JP2018532961A - Storage tank storage system - Google Patents

Abstract

The large-capacity natural gas storage tank includes a group of high-rigidity pipe walls having a closed pipe cross section, and these high-rigidity wall walls are interconnected to two other high-rigidity pipe walls at both ends, so The inner wall portion of the rigid tube wall defines an internal fluid storage chamber. The storage tank is further connected in the internal fluid storage chamber between a bulkhead that is disposed across the middle segment of these rigid wall walls and the outer surface of the continuous interconnected rigid wall walls. A closure plate defining a side surface. The inner surface of the closure plate and the outer surface of the rigid tube wall define an auxiliary fluid reservoir. The storage tank further extends through the closure plate and extends between the outer surfaces of the rigid wall walls on at least some of the side groups of the storage tank to place the storage tank in the internal fluid storage chamber. Including an external support structure that reinforces against dynamic loads caused by fluids.

Description

  Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to storage tanks, and more particularly to storage tanks for fluids including liquids and gases.

  Industrial storage tanks used to contain fluids such as liquids or compressed gases are widespread in the industrial field and are indispensable in the industrial field. A storage tank can be used to store fluid temporarily or permanently in place, or a storage tank can be used to transport fluid over the ground or over the sea. Numerous inventions related to the structural configuration of fluid storage tanks have been proposed over the years. An example of an unprecedented fluid storage tank having a cubic configuration is described in US Pat. No. 3,944,106 by Thomas Lamb, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Shall.

  There is an increasing demand for efficient storage and long-distance transportation of fluids such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), especially sea transportation by large tankers or carriers for sea transportation. In an attempt to transport fluids such as LNG more cheaply, the holding or storage capacity of such LNG carriers has increased significantly from 26,000 cubic meters in 1965 to 200,000 cubic meters in 2005. Yes. Naturally, the length, width and draft of these large carriers are further increased to accommodate larger volumes of cargo. However, the ability to further increase the size of these large carriers is actually limited.

  Difficulties are encountered when storing and transporting fluids (especially in liquid form) on a carrier ship. Large LNG carriers tend to use large left and right membrane tanks and insulated box support tanks. When the volume of the tank that transports the fluid increases, the hydrostatic pressure load and the dynamic load applied to the tank storage wall become very large. These membrane tanks and insulated tanks have the disadvantage of requiring management of the “sloshing” behavior of the liquid in the tank caused by the natural movement of the carrier as it moves over the sea. Accompany. As a result, the effective holding capacity of these types of tanks is limited to either more than 80% of full capacity or less than 10% of full capacity to prevent deterioration of tank lining and tank insulation. The disadvantages and limitations of these tanks are expected to increase as the size of the carrier increases.

  When the tank described in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,944,106 is stored in a large capacity of LNG, for example, in a LNG large carrier, Analyzed by comparison. The tank described in '106 was judged to have a higher rigidity by using one third of the wall thickness of the wall surface of the geometric cube. The tank described in the '106 further reduces the deformation of the tank by significantly reducing the velocity of the fluid, greatly reducing the energy transferred to the tank, and greatly reducing the force transferred from the fluid to the tank. Can be significantly reduced compared to the geometrical cubic tank. However, it was further determined that a tank constructed according to '106 could be improved.

  Yet another cubic tank structure has been developed for LNG and compressed natural gas (CNG). Details of these tanks can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0099489 and US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0258571, assigned to the assignee of the present invention, both of which are US Patent Application Publications. All the contents of are incorporated into this document by reference.

  Therefore, it is advantageous to design and manufacture storage tanks for efficiently storing large quantities of fluids such as LNG and transporting them on the ground or transporting them at sea. In addition, it is desirable to provide a storage tank that can be manufactured at a shipyard of a large LNG carrier. Furthermore, it would be advantageous to provide a modular tank structure that facilitates on-site design, manufacture, and use.

  Disclosed herein is an embodiment of a large capacity natural gas storage tank.

  In one aspect, the large-capacity natural gas storage tank is a high-rigidity pipe wall group, and the high-rigidity pipe wall group has both end portions and an intermediate segment having a closed pipe cross section, and the high-rigidity pipe wall group Tube walls are interconnected at opposite ends to respective ends of two other rigid tube walls such that the interconnected inner walls of the rigid tube wall group define an internal fluid reservoir. A partition wall disposed in the internal fluid reservoir to traverse the intermediate segment of the high stiffness tube wall group; and between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnect high stiffness tube walls A closure plate connected to and defining a side surface of the storage tank, the inner surface of the closure plate and the outer surface of the rigid tube wall defining an auxiliary fluid storage chamber; Extending through the closure plate and the storage tank An external support structure extending between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnect rigid wall on at least some of the sides of the group of surfaces, the external support structure comprising the storage tank, the internal fluid Said external support structure configured to reinforce against dynamic loads due to fluid in the storage chamber.

  In another aspect, the high-capacity natural gas storage tank is a group of high-rigidity pipe walls, each high-rigidity pipe wall having both side ends and an intermediate segment having a closed pipe cross section, and each high-rigidity pipe The walls are interconnected at opposite ends to corresponding ends of another rigid tube wall such that the interconnected inner walls of the rigid tube wall group define an internal fluid reservoir. A partition wall ring web disposed in the internal fluid storage chamber so as to traverse the intermediate segment of the highly rigid tube wall, wherein each partition ring web is connected to the high rigidity tube wall group; The partition ring web comprising an annular planar plate connected to an inner wall of one of the rigid wall walls and defining a hole that allows fluid to flow restricted through the partition ring web And; extending between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnected rigid tube walls in the normal direction A closure plate defining an uppermost side and a bottom surface of the storage tank, wherein the inner surface of the closure plate and the outer surface of the high stiffness tube wall at least partially define an auxiliary fluid reservoir. And extending outward from the outer surface of the continuous interconnect rigid wall and extending outward from the outer surface of the closure plate at the bottom surface of the storage tank; An external support structure forming a seat portion of the storage tank, wherein the seat portion is configured to support the storage tank at a mounting location within a cargo storage of a carrier ship; and Is provided.

  These and other aspects are described in further detail below. Other uses of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

  In the description herein, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the several views.

It is a perspective view of the 1st example of the storage tank storage system which has a storage tank and a storage tank support structure. It is a perspective view of the bottom face side of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 1 when viewed from the direction A of FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 1, showing a possible modification of the structure of the support structure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 1, showing a possible modification of the structure of the support structure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 1, showing a possible modification of the structure of the support structure. It is a back part perspective view of one example of the corner part of a storage tank when it sees from the interior space of a storage tank. It is a front fragmentary perspective view of an example of the corner part of FIG. 4 when it sees from the internal space of a storage tank. It is a back fragmentary perspective view of another example of a corner part when it sees from the internal space of a storage tank. It is a back fragmentary perspective view of another example of a corner part when it sees from the internal space of a storage tank. It is sectional drawing when it cut | disconnects along the straight line 6A-6A of FIG. 5A, and has shown an example of the method of completing the connection part between the structural members of a corner part. It is sectional drawing when it cut | disconnects along the straight line 6B-6B of FIG. 5B, and has shown an example of the method of completing the connection part between the structural members of a corner part. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the storage tank storage unit of FIG. 1 with a virtual line storage tank, showing an example of a partition wall disposed on a horizontal cylindrical wall of the storage tank, and an example of a gusset plate in the internal space of the storage tank. . FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the storage tank storage portion of FIG. 1 similar to FIG. 7, with no storage tank and partition walls shown. FIG. 9 is a cutaway perspective view of the storage tank of FIG. 1 when cut along a straight line 9-9, showing the internal space formed between the cylindrical walls. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example of a closing plate illustrated through a plurality of views sealing the internal space illustrated in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example of a closing plate illustrated through a plurality of views sealing the internal space illustrated in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example of a closing plate illustrated through a plurality of views sealing the internal space illustrated in FIG. 9. It is a perspective view of the 2nd example of the storage tank storage system which has a storage tank and another storage tank support structure. It is a perspective view of the bottom face side of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11 when seen from the direction B of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cutaway perspective view of the storage tank system of FIG. 5, showing another example of a partition wall disposed on a horizontal cylindrical wall of the storage tank. FIG. 12 is another cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11 showing a partition located on the horizontal cylindrical wall of the storage tank. FIG. 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11, illustrating an example of a corner reinforcement member disposed at a lower corner portion of the storage tank. It is another notch perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11, and has shown the example of the corner reinforcement material arrange | positioned at the lower corner part of a storage tank. FIG. 12 is another cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11. FIG. 12 is another partially cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11 showing another example of a gusset plate in the interior space of the storage tank. FIG. 12 is another partially cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 11 showing another example of corner reinforcement and gusset plates. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third example of a storage tank storage system showing a storage tank and another storage tank support structure and closure plate structure. It is a perspective view by the side of the bottom face of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 20 when it sees from the C direction of FIG. FIG. 21 is a side view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 20. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 20 illustrated as being in an attachment position within a cargo storage of a carrier ship. It is a perspective view of the 4th example of a storage tank storage system, and shows a storage tank and a storage tank closure plate structure. FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 24 including the storage tank support structure when viewed from the direction D of FIG. 24. It is a side view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. FIG. 25 is a cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system of FIG. 24, showing another example of a partition ring web disposed on a horizontal wall.

