WO2013190254A2 - Storage vessel - Google Patents
Storage vessel Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2013190254A2 WO2013190254A2 PCT/GB2013/000262 GB2013000262W WO2013190254A2 WO 2013190254 A2 WO2013190254 A2 WO 2013190254A2 GB 2013000262 W GB2013000262 W GB 2013000262W WO 2013190254 A2 WO2013190254 A2 WO 2013190254A2
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- storage vessel
- liquid
- cryogenic
- inner container
- cryogenic liquid
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 53
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 abstract description 6
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000003949 liquefied natural gas Substances 0.000 description 19
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 4
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009835 boiling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000003345 natural gas Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 description 2
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002828 fuel tank Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005431 greenhouse gas Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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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
- F17C3/00—Vessels not under pressure
- F17C3/02—Vessels not under pressure with provision for thermal insulation
- F17C3/10—Vessels not under pressure with provision for thermal insulation by liquid-circulating or vapour-circulating jackets
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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
- F17C6/00—Methods and apparatus for filling vessels not under pressure with liquefied or solidified gases
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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
- F17C7/00—Methods or apparatus for discharging liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases from pressure vessels, not covered by another subclass
- F17C7/02—Discharging liquefied gases
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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
- F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
- F17C2203/03—Thermal insulations
- F17C2203/0391—Thermal insulations by vacuum
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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
- F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
- F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
- F17C2203/0602—Wall structures; Special features thereof
- F17C2203/0612—Wall structures
- F17C2203/0626—Multiple walls
- F17C2203/0629—Two walls
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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
- F17C2205/0323—Valves
- F17C2205/0326—Valves electrically actuated
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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
- F17C2205/0323—Valves
- F17C2205/0332—Safety valves or pressure relief valves
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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
- F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
- F17C2221/03—Mixtures
- F17C2221/032—Hydrocarbons
- F17C2221/033—Methane, e.g. natural gas, CNG, LNG, GNL, GNC, PLNG
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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
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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
- F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
- F17C2223/035—High pressure (>10 bar)
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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
- F17C2223/046—Localisation of the removal point in the liquid
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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
- F17C2225/00—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel
- F17C2225/01—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
- F17C2225/0146—Two-phase
- F17C2225/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
- F17C2225/0161—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL cryogenic, e.g. LNG, GNL, PLNG
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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
- F17C2225/00—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel
- F17C2225/03—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
- F17C2225/033—Small pressure, e.g. for liquefied gas
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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
- F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/01—Propulsion of the fluid
- F17C2227/0107—Propulsion of the fluid by pressurising the ullage
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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
- F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/03—Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/0337—Heat exchange with the fluid by cooling
- F17C2227/0341—Heat exchange with the fluid by cooling using another fluid
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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
- F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/03—Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/0337—Heat exchange with the fluid by cooling
- F17C2227/0341—Heat exchange with the fluid by cooling using another fluid
- F17C2227/0344—Air cooling
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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
- F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/03—Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/0367—Localisation of heat exchange
- F17C2227/0369—Localisation of heat exchange in or on a vessel
- F17C2227/0374—Localisation of heat exchange in or on a vessel in the liquid
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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
- F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/03—Heat exchange with the fluid
- F17C2227/0367—Localisation of heat exchange
- F17C2227/0369—Localisation of heat exchange in or on a vessel
- F17C2227/0376—Localisation of heat exchange in or on a vessel in wall contact
- F17C2227/0379—Localisation of heat exchange in or on a vessel in wall contact inside the vessel
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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
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/03—Control means
- F17C2250/032—Control means using computers
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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
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/04—Indicating or measuring of parameters as input values
- F17C2250/0404—Parameters indicated or measured
- F17C2250/0439—Temperature
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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
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/06—Controlling or regulating of parameters as output values
- F17C2250/0605—Parameters
- F17C2250/0636—Flow or movement of content
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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
- F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
- F17C2260/03—Dealing with losses
- F17C2260/035—Dealing with losses of fluid
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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
- F17C2265/00—Effects achieved by gas storage or gas handling
- F17C2265/06—Fluid distribution
- F17C2265/065—Fluid distribution for refueling vehicle fuel tanks
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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
- F17C2270/0134—Applications for fluid transport or storage placed above the ground
- F17C2270/0139—Fuel stations
Definitions
- a cryogenic liquid is defined herein as a liquid having a boiling point (at
- a cryogenic liquid is conventionally stored in a thermally-insulated vessel.
