US20170146193A1 - Compact insert design for cryogenic pressure vessels - Google Patents
Compact insert design for cryogenic pressure vessels Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170146193A1 US20170146193A1 US14/950,527 US201514950527A US2017146193A1 US 20170146193 A1 US20170146193 A1 US 20170146193A1 US 201514950527 A US201514950527 A US 201514950527A US 2017146193 A1 US2017146193 A1 US 2017146193A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- piece
- cylinder
- insert
- parallel
- pressure vessel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
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- F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
- F17C13/001—Thermal insulation specially adapted for cryogenic vessels
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
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- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C3/00—Vessels not under pressure
- F17C3/02—Vessels not under pressure with provision for thermal insulation
- F17C3/08—Vessels not under pressure with provision for thermal insulation by vacuum spaces, e.g. Dewar flask
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/16—Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas
- B65D51/1633—Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas whereby venting occurs by automatic opening of the closure, container or other element
- B65D51/1644—Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas whereby venting occurs by automatic opening of the closure, container or other element the element being a valve
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
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- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
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- F17C2203/0629—Two walls
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
- F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
- F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
- F17C2205/0352—Pipes
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
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- F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
- F17C2221/012—Hydrogen
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
- F17C2223/0146—Two-phase
- F17C2223/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
- F17C2223/0161—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL cryogenic, e.g. LNG, GNL, PLNG
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
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- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
- F17C2223/033—Small pressure, e.g. for liquefied gas
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
- F17C2223/036—Very high pressure (>80 bar)
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/04—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by other properties of handled fluid before transfer
- F17C2223/042—Localisation of the removal point
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2270/00—Applications
- F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2270/00—Applications
- F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
- F17C2270/0165—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road
- F17C2270/0168—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road by vehicles
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/32—Hydrogen storage
Definitions
- the present invention relates to compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessels and more particularly to a compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- Hydrogen has the potential to displace petroleum as a universal transportation fuel, reducing or eliminating petroleum dependence and associated tailpipe air pollutants and greenhouse gases.
- the predominant technical barrier limiting widespread use of hydrogen vehicles is sufficient onboard fuel storage capacity for highway vehicles within volume, weight, cost, and refueling time constraints.
- cryogenic capable pressure vessels This technology can store hydrogen more compactly than conventional ambient temperature pressure vessels, with lower weight than hydrogen absorption storage technologies, and with far greater thermal endurance than conventional low pressure LH 2 storage, potentially eliminating evaporative losses under virtually all automotive usage conditions.
- the inventors' disclose a pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure.
- the apparatus includes lines for connection to external components.
- the apparatus includes a pressure container having a central axis; an interior cavity in the pressure container; an internally threaded opening in the pressure container, the internally threaded opening interfacing with the inner cavity; and an insert adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure container.
- the insert includes a parallel inlet duct in the insert that is parallel with the central axis; a perpendicular inlet duct connected to the parallel inlet duct in the insert, wherein the perpendicular inlet duct is perpendicular to the central axis and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct and the parallel inlet duct connect the interior cavity with the external components; a parallel outlet duct in the insert that is parallel with the central axis; and a perpendicular outlet duct connected to the parallel outlet duct in the insert, wherein the perpendicular outlet duct is perpendicular to the central axis and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct and the parallel outlet duct connect the interior cavity with the external components.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a prior art compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel.
- FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate one embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- FIG. 6 illustrates yet another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B a prior art compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel for storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure is illustrated.
- the inlet and/or outlet tubes protrude perpendicularly from the insert.
- the protruding tubes cannot be directly extended to the outer vacuum vessels because the short length would result in considerable heat transfer into the outer vacuum vessels. Instead, the tubes have to be bent at a sharp angle and turned around the inner vessel to increase the thermal path to a length (1 meter or more) that minimizes conduction heat transfer into the inner vessel.
- the high-pressure tubes necessary for this application (350 bar or higher) have a minimum bend radius of a few centimeters.
- FIG. 1A illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a prior art cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel.
- the prior art cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel is designated generally by the reference numeral 100 .
- the prior art pressure vessel 100 includes an insert 108 is located at the end of the vessel 100 .
- the insert 108 provides access into and out of the storage volume 102 of the pressure vessel 100 .
- the insert 108 includes an inlet port line 109 and an outlet port line 110 extending through the inner pressure container and the outer container.
- the inlet port line 109 and an outlet port line 110 provide access into and out of the storage volume 102 of the pressure vessel 100 .
- the inlet port line 109 and an outlet port line 110 provide a connection to a refueling dispenser and/or vehicle engine/fuel cell (not shown).
- a central axis extends along the pressure vessel 100 .
- the pressure vessel 100 generally has an elongated cylindrical configuration along the central axis with rounded elliptical ends, as is typical of pressure vessel design in the art.
- An example of a prior art pressure vessel is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,483 issued Jun. 16, 2015.
- FIG. 1B an enlarged view of the inlet and outlet portion of the prior art compact insert 108 of the compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel 100 of FIG. 1A is shown.
- the prior art insert 108 provides access into and out of the storage volume 102 of the pressure vessel 100 .
- the insert 108 includes inlet port line 109 and outlet port line 110 extending through the inner pressure container 103 and the outer container 104 .
- the inlet port line 109 and outlet port line 110 protrude perpendicularly through and from the insert 108 .
- the protruding inlet port line 109 and outlet port line 110 cannot be directly extended to the outer vacuum vessels because the short length would result in considerable heat transfer into the outer vacuum vessels. Instead, the inlet port line 109 and outlet port line 110 have to be bent at a sharp angle and turned around the inner vessel to increase the thermal path to a length (1 meter or more) that minimizes conduction heat transfer into the inner vessel.
- FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C one embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel is illustrated.
- the embodiment is designated generally by the reference numeral 200 .
- the present embodiment 200 is directed to an insert for a cryogenic capable pressure vessel for storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure.
- the pressure vessel 200 has a central axis 1 .