  An example of the storage tank storage system 10 is shown in FIGS. A first example of the storage tank storage system 10 is shown in FIGS. 1-3, a first example of a storage tank storage system 10 includes a storage tank 12, which has a generally cubic configuration and six geometric square sides that are substantially perpendicular to each other. Facing the direction. Tank 12 is preferably formed by interconnecting twelve hollow walls or tube walls (only one exemplary cylindrical wall 14 is shown in FIG. 1). In the following example, the interconnected tube walls are cylindrical and have a closed, generally circular cross-section, although other hollow or tubular shapes can be used.

  The illustrated storage tank 12 is arranged between four vertical cylindrical walls 16 spaced apart from each other at an angle of about 90 degrees and the corners 20a at the opposite ends of the vertical wall 16 so as to be at the opposite ends. And eight horizontal cylindrical walls 18 firmly connected to the corner portion 20a. As shown, the eight horizontal cylindrical walls 18 include four lower cylindrical walls 18 a disposed at the bottom of the storage tank 12, and four upper cylindrical walls 18 b disposed at the top of the storage tank 12. ,including. In a preferred example, each of the vertical and horizontal walls 16 and 18 can be the same length and have approximately the same cross-section and curvature.

  The interconnecting hollow cylindrical wall 14 defines an internal fluid reservoir 22 suitable for containing a fluid, eg, a material comprising liquefied natural gas (LNG) that is maintained at or above atmospheric pressure. Other fluids such as gases known to those skilled in the art can be stored or contained in the tank 12. Although illustrated and illustrated as a cube with all six sides having the same dimensions, the storage tank 12 can adopt different geometric configurations, such as the longer horizontal dimension and the shorter one. It should be understood that a rectangular shape having a vertical dimension of Other shapes and configurations known to those skilled in the art may be used.

  4 shows an example of the corner portion 20a when viewed from the internal space 295 of the storage tank 12 (best seen from FIG. 9). FIG. 5A shows the corner portion when viewed from the outside of the storage tank 12. FIG. 20a is shown. In this example, the corner portion 20a is adjacent to each side end of the four vertical cylindrical walls 16 corresponding to a total of eight corner portions 20a forming the eight corner portions of the illustrated cubic storage tank 12. Be placed. In this example, the vertical cylindrical wall 16 is connected to two lower horizontal cylindrical walls 18a. The vertical cylindrical wall 16 extends along a substantially vertical longitudinal axis 24, and the two lower horizontal cylindrical walls 18 a each extend along axes 26 and 28 that are substantially perpendicular to the axis 24. The axes 26 and 28 extend substantially at right angles to each other in a plane orthogonal to the axis 24, and the horizontal cylindrical wall 18a is positioned in a substantially horizontal direction.

  The axes 24, 26 and 28 intersect at a predetermined position (not shown) inside the corner portion 20a. As schematically illustrated, the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the two horizontal cylindrical walls 18 a extend along respective axes of these walls and between the respective cylindrical walls sealing the internal fluid reservoir 22. Connected at the distal ends 30, 32 and 34 of each of these walls located at the connection 40. The connection 40 is arranged to seal the space or gap between the distal ends 30, 32 and 34 of the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the two horizontal cylindrical walls 18a, respectively, as described below. However, other configurations of the connecting portion 40 may be used.

  In another example of the corner 20b shown in FIG. 5B, the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the two horizontal cylindrical walls 18a are similarly at the distal ends 30, 32, and 34 of their respective walls located at the connecting portion 42. Connected. It can be seen that the connecting portion 42 in this example does not include the sealing member 60. In yet another example of the corner 20c shown in FIG. 5C, all distal ends of the distal ends 30, 32, and 34 of the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the two horizontal cylindrical walls 18a are connected to each other. Rather than making contact, the end cap 50 abuts the portion of the respective distal end 30, 32 and 34 located at the coupling 44, as schematically illustrated. In this example, the end cap 50 has a spherical shape, but other shapes, configurations, and connecting portions that seal the liquid-tight corner portion known to those skilled in the art may be used.

  In another example, not shown, the corner portion 20 can be rounded, or the corner portion 20 can be spherical and can be manufactured and / or assembled in close agreement with the irregularities of the cylindrical wall.

  The basic structure of the storage tank 12 is preferably composed of aluminum, but other materials such as nickel steel, high strength high toughness grade steel, and other materials known to those skilled in the art may be used. It should also be understood that components of different shapes and orientations known to those skilled in the art may be used as well as different components other than those described and exemplified above. In a preferred example, during manufacture, the components of the storage tank 12 are rigidly and permanently connected together using seam welding to form a liquid-tight internal fluid storage chamber 22. For example, the liquid-tight corner portion can be formed between the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the horizontal cylindrical wall 18 by completing and sealing the connecting portions 40, 42 and / or 44. The work of completing the connection as well as the configuration of the completed connection may vary depending on one or more design considerations, strength considerations, manufacturing considerations, and / or other considerations. The example of these connection parts between the structural member groups of the storage tank 12 and another connection part is demonstrated referring FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B.

  FIG. 6A is a cross section of the connection 40 of FIG. 5A between the vertical wall 16 and the horizontal wall 18a. According to this example, the storage tank 12 is assembled prior to completing the connection 40 to provide a space or gap between the distal ends 30 and 32 of the vertical wall 16 and horizontal wall 18a, respectively. It will be formed before 40 is completed. As shown, the sealing member 60 is sized and configured to substantially seal the gap between the respective distal ends 30 and 32. The sealing member 60 extends along the connecting portion 40, and as can be understood with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5A, the sealing member 60 has three annular-opening ring-shaped end portions as an example corner. Part 20a. However, the sealing member 60 may have other shapes that may vary depending on the application of the sealing member at other corners and / or connections between other components of the storage tank 12. The sealing member 60 is advantageous when the components of the storage tank 12 are not suitable to be manufactured and / or assembled with tolerances that allow direct welding, are not cost effective, or are otherwise undesirable. Can have usage. In addition, or as another configuration, by including the sealing member 60, a reinforcing function or a reinforcing function can be achieved in the connecting portion 40.

  The distal ends 30 and 32 of the vertical wall 16 and the horizontal wall 18a are chamfered from both the inside (the side facing the internal fluid reservoir 22) and the outside of the wall, and the apex apex is the distal end. Although formed at each distal end of portions 30 and 32, these tops may be rounded as an alternative configuration, for example. The illustrated sealing member 60 is shaped to have a rectangular cross section, and the orientation of the sealing member 60 is set such that the apex apex faces the tips of the distal ends 56 and 58. In this configuration, four inwardly tapered grooves are formed.

  In detail, two grooves are formed to accommodate the welded portion, and the vertical wall 16 is connected to the sealing member 60, and two grooves are formed to accommodate the welded portion and the sealing member 60 is connected to the horizontal wall 18a. Connect to. The cross section of the sealing member 60 varies depending on the size of the gap to be sealed, for example, but may have a different size or a different shape. It will be appreciated that one or more of the distal ends 30 and 32 and the sealing member 60 may be shaped and configured other than those described in detail. For example, as an alternative, the distal ends 30 and 32 and the opposing portion of the sealing member 60 can be rounded, for example, with the distal ends 30 and 32 and the sealing member 60 being wall It can be formed such that only one groove is formed on one of the outer and inner sides of 16 and 18a.

  FIG. 6B is a cross section of the connecting portion 42 of FIG. 5B between the vertical wall 16 and the horizontal wall 18a. In accordance with one example of the connection 42 shown in FIG. 6B, the storage tank 12 is assembled prior to completing the connection 42 so that the distal ends 30 and 32 of the vertical wall 16 and horizontal wall 18a to be connected are substantially adjacent. And can be continuously seam welded or otherwise mechanically connected to each other to complete the connection 42. In the illustrated example, the distal ends 30 and 32 of each of the vertical wall 16 and horizontal wall 18a are chamfered from both the inside and the outside of the wall so that a sharp apex is provided for each of the distal ends 30 and 32. It is formed at the distal end. The inwardly tapered groove is formed by sizing and shaping the opposing location of the distal ends 30 and 32 to accommodate the weld and connect the vertical wall 16 and horizontal wall 18a. Alternatively, the distal ends 30 and 32 can be rounded, for example, or the distal ends 30 and 32 have grooves that are only released on one of the outside or inside of the walls 16 and 18a. It will be understood that only one can be formed.

  Other configurations and orientations known to those skilled in the art may be used which are formed by the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the horizontal cylindrical wall 18a intersecting at the corners. In addition, the illustrated connecting portion is described for illustration only with respect to the corner portion, and the described example is in principle applicable to any other connecting portion or seam portion between the components of the storage tank 12. You will understand what you can do.

  The storage tank storage system 10 of the present disclosure, as will be further described below, efficiently and effectively loads the storage tank 12 as well as static and dynamic loads of fluid stored in the storage tank 12. Additional external and / or internal structures that are configured to be absorbed and managed automatically.

  An exemplary external support structure 100 connected to the outer surface of the storage tank 12 will be described in a first example with reference to FIGS. 1-3, 7 and 8. The support structure 100 is disposed substantially entirely around the outer wall portion of the wall 14 to provide radial support and / or reinforcement for one or more portions of the storage tank 12 so that the storage tank storage system 10 can be It strengthens as a whole against stress caused by the volume of the storage tank storage system 10 as well as stress caused by the movement of fluid in the storage chamber 22. A first example of the support structure 100 includes a plurality of first braces 102 (ie, 102a, 102b, 102c, etc.), a plurality of second braces 104 (ie, 104a, 104b, 104c, etc.), and a plurality of A third brace 106 (ie, 106a, 106b, 106c, etc.). A seat 150, described further below, is also used. Certain components of support structure 100 and seat 150 described and / or illustrated as individual connection components can be, for example, an integral component, and conversely, an integral component can be, for example, an individual component. It will be understood that it can be a connecting component.

