Fuel processing system and ship including same

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fuel processing system comprises: a fuel supply line for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank to a demand point; a fuel recovery line for recovering fuel discharged from any one of the fuel supply line and the demand point; a separator connected to the fuel recovery line to store the fuel recovered from any one of the fuel supply line and the demand point; a knockout drum connected to the fuel recovery line to store the fuel recovered from the demand point or a fuel valve unit for supplying the fuel to the demand point from the upstream side of the demand point; and a fuel processing unit for processing the fuel by using a disaster prevention material. The separator is connected to the knockout drum to transfer at least a part of the fuel to the knockout drum. The fuel processing unit processes the fuel transferred from the knockout drum.

Description

Fuel processing system and vessel including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a fuel processing system and a vessel including the same.

[0002] Air pollution is worsening worldwide, and climate change is being driven by it. Because pollutants emitted from ships significantly contribute to air pollution, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Union, the United States, and other countries are strengthening regulations on ship emissions to reduce air pollution.

[0003] As greenhouse gas emission regulations for ships are gradually strengthened at key milestones through 2050, it is expected that existing engines and fuels alone will be unable to comply with regulations on pollutants.

[0004] Therefore, with the implementation of strengthened greenhouse gas emission regulations for ships, the use of existing fossil fuels is expected to become difficult. Therefore, the development of alternative fuels that can meet the strengthened regulations is urgent. Non-fossil fuels such as ammonia (NH3), biofuels, solar energy, and wind energy are currently being considered as alternative fuels.

[0005] Among them, ammonia is a chemical substance that can be produced, stored, transported, and supplied, and an ammonia ship that uses ammonia as fuel is being developed.

[0006] Ammonia fuel is supplied to the engine while it is running, and at least a portion of the supplied fuel can be recovered. Furthermore, when the engine is shut down, any remaining ammonia fuel in the engine and the lines leading to it can be recovered. Because ammonia fuel is toxic, safe recovery and disposal are essential.

[0007] The present invention was created to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and provides a fuel processing system that safely and efficiently recovers fuel from an engine or a fuel supply unit, and a ship including the same.

[0008] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art from the description below.

[0009] A fuel processing system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a fuel supply line for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank to a demander; and a fuel recovery line for recovering fuel discharged from either the fuel supply line or the demander; a separator connected to the fuel recovery line for storing fuel recovered from either the fuel supply line or the demander; a knockout drum connected to the fuel recovery line for storing fuel recovered from a fuel valve unit supplying fuel to the demander or upstream of the demander; and a fuel processing unit for processing fuel using a fire prevention material, wherein the separator is connected to the knockout drum and transfers at least a portion of the fuel to the knockout drum, and the fuel processing unit processes the fuel transferred from the knockout drum.

[0010] Specifically, the demand source includes a first state in which the demand source is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source is emergency stopped in an emergency situation, and in the first state, fuel in the demand source can be delivered to the separator through the fuel recovery line, and in the second state, fuel in the demand source can be delivered to the knockout drum through the fuel recovery line.

[0011] Specifically, it includes a recovery tank that stores liquid fuel separated from the knockout drum and delivers the liquid fuel to the fuel recovery line, and the recovery tank can deliver gaseous fuel among the fuel received and stored from the separator or the demand source to the fuel processing unit.

[0012] Specifically, it includes a flow control valve provided downstream of the demand source to control the flow of fuel in one direction, and the flow control valve can block the reverse flow of fuel from the knockout drum to the demand source.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a fuel processing system includes: a fuel supply line for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank to a demander; a fuel recovery line for recovering fuel discharged from either the fuel supply line or the demander; a separator connected to the fuel recovery line for storing fuel recovered from either the fuel supply line or the demander; a first knockout drum connected to the fuel recovery line for storing fuel recovered from a fuel valve unit supplying fuel to the demander or upstream of the demander; a second knockout drum for recovering fuel discharged from the separator; and a fuel processing unit for processing fuel delivered from the first knockout drum or the second knockout drum using a fire prevention material.