- the prior art bent inlet port line 109 and bent outlet port line 110 illustrated in FIG. 1 are replaced by applicants' new insert 208 .
- the new insert 208 includes an inlet duct 211 and outlet duct 212 inside the insert 208 .
- Inlet duct 211 includes a parallel duct 211 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 211 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- Outlet duct 212 includes a parallel duct 212 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 212 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- FIGS. 2A and 2B a longitudinal cross-sectional view of Applicant's cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel embodiment 200 is shown in FIG. 2A and enlarged view of a section of the wall of the vessel 200 is shown in FIG. 2B .
- the central axis 1 extends along the pressure vessel 200 .
- the pressure vessel 200 generally has an elongated cylindrical configuration along the central axis 1 with rounded elliptical ends, as is typical of pressure vessel design in the art.
- the pressure vessel 200 includes an inner pressure container 203 surrounding and enclosing a storage volume 202 ; and an outer container 204 surrounding the inner pressure container 203 to form an evacuated space 205 there between.
- Insulated cross supports (not shown) separate and suspend the inner pressure container 203 from the outer container 204 , to reduce heat conduction there between.
- the outer container 204 has a lightweight rigid body construction capable of supporting the evacuated space 205 therein, with aluminum or stainless steel being exemplary material types used for its construction.
- the inner pressure container 203 is a lightweight rigid structure having a high strength-to-weight ratio. Moreover, the construction of the inner pressure container 203 is configured to withstand high pressures (due to compressed gas storage) from within the fuel storage volume 202 . For example, light-duty vehicular storage applications using compressed gas fuels may typically have operating pressures up to 700 bar (10,000 psi) when storing 5 kg of H 2 in a 250-liter external volume. In any case, the inner pressure container 203 is typically made from a lightweight composite material having a fiber reinforced resin matrix construction, using manufacturing methods known in the art.
- Composite constructions such as carbon fiber, fiber-epoxy, the composite material sold under the trademark “Kevlar,” etc., provide numerous advantages such as lightness in weight and resistance to corrosion, fatigue and catastrophic failure. This combination of lightness in weight and resistance to failure is possible due to the high specific strength of the reinforcing fibers or filaments (carbon, glass, aramid, etc.) which, in the construction of pressure vessels, is typically oriented in the direction of the principal stresses.
- the inner pressure container 203 may additionally include an inner liner 201 which lines the inside surface thereof.
- the inner container liner 201 is typically made of metals such as aluminum and steel, although it may also be composed of a lightweight non-metallic material, such as a polymeric material, in order to achieve substantial weight reduction of the pressure vessel (compared to metallic liners commonly used for conventional pressure vessels).
- exemplary polymeric materials include polyethylene, nylon, kapton, or other polymers, but are not limited only to such.
- the substantial weight reduction provided by using a polymeric liner instead of an aluminum liner can be appreciated by the potential weight savings of 10-15 kg for a 35-40 kg total vessel mass in the 5 kg H.sub.2/250 liter pressure vessel example discussed above (where the aluminum liner has an approximate average thickness of 3 mm).
- construction of the composite-construction inner pressure container typically involves wrapping fibers over the liner in order to produce the fiber reinforced resin matrix.
- fabrication of the inner container 203 typically involves a water-soluble or otherwise removable mandrel.
- the plastic liner 201 and the composite inner pressure container 203 are selected and designed for suitable operation over a wide range of temperatures, from liquid hydrogen temperatures (20 K) up to high temperatures that may result while the vessel is filled with compressed hydrogen (up to 400 K).
- the pressure vessel 200 also includes a thermal insulator 206 surrounding the inner pressure container 203 in the evacuated space 205 .
- the thermal insulator 206 serves to inhibit heat transfer to the storage volume 202 .
- One exemplary embodiment of the thermal insulator comprises an external vacuum multi-layer insulation to reduce heat transfer to the storage volume, especially during cryogenic operation.
- the outer container 204 operates to keep a vacuum around the vessel, which is required for effective operation of the multi-layer insulation.
- the pressure vessel is insulated with multilayer vacuum superinsulation (MLVSI). MLVSI exhibits good thermal performance only under a high vacuum, at a pressure lower than 0.01 Pa (7.5.times.10( ⁇ 5) mm Hg).
- the present invention is directed to a lightweight, cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel capable of flexibly storing fluids, such as cryogenic liquids as well as compressed gases, at cryogenic or ambient temperatures.
- cryogenic liquid fuels e.g. liquid hydrogen, “LH 2 ”, or liquid natural gas, “LNG”
- compressed gas fuels at cryogenic or ambient temperatures e.g. compressed hydrogen, “CH 2 ”, or compressed natural gas, “CNG”.
- hydrogen and natural gas are two of the more common examples of alternative fuels used for AFV applications, other fuels may also be utilized which are suitable for compressed gas storage and cryogenic liquid storage.
- hydrogen is used as an exemplary fuel for generally illustrating operation of the present invention.
- cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel is readily apparent for vehicular storage applications, it is not limited only to such.
- the present invention may be generally used for any application requiring flexibility in the types of fluids stored cryogenic and compressed.
- FIG. 2B A portion of the wall of the pressure vessel 200 of FIG. 2A in the area designated by the dotted line circle is shown in FIG. 2B .
- An insert 208 of the embodiment 200 is located within the area designated by the dotted line circle. The insert 208 provides access into and out of the storage volume 202 of the pressure vessel 200 . Details of the insert 208 are shown in FIG. 2C .
- FIG. 2B cross-sectional view of the wall of Applicant's cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel 200 within the dotted line circle shown in FIG. 2A is shown.
- the pressure vessel 200 includes an inner pressure container 203 and an outer container 204 enclosing the storage volume 202 .
- the structural elements of the wall are identified and described below.
- the wall includes the following structural elements:
- the inner pressure container 203 is constructed to withstand high pressures (due to compressed gas storage) from within the fuel storage volume.
