Heating System

Abstract

Provided is a system that may be used to heat a storage tank. In example embodiments, the system may include a storage tank, a channel in the storage tank, a burner in the channel, and at least one source tank configured to provide a flammable gas to the burner, wherein the burner is configured to generate heat within the channel to warm contents of the storage tank. Example embodiments also relate to a method of warming a DEF tank stored on a trailer

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field[0002]Example embodiments relate to a heating system usable for heating a tank. In example embodiments, the tank may store a fluid such as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). Example embodiments also relate to a method of maintaining the DEF at operating temperature by warming a tank.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]NOx is a generic term for the mono-nitrogen oxides NO and NO2 (nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide). NOx is produced from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen gases in the air during combustion, especially at high temperatures. For example, NOx may be produced by a combustion engine. NOx is considered a pollutant. Thus, steps have been taken to reduce the production of NOx generated by motor vehicles.[0005]Conventional diesel engines generate, amongst other products, NOx, Oxygen (O2), and Carbon (C). Vehicles employing diesel engines often include a system to eliminate or reduce the amount of NOx produced. For example, some systems use catalytic ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Example embodiments relate to a heating system for warming a tank that stores a fluid, such as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). The system includes a storage tank with at least one channel, a burner in fluid communication with the channel, and a source tank configured to provide a flammable gas to the burner. The burner generates heat within the channel to warm the contents of the tank. The method involves opening a valve to allow the flammable gas to flow to the burner, activating a spark generator or pilot to ignite the gas, and monitoring the surface of the channel to ensure the gas is burning properly. The surface of the channel can be in direct contact with the DEF in the tank, or it can be in fluid communication with other channels within the tank. The technical benefit of the system and method is to provide a reliable and efficient way to warm DEF in tanks, which can improve operational performance and reduce emissions during the vehicle's operation.

Problems solved by technology

DEF, however, has a freezing point of about 12 deg F. Thus, in cold temperature environments, DEF is prone to freezing.

Unfortunately, this process may take considerable time to thaw the DEF thus delaying use of the vehicle.

In some situations, an operator may operate a vehicle before the DEF is thawed thus reducing an efficiency of the SCR process.

In this situation, the tractor cannot be used to maintain the DEF at working temperature or to thaw the DEF if needed.

However, these blankets are generally expensive and inefficient.

In addition the trailer be in remote locations without access to electricity to power electric blankets or glycol pumps to circulate a heated solution.

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