one or more liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fuel tanks and a generator set, thus obtaining an electric generator powered by LPG with a great compactness that allows the frequent relocation of said generator since a reduction in the logistics necessary for its transfer and installation is achieved.
- LPG liquefied petroleum gas
- High polluting emissions The combustion of diesel entails a high emission of polluting compounds and particles over the combustion of natural gas and its derivatives.
- High noise level The acoustic emissions associated with the operation of diesel electric generators limit their application and location.
- the gas tanks where the fuel is stored for its operation are independent elements from the generator sets themselves, so the complete transport involves the use of two vehicles and two trailers, or a large transport vehicle which implies the establishment of complex and expensive logistics.
- the installation of the electric generators in each location requires both the installation of the generator set, the installation of the gas tank and the gas pipes necessary to carry the fuel to the engine of the generator set.
- the present invention satisfies this demand.
- the electric generator according to the present invention arises from the high inefficiency associated with the relocation of the generator sets powered by LPG, used in the rental applications sector. Due to the characteristics of the sector, in which generator sets are rented to provide energy for different events and applications, in different locations that require the transfer of the elements that allow electricity generation, which mainly include the generator set and the fuel tank(s).
- the present invention relates to an electric generator comprising a frame defining a first compartment and a second compartment.
- the generator comprises a generator set established in the first compartment.
- the electric generator comprises at least one tank of liquefied petroleum gas, LPG, established in the second compartment and a liquid-phase feed gas train that connects said tank to the generator set for the supply of LPG.
- the present invention consists of new electrical generation equipment supplied entirely with liquefied petroleum gases LPG in which the LPG tank itself is integrated with the generator set in the same single structure or frame.
- the exclusive use of a gaseous fuel source requires that the tank be pressurized and, therefore, the generator can include auxiliary systems to condition said fuel.
- the present invention focuses on applications of generator sets that use LPG as fuel for electricity generation for the rental sector, which is strongly driven by aspects such as noise pollution, engine efficiency, gas emissions and eventual increase in energy demand.
- the present invention relates to an electric generator that allows reducing the logistics necessary for uses and applications involving frequent relocation.
- the electric generator according to the present invention intends to respond to the needs of the rental sector by developing compact generator equipment that integrates the LPG fuel tanks in the same equipment, maintaining the conditions of safety, autonomy and compactness and increasing ease of transfer while reducing the logistics required for relocation.
- the generator sets according to the present invention comprise four different powers, one of 25, 40, 70 and 110 kVA, which allow their application to be validated within the ranges of the range intended for the rental sector.
- the generator comprises three LPG tanks with a useful capacity of 450 liters.
- the LPG tanks are sized to ensure autonomy of at least 26 hours in the preferred embodiment of 70 kVA, operating at a normal regime of 75% of the nominal load of the generator set of the electric generator.
- the electric generator includes a single filling point for the three tanks.
- the electric generator includes a system for external feeding both in liquid phase and in vapor phase.
- the electric generator may comprise a second gas train that connects a gas source external to the electric generator to the generator set for the supply of LPG.
- the electric generator accepts motorization and generators for both 50 Hz and 60 Hz.
- the electric generator comprises a frame that defines two compartments which can be divided by a rock wool partition or the like in a first embodiment and by a sub-frame in a second embodiment.
- the electric generator comprises at least two gas sensors, one in each compartment of the frame to increase safety.
- the generator can be programmed to stop its operation immediately after detecting a presence of gas above the established limit.
- the electric generator includes safety valves and conduits that evacuate the gas to the outside of the generator set in the event that excess pressure is detected inside the fuel tanks.
- the electric generator (100) shown in Figure 1 powered by LPG comprises a single frame (110) which is shown in its entirety in Figure 2A .
- the electric generator (100) also comprises a generator set (120) and a set of pressurized LPG tanks or reservoirs (130), in particular, three LPG tanks, which are shown in Figure 2B .
- the electric generator (100) of Figure 1 has a power of 25 kVA. In other preferred embodiments, the electric generator (100) can have powers of 40, 70 and 110 kVA.
- the three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) have a useful capacity of 450 liters, which may require 15 minutes to be fully refueled.
- the frame (110) it comprises inside a first part or compartment (110a) and a second part or compartment (110b) as can be seen in Figure 2A .
- the frame (110) of the electric generator (100) includes a separation partition or barrier (150) and a casing (112) as well as ventilation means (114).
- the first compartment (110a) is adapted to house the generator set (120).