- high pressures due to compressed gas storage
- light-duty vehicular storage applications using compressed gas fuels may typically have operating pressures up to 700 bar (10000 psi) when storing 5 kg of H 2 in a 250-liter external volume.
- the inner pressure container 203 is typically made from a lightweight composite material having a fiber reinforced resin matrix construction, using manufacturing methods known in the art.
- Composite constructions, such as carbon fiber, fiber-epoxy, the composite material sold under the trademark “Kevlar,” etc. provide numerous advantages such as lightness in weight and resistance to corrosion, fatigue and catastrophic failure. This combination of lightness in weight and resistance to failure is possible due to the high specific strength of the reinforcing fibers or filaments (carbon, glass, aramid, etc.) which, in the construction of pressure vessels, is typically oriented in the direction of the principal stresses.
- the outer container 204 has a lightweight rigid body construction capable of supporting the evacuated space 205 therein, with aluminum or stainless steel being exemplary material types used for its construction. Given that weight is of critical importance in pressure vessels, especially for vehicular applications, the inner pressure container 203 is a lightweight rigid structure having a high strength-to-weight ratio.
- the inner pressure container 203 includes an inner liner 201 which lines the inside surface thereof.
- the inner container liner 201 is typically made of metals such as aluminum and steel, although it may also be composed of a lightweight non-metallic material, such as a polymeric material, in order to achieve substantial weight reduction of the pressure vessel (compared to metallic liners commonly used for conventional pressure vessels).
- Exemplary polymeric materials include polyethylene, nylon, kapton, or other polymers, but are not limited only to such.
- the substantial weight reduction provided by using a polymeric liner instead of an aluminum liner can be appreciated by the potential weight savings of 10-15 kg for a 35-40 kg total vessel mass in the 5 kg H.sub.2/250 liter pressure vessel example discussed above (where the aluminum liner has an approximate average thickness of 3 mm).
- construction of the composite-construction inner pressure container typically involves wrapping fibers over the liner in order to produce the fiber reinforced resin matrix.
- fabrication of the inner container 203 typically involves a water-soluble or otherwise removable mandrel.
- the plastic liner 201 and the composite inner pressure container 203 are selected and designed for suitable operation over a wide range of temperatures, from liquid hydrogen temperatures (20 K) up to high temperatures that may result while the vessel is filled with compressed hydrogen (up to 400 K).
- the thermal insulator 206 surrounds the inner pressure container 203 and liner 201 in the evacuated space 205 .
- the thermal insulator 206 serves to inhibit heat transfer to the storage volume 202 .
- One exemplary embodiment of the thermal insulator comprises an external vacuum multi-layer insulation to reduce heat transfer to the storage volume, especially during cryogenic operation.
- the outer container 204 operates to keep a vacuum around the vessel, which is required for effective operation of the multi-layer insulation.
- the pressure vessel is insulated with multilayer vacuum superinsultation (MLVSI). MLVSI exhibits good thermal performance only under a high vacuum, at a pressure lower than 0.01 Pa (7.5.times.10( ⁇ 5) mm Hg).
- the insulated cross supports separate and suspend the inner pressure container 203 and liner 201 from the outer container 204 to reduce heat conduction there between.
- the insert 208 is shown in greater detail.
- the prior art insert illustrated in FIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert 208 .
- the new insert 208 includes an inlet duct 211 and outlet duct 212 inside the insert 208 .
- Inlet duct 211 includes a parallel duct 211 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 211 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- Outlet duct 212 includes a parallel duct 212 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 212 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- An inlet port line (not shown) is connected to a socket 213 in the insert 208 .
- An outlet port line (not shown) is connected to a socket 214 in the insert 208 .
- the inlet port line and the outlet port line provide access into and out of the storage volume 102 of the pressure vessel 100 .
- the insert 208 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated in FIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components.
- the pressure vessel has a central axis.
- the pressure vessel includes an inner pressure container 203 , an inner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, an outer container 204 , an evacuated space 205 in the outer container, and thermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space.
- An internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator.
- the insert 208 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel.
- the insert 208 includes a parallel inlet duct 211 a in the insert 208 that is parallel with the central axis 1 ; a perpendicular inlet duct 211 b connected to the parallel inlet duct 211 a in the insert 208 , wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 211 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 211 b and the parallel inlet duct 211 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- a parallel outlet duct 212 a is located in the insert 208 that is parallel with the central axis 1 .
- a perpendicular outlet duct 212 b is connected to the parallel outlet duct 212 a in the insert 208 , wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 212 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 212 b and the parallel outlet duct 212 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- FIG. 3 another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated.
- the prior art insert illustrated in FIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert.
- This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by the reference numeral 308 .
- the new insert 308 includes an inlet duct 311 and outlet duct 312 inside the insert 308 .
- Inlet duct 311 includes a parallel duct 311 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 311 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- Outlet duct 312 includes a parallel duct 312 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 312 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- the insert 308 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated in FIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components.
- the pressure vessel has a central axis.
- the pressure vessel includes an inner pressure container 203 , an inner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, an outer container 204 , an evacuated space 205 in the outer container, and thermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space.
- the internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator.
- the insert 308 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel.
- the insert 308 includes a parallel inlet duct 311 a in the insert 308 that is parallel with the central axis 1 ; a perpendicular inlet duct 311 b connected to the parallel inlet duct 311 a in the insert 308 , wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 311 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 311 b and the parallel inlet duct 311 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- a parallel outlet duct 312 a is located in the insert 308 that is parallel with the central axis 1 .
- a perpendicular outlet duct 312 b is connected to the parallel outlet duct 312 a in the insert 308 , wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 312 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 312 b and the parallel outlet duct 312 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- This embodiment of the insert 308 is a bi-metal cylinder made of aluminum and stainless steel attached together.
- the outer portion of the insert 308 is made of stainless steel and inner portion of the insert 308 is made of aluminum.
- a bimetallic joint 315 attaches the outer portion of insert 308 and inner portion of insert 308 .
- This configuration is applicable to aluminum-lined vessels typically used to store pressurized gases, where the aluminum part of the bimetallic joint can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal.