- the storage vessel may comprise an inner container and an outer jacket spaced from the inner container. The space between the jacket and the container is closed. This space is typically evacuated so as to provide vacuum insulation to the inner container. The space may also contain insulating material such as superinsulation.
- the storage vessel has a first outlet for liquid from the inner container, the first outlet terminating outside the confines of the outer jacket.
- the storage vessel also has a second outlet for vapour that communicates with the ullage space within the inner container. Both outlets are typically provided with valves. The valve in the second outlet is typically set to open if the pressure in the ullage space exceeds a chosen value.
- a cryogenic storage vessel for a first cryogenic liquid comprising an inner container defining a liquid holding volume, the inner container being spaced from an outer jacket, wherein there is a closed evacuated space between the inner container and the outer jacket, the vessel has in the liquid-holding volume or in heat exchange contact with an outer surface of the inner container a heat exchange member defining a passage for a second cryogenic liquid that boils at atmospheric pressure at a lower temperature than the first cryogenic liquid.
- a cryogenic storage vessel is able to be operated such that the first cryogenic liquid is stored in subcooled state.
- the said passage may be arranged to vent vapour of the second cryogenic liquid to atmosphere.
- the heat exchange member may be in the form of a coil.
- the coil may be disposed around the inner container in physical and thermal contact therewith.
- the heat exchange member may be associated with at least one valve responsive to the temperature of the first cryogenic liquid in the liquid-holding volume.
- the valve may therefore be arranged to open and close so as to keep the first cryogenic liquid in a sub-cooled state.
- a temperature signal is generated by a temperature sensor located in a thermowell that terminates against an outer surface of the inner container.
- the cryogenic storage vessel according to the invention typically has a first outlet for the first cryogenic liquid in sub-cooled state and a second outlet for vapour communicating with the ullage space within the inner container.
- the outlet for sub-cooled cryogen is typically provided with a flow control valve.
- the outlet for vapour is typically provided with a valve which is set to open in the event of the pressure in the inner vessel exceeding a chosen value.
- a cryogenic storage vessel according to the present invention may form part of a vehicle refuelling station.
- the refuelling station may be of the pressure-decant kind.
- the outlet for sub-cooled first liquid communicates with a refuelling nozzle adapted to inject cryogenic liquid into a fuel tank of a vehicle to be refuelled.
- the fuel may be liquefied natural gas.
- the second cryogenic liquid is typically liquid nitrogen or liquid air.
- a cryogenic storage vessel may be operated so as to maintain the first cryogenic liquid in sub-cooled state, thereby keeping to a minimum, occasions on which vapour of the first cryogenic liquid is vented from the vessel.
- a cryogenic storage vessel according to the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing which is a schematic diagram of a vehicle refuelling station.
- the vehicle refuelling station includes a storage vessel 1 in accordance with the invention.
- the storage vessel 1 comprises an inner container 2 spaced from an outer container 4.
- the outer container 4 provides a jacket for the inner container 2.
- a closed space 6 is defined between the inner container 2 of the outer container 4.
- the space 6 is evacuated.
- the space 6 also contains insulating material, for example super insulation.
- the storage vessel 1 is provided with a fill pipe 36, typically fitted with a fill valve 38, which may be connected to a secondary vessel (not shown) in order to fill the inner container 2 with a chosen cryogenic liquid, typically liquefied natural gas (LNG).
- LNG liquefied natural gas
- the storage vessel 1 has a first outlet pipe 10 for the first cryogenic liquid communicating with the bottom of the inner container 2.
- the first outlet pipe 10 serves a pipeline 11 in which may be located a stop valve 12 and a flow control valve 14.
- the pipeline 11 comprises a flexible, thermally insulated, length of hose terminating in a refuelling nozzle 16.
- the refuelling nozzle 16 is adapted to be inserted into a fill port (not shown) of a vehicle (not shown) to be refuelled and is provided in a conventional manner with a trigger or lever (not shown) which when activated causes the stop valve 12 to open and LNG to be delivered from the storage vessel 1 to the vehicle to be refuelled.
- the storage vessel 1 has a second outlet pipe 18 which communicates with the top of the inner container 2.
- the outlet pipe 18 is fitted with a vent valve 20 which is arranged to open in the event of the pressure in the ullage space of the inner container 2 reaching a chosen level.
- the inner container 2 is maintained at an elevated pressure, that is a pressure above atmospheric pressure.
- the pressure is sufficient to provide an adequate flow of LNG to the refuelling nozzle 16 without the need to operate a mechanical pump to enhance the flow rate.