- the second compartment (110b) is adapted to house the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130).
- the frame (110) of Figure 2A is a single indivisible frame that forms two compartments (110a, 11b): one for the generator set (120), that is, for motorization and electricity generation, and another for LPG tanks or reservoirs (130).
- the frame (110) includes bulkhead fittings for fuel lines, sensors and electronics.
- the bulkhead fittings and flexible pipes prevent vibrations caused by the operation of the generator set.
- the electric generator (100) can comprise two gas detectors per compartment (110a, 110b) to speed up the detection of potential leaks.
- the frame (110) includes openings at the bottom of the frame (110) to vent potentially explosive accumulations inside the bodywork.
- the electric generator (100) comprises a liquid-phase feed gas train (140) which is shown in Figure 4 and which connects the three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) of the electric generator (100) to the generator set (120) for the supply of LPG to the generator set (120).
- the liquid-phase feed gas train (140) for feeding the generator set (120) with LPG gas stored in the LPG tanks may include a manual valve, a particulate filter, a primary pressure regulator, a solenoid valve, a vaporizer, a low pressure switch and pressure gauges for the inlet and outlet of the gas train (140).
- the three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) established in the second compartment (110b) are independently isolated from the generator set (112) and from the necessary pipes and elements by means of a separation partition or barrier (150) that may comprise rock wool.
- FIG. 2B and 3 Also seen is a second gas-phase feed gas train 160 shown in Figures 2B and 3 which is established in frame compartment 110a.
- the second gas-phase feed gas train (160) connects an external gas source to the generator set (120) for the supply of LPG or NG (Natural Gas) to the generator set (120).
- LPG or NG Natural Gas
- the gas-phase feed gas train (160) for the external supply of the generator set (120) with LPG or NG gas may include a manual valve, a particulate filter, a primary pressure regulator, a double solenoid valve, a low and high pressure switch and pressure gauges for the inlet and outlet of the gas train (140).
- control panel To manage these three possibilities of fuel supply to the generator, there is an optional selector on the control panel with three positions depending on the option chosen: supply from internal LPG tanks in liquid phase, external supply of LPG in gaseous phase or external supply in gaseous phase of NG.
- FIG 2B shows the installation of the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) in the lower part of the generator set (120), in the part farthest from the main heat sources.
- Two critical points in heat generation are identified: Peaks of maximum power requirements continued over time, and after stopping the generator set engine, at which time the cooling system stops working and heat continues to be emitted from the hot spots of the system.
- the separation partition or barrier (150) of the frame (110) shown in Figure 2A comprises rock wool between the first compartment (110a) and second compartment (110b) of the frame (110).
- the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) have been isolated in the second compartment (110b) of the frame (110) and are independent of the generator set (120) established in the first compartment (110a) of the frame (110).
- the first and second compartments (110a, 110b) comprise direct outlets to the outside for possible gas leaks.
- the first and second compartments (110a, 110b) comprise gas sensors.
- the compartment (110b) comprises passive ventilation for the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) directly with the outside and ducts for the overpressure valves that expel the gas directly to the outside of the frame (110b).
- the frame (110) comprises a subframe between the two compartments (110a, 110b) where the generator set (120) and the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) are located, replacing the partition with rock wool.
- This subframe allows greater insulation than the separation partition or barrier (150) with rock wool in the event of an increase in the power of the electric generator (100) from 25 kVA to 110 kVA in a second preferred embodiment.
- the frame (110) comprises means of access (116) to the generator set (120) and to the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) shown in Figures 1 and 2A for disassembling parts of the generator set (116) for maintenance, and for access to the fuel tanks without the need to disassemble the entire generator set.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to the development of an electric generator that integrates in a single frame one or more liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fuel tanks and a generator set, thus obtaining an electric generator powered by LPG with a great compactness that allows the frequent relocation of said generator since a reduction in the logistics necessary for its transfer and installation is achieved.
- The long-term stability and growth of an economy requires an adequate supply of energy, and in particular, electrical energy. In many of the cases in which a power supply is required, it needs to be highly reliable, not allowing power outages in locations with high requirements, such as hospitals, data and telecommunications centers, continuous production industries, etc.
- In this sense, the use of generator sets is essential for the development of emergency systems that make it possible to make up for deficiencies or outages in power supply, as well as the absence thereof, thus ensuring continuity in the operation of electrical equipment.