- FIG. 4 yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated.
- the prior art insert illustrated in FIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert.
- This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by the reference numeral 408 .
- the new insert 408 includes an inlet duct 411 and outlet duct 412 inside the insert 408 .
- Inlet duct 411 includes a parallel duct 411 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 411 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- Outlet duct 412 includes a parallel duct 412 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 412 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1 .
- This embodiment of the insert 408 is a metal cylinder made entirely of stainless steel.
- the insert 408 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated in FIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components.
- the pressure vessel has a central axis.
- the pressure vessel includes an inner pressure container 203 , an inner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, an outer container 204 , an evacuated space 205 in the outer container, and thermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space.
- the internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator.
- the insert 408 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel.
- the insert 408 includes a parallel inlet duct 411 a in the insert 408 that is parallel with the central axis 1 ; a perpendicular inlet duct 411 b connected to the parallel inlet duct 411 a in the insert 408 , wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 411 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 411 b and the parallel inlet duct 411 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components 416 .
- a parallel outlet duct 412 a is located in the insert 408 that is parallel with the central axis 1 .
- a perpendicular outlet duct 412 b is connected to the parallel outlet duct 412 a in the insert 408 , wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 412 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 412 b and the parallel outlet duct 412 a connect the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal.
- FIG. 5 yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated.
- the prior art insert illustrated in FIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert.
- This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by the reference numeral 508 .
- the new insert 508 includes a combination inlet and outlet duct 511 inside the insert 508 .
- the combination inlet and outlet duct 511 includes a parallel duct 511 a that is parallel to the central axis and a perpendicular duct 511 b that is perpendicular to the central axis.
- This embodiment of the insert 508 is a metal cylinder made entirely of stainless steel.
- the insert 508 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated in FIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components.
- the pressure vessel has a central axis.
- the pressure vessel includes an inner pressure container, an inner liner connected to the inner pressure container, an outer container, an evacuated space in the outer container, and thermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space.
- the internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator.
- the insert 508 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel.
- the combination inlet and outlet duct 511 connects the interior cavity 202 with the external components.
- This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal.
- FIG. 6 yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated.
- the prior art insert illustrated in FIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert.
- This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by the reference numeral 608 .
- the new insert 608 includes a combination inlet and outlet duct 611 inside the insert 608 .
- the combination inlet and outlet duct 611 includes a parallel duct 611 a that is parallel to the central axis and a perpendicular duct 611 b that is perpendicular to the central axis.
- This embodiment of the insert 608 is a bi-metal cylinder made of aluminum and stainless steel attached together at 615 .
- the insert 608 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated in FIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components.
- the pressure vessel has a central axis.
- the internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator.
- the insert 608 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel.
- the combination inlet and outlet duct 611 connects the interior cavity with the external components. This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal.
- the embodiment has threads in the insert. When the insert is screwed into the pressure vessel boss, the threads contain forces caused by pressurization of the inner vessel. Welds are only for sealing and are not loaded under tension or compression.
- the insert provides a straightforward approach to transitioning from the relatively weak, highly conductive metal (aluminum) typical of metal lined, fiber wrapped (type 3) vessels, and the high strength, low conductivity metals (stainless steel) necessary to withstand high pressure in the inlet and outlet tubes while minimizing heat transfer into the inner vessel.
- Metal to metal transition is accomplished with standard techniques for joining dissimilar metals (explosion bonding, friction stir welding).
- Metal to metal transition joint is under compression instead of tension, thereby minimizing risk of joint failure.
- Insert is located inside the pressure vessel, thereby minimizing overall system length and improving packaging efficiency.
Abstract
Description
- The United States Government has rights in this application pursuant to Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344 between the United States Department of Energy and Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC for the operation of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
- The present invention relates to compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessels and more particularly to a compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel.
- Hydrogen has the potential to displace petroleum as a universal transportation fuel, reducing or eliminating petroleum dependence and associated tailpipe air pollutants and greenhouse gases. The predominant technical barrier limiting widespread use of hydrogen vehicles is sufficient onboard fuel storage capacity for highway vehicles within volume, weight, cost, and refueling time constraints.
- There exist three technologies for automotive hydrogen storage: High pressure compressed gas storage, low-pressure absorption of hydrogen in porous and/or reactive materials, and storage as a cryogenic liquid. Each has significant fundamental drawbacks. Hydrogen stored as a compressed gas occupies a relatively large volume at ambient temperature. Materials which absorb hydrogen add significant weight, cost, and thermal complexity to onboard storage systems. Liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage has the potential for evaporative losses from distribution, transfer and refueling operations, in addition to pressure buildup due to heat transfer, which must be relieved by venting during periods of inactivity greater than several days.
- Over the past 10 years the Applicants have pioneered research and development of a more advantageous storage technology: cryogenic capable pressure vessels. This technology can store hydrogen more compactly than conventional ambient temperature pressure vessels, with lower weight than hydrogen absorption storage technologies, and with far greater thermal endurance than conventional low pressure LH2 storage, potentially eliminating evaporative losses under virtually all automotive usage conditions.
- The subcomponents of such tanks must also be able to handle high-pressure cryogenic conditions. However, most components are designed for only one specific subset such as low-pressure cryogenic or high pressure and ambient temperatures and therefore cannot be used. Furthermore, conventional approaches to interface the tank with external components designed for high pressure cryogenic conditions take up a large amount of the system volume. Considering that storing enough hydrogen onboard a vehicle is key for customer acceptance, compact pressure vessel system designs will play an important role in enabling a transition to clean, practical, hydrogen vehicles.
- Features and advantages of the disclosed apparatus, systems, and methods will become apparent from the following description. Applicant is providing this description, which includes drawings and examples of specific embodiments, to give a broad representation of the apparatus, systems, and methods. Various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the application will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this description and by practice of the apparatus, systems, and methods. The scope of the apparatus, systems, and methods is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed and the application covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the apparatus, systems, and methods as defined by the claims.