- the LNG is, in operation, decanted under pressure from the storage vessel 1. If the pressure in the ullage space of the inner container 2 exceeds the desired decanting pressure by a chosen amount, the vent valve 20 automatically opens.
- the storage vessel 1 is provided with a heat exchange member 22 in thermal contact with the inner container or a volume of LNG held within the inner container, the heat exchanger member 22 having a passage therethrough for the flow of a coolant, thereby enabling the LNG to be held in sub-cooled state notwithstanding the absorption of heat by the storage vessel 1 from the surrounding environment.
- vaporisation of the LNG is kept down and the creation of an excess pressure within the inner container 2 such that the vent valve 20 automatically opens may generally be avoided.
- an exchange member takes the form of a heat exchange coil typically made of a thermally conductive material such as copper in thermal and physical contact with the outer surface of the inner container 2.
- the heat exchange member 22 may be located within the inner container 2 so that it comes into direct contact with the LNG held within the storage vessel 1.
- the heat exchange member 22 has an inlet pipe 24 connected to a pipeline 26, typically thermally insulated which may be located a stop valve 28 and a flow control valve 30.
- the pipeline 26 communicates with a storage vessel 31 for a sacrificial cryogenic liquid which boils at a lower temperature (at atmospheric pressure) than the cryogenic liquid held in the storage vessel 1.
- the second cryogenic liquid is typically liquid nitrogen although liquid air is, for example, an alternative.
- the heat exchange member 22 has a valved outlet pipe 40 outside the storage vessel 1 , which outlet 40 is typically arranged to vent vapour of the second cryogenic liquid to atmosphere, the vapour being formed by heat exchange with the LNG or other cryogenic liquid held within the storage vessel 1 as the second cryogenic liquid flows through the heat exchange member 22.
- the flow rate of the second cryogenic liquid through the heat exchange member 22 may be controlled so as to maintain the LNG held within the storage vessel 1 at a chosen temperature below its boiling point.
- the storage vessel 1 is provided with a thermowell 32 that terminates in thermal contact with the inner container 2 and houses a thermistor 34 or other temperature sensing device also in thermal contact with the outer wall of the inner container 2, the thermistor 34 being able to generate signals that can be used to control the opening and closing of the valve 28 (and/or to adjust the position of the flow control valve 30) and through such means to maintain the temperature of the LNG in sub-cooled state.
- the storage vessel 1 is thus able to keep to a minimum the venting of natural gas vapour therefrom.
- the first outlet pipe 10, the second outlet pipe 18, the fill pipe 36, the inlet pipe 24 of the heat exchange member 22, the outlet pipe 40 of the heat exchange member 22 and the thermowell 32 each pass through the outer container 4 through a vacuum-retaining fitment (not shown).
- the vapour of the second cryogenic liquid may be collected instead of being vented to the atmosphere.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
Abstract
A cryogenic storage vessel (1) for a first cryogenic liquid (typically LNG) comprises an inner liquid-holding container (2) and an outer container (4). The outer container (4) defines a jacket for the inner container (2). There is a closed evacuated space 6 between the container (2) and the container (4). The liquid- holding volume of the inner container (2) or the outer surface of the inner container (2) is in heat exchange contact with a heat exchange member (22) defining a passage for a second cryogenic liquid (typically liquid nitrogen) that boils at atmospheric pressure at a lower temperature than the fast cryogenic liquid. The cryogenic storage vessel (1) may form part of a vehicle refuelling station. Passage of the second cryogenic liquid through the heat exchange member (22) is able to maintain the first cryogenic liquid in subcooled state.
Description
STORAGE VESSEL
This invention relates to a storage vessel for cryogenic liquid. A cryogenic liquid is defined herein as a liquid having a boiling point (at
1 bar) of -100°C or less.
A cryogenic liquid is conventionally stored in a thermally-insulated vessel. The storage vessel may comprise an inner container and an outer jacket spaced from the inner container. The space between the jacket and the container is closed. This space is typically evacuated so as to provide vacuum insulation to the inner container. The space may also contain insulating material such as superinsulation. The storage vessel has a first outlet for liquid from the inner container, the first outlet terminating outside the confines of the outer jacket. The storage vessel also has a second outlet for vapour that communicates with the ullage space within the inner container. Both outlets are typically provided with valves. The valve in the second outlet is typically set to open if the pressure in the ullage space exceeds a chosen value.