  In the first example, each brace of braces 102, 104 and 106 extends outwardly from storage tank 12 and has an opening 108 (a representative opening 108 is shown corresponding to brace 102a). These are generally flat members, and these openings 108 are sized and shaped to closely circumscribe the selected outer portion of the storage tank 12. In the first example, the braces 102 and 104 are vertically oriented and spaced apart horizontally and aligned perpendicular to each other and parallel to respective sides of the side of the storage tank 12. The brace groups 106 are horizontally oriented and spaced apart in the vertical direction, and are similarly aligned parallel to the respective sides of the side of the storage tank 12. Braces 102, 104, and 106 reinforce selected outer portions of adjacent horizontal cylindrical wall 16 and vertical cylindrical wall 18 that respectively form the six sides of storage tank 12 to provide radial support for the selected outer portion. It is generally arranged and oriented.

  For example, in the first example, the braces 102, 104, and 106 are interconnected to circumscribe the storage tank 12 along the outwardly facing portion of the lower cylindrical wall 18a that forms the vertical side of the storage tank 12. The part 120 is formed. By further shaping and arranging the components of the portion 120 of the illustrated support structure 100, it is brought into contact with not only the closing plate 300b or 300c described in further detail below, but also another portion of the storage tank 12. I can see that

  Each portion 120 of the support structure 100 includes a vertical brace 102 that abuts the outwardly-facing portions of the two parallel lower cylindrical walls 18a so that it is approximately on a portion of the two opposing vertical sides of the storage tank 12. Circumscribe. In the illustrated example, the brace 102 further circumscribes the bottom side of the storage tank 12. The brace 102 extends vertically to a position approximately in the middle of two opposing vertical sides of the storage tank 12. The brace groups 102 are spaced apart in the horizontal direction so that the outer brace 102c of the brace group 102 not only extends upward along the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and radially extends from the vertical cylindrical wall 16, but also is connected horizontally. It arrange | positions so that the outer wall surface of the cylindrical wall 18a may contact | abut.

  Similarly, the portion 120 includes a vertical brace 104 that abuts the outward portion of the other two lower parallel cylindrical walls 18 a, so that not only the bottom side of the storage tank 12 but also the storage tank 12 other than the brace 102 is provided. It almost circumscribes a part of two opposite vertical sides. The brace 104 further extends in the vertical direction to a position approximately midway between two opposing vertical sides of the storage tank 12. The brace groups 104 are spaced apart in the horizontal direction so that the outer brace 104c of the brace group 104 not only extends upwardly and radially from the vertical cylindrical wall 16 but also extends horizontally. It arrange | positions so that the outer wall surface of the cylindrical wall 18a may contact | abut.

  The horizontal brace 106 in this example can arbitrarily and firmly interconnect the brace group 102 and the brace group 104 that constitute the portion 120 located on each vertical side surface of the storage tank 12. It will be appreciated that any of the braces 102, 104, and 106 may be provided in other numbers and / or configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the brace 106d can be arbitrarily configured to circumscribe the storage tank 12 almost completely. The braces 106d are arranged not only to extend from the horizontal cylindrical wall 18a in the radial direction along the four horizontal cylindrical walls 18a but also to contact the outer peripheral wall surface of the vertical connecting cylindrical wall 16. Further, it can be seen that the predetermined portion of the brace group 106 that interconnects the brace group 102 and the brace group 104 is not included in this modification.

  Also, the central braces 102a and 104b of the braces 102 and 104 are configured to circumscribe the storage tank 12 almost completely. As shown in the figure, the central braces 102a and 104b are in contact with the outwardly facing portions of the four cylindrical walls of the eight cylindrical walls 18a and 18b extending in parallel, so that the bottom side of the storage tank 12, The storage tank 12 is disposed so as to circumscribe two opposing vertical side surfaces and the upper surface side of the storage tank 12. It can be seen that the central braces 102a and 104b intersect at the bottom and top sides of the storage tank 12 and interconnect the four portions 120 of the support structure 100 circumscribing the outer portions of the four lower cylindrical walls 18a. .

  The concentration of the braces 102, 104, and 106 on the lower half of the storage tank 12 is used to enhance the durability of the storage tank 12 against the lower portion of the storage tank 12 and hydrostatic pressure and other forces. In the second example, T-plate 103 is selectively connected to braces 102 and 104 at right angles to these braces to form a T-shaped section to increase the strength of the brace against buckling and other deformations. . As can be best understood from FIG. 2, it is possible to conceive a configuration in which the brace group can be selectively concentrated and incorporated in the seat 150 (for example, at the center of the bottom surface of the storage tank 12).

  3B and 3C show any variation of the configuration of the support structure 100. FIG. In the shape of a storage area such as a cargo storage 160 (shown in FIG. 3B but not shown in FIG. 3C for clarity of illustration) of the marine carrier 162 where the storage tank 12 is located. Together, the support structure 100 is further designed to control lateral and vertical support for the storage tank 12. For example, the outer surface or outer edge 110 of the braces 102, 104, and 106 facing each portion of the opening 108 and circumscribing the side of the storage tank 12 (a representative plate 110 is shown corresponding to the brace 104a. Can be configured to abut and / or engage the vertical wall 164 and / or the ceiling wall 166 defining the cargo storage 160.

  In addition, or as another configuration, a device for fixing the storage system 10 and the storage tank 12 to the cargo storage 160 is arranged between the wall 164 of the cargo storage 160 and a part of the storage system 10, for example, a transport ship 162. The storage system 10 can be prevented from moving relative to the cargo storage 160 when the vehicle rolls or rolls. For example, as shown, a chock 170 is disposed between the vertical wall 164 and the vertical portion of the support structure 100 of the storage system 10. Further, in the illustrated example, a chock 172 is disposed between the ceiling wall 166 and the upper portion of the support structure 100. The chock 172 is advantageous because it is used, for example, when the cargo storage 160 is submerged and prevents the storage system 10 from floating. Although chocks 170 and 172 are shown and described, other devices known to those skilled in the art may be used.

  In a preferred example, the first brace 102, the second brace 104, and the third brace 106 are formed of aluminum plates, and each opening 108 is in the outer portion of the storage tank 12 where the brace is selectively placed. The size is set together. It should be understood that other materials for the wall 14 may be used as described above and known to others skilled in the art.

  The storage tank storage system 10 includes a seat 150 that supports the storage tank 12 with a highly rigid support surface, for example, a floor 168 of the cargo storage 160. In one example, the seat 150 is formed by vertical braces 102 and 104, as best seen in FIG. In this example, the outer edges 110 of the vertical braces 102 and 104 on the opposite sides of the openings 108 circumscribing the bottom surface of the storage tank 12 form a substantially flat pedestal or surface as shown in FIG. Since the portion 150 can be formed, it becomes a flat installation region of the storage tank 12 and can abut on the flat floor 168 of the cargo storage 160.

  The seat 150 can be partially or wholly formed with the braces 102 and 104, as described above, or formed by another structure, alone or in combination with the braces 102 and 104. be able to. The illustrated seat 150 is reinforced by an inclined reinforcing skirt 152 adjacent to the bottom side of the storage tank 12. A plurality of high stiffness reinforced connecting webs 154 may be used as shown in FIG. 3A.

  The seat 150, the skirt 152, and / or the web 154, like the support structure 100, is shaped as described above with reference to FIGS. 3B and 3C to match the shape of the cargo storage 160. be able to. For example, the outer edges 110 of the vertical braces 102 and 104 that form the seat 150 are chamfered in the variations of FIGS. 3B and 3C to form the cross-sectional shape of the cargo storage 160 between the vertical wall 164 and the floor 168. Can be approached.

  Further, a device that supports the storage system 10 and the storage tank 12 in the cargo storage 160 can be disposed between the floor 168 and the seat 150 of the cargo storage 160. For example, as shown, the chock 174 can be disposed between the floor 168 and the seat 150 of the storage system 10. Although a chock 174 is shown and described, other devices known to those skilled in the art may be used to support the storage system 10 within the cargo storage 160. The variations described above are provided as non-limiting examples and depend on the particular configuration of the cargo storage 160, but many other components of the support structure 100 and / or seat 150 are also provided. It will be appreciated that variations are possible.

  The seat 150 is secured to the adjacent storage tank 12 structure in the manner described for the wall 14 and braces 102, 104, and 106. The structure forming the seat 150 can be formed from the same material as the braces described above, or can be formed from other materials known to those skilled in the art and in other configurations.

  FIG. 7 illustrates the shape of storage tank storage system 10 in a first example that incorporates some of the external, internal, and other structures according to the present invention described above for storage tank 12. The storage tank storage system 10 of FIG. 7 includes the storage tank 12 having the corner portion 20a and formed in combination with the sealing member 60 shown in FIGS. 4, 5A, and 6A. The support structure 100 and the seat 150 are configured according to the description of FIGS. 1 to 3, 7, and 8. As shown, the example further includes an internal structure configured to store and manage fluid in the internal fluid reservoir 22 and elsewhere.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the storage tank storage system 10 includes a septum structure 200a, and the flat plate 204 partially entrains the liquid flow by defining a reinforcing outer edge 204a and an oval hole 206. And an inner membrane portion 204b configured to block. The interior space 295 is defined in part by the closure plate 300b and houses the intersecting gusset plates 502, 504 and 506, which are arranged between the wall groups 14 and rigid to the wall groups 14. Connected to.