- The inventors' disclose a pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure. The apparatus includes lines for connection to external components. The apparatus includes a pressure container having a central axis; an interior cavity in the pressure container; an internally threaded opening in the pressure container, the internally threaded opening interfacing with the inner cavity; and an insert adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure container.
- The inventors' improve volumetric efficiency even more by incorporating an L-shaped duct within the insert. The insert includes a parallel inlet duct in the insert that is parallel with the central axis; a perpendicular inlet duct connected to the parallel inlet duct in the insert, wherein the perpendicular inlet duct is perpendicular to the central axis and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct and the parallel inlet duct connect the interior cavity with the external components; a parallel outlet duct in the insert that is parallel with the central axis; and a perpendicular outlet duct connected to the parallel outlet duct in the insert, wherein the perpendicular outlet duct is perpendicular to the central axis and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct and the parallel outlet duct connect the interior cavity with the external components.
- The apparatus, systems, and methods are susceptible to modifications and alternative forms. Specific embodiments are shown by way of example. It is to be understood that the apparatus, systems, and methods are not limited to the particular forms disclosed. The apparatus, systems, and methods cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the claims.
- The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate specific embodiments of the apparatus, systems, and methods and, together with the general description given above, and the detailed description of the specific embodiments, serve to explain the principles of the apparatus, systems, and methods.
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a prior art compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel. -
FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate one embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel. -
FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel. -
FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel. -
FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel. -
FIG. 6 illustrates yet another embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel. - Referring to the drawings, to the following detailed description, and to incorporated materials, detailed information about the apparatus, systems, and methods is provided including the description of specific embodiments. The detailed description serves to explain the principles of the apparatus, systems, and methods. The apparatus, systems, and methods are susceptible to modifications and alternative forms. The application is not limited to the particular forms disclosed. The application covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the apparatus, systems, and methods as defined by the claims.
- Referring now to the drawings and in particular to
FIGS. 1A and 1B , a prior art compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel for storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure is illustrated. In the prior art compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel, the inlet and/or outlet tubes protrude perpendicularly from the insert. The protruding tubes cannot be directly extended to the outer vacuum vessels because the short length would result in considerable heat transfer into the outer vacuum vessels. Instead, the tubes have to be bent at a sharp angle and turned around the inner vessel to increase the thermal path to a length (1 meter or more) that minimizes conduction heat transfer into the inner vessel. The high-pressure tubes necessary for this application (350 bar or higher) have a minimum bend radius of a few centimeters. -
FIG. 1A illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a prior art cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel. The prior art cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel is designated generally by thereference numeral 100. The priorart pressure vessel 100 includes aninsert 108 is located at the end of thevessel 100. Theinsert 108 provides access into and out of thestorage volume 102 of thepressure vessel 100. Theinsert 108 includes aninlet port line 109 and anoutlet port line 110 extending through the inner pressure container and the outer container. Theinlet port line 109 and anoutlet port line 110 provide access into and out of thestorage volume 102 of thepressure vessel 100. Theinlet port line 109 and anoutlet port line 110 provide a connection to a refueling dispenser and/or vehicle engine/fuel cell (not shown). - A central axis extends along the
pressure vessel 100. Thepressure vessel 100 generally has an elongated cylindrical configuration along the central axis with rounded elliptical ends, as is typical of pressure vessel design in the art. An example of a prior art pressure vessel is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,483 issued Jun. 16, 2015. - Referring now to
FIG. 1B , an enlarged view of the inlet and outlet portion of the prior artcompact insert 108 of the compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessel 100 ofFIG. 1A is shown. Theprior art insert 108 provides access into and out of thestorage volume 102 of thepressure vessel 100. Theinsert 108 includesinlet port line 109 andoutlet port line 110 extending through the inner pressure container 103 and the outer container 104. Theinlet port line 109 andoutlet port line 110 protrude perpendicularly through and from theinsert 108. The protrudinginlet port line 109 andoutlet port line 110 cannot be directly extended to the outer vacuum vessels because the short length would result in considerable heat transfer into the outer vacuum vessels. Instead, theinlet port line 109 andoutlet port line 110 have to be bent at a sharp angle and turned around the inner vessel to increase the thermal path to a length (1 meter or more) that minimizes conduction heat transfer into the inner vessel. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C , one embodiment of the inventors' compact insert for a cryogenic pressure vessel is illustrated. The embodiment is designated generally by thereference numeral 200. Generally, thepresent embodiment 200 is directed to an insert for a cryogenic capable pressure vessel for storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure. Thepressure vessel 200 has a central axis 1. The prior art bentinlet port line 109 and bentoutlet port line 110 illustrated inFIG. 1 are replaced by applicants'new insert 208. Thenew insert 208 includes aninlet duct 211 andoutlet duct 212 inside theinsert 208.Inlet duct 211 includes aparallel duct 211 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and aperpendicular duct 211 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1.Outlet duct 212 includes aparallel duct 212 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 212 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2A and 2B , a longitudinal cross-sectional view of Applicant's cryogenic-compatiblepressure vessel embodiment 200 is shown inFIG. 