Notwithstanding the insulation of the storage vessel, the difference in temperature between the ambient atmosphere surrounding the vessel and the cryogenic liquid causes a flow of heat from the surrounding atmosphere into the cryogenic liquid stored in the vessel. This causes the cryogenic liquid to vaporise with the consequence that the pressure in the storage vessel gradually builds up to a level at which the vent valve opens. Vapour is therefore lost to the atmosphere. Such venting is particularly undesirable if the vapour is of a "greenhouse" gas. If there are frequent withdrawals of cryogenic liquid from the storage vessel, vaporisation in the vessel of the cryogenic liquid tends to be enhanced.
There is an increasing demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a vehicle fuel. The storage of this fuel gives rise to the problems identified above. It is therefore desirable to keep down vapour emissions from a vessel storing a cryogenic liquid.
According to the present invention there is provided a cryogenic storage vessel for a first cryogenic liquid, comprising an inner container defining a liquid holding volume, the inner container being spaced from an outer jacket, wherein there is a closed evacuated space between the inner container and the outer jacket, the vessel has in the liquid-holding volume or in heat exchange contact with an outer surface of the inner container a heat exchange member defining a passage for a second cryogenic liquid that boils at atmospheric pressure at a lower temperature than the first cryogenic liquid.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to the invention is able to be operated such that the first cryogenic liquid is stored in subcooled state. The said passage may be arranged to vent vapour of the second cryogenic liquid to atmosphere.
The heat exchange member may be in the form of a coil. The coil may be disposed around the inner container in physical and thermal contact therewith.
The heat exchange member may be associated with at least one valve responsive to the temperature of the first cryogenic liquid in the liquid-holding volume. The valve may therefore be arranged to open and close so as to keep the first cryogenic liquid in a sub-cooled state. In one example, a temperature signal is generated by a temperature sensor located in a thermowell that terminates against an outer surface of the inner container.
The cryogenic storage vessel according to the invention typically has a first outlet for the first cryogenic liquid in sub-cooled state and a second outlet for vapour communicating with the ullage space within the inner container. The outlet for sub-cooled cryogen is typically provided with a flow control valve. The outlet for vapour is typically provided with a valve which is set to open in the event of the pressure in the inner vessel exceeding a chosen value.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to the present invention may form part of a vehicle refuelling station. The refuelling station may be of the pressure-decant kind. In such refuelling stations, the outlet for sub-cooled first liquid communicates with a refuelling nozzle adapted to inject cryogenic liquid into a fuel tank of a vehicle to be refuelled.
In such examples, the fuel may be liquefied natural gas. If the fuel is liquefied natural gas, the second cryogenic liquid is typically liquid nitrogen or liquid air.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to the present invention may be operated so as to maintain the first cryogenic liquid in sub-cooled state, thereby keeping to a minimum, occasions on which vapour of the first cryogenic liquid is vented from the vessel.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing which is a schematic diagram of a vehicle refuelling station.
The drawing is not to scale.
Referring to the drawing, the vehicle refuelling station includes a storage vessel 1 in accordance with the invention. The storage vessel 1 comprises an inner container 2 spaced from an outer container 4. The outer container 4 provides a jacket for the inner container 2. A closed space 6 is
defined between the inner container 2 of the outer container 4. The space 6 is evacuated. The space 6 also contains insulating material, for example super insulation. The storage vessel 1 is provided with a fill pipe 36, typically fitted with a fill valve 38, which may be connected to a secondary vessel (not shown) in order to fill the inner container 2 with a chosen cryogenic liquid, typically liquefied natural gas (LNG). The evacuated space 6 and the thermal insulation 8 within the space 6 keep down the rate of absorption of heat by the LNG when stored within the storage vessel 1.
The storage vessel 1 has a first outlet pipe 10 for the first cryogenic liquid communicating with the bottom of the inner container 2. The first outlet pipe 10 serves a pipeline 11 in which may be located a stop valve 12 and a flow control valve 14. In a refuelling station, the pipeline 11 comprises a flexible, thermally insulated, length of hose terminating in a refuelling nozzle 16. The refuelling nozzle 16 is adapted to be inserted into a fill port (not shown) of a vehicle (not shown) to be refuelled and is provided in a conventional manner with a trigger or lever (not shown) which when activated causes the stop valve 12 to open and LNG to be delivered from the storage vessel 1 to the vehicle to be refuelled.