- Currently, most of the generator sets developed are oversized to deliver the power demanded, which is why low levels of energy efficiency, high operating costs and fuel consumption and polluting emissions are achieved, in addition to incurring in high costs derived from the maintenance of equipment.
- Among the latest technologies implemented in the generator sets, there are pieces of equipment with a speed variator that allow the generation of electric current to be adapted to the power demanded at each moment, which are considered high efficiency alternatives. Other technologies implemented, such as electronic control or automatic voltage regulator, allow the equipment to operate autonomously and remotely, optimizing the variables of the equipment based on demand and allowing the management of equipment operation and component maintenance through different telecommunication systems.
- Among the generator sets intended for rental applications (also called rental applications), the most widespread and used generators are electric generators with diesel engines, which have the following drawbacks:
High operating costs: Diesel electric generators require periodic maintenance operations at intervals of 250 hours of operation, there appearing new generators with longer intervals, reaching up to 500 hours between maintenance. The high price of diesel compared to fuel alternatives such as natural gas or LPG must be added to this cost. Liquefied petroleum gas is the mixture of liquefied gases present in natural gas or dissolved in petroleum. - High polluting emissions: The combustion of diesel entails a high emission of polluting compounds and particles over the combustion of natural gas and its derivatives.
- High noise level: The acoustic emissions associated with the operation of diesel electric generators limit their application and location.
- Within the gas-based electric generators, all of them have external fuel tanks, which require their corresponding transportation and installation in each work location, including the logistics associated with said activities. The fuel is stored in pressurized tanks that are very sensitive to both high temperatures and sparks that can initiate any gas leakage.
- Due to the safety characteristics of gas tanks and the conditions of the generator sets, the gas tanks where the fuel is stored for its operation are independent elements from the generator sets themselves, so the complete transport involves the use of two vehicles and two trailers, or a large transport vehicle which implies the establishment of complex and expensive logistics.
- In addition, the installation of the electric generators in each location requires both the installation of the generator set, the installation of the gas tank and the gas pipes necessary to carry the fuel to the engine of the generator set.
- Thus, considering the products available on the market, versatile and robust solutions that combine the characteristics demanded by the use of gas-based electric generators for the rental sector have not yet been developed, since there are compact electric generators that use liquefied petroleum gases as fuel, but all of them have gas storage tanks as elements unrelated to the generator itself.
- Therefore, there is a fervent demand in the field of gas-based electric generators for the rental application sector for the development of an electric generator that integrates a generator set and gas tanks in the same structure in order to facilitate the relocation of said electric generators without having to transport two different pieces of equipment, thus avoiding the use of two towing vehicles or equipment transport vehicles for the generator set and for the fuel tank.
- The present invention satisfies this demand.
- The electric generator according to the present invention arises from the high inefficiency associated with the relocation of the generator sets powered by LPG, used in the rental applications sector. Due to the characteristics of the sector, in which generator sets are rented to provide energy for different events and applications, in different locations that require the transfer of the elements that allow electricity generation, which mainly include the generator set and the fuel tank(s).
- In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an electric generator comprising a frame defining a first compartment and a second compartment. The generator comprises a generator set established in the first compartment. Innovatively, the electric generator comprises at least one tank of liquefied petroleum gas, LPG, established in the second compartment and a liquid-phase feed gas train that connects said tank to the generator set for the supply of LPG.
- Thus, the present invention consists of new electrical generation equipment supplied entirely with liquefied petroleum gases LPG in which the LPG tank itself is integrated with the generator set in the same single structure or frame.
- The exclusive use of a gaseous fuel source requires that the tank be pressurized and, therefore, the generator can include auxiliary systems to condition said fuel.
- The present invention focuses on applications of generator sets that use LPG as fuel for electricity generation for the rental sector, which is strongly driven by aspects such as noise pollution, engine efficiency, gas emissions and eventual increase in energy demand. Thus, the present invention relates to an electric generator that allows reducing the logistics necessary for uses and applications involving frequent relocation.
- In this way, the electric generator according to the present invention intends to respond to the needs of the rental sector by developing compact generator equipment that integrates the LPG fuel tanks in the same equipment, maintaining the conditions of safety, autonomy and compactness and increasing ease of transfer while reducing the logistics required for relocation.
- In two preferred embodiments, the generator sets according to the present invention comprise four different powers, one of 25, 40, 70 and 110 kVA, which allow their application to be validated within the ranges of the range intended for the rental sector.