2A and enlarged view of a section of the wall of thevessel 200 is shown inFIG. 2B . The central axis 1 extends along thepressure vessel 200. Thepressure vessel 200 generally has an elongated cylindrical configuration along the central axis 1 with rounded elliptical ends, as is typical of pressure vessel design in the art. Furthermore, thepressure vessel 200 includes aninner pressure container 203 surrounding and enclosing astorage volume 202; and anouter container 204 surrounding theinner pressure container 203 to form an evacuatedspace 205 there between. Insulated cross supports (not shown) separate and suspend theinner pressure container 203 from theouter container 204, to reduce heat conduction there between. Theouter container 204 has a lightweight rigid body construction capable of supporting the evacuatedspace 205 therein, with aluminum or stainless steel being exemplary material types used for its construction. - Given that weight is of critical importance in pressure vessels, especially for vehicular applications, the
inner pressure container 203 is a lightweight rigid structure having a high strength-to-weight ratio. Moreover, the construction of theinner pressure container 203 is configured to withstand high pressures (due to compressed gas storage) from within thefuel storage volume 202. For example, light-duty vehicular storage applications using compressed gas fuels may typically have operating pressures up to 700 bar (10,000 psi) when storing 5 kg of H2 in a 250-liter external volume. In any case, theinner pressure container 203 is typically made from a lightweight composite material having a fiber reinforced resin matrix construction, using manufacturing methods known in the art. Composite constructions, such as carbon fiber, fiber-epoxy, the composite material sold under the trademark “Kevlar,” etc., provide numerous advantages such as lightness in weight and resistance to corrosion, fatigue and catastrophic failure. This combination of lightness in weight and resistance to failure is possible due to the high specific strength of the reinforcing fibers or filaments (carbon, glass, aramid, etc.) which, in the construction of pressure vessels, is typically oriented in the direction of the principal stresses. - As shown in
FIG. 2B , theinner pressure container 203 may additionally include aninner liner 201 which lines the inside surface thereof. Theinner container liner 201 is typically made of metals such as aluminum and steel, although it may also be composed of a lightweight non-metallic material, such as a polymeric material, in order to achieve substantial weight reduction of the pressure vessel (compared to metallic liners commonly used for conventional pressure vessels). Exemplary polymeric materials include polyethylene, nylon, kapton, or other polymers, but are not limited only to such. The substantial weight reduction provided by using a polymeric liner instead of an aluminum liner can be appreciated by the potential weight savings of 10-15 kg for a 35-40 kg total vessel mass in the 5 kg H.sub.2/250 liter pressure vessel example discussed above (where the aluminum liner has an approximate average thickness of 3 mm). Where an inner liner is used, construction of the composite-construction inner pressure container typically involves wrapping fibers over the liner in order to produce the fiber reinforced resin matrix. However, in the case of a composite inner vessel sans inner liner, fabrication of theinner container 203 typically involves a water-soluble or otherwise removable mandrel. In any case, theplastic liner 201 and the compositeinner pressure container 203 are selected and designed for suitable operation over a wide range of temperatures, from liquid hydrogen temperatures (20 K) up to high temperatures that may result while the vessel is filled with compressed hydrogen (up to 400 K). - As shown in
FIG. 2B , thepressure vessel 200 also includes athermal insulator 206 surrounding theinner pressure container 203 in the evacuatedspace 205. Thethermal insulator 206 serves to inhibit heat transfer to thestorage volume 202. One exemplary embodiment of the thermal insulator comprises an external vacuum multi-layer insulation to reduce heat transfer to the storage volume, especially during cryogenic operation. Theouter container 204 operates to keep a vacuum around the vessel, which is required for effective operation of the multi-layer insulation. In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure vessel is insulated with multilayer vacuum superinsulation (MLVSI). MLVSI exhibits good thermal performance only under a high vacuum, at a pressure lower than 0.01 Pa (7.5.times.10(−5) mm Hg). - The present invention is directed to a lightweight, cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel capable of flexibly storing fluids, such as cryogenic liquids as well as compressed gases, at cryogenic or ambient temperatures. For fuel storage applications, such as for alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) the pressure vessel is designed to store cryogenic liquid fuels, (e.g. liquid hydrogen, “LH2”, or liquid natural gas, “LNG”), and compressed gas fuels at cryogenic or ambient temperatures (e.g. compressed hydrogen, “CH2”, or compressed natural gas, “CNG”).
- While hydrogen and natural gas are two of the more common examples of alternative fuels used for AFV applications, other fuels may also be utilized which are suitable for compressed gas storage and cryogenic liquid storage. In the present discussion, hydrogen is used as an exemplary fuel for generally illustrating operation of the present invention. Additionally, while the advantages of a cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel are readily apparent for vehicular storage applications, it is not limited only to such. The present invention may be generally used for any application requiring flexibility in the types of fluids stored cryogenic and compressed.
- A portion of the wall of the
pressure vessel 200 ofFIG. 2A in the area designated by the dotted line circle is shown inFIG. 2B . Aninsert 208 of theembodiment 200 is located within the area designated by the dotted line circle. Theinsert 208 provides access into and out of thestorage volume 202 of thepressure vessel 200. Details of theinsert 208 are shown inFIG. 2C . - Referring again to
FIG. 2B , cross-sectional view of the wall of Applicant's cryogenic-compatible pressure vessel 200 within the dotted line circle shown inFIG. 2A is shown. Thepressure vessel 200 includes aninner pressure container 203 and anouter container 204 enclosing thestorage volume 202. The structural elements of the wall are identified and described below. The wall includes the following structural elements: -
-
inner liner 201, -
inner pressure container 203, -
outer container 204, - evacuated
space 205, and -
thermal insulator 206.