The storage vessel 1 has a second outlet pipe 18 which communicates with the top of the inner container 2. The outlet pipe 18 is fitted with a vent valve 20 which is arranged to open in the event of the pressure in the ullage space of the inner container 2 reaching a chosen level. Typically, the inner container 2 is maintained at an elevated pressure, that is a pressure above atmospheric pressure. The pressure is sufficient to provide an adequate flow of LNG to the refuelling nozzle 16 without the need to operate a mechanical pump to enhance the flow rate. In other words, the LNG is, in operation, decanted under pressure from the storage vessel 1. If the pressure in the ullage space of the inner container 2 exceeds the desired decanting pressure
by a chosen amount, the vent valve 20 automatically opens. Since natural gas is a greenhouse gas and since it is readily combustible, it is generally undesirable for the vent valve 20 to open. In accordance with the invention, the storage vessel 1 is provided with a heat exchange member 22 in thermal contact with the inner container or a volume of LNG held within the inner container, the heat exchanger member 22 having a passage therethrough for the flow of a coolant, thereby enabling the LNG to be held in sub-cooled state notwithstanding the absorption of heat by the storage vessel 1 from the surrounding environment. By holding the LNG in sub-cooled state, vaporisation of the LNG is kept down and the creation of an excess pressure within the inner container 2 such that the vent valve 20 automatically opens may generally be avoided. As shown in the drawings an exchange member takes the form of a heat exchange coil typically made of a thermally conductive material such as copper in thermal and physical contact with the outer surface of the inner container 2. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the heat exchange member 22 may be located within the inner container 2 so that it comes into direct contact with the LNG held within the storage vessel 1.
The heat exchange member 22 has an inlet pipe 24 connected to a pipeline 26, typically thermally insulated which may be located a stop valve 28 and a flow control valve 30. The pipeline 26 communicates with a storage vessel 31 for a sacrificial cryogenic liquid which boils at a lower temperature (at atmospheric pressure) than the cryogenic liquid held in the storage vessel 1. In the example of LNG, the second cryogenic liquid is typically liquid nitrogen although liquid air is, for example, an alternative. The heat exchange member 22 has a valved outlet pipe 40 outside the storage vessel 1 , which outlet 40 is typically arranged to vent vapour of the second cryogenic liquid to atmosphere, the vapour being formed by heat exchange with the LNG or other cryogenic liquid held within the storage vessel 1 as the second
cryogenic liquid flows through the heat exchange member 22. The flow rate of the second cryogenic liquid through the heat exchange member 22 may be controlled so as to maintain the LNG held within the storage vessel 1 at a chosen temperature below its boiling point. In one arrangement, the storage vessel 1 is provided with a thermowell 32 that terminates in thermal contact with the inner container 2 and houses a thermistor 34 or other temperature sensing device also in thermal contact with the outer wall of the inner container 2, the thermistor 34 being able to generate signals that can be used to control the opening and closing of the valve 28 (and/or to adjust the position of the flow control valve 30) and through such means to maintain the temperature of the LNG in sub-cooled state. The storage vessel 1 is thus able to keep to a minimum the venting of natural gas vapour therefrom.
The first outlet pipe 10, the second outlet pipe 18, the fill pipe 36, the inlet pipe 24 of the heat exchange member 22, the outlet pipe 40 of the heat exchange member 22 and the thermowell 32 each pass through the outer container 4 through a vacuum-retaining fitment (not shown).
In an alternative embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 , the vapour of the second cryogenic liquid may be collected instead of being vented to the atmosphere.
Claims
A cryogenic storage vessel for a first cryogenic liquid, comprising an inner container defining a liquid holding volume, the inner container being spaced from an outer jacket, wherein there is a closed evacuated space between the inner container and the outer jacket, the vessel has in the liquid-holding volume or in heat exchange contact with an outer surface of the inner container a heat exchange member defining a passage for a second cryogenic liquid that boils at atmospheric pressure at a lower temperature than the first cryogenic liquid.
A cryogenic storage vessel as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the said passage is arranged to vent vapour of the cryogenic liquid to atmosphere.
A cryogenic storage vessel as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the coil is disposed around the outside of the inner container in physical and thermal contact therewith.
A cryogenic storage vessel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat exchange member is associated with at least one valve arranged to operate to control the passage of second cryogenic liquid through the heat exchange member so as to maintain the first cryogenic liquid in sub-cooled state.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to claim 4 wherein the said valve is responsive to the temperature of the first cryogenic liquid in the liquid-holding volume.
A cryogenic storage vessel according to claim 5, wherein a temperature signal is generated by a temperature sensor located in a thermowell that terminates against an outer surface of the inner container.