  The exemplary storage tank 12 has a dimension of 150 feet (f) (45.72 m) or 50 meters (m) per geometric side. For LNG storage applications, the thickness of the aluminum plate forming the lower horizontal cylindrical wall 18 can vary from about 2 inches (5.08 cm) to about 5 inches (12.7 cm), with the upper horizontal The thickness of the aluminum plate forming the cylindrical wall 18 can vary from about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) to about 3 inches (7.62 cm), and the aluminum plate forming the vertical cylindrical wall 16 Can vary from about 2 inches (5.08 cm) to about 4 inches (10.16 cm), and the thickness of the aluminum plate forming the lower corner 20 is about 3 inches (7 .62 cm) to about 6 inches (15.24 cm), and the thickness of the aluminum plate forming the upper corner 20 is about 1 inch (2.5 cm). cm) can be varied between - about 3 inches (7.62 cm). The thickness of the aluminum forming the closure plate 300b can vary from about 2 inches (5.08 cm) to about 4 inches (10.16 cm). The thickness of the aluminum forming the sealing member 60 can vary in the range from about 4 inches (10.16 cm) to about 6 inches (15.24 cm) at the lower corner portion 20 and about at the upper corner portion 20. It can vary from 3 inches (7.62 cm) to about 4 inches (10.16 cm).

  The thickness of the support plate 100 and the components of the internal structure and the aluminum plate forming the reinforcement can typically vary from about 1 inch (2.54 cm) to about 3 inches (7.62 cm). . The support structure 100, such as a particular portion of the T-plate 103, and the stiffening outer edge 204a of the flat plate 204, may vary in thickness from about 3 inches (7.62 cm) to about 6 inches (15.24 cm). It can be formed by an aluminum plate.

  The composition and configuration of the components of the exemplary outer support structure 100 can vary according to one or more design criteria, strength criteria, manufacturing criteria, and / or other criteria. For example, the external support structure 100 may not only handle actual, predicted and / or anticipated static and dynamic loads due to the fluid contained within the storage tank 12, but also loads due to the storage tank 12 itself. It can be changed accordingly or designed differently. Thus, it will be appreciated that changes in the number, placement, and orientation of braces 102, 104, and 106 can be made. The configuration and material of the seat 150 known to those skilled in the art can be similarly varied. One example of a possible change to the exemplary external support structure 100 is utilized in the second example of the storage tank storage system 10 shown in FIGS.

  11 and 12, the support structure 100 in the second example includes a first brace 102 (identified by 102m, 102n, and 102o in the second example), a second brace 104 (104m, 104n, and And a third brace 106 (identified by 106m, 106n, and 106o). The seat 150 outlined above is further used. In the second example, each brace of braces 102, 104, and 106 is a substantially planar member, each of which is sized to closely circumscribe a selected outer portion of storage tank 12. 108 is defined.

  In the second example, the braces 102 and 104 are vertically oriented and horizontally spaced, aligned perpendicular to each other and parallel to the respective sides of the storage tank 12. The braces 106 are oriented horizontally and spaced apart in the vertical direction and are similarly aligned parallel to the respective sides of the side of the storage tank 12. As in the first example, the braces 102, 104, and 106 reinforce selected outer portions of the adjacent horizontal cylindrical wall 16 and vertical cylindrical wall 18 that form the six sides of the storage tank 12 respectively. Arranged and oriented to provide radial support for the portion.

  In the second example, each brace of braces 102, 104, and 106 is configured to circumscribe the storage tank 12 almost completely. With respect to one side of the storage tank 12, each of the two outer braces 102m and 102o of the group of braces 102 not only extends upwardly and vertically from the vertical cylindrical wall 16, but It arrange | positions so that it may contact | abut on the outer wall surface of the horizontal connection cylindrical walls 18a and 18b. Similarly, the two outer braces 104m and 104o of the brace group 104 not only extend upwardly and radially from the vertical cylindrical wall 16, but also horizontally connect cylindrical walls 18a and 18b. It arrange | positions so that it may contact | abut on the outer wall surface. Finally, the two outer braces 106m and 106o of the group of braces 106 each extend not only horizontally along and horizontally from the horizontal cylindrical wall 18, but also of the vertically connected cylindrical wall 16. It arrange | positions so that it may contact | abut to an outer peripheral part.

  Although the outer braces of braces 102, 104, and 106 are only described with respect to one side of storage tank 12 for clarity, from these figures, the outer braces of braces 102, 104, and 106 are It will be appreciated that the storage tank 12 can be configured to circumscribe multiple faces. For example, the outer braces of the braces 102, 104, and 106 circumscribe the four sides of the storage tank 12, each of the four components being arranged essentially in the same manner as above with respect to one side, and It can be seen that it can be oriented to form a loop around the storage tank 12.

  The central braces 102n and 104n are in contact with the outward portions of the four cylindrical walls of the eight cylindrical walls 18a and 18b extending in parallel. It arrange | positions so that a vertical side surface and the upper surface side of the storage tank 12 may be substantially circumscribed. The central brace 106n is disposed so as to contact the outward portions of the four vertical cylindrical walls 16 and substantially circumscribe all four vertical sides of the storage tank 12. The central braces 102n, 104n, and 106n may be on the side surface of the storage tank 12 and span the gap 290 formed between the spaced cylindrical wall groups 14. However, the central brace can also be shaped and arranged to abut the closure plate 300c, described in more detail below.

  Braces 102, 104, and 106 arranged as shown and described are firmly interconnected at their respective intersections to form a grid-like reinforcement structure around storage tank 12. be able to. In one variation of the second example of the representative external support structure 100 (not shown), the hydrostatic pressure acting on the storage tank 12 from the storage tank contents gradually decreases, so that one of the upper brace groups 106 is removed. The load resistance of the upper brace can be reduced. For example, since the hydrostatic load applied to the inner wall portion of the wall 14 becomes larger as the seat portion 150 is approached, the support structure 100 including the plurality of horizontal braces 106 is farther from the seat portion 150 than the first brace 106. The first brace 106 having a relatively higher strength than the second brace 106 disposed in a row can be included. However, further, depending on the application, it is assumed that such a gradual decrease in hydrostatic pressure is offset by the dynamic change in the predicted load in a particular application.

  Similar to the first example, the first brace 102, the second brace 104, and the third brace 106 of the second example are formed of an aluminum plate, and each opening 108 is arranged so that a group of braces is selectively arranged. It is sized to be faithfully formed along the shape of the outer portion of the previous storage tank 12. It should be understood that other materials known to those skilled in the art described above for wall 14 may be used.

  The storage tank storage system 10 of the present disclosure of the first and second examples further includes storing and managing the fluid in the internal fluid storage chamber 22 or elsewhere, as described below, as well as the storage tank. 12 includes an internal structure configured to further reinforce. The various internal structures and other shapes described below with reference to one or both of the first and second examples of the storage tank storage system 10 can be used in any combination with each other. It will be appreciated that the support structure 100 can be used in further combination with one or more of the features of the above examples.

  In a preferred example of a containment system 10 for storing a liquid such as LNG, the storage tank 10 is placed in an internal fluid reservoir 22 as shown in the respective views of FIGS. 7, 13, 17 and 18. A partition structure 200a, 200b, 200c, and / or 200d that is disposed and secured to the internal fluid reservoir 22 may be included. As schematically illustrated in these drawings, the partition wall structure 200 is provided on each horizontal cylindrical wall of the horizontal cylindrical wall group 18 to suppress sloshing or dynamic flow of the fluid stored in the internal fluid storage chamber 22. Or reduce.

  In one example, each partition wall 200 is disposed at a substantially midstream position and is secured to an adjacent horizontal cylindrical wall 18 at a substantially midstream position. As described above, the corresponding dynamic load is generated on the inner wall portion of the wall 14 due to the sloshing behavior of the liquid enclosed and contained by these walls 14. The partition wall structure 200 is an internal structure that partially blocks the flow of liquid contained and surrounded by the horizontal cylindrical wall 18, reduces the degree of sloshing, and is received by both side ends of the horizontal cylindrical wall 18. Reduce the load scale. It will also be appreciated that all or a portion of the septum structure 200 can be configured to perform the function of reinforcing the cylindrical cross section of the wall 14.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the example partition structure 200 a includes a substantially planar plate 204 configured to be laid on a cross section of the horizontal cylindrical wall 18 that defines a part of the internal fluid storage chamber 22. In this example, the planar plate 204 allows fluid communication on either side of the plate 204 by defining a plurality of oval holes 206 arranged in an “x” pattern around the plate 204.

  The material of the outer edge portion 204a of the flat plate 204 can be relatively more rigid than the material of the inner portion 204b of the flat plate 204. In this arrangement, the outer edge portion 204a of the flat plate 204 functions to reinforce the cylindrical cross section of the wall 14, whereas the inner portion 204b functions as a membrane and is surrounded by the horizontal wall 18 for the liquid contained therein. Flow is partially blocked, for example, by defining the illustrated hole 206. Although it will be appreciated that a wide variety of materials of various thicknesses can be used, in the exemplary size tank system 10 application described above that houses LNG, the thickness of the aluminum material that forms the plate 204 Can be about 4-5 inches (10.16-12.7 cm) at the outer edge 204a, while the inner portion 204b is about 1-2 inches (2.54-5.08 cm). It can be a thickness. In this example, a plurality of cross members 208 are further provided to reinforce the inner portion 204b against the dynamic load in the normal direction of the flat plate 204 caused by the flow of the liquid enclosed and stored in the horizontal wall 18. be able to.