[0014] Specifically, the demand source includes a first state in which the demand source is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source is emergency stopped in an emergency situation, and in the first state, fuel in the demand source can be delivered to the separator through the fuel recovery line, and in the second state, fuel in the demand source can be delivered to the first knockout drum through the fuel recovery line.

[0015] A vessel according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the fuel processing system.

[0016] The fuel processing system according to the present invention and the vessel including the same can safely and efficiently recover fuel using a separator, a knockout drum, etc.

[0017] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] The objects, specific advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In this specification, when reference numerals are assigned to components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components are given the same reference numerals even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known technology is deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0024] In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0025] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0026] In the present invention, the (gaseous) fuel may be a substance that has a boiling point lower than room temperature at atmospheric pressure and can be converted into energy. Examples of the fuel include, but are not limited to, toxic substances such as ammonia, liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas, and ethane. However, for convenience, the fuel will be described hereinafter as being ammonia.

[0027] In this specification, fuel may encompass gaseous fuel or liquid fuel, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0028] In the drawings of the present invention, straight lines represent paths through which various fluids, such as fuel, refrigerant, heat, and purging gas, move, and can be interpreted as pipelines. Furthermore, the present invention allows pressure sensors (PT), temperature sensors (TT), and flow sensors (FT) to be installed at appropriate locations without limitation, and the measured values ​​from each sensor can be used in various ways without limitation in the operation of the components described below.

[0029] The present invention also includes a vessel equipped with the fuel processing system described below. In this case, the vessel is a concept that includes gas carriers, merchant ships transporting various types of cargo or people, FSRUs, FPSOs, bunkering vessels, offshore plants, etc.

[0030] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0031]

[0032] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a fuel processing system (1) according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a fuel supply unit (110a) that supplies fuel stored in a storage tank (300) to a demander (200); and a fuel recovery unit (110b) that processes fuel discharged from either the fuel supply unit (110a) or the demander (200); and the fuel recovery unit (110b) includes a separator (114) that recovers and stores fuel discharged from either the fuel supply unit (110a) or the demander (200); a first knockout drum (400) that recovers fuel discharged from the demander (200); and a second knockout drum (420) that recovers fuel discharged from the separator (114).

[0034] A fuel processing system (1) may include a fuel flow unit (100). The fuel flow unit (100) may include a fuel supply and recovery unit (110) that supplies fuel to a demander (200) and recovers fuel from the demander (200), and a fuel valve unit (120) that controls the flow of fuel supplied to or recovered from the demander (200).

[0035] The fuel supply and recovery unit (110) may include a fuel supply unit (110a) that supplies fuel to the demander (200) and a fuel recovery unit (110b) that recovers fuel from the demander (200). The fuel supply unit (110a) may supply fuel from the storage tank (300) to the demander (200). The fuel supply unit (110a) may process fuel according to the specifications of the demander (200) and supply it to the demander (200). At least a portion of the fuel supply and recovery unit (110) may be provided within a fuel preparation room provided within a ship.

[0036] In this specification, the fuel supply unit (110a) may represent the fuel supply recovery unit (110). That is, the fuel supply unit (110a) may be an expression encompassing the fuel recovery unit (110b).

[0037] In order to recover fuel in the fuel recovery unit (110b), inert gas, fire prevention materials, etc. may be supplied to the fuel flow unit (100). Specifically, an inert gas supply unit (N2) for supplying inert gas to the fuel flow unit (100) may be provided. The inert gas supplied by the inert gas supply unit (N2) may be used as a purging gas. The purging gas may be delivered to a separator (114) or the like together with the residual fuel of the fuel supply recovery unit (110), and may be delivered to a separator (114) or the like together with the residual fuel of the demander (200).

[0038] Additionally, a fire prevention material supply unit (not shown) may be provided to supply fire prevention materials to the fuel flow unit (100). Fuel together with the fire prevention materials may be discharged from the fuel flow unit (100). Preferably, the inert gas supply unit (N2) or the fire prevention material supply unit may be provided upstream or downstream of the demand source (200).