- In a preferred embodiment, the generator comprises three LPG tanks with a useful capacity of 450 liters. The LPG tanks are sized to ensure autonomy of at least 26 hours in the preferred embodiment of 70 kVA, operating at a normal regime of 75% of the nominal load of the generator set of the electric generator.
- The electric generator includes a single filling point for the three tanks. The electric generator includes a system for external feeding both in liquid phase and in vapor phase.
- Additionally for the gaseous phase, the electric generator may comprise a second gas train that connects a gas source external to the electric generator to the generator set for the supply of LPG.
- In addition, the electric generator accepts motorization and generators for both 50 Hz and 60 Hz.
- The electric generator comprises a frame that defines two compartments which can be divided by a rock wool partition or the like in a first embodiment and by a sub-frame in a second embodiment.
- The electric generator comprises at least two gas sensors, one in each compartment of the frame to increase safety. The generator can be programmed to stop its operation immediately after detecting a presence of gas above the established limit.
- The electric generator includes safety valves and conduits that evacuate the gas to the outside of the generator set in the event that excess pressure is detected inside the fuel tanks.
- To complement the description that is being made and in order to help a better understanding of the features of the electric generator, according to a preferred example of its practical embodiment, a set of drawings is attached as an integral part of said description, wherein by way of illustration and not limitation, the following has been represented:
-
Figure 1 shows an electric generator according to the present invention. -
Figure 2A shows the frame of the electric generator according to the present invention. -
Figure 2B shows the generator set and the LPG fuel tanks of the electric generator according to the present invention. -
Figure 3 shows the gas-phase feed gas train of the electric generator according to the present invention. -
Figure 4 shows a diagram of the connections of the electric generator according to the present invention where the liquid-phase feed gas train can be seen. - The electric generator (100) shown in
Figure 1 powered by LPG comprises a single frame (110) which is shown in its entirety inFigure 2A . The electric generator (100) also comprises a generator set (120) and a set of pressurized LPG tanks or reservoirs (130), in particular, three LPG tanks, which are shown inFigure 2B . The electric generator (100) ofFigure 1 has a power of 25 kVA. In other preferred embodiments, the electric generator (100) can have powers of 40, 70 and 110 kVA. The three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) have a useful capacity of 450 liters, which may require 15 minutes to be fully refueled. - With regard to the frame (110), it comprises inside a first part or compartment (110a) and a second part or compartment (110b) as can be seen in
Figure 2A . The frame (110) of the electric generator (100) includes a separation partition or barrier (150) and a casing (112) as well as ventilation means (114). The first compartment (110a) is adapted to house the generator set (120). The second compartment (110b) is adapted to house the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130). Thus, the frame (110) ofFigure 2A is a single indivisible frame that forms two compartments (110a, 11b): one for the generator set (120), that is, for motorization and electricity generation, and another for LPG tanks or reservoirs (130). - Additionally, the frame (110) includes bulkhead fittings for fuel lines, sensors and electronics. The bulkhead fittings and flexible pipes prevent vibrations caused by the operation of the generator set. In addition, the electric generator (100) can comprise two gas detectors per compartment (110a, 110b) to speed up the detection of potential leaks.
- In addition, the frame (110) includes openings at the bottom of the frame (110) to vent potentially explosive accumulations inside the bodywork.
- The electric generator (100) comprises a liquid-phase feed gas train (140) which is shown in
Figure 4 and which connects the three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) of the electric generator (100) to the generator set (120) for the supply of LPG to the generator set (120). The liquid-phase feed gas train (140) for feeding the generator set (120) with LPG gas stored in the LPG tanks may include a manual valve, a particulate filter, a primary pressure regulator, a solenoid valve, a vaporizer, a low pressure switch and pressure gauges for the inlet and outlet of the gas train (140). - The three LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) established in the second compartment (110b) are independently isolated from the generator set (112) and from the necessary pipes and elements by means of a separation partition or barrier (150) that may comprise rock wool.
- Also seen is a second gas-phase
feed gas train 160 shown inFigures 2B and3 which is established inframe compartment 110a. The second gas-phase feed gas train (160) connects an external gas source to the generator set (120) for the supply of LPG or NG (Natural Gas) to the generator set (120). - The gas-phase feed gas train (160) for the external supply of the generator set (120) with LPG or NG gas may include a manual valve, a particulate filter, a primary pressure regulator, a double solenoid valve, a low and high pressure switch and pressure gauges for the inlet and outlet of the gas train (140).