  Other configurations of the planar plate 204 can be used, and a greater or lesser number of holes 206 can be used, which holes 206 can be any suitable polygonal or circular contour. It should be understood that having a can be adapted to specific storage or applications known to those skilled in the art. For example, the planar plate 204 can be configured to have a substantially uniform thickness. In the example of the partition wall structure 200b shown in FIG. 13, each plate 204 defines six rectangular holes 206 formed by arranging three holes 206 in two rows. In another example of the partition wall structure 200 c shown in FIG. 18, a plurality of polygonal holes 206 are arranged around the outer edge of the flat plate 204. In the example of the partition wall structure 200 d shown in FIG. 19, a plurality of polygonal holes 206 are uniformly arranged around the flat plate 204.

  15 and 16 show an example of a horizontal cutaway cross section of the storage system 10 and show an example of a corner reinforcing member 250 provided to reinforce the inside of the corner portion 20. Referring to FIG. 15, the corner reinforcing member 250 disposed in the lower corner portion 20 of the storage tank 12 includes a first plate 252, a second plate 254, and a third plate 256 (below the first plate and the second plate). And extending at an angle and extending downwardly from the first plate and the second plate. As best understood from FIG. 16, the first plate 252, the second plate 254, and the third plate 256 are installed at respective portions of the corner portion 20, and of the corner portion 20 inside the internal fluid storage chamber 22. Connected to each inner wall (showing all four lower corners 20 with corner reinforcements 250). Some or all of the corners 20 of these corners 20 can include a corner reinforcement 250, and one or more corner reinforcements of the corner reinforcement group 250 can vary depending on the application. Please understand that it is not necessary.

  In one example, the first side 258 of the first plate, the first side 260 of the second plate, and the first side 262 of the third plate are adjacent connections formed by the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the horizontal cylindrical wall 18, respectively. Connected to the corner portion 20 along the portion 30. The first plate 252, the second plate 254, and the third plate 256 are connected by a connecting portion 264. In one example, the first plate 252, the second plate 254, and the third plate 256 are separated by an angle of 120 degrees. The corner stiffener 250 can be adapted to a particular application by employing other configurations, plate shapes, or web shapes, as is well known to those skilled in the art.

  In the example septum structure 250, each of the first plate 252, the second plate 254, and the third plate 256 defines respective through holes 270, 272, and 274 to provide fluid communication to any of these plates. This is also possible on the side so that part of the internal fluid reservoir 22 is not closed and divided into compartments. As shown in FIG. 15, the partition structure 250 can be disposed at each upper corner portion 20 of the storage tank 12. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations and orientations of the septum structure 250 may be used and other reinforcements may be placed in the corner portion 20.

  Referring to FIG. 19, another example of corner reinforcement 440 is illustrated. In this example, the reinforcement 440 of the tank corner 20 is in the form of a plate 445 (only half of the plate is shown as a cross-sectional view in FIG. 19) defining an internal hole 450 (enclosed by the plate material 445). is there. In this example, the plate 445 is inclined at an angle of about 45 degrees, and on either side of the plate, or alternatively, around the outer edge of the plate, the adjacent wall of the corner 20 and the adjacent vertical cylindrical wall 16 and Seam welded to the horizontal cylindrical wall 18. As explained above, the holes 450 function to reduce weight and suppress sloshing of the storage fluid.

  Other forms, configurations, orientations, and arrangements of corner reinforcements that are compatible with specific applications known to those skilled in the art may be used. Septums 200, 250 and 440 can be formed using the materials used to form storage tank 12 as described above. In one example, the illustrated septa 200, 250, and 440 are seam welded to the storage tank 12 firmly and continuously.

  It will be appreciated that the corner reinforcements 250 and 440 shown are not necessary or desirable in certain applications. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure, such as the embodiment of FIGS. 1-10 using the first example of the external support structure 100, may include no corner reinforcement, as can be seen with reference to FIGS. Good. In this and other examples, the reinforcing function of the illustrated corner reinforcements 250 and 440 can be accomplished by other aspects of the storage tank 12 and / or the external support structure 100 as desired.

  In the example of storage tank 12 described and illustrated above, twelve cylindrical walls 16 and 18 are closed and partitioned to form an internal fluid storage chamber 22. In this example, the opening 290 is formed on each of the six side surfaces of the tank 12, and the internal space 295 is formed between the inward walls of the cylindrical body. In the example storage tank storage system 10 illustrated throughout these figures, these openings 290 are sealed and closed, and the interior space 295 is an interior fluid reservoir inside the cylinder, as will be described below. The internal space 295 is used as a further fluid storage part.

  Referring to FIG. 9 as a representative view, the closing plate 300a and the inwardly facing portions of the outer cylindrical walls 16 and 18a (eg, the inner portion 310 of the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the inner portion 312 of the horizontal cylindrical wall 18a are shown). Can be used to hermetically define the auxiliary storage chamber 302 defined by the closure plate 300a and the inner wall portions 310 and 312 of the cylindrical walls 16 and 18a that form the storage tank 12.

  Multiple configurations of the closure plate 300 are illustrated throughout these figures, and these closure plates will be described with further reference to FIGS. 10A-10C. In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the closing plate 300a is planar and is configured to extend between the adjacent walls 14 in the normal direction. In another example shown in FIG. 10B, the closure plate 300b is spherical or rounded and extends substantially straight between adjacent walls 14, but from an imaginary line connecting the longitudinal axes of adjacent walls 14 Also extends through the outer location. In another example shown in FIG. 10C, the closure plate 300c is also spherical or rounded, but by extending between adjacent walls 14 at the outer portion of the wall 14, the closure plates 300c are adjacent. It extends also in the substantially tangential direction between the walls 14.

  By using the closing plate 300a, 300b or 300c and correspondingly using the storage interior space 295, the storage capacity can be increased. In the example of the tank 12 having the dimensions described above, the volume storage efficiency of the tank system 10 when compared to a cube of similar dimensions is increased from about 0.81 to 0.88, and this volume storage efficiency is Much higher than prior art structures. Further, when using the closing plates 300b and 300c connected to a position further outside the center of the tank 12, the heat loss is reduced, that is, the portion of the outer surface of the tank 12 that is not so large is a curve that easily functions as a heat sink. Includes corners and corners.

  The storage tank storage system 10 can be configured to include, for example, only one type of closure plate 300a, 300b and 300c, or is shown in detail as well as a mixed closure plate of closure plates 300a, 300b and 300c. Other closure plates, such as non-rectangular or l-shaped closure plates can be included. The closure plates 300a, 300b and 300c can be formed from the materials used for the walls 16, 18a described above. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations and orientations of the closure plates 300a, 300b and 300c can be used to hermetically define the auxiliary reservoir 302.

  As best seen in FIG. 9, in one example above where the cylindrical wall 14 is closed and compartmented and the internal fluid reservoir 22 functions as the only storage area, the cylindrical walls 16 and 18a include the outer portions 320 and 322. Each having, for example, an outer half or outer circumference of a circular cross section facing the outside of the tank, and respective inner portions 310 and 312. As shown in FIG. 9, each first wall portion and second wall portion is defined by a closure plate 300a or is located near the position of the closure plate 300a.

  As further shown in FIG. 9, a radial hydrostatic pressure F <b> 1 is applied to the inner wall portion 310 of the vertical cylindrical wall 16 from the liquid stored in the internal fluid storage chamber 22. The load resistance of the vertical cylindrical walls 310 and 320 needs to be sufficiently high to absorb the force F1. When the closing plate 300a is not used and the auxiliary storage chamber 302 (or the space 295) is not used for storage, the inner wall portion 310 needs to withstand the same load as the outer wall portion 320 and needs substantially the same configuration. And In the preferred sized tank system 10 application containing LNG, the thickness of the aluminum walls 16 and 18 is estimated to be between 1 inch (2.54 cm) and 6 inches (15.24 cm) thick. . In the case of steel, a thickness of 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) to 4 inches (10.16 cm) can be used. Other thicknesses well known to those skilled in the art may be used, depending on the material used and the application.

  However, when the closure plate 300a (or the closure plate 300b or 300c) is used and the auxiliary storage chamber 302 is used, when the liquid is stored in the auxiliary storage chamber 302, the opposite radial hydrostatic pressure F2 is increased. 302 occurs on the opposite side of the vertical cylindrical wall portion 310 that partially defines 302. Since the hydrostatic pressure F2 acts in the opposite direction to the hydrostatic pressure F1 to cancel each other, the load bearing capacity and corresponding thickness of the vertical cylindrical wall 16 and the horizontal cylindrical wall 18a should be reduced in the respective wall portions 310 and 312. This can reduce the mass and material costs of the storage tank 12.

  In the example of the storage tank 12 that utilizes only the internal fluid storage chamber 22 in the cylindrical wall 14, one or more ports on the outer wall of a wall (not shown) that communicates with the internal chamber 22 are used to transfer fluid to the interior. The fluid reservoir 22 can be filled or fluid can be withdrawn from the internal fluid reservoir 22. When the auxiliary storage chamber 302 is used with the internal fluid storage chamber 22, for example, one or more ports (not shown) of the wall portions 310 and / or 312 are provided in the appropriate wall 14 to provide the internal fluid storage chamber 22. Fluid communication between the secondary storage chamber 302 and the auxiliary storage chamber 302.