A vehicle refuelling station including a cryogenic storage vessel according to any one of the preceding claims.
A cryogenic storage vessel substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawing.
9. A vehicle refuelling station substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawing.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1211078.9 | 2012-06-21 | ||
GBGB1211078.9A GB201211078D0 (en) | 2012-06-21 | 2012-06-21 | Storage vessel |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2013190254A2 true WO2013190254A2 (en) | 2013-12-27 |
WO2013190254A3 WO2013190254A3 (en) | 2014-06-19 |
Family
ID=46641337
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/GB2013/000262 WO2013190254A2 (en) | 2012-06-21 | 2013-06-13 | Storage vessel |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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GB (1) | GB201211078D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2013190254A2 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR3016682A1 (en) * | 2014-01-21 | 2015-07-24 | Cryolor | STATION AND METHOD FOR SUPPLYING A FLAMMABLE FUEL FLUID |
GB2537964A (en) * | 2015-02-24 | 2016-11-02 | Electricite De France | A hot water tank device with a jacket provided with a heat exchanger |
US10006697B2 (en) | 2014-01-21 | 2018-06-26 | Cryolor | Station and method for supplying a flammable fluid fuel |
IT201800010218A1 (en) * | 2018-11-09 | 2020-05-09 | Iveco Magirus | HEATING SYSTEM FOR A FUEL TANK |
CN112730213A (en) * | 2020-11-30 | 2021-04-30 | 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 | Gas-liquid accurate proportioning test device and test method under normal temperature and negative pressure |
FR3130928A1 (en) * | 2021-12-22 | 2023-06-23 | Faurecia Systemes D'echappement | Hydrogen storage and supply device and corresponding assembly |
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EP1353112A1 (en) * | 2002-04-10 | 2003-10-15 | Linde Aktiengesellschaft | Cryogenic liquid transfer method |
DE202010012886U1 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2011-01-05 | Marine Service Gmbh | Container for the transport or storage of liquid natural gas |
US20120048881A1 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-03-01 | Paul Drube | Bulk liquid cooling and pressurized dispensing system and method |
-
2012
- 2012-06-21 GB GBGB1211078.9A patent/GB201211078D0/en not_active Ceased
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2013
- 2013-06-13 WO PCT/GB2013/000262 patent/WO2013190254A2/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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EP1353112A1 (en) * | 2002-04-10 | 2003-10-15 | Linde Aktiengesellschaft | Cryogenic liquid transfer method |
US20120048881A1 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-03-01 | Paul Drube | Bulk liquid cooling and pressurized dispensing system and method |
DE202010012886U1 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2011-01-05 | Marine Service Gmbh | Container for the transport or storage of liquid natural gas |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR3016682A1 (en) * | 2014-01-21 | 2015-07-24 | Cryolor | STATION AND METHOD FOR SUPPLYING A FLAMMABLE FUEL FLUID |
EP2910842A3 (en) * | 2014-01-21 | 2015-11-04 | Cryolor | Station and method for supplying a flammable fuel fluid |
US10006697B2 (en) | 2014-01-21 | 2018-06-26 | Cryolor | Station and method for supplying a flammable fluid fuel |
GB2537964A (en) * | 2015-02-24 | 2016-11-02 | Electricite De France | A hot water tank device with a jacket provided with a heat exchanger |
IT201800010218A1 (en) * | 2018-11-09 | 2020-05-09 | Iveco Magirus | HEATING SYSTEM FOR A FUEL TANK |
CN112730213A (en) * | 2020-11-30 | 2021-04-30 | 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 | Gas-liquid accurate proportioning test device and test method under normal temperature and negative pressure |
CN112730213B (en) * | 2020-11-30 | 2022-08-02 | 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 | Gas-liquid accurate proportioning test device and test method under normal temperature and negative pressure |
CN112730213B8 (en) * | 2020-11-30 | 2022-09-30 | 合肥工业大学 | Gas-liquid accurate proportioning test device and test method under normal temperature and negative pressure |
FR3130928A1 (en) * | 2021-12-22 | 2023-06-23 | Faurecia Systemes D'echappement | Hydrogen storage and supply device and corresponding assembly |
WO2023118432A1 (en) * | 2021-12-22 | 2023-06-29 | Faurecia Systemes D'echappement | Hydrogen storage and supply device and corresponding assembly |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201211078D0 (en) | 2012-08-01 |
WO2013190254A3 (en) | 2014-06-19 |
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