- To manage these three possibilities of fuel supply to the generator, there is an optional selector on the control panel with three positions depending on the option chosen: supply from internal LPG tanks in liquid phase, external supply of LPG in gaseous phase or external supply in gaseous phase of NG.
- With regard to the thermal management of the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130), they are isolated, thus avoiding excessive heating of the reservoirs.
Figure 2B shows the installation of the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) in the lower part of the generator set (120), in the part farthest from the main heat sources. Two critical points in heat generation are identified: Peaks of maximum power requirements continued over time, and after stopping the generator set engine, at which time the cooling system stops working and heat continues to be emitted from the hot spots of the system. Thus, to increase the thermal insulation between the compartments (110a, 110b), the separation partition or barrier (150) of the frame (110) shown inFigure 2A comprises rock wool between the first compartment (110a) and second compartment (110b) of the frame (110). - The LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) have been isolated in the second compartment (110b) of the frame (110) and are independent of the generator set (120) established in the first compartment (110a) of the frame (110). The first and second compartments (110a, 110b) comprise direct outlets to the outside for possible gas leaks.
- The first and second compartments (110a, 110b) comprise gas sensors. The compartment (110b) comprises passive ventilation for the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) directly with the outside and ducts for the overpressure valves that expel the gas directly to the outside of the frame (110b).
- In another preferred embodiment, the frame (110) comprises a subframe between the two compartments (110a, 110b) where the generator set (120) and the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) are located, replacing the partition with rock wool. This subframe allows greater insulation than the separation partition or barrier (150) with rock wool in the event of an increase in the power of the electric generator (100) from 25 kVA to 110 kVA in a second preferred embodiment.
- The frame (110) comprises means of access (116) to the generator set (120) and to the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130) shown in
Figures 1 and2A for disassembling parts of the generator set (116) for maintenance, and for access to the fuel tanks without the need to disassemble the entire generator set.
Claims (11)
- An electric generator (100) based on liquefied petroleum gas, LPG, comprising:a frame (110) comprising a first compartment (110a) and a second compartment (110b), anda generator set (120) established in the first compartment (110a), andcharacterized in that:the electric generator (100) comprises at least one LPG tank (130) established in the second compartment (110b); anda first liquid-phase feed gas train (140) connecting the at least one LPG tank (130) to the generator set (120) for supplying LPG to the generator set (120).
- The electric generator (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a second gas-phase feed gas train (160) that connects a gas source external to the electric generator to the generator set (120) for supply of LPG to the generator set (120).
- The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, comprising a first gas leak sensor in the first compartment (110a) of the frame (110) and a second gas leak sensor in the second compartment (110b) of the frame (110).
- The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (110) comprises ventilation means (114).
- The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (110) comprises anchoring means for the installation of the electric generator (100) on a transporter trailer.
- The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, comprising three LPG fuel tanks (130).
- The electric generator (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (110) comprises a barrier (150) with rock wool, and
wherein the first compartment (110a) and the second compartment (110b) are divided by the barrier (150) with rock wool. - The electric generator (100) according to claims 1 to 6, wherein the frame (110) comprises a subframe, and
wherein the first compartment (110a) and the second compartment (110b) are divided by the subframe. - The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (110) comprises means of access (116) to the generator set (120) and to the LPG tanks or reservoirs (130).
- The electric generator (100) according to the any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (110) comprises a casing (112).