  Referring to FIG. 18, an example of a first gusset plate 400 (two are shown) is shown. In this example, each gusset plate 400 is disposed between the vertically adjacent horizontal tube walls 18 in the auxiliary storage chamber 302 and is firmly connected to these tube walls. As outlined above for the septum 200, each gusset plate 400 includes one or more holes 410 (two are shown) so that fluid can flow through the gusset plate 400 so that auxiliary storage is provided. Sloshing of the fluid in the chamber 302 can be suppressed. In one example, these gusset plates are rigid flat plates, but other forms and configurations can be employed to adapt them to applications well known to those skilled in the art.

  As can be further seen from FIG. 18, as outlined, one or more second gusset plates 420 are disposed between the first gusset plate group 400 and disposed between the horizontal cylinder groups 18 to provide a first It is firmly connected to the gusset plate 400 and the horizontal cylinder 18. In this example, the second gusset plate 420 preferably has a plurality of similar holes 425 so that the flow of fluid can be restricted and sloshing of the fluid inside the auxiliary storage chamber 302 can be suppressed. The first gusset plate 400 and the second gusset plate 420 reinforce the structure and suppress sloshing of the fluid inside the auxiliary storage chamber 302. Other gussets, stiffening plates, and sloshing suppression structures known to those skilled in the art may be used. For example, as can be seen from FIG. 19, the second gusset plate 420 is used without the first gusset plate 400. In this example, the second gusset plate 420 is schematically shown in a predetermined horizontal posture between the second gusset plate group 420 firmly connected to the four adjacent horizontal cylindrical walls 18 and oriented substantially vertically. The third gusset plate 430 is further included.

  As can be further seen from FIGS. 7 and 8, the gusset plates 502 and 504 can be disposed between the vertically adjacent parallel horizontal cylindrical walls 18 in the auxiliary storage chamber 302 and are firmly attached to the horizontal cylindrical walls 18. In contrast, the gusset plate 506 is disposed between the parallel vertical walls 16 adjacent in the horizontal direction and is firmly connected to the vertical cylindrical wall 16. In addition, the gusset plates 502, 504, and 506 are connected at respective intersections of these gusset plates. Each gusset plate of gusset plates 502, 504, and 506 extends in a plane that passes through the center of storage tank 12. The gusset plates 502 and 504 extend in a vertical direction parallel to the respective opposing side surfaces of the storage tank 12 and are not only interrupted at the intersection with the wall 14 but also at the intersection with each adjacent gusset plate. The gusset plate 506 extends in a horizontal direction parallel to the opposing top and bottom surfaces of the storage tank 12 and again is not only interrupted at the intersection with the wall 14 but also at the intersection with each adjacent gusset plate. It breaks at the part. Of the total eight gusset plates, only three gusset plates 502, 504, and 506 are shown and described for clarity. It can be seen and understood that other gusset plates of these gusset plates are arranged and configured in the same manner as gusset plates 502, 504, and 506.

  As shown, the gusset plates 502, 504 and 506 can be interconnected to the support structure 100 as well as being able to be firmly interconnected at the intersection of these gusset plates. As shown, the vertically arranged gusset plates 502 and 504 are connected to the central vertical braces 104a and 102a, respectively, whereas the horizontally arranged gusset plates 506 are connected to the horizontal brace 106a. The The gusset plates 502, 504, and 506 can define one or more holes (not shown in this example) that can partition the fluid in the auxiliary storage chamber 302 or allow fluid to flow as described above. Can be included.

  With reference to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, one example of an apparatus for filling and removing fluid from the tank 12 is in the form of a filling tower 350. In this example, the filling tower 350 includes a substantially horizontal horizontal hollow tube 352 connected to a substantially vertical vertical hollow tube 354. The vertical tube 354 includes a suction port 356 disposed near or extending from the top of the storage tank 12. Suction port 356 is configured to be connected to a remote fluid source, such as a liquid delivery pump (not shown), or other device known to those skilled in the art. The vertical tube 354 further includes an outlet port 357 disposed near the bottom of the storage tank 12. The horizontal hollow tube 352 is connected to the vertical tube 354 at the position of the outlet port 357, and one or more horizontal cylindrical walls of the horizontal cylindrical wall group 18 are connected to one or more horizontal cylindrical walls 18 as shown in FIG. By being connected through the horizontal cylindrical wall, fluid communication between the suction port 356 and the internal fluid storage chamber 22 is made possible.

  As best illustrated in FIG. 13, the vertical hollow tube 354 is preferably supported by a plurality of support brackets or preferably has a plurality of support structures that allow fluid communication on either side of the support structure 358. 358. The vertical tube 354 and the support structure 358 are disposed along the passage formed in the central portion of the partition wall structure 200 b and in the space between the flat plate groups 204. The vertical tube 354 includes one or more additional ports (not shown) to allow fluid communication between the suction port 356 and the auxiliary reservoir 302. Alternatively, fluid can be easily flowed into and out of tank 12 using a through port (not shown) that penetrates the inner portion of cylindrical wall 16b and / or 18b. .

  The filling tower 350 can also be used to remove fluid from the internal fluid storage chamber 22 and the auxiliary storage chamber 302. To optimize removal, the outlet port 357 can be placed very close to the inner surface of the bottom closure plate 300b when the tank 12 is in the installed position. Gravity can be utilized by shaping the closure plate 300 b to remove fluid from the auxiliary storage chamber 302. As shown in FIG. 13, the outlet port 357 is located at the lowest point of the auxiliary storage chamber 302 just above the inflection point on the surface of the curved closure plate 300b, thereby auxiliary storage of all the fluid in the tank 12. It can be removed from the chamber 302 and then removed from the interconnected internal fluid reservoir 22. Understand that other pipes, piping, or ports can be used to quickly and massively flow fluid into and out of tank 12 to facilitate fluid filling and removal. I want to be.

  20 to 23, a third example of the storage tank storage system 10 is illustrated. FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing the storage tank 12 and a pair of external support structures 100 on two side surfaces of the side surfaces of the storage tank 12. The outer support structure 100 extends between the outer surfaces of the rigid cylindrical walls 16, 18 and reinforces the storage tank 12 against dynamic loads due to fluid in the internal fluid reservoir 22. One of the external support structures 100 of FIG. 20 is illustrated as including a plurality of interconnected braces 102, 106 that form a grid-like reinforcement structure.

  The other external support structures 100 of FIG. 20 are illustrated as being covered by a generally planar closure plate 300a that extends at least partially across the outer surface of one of the external support structures 100. ing. Both external support structures of these external support structures 100 in FIG. 20 can include a grid-like structure of interconnected braces 102, 106, with both external support structures being connected to the respective external support structures 100. It should be understood that the outer surface of the support structure can be covered by a closure plate 300a that extends at least partially across.

  Similar to the auxiliary storage chamber described with reference to FIGS. 1-19 using the inner surface of the closure plate 300a, the inner surface of the outer support structure 100, and the outer surfaces of the plurality of rigid cylindrical walls 16,18. The auxiliary storage chamber 302 can be defined. By disposing the closing plate 300a outside the outer support structure 100 and outside the outer surfaces of the high-rigidity cylindrical walls 16, 18, the volume of the auxiliary storage chamber 302 can be greatly increased. The structure of the filling tower 350 can also be simplified as described with reference to FIG.

  These external support structures 100 in FIG. 20 further include a plurality of blocks 600. Some of these blocks 600 are disposed within the aperture group 602, each opening 602 being a high stiffness interconnect brace of four of the high stiffness interconnect braces 102, 106 of each grid structure. Defined by the intersection of As will be further described with reference to FIG. 23, these blocks 600, which are arranged in the opening group 602, are installed in the storage tank 12 when abutting a bracket group extending from the cargo storage of the carrier. Configured to hold on. These blocks 600 can be formed of laminated compressed wood dedicated to ships, and can be adhesively bonded to the braces 102, 106 using, for example, epoxy. Other high strength materials can also be used for the block 600.

  Some of these blocks 600 are further located on the support surface 604 of the outer support structure 100, and these support surfaces 604 are the most suitable when the storage tank 12 is in the mounting position within the carrier's cargo storage. From the outer surface of one of the high-rigidity cylindrical walls of the lower high-rigidity cylindrical wall group 18, it extends to each closing plate 300 a that covers the respective external support structure 100. As further described with reference to FIG. 23, support surfaces 604 and blocks 600 coupled to these support surfaces abut against shelves extending from the cargo storage of the carrier to place the storage tank in the installed position. Configured to hold.

  FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the bottom side of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIG. 20 when viewed from the direction C of FIG. In this case, as described in FIG. 20, both of these external support structures 100 are substantially entirely covered by a closure plate 300a extending across the outer surface of these external support structures 100. The tank 12 further includes a closing plate 300a extending between the outer surface of the lowermost rigid cylindrical wall 18 and the plurality of partitions 200, each partition 200 passing through the opposing horizontal highly rigid cylindrical wall 18. And extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the opposing horizontal rigid cylindrical wall 18 so as to traverse the internal fluid reservoir 22.

  In addition, each partition wall 200 extends outward from the outer surface of the opposed horizontal high-rigidity cylindrical wall 18 between the partitions of the lowermost closing plate 300a to form a storage tank seat 150. The seat 150 of the storage tank 12 is configured to support the storage tank 12 at an attachment position within the cargo storage of the transport ship. In the example of FIG. 21, the two partition walls 200 extend through the centers of the opposing horizontal high-rigidity cylindrical walls 18 and intersect at the center of the bottom surface of the storage tank 12 to form a cross shape of the seat 150. Other shapes of the partition walls 200, other intersecting partition walls 200, and other numbers of partition walls 200 may be used. A plurality of blocks 600 may be disposed along the seat 150, and the tank 12 may be disposed in the cargo storage of the transport ship for thermal insulation.