-
- The
inner pressure container 203 is constructed to withstand high pressures (due to compressed gas storage) from within the fuel storage volume. For example, light-duty vehicular storage applications using compressed gas fuels may typically have operating pressures up to 700 bar (10000 psi) when storing 5 kg of H2 in a 250-liter external volume. Theinner pressure container 203 is typically made from a lightweight composite material having a fiber reinforced resin matrix construction, using manufacturing methods known in the art. Composite constructions, such as carbon fiber, fiber-epoxy, the composite material sold under the trademark “Kevlar,” etc., provide numerous advantages such as lightness in weight and resistance to corrosion, fatigue and catastrophic failure. This combination of lightness in weight and resistance to failure is possible due to the high specific strength of the reinforcing fibers or filaments (carbon, glass, aramid, etc.) which, in the construction of pressure vessels, is typically oriented in the direction of the principal stresses. - The
outer container 204 has a lightweight rigid body construction capable of supporting the evacuatedspace 205 therein, with aluminum or stainless steel being exemplary material types used for its construction. Given that weight is of critical importance in pressure vessels, especially for vehicular applications, theinner pressure container 203 is a lightweight rigid structure having a high strength-to-weight ratio. - The
inner pressure container 203 includes aninner liner 201 which lines the inside surface thereof. Theinner container liner 201 is typically made of metals such as aluminum and steel, although it may also be composed of a lightweight non-metallic material, such as a polymeric material, in order to achieve substantial weight reduction of the pressure vessel (compared to metallic liners commonly used for conventional pressure vessels). Exemplary polymeric materials include polyethylene, nylon, kapton, or other polymers, but are not limited only to such. The substantial weight reduction provided by using a polymeric liner instead of an aluminum liner can be appreciated by the potential weight savings of 10-15 kg for a 35-40 kg total vessel mass in the 5 kg H.sub.2/250 liter pressure vessel example discussed above (where the aluminum liner has an approximate average thickness of 3 mm). Where an inner liner is used, construction of the composite-construction inner pressure container typically involves wrapping fibers over the liner in order to produce the fiber reinforced resin matrix. However, in the case of a composite inner vessel sans inner liner, fabrication of theinner container 203 typically involves a water-soluble or otherwise removable mandrel. In any case, theplastic liner 201 and the compositeinner pressure container 203 are selected and designed for suitable operation over a wide range of temperatures, from liquid hydrogen temperatures (20 K) up to high temperatures that may result while the vessel is filled with compressed hydrogen (up to 400 K). - The
thermal insulator 206 surrounds theinner pressure container 203 andliner 201 in the evacuatedspace 205. Thethermal insulator 206 serves to inhibit heat transfer to thestorage volume 202. One exemplary embodiment of the thermal insulator comprises an external vacuum multi-layer insulation to reduce heat transfer to the storage volume, especially during cryogenic operation. Theouter container 204 operates to keep a vacuum around the vessel, which is required for effective operation of the multi-layer insulation. In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure vessel is insulated with multilayer vacuum superinsultation (MLVSI). MLVSI exhibits good thermal performance only under a high vacuum, at a pressure lower than 0.01 Pa (7.5.times.10(−5) mm Hg). The insulated cross supports separate and suspend theinner pressure container 203 andliner 201 from theouter container 204 to reduce heat conduction there between. - Referring now to
FIG. 2C , theinsert 208 is shown in greater detail. The prior art insert illustrated inFIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants'new insert 208. Thenew insert 208 includes aninlet duct 211 andoutlet duct 212 inside theinsert 208.Inlet duct 211 includes aparallel duct 211 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and aperpendicular duct 211 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1.Outlet duct 212 includes aparallel duct 212 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 212 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1. An inlet port line (not shown) is connected to asocket 213 in theinsert 208. An outlet port line (not shown) is connected to asocket 214 in theinsert 208. The inlet port line and the outlet port line provide access into and out of thestorage volume 102 of thepressure vessel 100. - The
insert 208 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated inFIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components. The pressure vessel has a central axis. The pressure vessel includes aninner pressure container 203, aninner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, anouter container 204, an evacuatedspace 205 in the outer container, andthermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space. - An internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator. The
insert 208 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel. Theinsert 208 includes aparallel inlet duct 211 a in theinsert 208 that is parallel with the central axis 1; aperpendicular inlet duct 211 b connected to theparallel inlet duct 211 a in theinsert 208, wherein theperpendicular inlet duct 211 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein theperpendicular inlet duct 211 b and theparallel inlet duct 211 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. - A
parallel outlet duct 212 a is located in theinsert 208 that is parallel with the central axis 1. A perpendicular outlet duct 212 b is connected to theparallel outlet duct 212 a in theinsert 208, wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 212 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular outlet duct 212 b and theparallel outlet duct 212 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated. The prior art insert illustrated inFIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert. This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by thereference numeral 308. - The
new insert 308 includes aninlet duct 311 andoutlet duct 312 inside theinsert 308.Inlet duct 311 includes a parallel duct 311 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and a perpendicular duct 311 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1.Outlet duct 312 includes aparallel duct 312 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and aperpendicular duct 312 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1. - The
insert 308 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated inFIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components. The pressure vessel has a central axis. The pressure vessel includes aninner pressure container 203, aninner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, anouter container 204, an evacuatedspace 205 in the outer container, andthermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space. The internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator. Theinsert 308 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel. Theinsert 308 includes a parallel inlet duct 311 a in theinsert 308 that is parallel with the central axis 1; a perpendicular inlet duct 311 b connected to the parallel inlet duct 311 a in theinsert 308, wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 311 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein the perpendicular inlet duct 311 b and the parallel inlet duct 311 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. - A
parallel outlet duct 312 a is located in theinsert 308 that is parallel with the central axis 1. Aperpendicular outlet duct 312 b is connected to theparallel outlet duct 312 a in theinsert 308, wherein theperpendicular outlet duct 312 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein theperpendicular outlet duct 312 b and theparallel outlet duct 312 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. - This embodiment of the
insert 308 is a bi-metal cylinder made of aluminum and stainless steel attached together. The outer portion of theinsert 308 is made of stainless steel and inner portion of theinsert 308 is made of aluminum. A bimetallic joint 315 attaches the outer portion ofinsert 308 and inner portion ofinsert 308. This configuration is applicable to aluminum-lined vessels typically used to store pressurized gases, where the aluminum part of the bimetallic joint can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated. The prior art insert illustrated inFIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert. This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by thereference numeral 408. - The