- The electric generator (100) according to claims 2 to 10, wherein the electric generator (100) comprises an electrical panel with a fuel selector comprising three positions:a first position for internal feeding in liquid phase from the at least one LPG tank (130) through the first gas train (140);a second position for external gas-phase feeding from the external gas source that stores LPG through the second gas train (160); anda third position for external gas-phase feeding from the external gas source that stores natural gas, NG through the second gas train (160).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
ES201930852A ES2817298A1 (en) | 2019-10-02 | 2019-10-02 | Electric generator based on liquefied petroleum gas (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
PCT/ES2020/070586 WO2021064267A2 (en) | 2019-10-02 | 2020-09-29 | Electrical generator based on liquefied petroleum gas |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4043709A2 true EP4043709A2 (en) | 2022-08-17 |
EP4043709A4 EP4043709A4 (en) | 2023-05-24 |
Family
ID=75265368
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP20872769.3A Pending EP4043709A4 (en) | 2019-10-02 | 2020-09-29 | Electrical generator based on liquefied petroleum gas |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4043709A4 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2817298A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2021064267A2 (en) |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPH0223258A (en) * | 1988-07-11 | 1990-01-25 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Gas engine |
JPH05133240A (en) * | 1991-11-12 | 1993-05-28 | Mitsubishi Heavy Ind Ltd | Gas engine electric generator |
JP4486519B2 (en) * | 2005-01-31 | 2010-06-23 | 三菱重工業株式会社 | Gas engine working machine |
US9765918B2 (en) * | 2007-02-06 | 2017-09-19 | Bernardo J. Herzer | Portable gas powered internal combustion engine arrangement |
CN101131119A (en) * | 2007-09-03 | 2008-02-27 | 云南蓝海新能源投资有限公司 | Modularized 5000KW multi-fuel generator set |
CN104047710B (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2016-07-06 | 浙江耀锋动力科技有限公司 | Multi fuel generating set |
US10697398B2 (en) * | 2015-06-12 | 2020-06-30 | Champion Power Equipment, Inc. | Batteryless dual fuel engine with liquid fuel cut-off |
CN205243648U (en) * | 2015-11-23 | 2016-05-18 | 华鼎电源(天津)有限公司 | Box silence generator unit of built -in LPG of gas pitcher |
PT3249201T (en) * | 2016-05-24 | 2020-07-09 | CleanTech Swiss AG | Device for operating a motor |
US20180080392A1 (en) * | 2016-09-21 | 2018-03-22 | Briggs & Stratton Corporation | Portable generator having multiple fuel sources |
-
2019
- 2019-10-02 ES ES201930852A patent/ES2817298A1/en active Pending
-
2020
- 2020-09-29 WO PCT/ES2020/070586 patent/WO2021064267A2/en unknown
- 2020-09-29 EP EP20872769.3A patent/EP4043709A4/en active Pending
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP4043709A4 (en) | 2023-05-24 |
WO2021064267A2 (en) | 2021-04-08 |
ES2817298A1 (en) | 2021-04-06 |
WO2021064267A3 (en) | 2021-07-22 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10006409B2 (en) | Locomotive on-board storage and delivery of gaseous fuel | |
CN104254470B (en) | Auxiliary power unit assembly and method of use | |
US8207621B2 (en) | Modular panels for enclosures | |
EP3098430B1 (en) | Vessel gas system with double-walled gas valve unit | |
JP3906747B2 (en) | Fuel supply apparatus using low boiling point fuel and control method thereof | |
US20150123462A1 (en) | Fueling station for unmaned arial vehicle of the vertical takeoff types | |
US10391837B2 (en) | Heating and cooling systems and methods for truck cabs | |
CN102224066B (en) | Reliquefaction device mounted on liquefied gas carrying ship | |
US20140123916A1 (en) | Utilizing Locomotive Electrical Locker to Warm Liquid Natural Gas | |
CN110371246A (en) | Double fuel super-container vessel air supply system and super-container vessel | |
CN103748632A (en) | Arrangement and method for providing an emergency supply to a nuclear installation | |
EP4043709A2 (en) | Electrical generator based on liquefied petroleum gas | |
US7030770B2 (en) | Hydrogen storage system and power system incorporating same | |
JP2012154486A (en) | Mobile type compressed gas distribution device | |
US20140138045A1 (en) | Compressed natural gas refrigerated vehicle and regulator therefor | |
CN108091906B (en) | Fuel cell apparatus, vehicle having the same, and method of operating the fuel cell apparatus | |
US11371657B2 (en) | Hydropack system | |
JP5019863B2 (en) | Natural gas supply system | |
US20230303131A1 (en) | Locomotive on-board storage and delivery of gaseous fuel | |
ES1305457U (en) | Electric generator based on liquefied petroleum gas (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) | |
JP4150948B2 (en) | Liquefied gas supply device | |
KR102051685B1 (en) | A Treatment System of Liquefied Gas | |
RU226364U1 (en) | Autonomous LNG energy complex | |
RU208016U1 (en) | UNIVERSAL MOBILE AIR HEATER | |
RU2714827C1 (en) | Set of gas-using equipment for shunting locomotive tem2 and its modification |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE |
|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20220427 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
DAV | Request for validation of the european patent (deleted) | ||
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
A4 | Supplementary search report drawn up and despatched |
Effective date: 20230425 |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: F02M 21/02 20060101ALI20230419BHEP Ipc: F02D 29/06 20060101ALI20230419BHEP Ipc: F02D 19/02 20060101ALI20230419BHEP Ipc: F02B 63/04 20060101AFI20230419BHEP |