  FIG. 22 is a side view of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIG. Two support surfaces 604 are illustrated as extending from the outer surface of the opposed lowermost rigid cylindrical wall 18 to the respective closure plate 300a. By including a support surface 604 extending from the opposed rigid cylindrical wall 18, the storage tank 12 can be restrained against either a pitch or roll of the carrier when in the installed position. The support surface 604 is 15 degrees above the horizontal plane extending along the longitudinal axis of the horizontal rigid cylindrical wall 18 forming the lowermost side of the storage tank 12 when the storage tank 12 is in the mounting position. It is illustrated as extending at an angle of 60 degrees.

  In one non-limiting example, the support surface 604 can be tilted upward at an angle of 25-40 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane to optimize support for the storage tank 12. For example, the inclined support surface 604 can be placed on a shelf extending from the cargo storage shown in FIG. 23, and at the same time allows the cargo storage to expand and contract. By tilting the support surface 604, assembly tolerances or wall position changes of both the storage tank 12 and the cargo storage will never adversely affect the function of the storage tank 12 held in the mounting position.

  23 is a cutaway perspective view of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIG. 20 illustrated as being in an attachment position within the cargo storage 160 of the carrier 162. FIG. Blocks 600 in the opening 602 formed by the interconnecting braces 102, 106 of the lateral outer support structure 100 engage with brackets 606 extending from the vertical walls 164 defining the side groups of the cargo storage 160. To do. The bracket group 606 clamps the block 600 in the adjacent opening 602 to prevent the tank 12 from moving relative to the cargo storage 160 when, for example, the carrier 162 rolls or pitches. Can be configured.

  Yet another group of blocks 600 can extend from the seat 150 and can extend from the lower support surface 604 of the opposing external support structure 100 so that the bottom of the cargo storage 160 and cargo storage Each can be placed on a skirt or shelf 608 extending from the vertical wall 164 of the cabinet 160. The shelf 608 can be configured to support the weight of the tank 12 of the carrier 162 when the tank 12 is in the installed position. By tilting the support surface 604 and, optionally, the block 600 extending from the support surface 604, variations in the dimensions of the cargo storage 160 can always be absorbed by the structure of the tank 12. This is important not only when the temperature difference is between the tank 12 and the carrier 162, but also when the size of the tank 12 and the cargo storage 160 is enormous.

  FIG. 23 further shows that there is only one partition wall 200, a plurality of substantially planar planar plates 204 configured to be laid over the cross section of these horizontal walls 18 that define a portion of the internal fluid reservoir 22. It is illustrated as including. Each planar plate 204 allows fluid communication on either side of the plate 204 by defining a plurality of ovoid holes 206 arranged in an “x” pattern around the plate 204. A passage 610 is further provided in the center of the partition wall 200 in the space between the flat plate groups 204. The passage 610 is sized to be long enough for the filling tower 350 to extend through the tank 12.

  In the third example of FIG. 23, the closing plate 300a is illustrated as extending between the lowermost horizontal rigid cylindrical wall group 18 and below the lowermost horizontal rigid cylindrical wall 18. ing. A plurality of wings 612 extend from a position along the inner surface of the closure plate 300a to mitigate sloshing or dynamic flow of fluid in the auxiliary reservoir 302. Assuming that the position of the closing plate 300a is below the lowermost horizontal high-rigidity cylindrical wall 18, it is not a composite hollow tube in which the vertical hollow tube 354 and the horizontal hollow tube 352 are combined, but will be described with reference to FIGS. Only the vertical hollow tube 354 is required for the filling tower 350 because the horizontal rigid cylinder wall 18 is designed with holes that allow fluid to flow into the auxiliary storage chamber 302. Because you can.

  With reference to FIGS. 24-27, a fourth example of a storage tank storage system 10 is illustrated. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the storage tank 12, the closing plates 300a, 300d, and the external support structures 100a, 100b, which extend through the closing plate 300a and are perpendicular to the storage tank 12. FIG. Dynamic loading by fluid in an internal fluid reservoir (not shown) extending between the outer surfaces of continuous interconnected rigid cylindrical walls 16, 18 on two vertical sides of the side group Reinforce against.

  The storage tank 12 in this fourth example includes high stiffness tube walls 16, 18 having opposite side ends and intermediate segments with closed tube cross-sections, these intermediate segments being two other Interconnected to the respective ends of the rigid wall 16, 18, the interconnected inner wall of the rigid wall 16, 18 defines an internal fluid reservoir (not shown). The storage tank 12 further includes closure plates 300a, 300d connected between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnect high stiffness cylindrical walls 16, 18 to define the sides of the storage tank 12. The inner surfaces of the closing plates 300a, 300d and the outer surfaces of the rigid cylindrical walls 16, 18 at least provide an auxiliary fluid reservoir (not shown) similar to the auxiliary fluid reservoir described with reference to FIGS. Partially defined.

  Two types of closure plates 300a, 300d are shown in FIG. The closure plate 300a extends in a normal direction between the outer wall portions of the continuous interconnect high-rigidity tube walls 16, 18 on each vertical side surface of the vertical side group of the storage tank 12. In contrast, the closure plate 300d extends tangentially between the outer wall portions of the continuous interconnecting pipe walls 16, 18 on the top surface of the storage tank 12. Each side of the storage tank 12 has a maximum outer dimension corresponding to the continuous interconnect rigid wall 16, 18 with respect to the center of the storage tank 12.

  In the case of the vertical side shown in FIG. 24, the maximum outer dimension is located at the outer edge of the rigid cylindrical walls 16, 18, and the closure plate 300a is a continuous interconnected rigid tube at a position inside the maximum outer dimension. It extends between the outer wall part of the walls 16 and 18 and an outer wall part. In other words, the closing plate 300a is at a position smaller than the maximum outer dimension of the vertical side surface of the storage tank 12 by the depth dimension of the recess. This is advantageous because the entire width of the storage tank 12 can be suppressed and the storage tank 12 can be stored more closely in the cargo storage of the transport ship.

  For the top surface, the closure plate 300d extends between the outer and outer walls of the continuous interconnect high-rigidity tube walls 16, 18 at a position outside the maximum outer dimension. In other words, the closing plate 300d is spaced apart and protrudes slightly outside the maximum outer dimension of the top surface of the storage tank 12. In many cases, the overall height of the cargo storage can be made larger than the width of the cargo storage so that a larger margin can be given to the position of the closing plate 300d. Although both of the closure plates 300a, 300d are illustrated as having a planar outer surface or a flat outer surface, other shapes can be used. For example, a spherical closure plate, a circular closure plate, a triangular closure plate, or an l-shaped closure plate can be used to form the outer limit of the auxiliary storage chamber.

  Two external support structures 100a and 100b are illustrated in FIG. Both of these external support structures have a cross shape, with the external support structure 100a positioned on the right vertical side surface of the storage tank 12 and the external support structure 100b positioned on the left vertical side surface of the storage tank 12. The outer support structure 100a extends between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnect high stiffness tube walls 16, 18 and is firmly interconnected extending through the closure plate 300a on the right vertical side of the storage tank 12. A vertical brace 102 and a horizontal brace 106 are included. The outer support structure 100b extends between the outer surfaces of the continuous interconnect high stiffness tube walls 16, 18 and is firmly interconnected extending through the closure plate 300a on the left vertical side of the storage tank 12. A vertical brace 104 and a horizontal brace 106 are included.

  The outer support structures 100a and 100b not only extend through the closing plate 300a but also extend outward from the outer surface of the closing plate 300a with respect to the center of the storage tank 12. Thus, as further described with reference to FIG. 25, the outer support structures 100a, 100b reinforce the storage tank 12 against dynamic loads from fluid within the internal fluid storage chamber. It is configured to be an effective surface for mounting and restraining on site.

  25 is a perspective view of the lowermost side of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIG. 24 including the external support structures 100a, 100b, 100c when viewed from the direction D of FIG. The outer support structure 100c on the lowermost side of the storage tank 12 extends outward from the outer surface of the continuous interconnect high stiffness tube walls 16, 18 and extends outward from the outer surface of the closure plate 300d for storage. It includes vertical braces 102, 104 that form a seat 150 for the tank. The seat 150 is configured to support the storage tank 12 at an attachment position within the cargo storage of the transport ship. In this case, the outer edges of the vertical braces 102 and 104 forming the seat 150 are chamfered to match the internal shape of the cargo storage, but other types of vertical braces 102 and 104 can be used.

  FIG. 25 further shows a plurality of blocks 600. These blocks 600 are arranged in various ways on the external support structures 100a, 100b, 100c. For example, the block 600 associated with the outer support structure 100a, 100b is arranged to contact one vertical brace of the vertical braces 102, 104, or the horizontal brace 106, and to abut the outer surface of the closure plate 300a. Be placed. For example, the block 600 disposed below the horizontal brace 106 and contacting the horizontal brace 106 can be a vertical support surface, and the block 600 disposed on the side surface and contacting the vertical braces 102, 104 can roll and It can be a restraining surface that suppresses pitching. The block 600 associated with the seat 150 of the storage tank 12 can be placed in contact with the outer surface of the illustrated vertical braces 102, 104 so that the storage tank 12 can be spaced from the carrier floor. .