new insert 408 includes aninlet duct 411 andoutlet duct 412 inside theinsert 408.Inlet duct 411 includes aparallel duct 411 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and aperpendicular duct 411 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1.Outlet duct 412 includes aparallel duct 412 a that is parallel to the central axis 1 and aperpendicular duct 412 b that is perpendicular to the central axis 1. This embodiment of theinsert 408 is a metal cylinder made entirely of stainless steel. - The
insert 408 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated inFIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components. The pressure vessel has a central axis. The pressure vessel includes aninner pressure container 203, aninner liner 201 connected to the inner pressure container, anouter container 204, an evacuatedspace 205 in the outer container, andthermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space. The internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator. Theinsert 408 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel. Theinsert 408 includes aparallel inlet duct 411 a in theinsert 408 that is parallel with the central axis 1; aperpendicular inlet duct 411 b connected to theparallel inlet duct 411 a in theinsert 408, wherein theperpendicular inlet duct 411 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein theperpendicular inlet duct 411 b and theparallel inlet duct 411 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with theexternal components 416. - A
parallel outlet duct 412 a is located in theinsert 408 that is parallel with the central axis 1. Aperpendicular outlet duct 412 b is connected to theparallel outlet duct 412 a in theinsert 408, wherein theperpendicular outlet duct 412 b is perpendicular to the central axis 1 and wherein theperpendicular outlet duct 412 b and theparallel outlet duct 412 a connect theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated. The prior art insert illustrated inFIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert. This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by thereference numeral 508. - The
new insert 508 includes a combination inlet andoutlet duct 511 inside theinsert 508. The combination inlet andoutlet duct 511 includes aparallel duct 511 a that is parallel to the central axis and a perpendicular duct 511 b that is perpendicular to the central axis. This embodiment of theinsert 508 is a metal cylinder made entirely of stainless steel. - The
insert 508 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated inFIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components. The pressure vessel has a central axis. The pressure vessel includes an inner pressure container, an inner liner connected to the inner pressure container, an outer container, an evacuated space in the outer container, andthermal insulator 206 in the evacuated space. The internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator. Theinsert 508 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel. The combination inlet andoutlet duct 511 connects theinterior cavity 202 with the external components. This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , yet another embodiment of Applicants' insert is illustrated. The prior art insert illustrated inFIG. 1 has been replaced by applicants' new insert. This embodiment of the insert is designated generally by thereference numeral 608. - The
new insert 608 includes a combination inlet andoutlet duct 611 inside theinsert 608. The combination inlet andoutlet duct 611 includes aparallel duct 611 a that is parallel to the central axis and a perpendicular duct 611 b that is perpendicular to the central axis. This embodiment of theinsert 608 is a bi-metal cylinder made of aluminum and stainless steel attached together at 615. - The
insert 608 is used in the pressure vessel apparatus for cryogenic capable storage of hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure illustrated inFIG. 2A for connection of the hydrogen or other cryogenic gases at high pressure in the inner cavity to the external components. The pressure vessel has a central axis. The internally threaded opening is located in the pressure vessel, the internally threaded opening interfaces with the inner cavity and extends through the inner pressure container, the inner liner, the outer container, the evacuated space, and the thermal insulator. Theinsert 608 is adapted to be threadedly secured in the internally threaded opening in the pressure vessel. The combination inlet andoutlet duct 611 connects the interior cavity with the external components. This configuration is mainly applicable to stainless steel-lined vessels typically used for storing compressed gases, where the insert can be screwed into the internally threaded opening of the pressure vessel and welded at the edge of the vessel opening to achieve a seal. - Some of the advantages of the Applicants' inert are listed below.
- 1. The embodiment has threads in the insert. When the insert is screwed into the pressure vessel boss, the threads contain forces caused by pressurization of the inner vessel. Welds are only for sealing and are not loaded under tension or compression.
- 2. The insert provides a straightforward approach to transitioning from the relatively weak, highly conductive metal (aluminum) typical of metal lined, fiber wrapped (type 3) vessels, and the high strength, low conductivity metals (stainless steel) necessary to withstand high pressure in the inlet and outlet tubes while minimizing heat transfer into the inner vessel. Metal to metal transition is accomplished with standard techniques for joining dissimilar metals (explosion bonding, friction stir welding).
- 3. Metal to metal transition joint is under compression instead of tension, thereby minimizing risk of joint failure.
- 4. Partial threading of the insert, whereby only the aluminum part of the insert is threaded into the aluminum vessel boss, reduces stresses due to dissimilar thermal contraction between stainless steel and aluminum when the vessel is cold.
- 5. Insert is located inside the pressure vessel, thereby minimizing overall system length and improving packaging efficiency.
- Although the description above contains many embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination. Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments.
- Although the description above contains many details Therefore, it will be appreciated that the scope of the present application fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art. In the claims, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present apparatus, systems, and methods, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element or component in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element or component is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”
- While the apparatus, systems, and methods may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the application is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the application is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the following appended claims.
Claims (24)
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WO2023034953A3 (en) * | 2021-09-03 | 2023-06-08 | Verne Inc. | Compact inserts for cryo-compressed storage vessels |
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US20160319963A1 (en) * | 2015-04-28 | 2016-11-03 | Bakercorp | Pump suction pipe assembly for high flow sewer bypass |
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US2603235A (en) * | 1952-07-15 | Kirkham | ||
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US6347719B1 (en) * | 2000-07-14 | 2002-02-19 | Hughes Electronics Corporation | Light weight hydrogen tank |
US8863977B2 (en) * | 2010-11-30 | 2014-10-21 | Advanced Lightweight Engineering B.V. | Vessel with rotationally free base flange |
US9057483B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2015-06-16 | Lawrence Livermore National Security, Llc | Threaded insert for compact cryogenic-capable pressure vessels |
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US20150362130A1 (en) * | 2013-02-08 | 2015-12-17 | Rehau Ag+Co | Device for storing and delivery of a liquid and/or gaseous medium under pressure, as well as a fuel energy conversion device and method for assembling a device for storing and delivery of a liquid and/or gaseous medium under pressure |
US20160319963A1 (en) * | 2015-04-28 | 2016-11-03 | Bakercorp | Pump suction pipe assembly for high flow sewer bypass |
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US10315814B2 (en) * | 2017-08-04 | 2019-06-11 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Transfer cap |
WO2023034953A3 (en) * | 2021-09-03 | 2023-06-08 | Verne Inc. | Compact inserts for cryo-compressed storage vessels |
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