  Block 600 is configured to hold storage tank 12 in an installed position when functioning as a spacer or when abutting against a bracket, stop member, or other structure extending from the cargo storage of the carrier. Are arranged as follows. The block 600 can be formed of laminated compressed wood dedicated to ships and can be adhesively bonded to the closure plates 300a, 300d and braces 102, 104, 106 using, for example, epoxy. Other high strength materials can also be used for the block 600. Although the block group 600 of FIG. 25 is illustrated as being equally spaced along the various braces 102, 104, 106, other configurations may be used. For example, the block group 600 can be collected in a specific area or designed to surround the braces 102, 104, 106. Although the block group 600 of FIG. 25 is illustrated as a cube, other shapes can be used corresponding to the block 600, for example, a long rectangle, a triangle, or other shapes can be used.

  FIG. 26 is a side view of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIGS. 24 and 25. In this figure, the vertical brace 102 is shown as being partly divided in two by a vertical brace 104 and a horizontal brace 106 that substantially circumscribe the storage tank 12 and form an external support structure 100b. . The vertical brace 104 and the horizontal brace 106 are illustrated as intersecting in a cross shape or a lattice shape. The vertical brace 104 and the horizontal brace 106 further extend through the rigid wall 16, 18 across the rigid wall 16, 18. Although shown as extending through the surface, as an alternative, any of the braces 102, 104, 106 abut the outer surfaces of the rigid tube walls 16, 18 and the closure plates 300a, 300d. Furthermore, the storage tank storage system 10 can be supported to provide rigidity to the storage tank storage system 10.

  Both the closing plates 300d extending along the top and bottom surfaces of the storage tank 12 are at positions outside the maximum outer dimensions corresponding to the top and bottom continuous interconnect rigid wall 16, 18. Or extend beyond the maximum outer dimension. The plate height of the closing plate 300d on the top surface of the storage tank 12 is smaller than the plate height of the closing plate 300d on the bottom surface of the storage tank 12, but these plate heights are determined by the position of the auxiliary fluid storage chamber and Depending on the structure, the values can be equal or the values can be reversed. The volume of the auxiliary fluid storage chamber is related to the installation state of the closing plate 300d. When the plate height of the closing plate 300d increases, the volume of the auxiliary fluid storage chamber increases.

  27 is a cut-away perspective view of the storage tank storage system 10 of FIGS. 24-26, with the septum ring webs 200, 202 positioned across the middle segment of the horizontal rigid wall 18 of the storage tank 12. FIG. An example is shown. The partition ring web 200 has a gusset plate 502 that extends along the same plane as the vertical brace 104, an annular shape, and extends through the inner wall of the rigid wall 18 or, alternatively, Plane plates 204a and 204b connected to the inner wall portion of the high-rigidity tube wall 18. Planar plates 204 a, 204 b define large apertures 206 that allow fluid to flow confined through the septum ring web 200. The septum ring web 202 similarly includes a gusset plate 504 that extends along the same plane as the vertical brace 102 and two toroidal planar plates 204 c, 204 d that define a hole 206. The flat plates 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d, and the hole 206 all have an annular shape.

  Holes 206 in the flat plates 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d allow the inner periphery of the flat plates 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d to extend above the minimum fill level to reduce sloshing loads in the storage tank 12 To be sized. The annular planar plates 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d can be used in place of the flexible membrane type partition walls. Alternatively, an inner membrane with yet another hole (not shown) can be mounted within the existing hole 206 in the planar plates 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d. The total weight of the storage tank 12 can be further reduced by using the ring-shaped flat plates 204a, 204b, 204c, and 204d in place of the flat plate 204 with the small opening holes of the previously described embodiment.

  The embodiments, features, and examples described above for the structure and shape of the storage tank storage system 10 vary widely according to one or more design criteria, strength criteria, manufacturing criteria, cost criteria, and / or other criteria. It will be appreciated that variations and / or combinations can be made in the manner. These dimensions described are set based on several possible design cases and are given as non-limiting examples. It will be appreciated that other thicknesses may be used, depending on the material used and the application.

  Although the present invention has been described in relation to what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments of the present disclosure, It should be understood that the invention includes various modifications and equivalent configurations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which are to be accorded the broadest interpretation, and therefore all Such modifications and equivalent configurations are intended to be embraced to the maximum extent permitted by law.

Claims (14)

A large-capacity natural gas storage tank (12) comprising a rigid wall (16, 18), a closing plate (300), an external support structure (102, 104, 106), and a partition ring web (200, 202). ) And
The high-rigidity pipe wall (16, 18) has both side ends and an intermediate segment having a closed pipe cross section, and the both side ends of the high-rigidity pipe wall are two other high-rigidity pipe walls (16 18), interconnected inner walls of the rigid wall (16, 18) define an internal fluid reservoir (22);
The closure plate (300) is connected between the outer surfaces of the rigid wall (16, 18) interconnected in series to define the side of the storage tank (12);
An inner surface of the closure plate (300) and the outer surface of the rigid tube wall (16, 18) define an auxiliary fluid reservoir (302);
The external support structure (102, 104, 106) is formed by the continuous interconnected rigid wall (16, 18) on at least some of the sides of the storage tank (12). Extending between outer surfaces and configured to reinforce the storage tank (12) against dynamic loading by fluid in the internal fluid reservoir (22);
The partition ring web (200, 202) is an annular flat plate (204a) disposed in the internal fluid reservoir (22) so as to traverse the intermediate segment of the rigid wall (16, 18). 204b, 204c, 204d), and the annular plate (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d) and the side group of the storage tank (12) extending through the closing plate (300). Gusset plates (502, 504) connecting at least some of the external support structures (102, 104, 106) on at least some of the sides,
A large-capacity natural gas storage tank (12) characterized in that. A large capacity natural gas storage tank (12) comprising a rigid wall (16, 18), a partition ring web (200, 202), a closure plate (300), and an external support structure (100). ,
The high-rigidity pipe wall (16, 18) has both end portions and an intermediate segment having a closed pipe cross section, and the both-side end portions of the high-rigidity pipe wall are ends of another high-rigidity tube wall. Interconnected inner walls of the rigid wall (16, 18) defining an internal fluid reservoir,
The partition ring web (200, 202) is disposed in the internal fluid reservoir (22) so as to traverse the intermediate segment of the rigid tube wall (16, 18);
The partition ring web (200, 202) includes an annular planar plate,
The annular plane plate is connected to the inner wall portion of one of the high-rigidity pipe walls (16, 18), and a hole (206) is defined to allow fluid to flow. Allowing restricted flow through the ring web (200, 202),
The closure plate (300) extends tangentially between the outer surfaces of the rigid wall (16, 18) that are continuously interconnected, and the top surface of the storage tank (12) and Define the bottom surface,
The inner surface of the closure plate (300) and the outer surface of the rigid wall (16, 18) at least partially define an auxiliary fluid reservoir (302);
The outer support structure (100) extends outwardly from the outer surface of the continuously interconnected rigid wall (16, 18) and of the closure plate (300) at the bottom surface. Extending outwardly from the outer surface to form a seat (150) of the storage tank (12);
The seat is configured to support the storage tank (12) at an attachment position within a cargo storage of a carrier ship,
A large-capacity natural gas storage tank (12) characterized in that.   Each septum ring web (200, 202) comprises an inner membrane defined with at least one hole (206) that allows fluid to flow confined through the septum ring web (200, 202). Storage tank (12) according to claim 1 or 2.   Each side of the storage tank (12) has a maximum outer dimension corresponding to the continuously interconnected rigid wall (16, 18) with respect to the center of the storage tank (12). The storage tank (12) of claim 1.   The closure plate (300) is connected to the continuously interconnected high-rigidity tube wall (31) at a position inside the maximum outer dimension of at least some of the side groups of the storage tank (12). Storage tank (12) according to claim 4, extending between the outer walls of 16, 18).   The closure plate (300) of the continuously interconnected rigid wall (16, 18) at a position inside the maximum outer dimension of the vertical side group of the storage tank (12). The storage tank (12) according to claim 5, wherein the storage tank (12) extends between the outer walls.   The closure plate (300) is connected to the continuously interconnected high-rigidity tube wall (6) at a position outside the maximum outer dimension of at least some of the side groups of the storage tank (12). Storage tank (12) according to claim 4, extending between the outer walls of 16, 18).   The closure plate (300) of the continuously interconnected rigid wall (16, 18) at a position outside the maximum outer dimension of the top and bottom surfaces of the storage tank (12). A storage tank (12) according to claim 7 extending between said outer walls.   A block group (600) disposed on the external support structure (102, 104, 106) is further provided, wherein the block group (600) stores the storage when abutting against a bracket extending from a cargo storage of a carrier ship. The storage tank (12) of claim 1, wherein the storage tank (12) is configured to hold the tank (12) in an installed position.   The storage tank (12) according to claim 1, wherein the external support structure (102, 104, 106) is formed by vertically interconnected vertical and horizontal braces.   Each closing plate (300) has one of a normal direction and a tangential direction between outer walls of the continuously interconnected high-rigidity pipe walls (16, 18) on each side of the storage tank (12). Storage tank (12) according to claim 1, extending in the direction.   3. A storage tank (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each closure plate (300) comprises one outer surface of a spherical outer surface, a circular outer surface, a triangular outer surface, an l-shaped outer surface, or a planar outer surface. 12).   The storage tank (12) of claim 3, wherein the hole (206) has an annular shape. The outer support structure (100) extends outwardly from an outer surface of the closure plate (300) on the top surface of the storage tank (12);
The storage tank comprises a group of blocks (600) disposed on the external support structure (100) outside the outer surface of the closure plate (300) on the top surface of the storage tank (12);
The storage tank (3) according to claim 2, wherein the block group (600) is configured to hold the storage tank (12) in an installed position when abutting against a bracket extending from a cargo storage of a carrier ship. 12).

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