[0039] The demand source (200) and the storage tank (300) may be connected by a fuel supply line (L10). The fuel supply unit (110a) may include the fuel supply line (L10). A pump or heat exchanger, etc., may be provided on the fuel supply line (L10).

[0040] The fuel supply line (L10) upstream of the demand source (200) or the fuel recovery line (L20) downstream may have a double-pipe structure. Even if a fuel leak occurs in the fuel supply line (L10) or the fuel recovery line (L20), the spread of the fuel leak can be prevented. Dry air is supplied to the double-pipe, and the gas in the double-pipe can be discharged to the outside, and the discharged gas can be processed externally.

[0041] The exhaust from the demand source (200) can be discharged to the outside along the exhaust line (L50). The exhaust discharged through the exhaust line (L50) may contain various foreign substances (particles) and environmental pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), and the foreign substances can be appropriately treated using chemical reactions, etc.

[0042] The above fuel supply line (L10) may be branched to provide a storage tank line (L11). The storage tank line (L11) may return fuel withdrawn from the storage tank (300) to the storage tank (300). At this time, the fuel may be returned after being processed, such as by heating, vaporization, cooling, supercooling, or reliquefaction.

[0043] The demand source (200) may be a single-fuel engine using a specific fuel, or a multi-fuel engine using various types of fuel. In this specification, the demand source (200) is interpreted as a device that consumes ammonia to obtain energy, encompassing turbines and the like. Specifically, the demand source (200) may be a device that converts the chemical energy of ammonia fuel into energy such as electricity, heat, or mechanical energy. For example, the demand source (200) includes various consumers such as fuel cells and boilers.

[0044] The storage tank (300) stores fuel. The fuel can be used as fuel consumed by a demand source (200) such as an engine. A number of different types of fuel can be used.

[0045] The storage tank (300) stores fuel in a liquid state, and for this purpose, insulation may be applied to at least one side, either inside or outside, of the storage tank (300). In addition, the storage tank (300) can prevent fuel vaporization by storing ammonia at high pressure. In addition, the storage tank (300) stores fuel at high pressure, so that the fuel extraction pump (310), which will be described later, can be reduced in size or omitted.

[0046] The storage tank (300) may be installed to form a cargo hold within the vessel. Furthermore, the storage tank (300) may be installed independently within the vessel or on the deck. One or more storage tanks (300) may be installed. The fuel in multiple storage tanks (300) may be consumed alternatively or simultaneously.

[0047] The above storage tank (300) can store cargo. For example, the storage tank (300) can store ammonia as cargo. In this case, the cargo stored in the storage tank (300) can be used as fuel.

[0048] A bunkering station (not shown) or a cargo manifold (not shown) may be connected to the storage tank (300). The bunkering station delivers fuel from an external fuel source to the storage tank (300). The external fuel source may be a land-based source or a bunkering vessel at sea. The cargo manifold delivers cargo from an external cargo source to the storage tank (300).

[0049] The storage tank (300) may include at least one of a device that heats or vaporizes fuel inside the storage tank (300) and returns it to the storage tank (300), a device that cools or supercools fuel inside the storage tank (300) and returns it to the storage tank (300), or a device that re-liquefies fuel in a gaseous state inside the storage tank (300) and returns it to the storage tank (300).

[0050] Fuel in the storage tank (300) can be withdrawn to the fuel supply unit (110a). The fuel withdrawal pump (310) can withdraw the fuel in the storage tank (300) to the fuel supply unit (110a). The fuel withdrawal pump (310) may be provided inside the storage tank (300), but the present invention is not limited thereto. The fuel withdrawal pump (310) may be provided as a fixed-displacement pump or a variable-displacement (VFD) pump.

[0051] The fuel extraction pump (310) may be placed within the storage tank (300), but unlike the drawing, it may also be placed downstream of the storage tank (300). Furthermore, as previously explained, the fuel extraction pump (310) may be omitted depending on the type and internal pressure of the storage tank (300).

[0052] Unlike the drawing, the fuel extraction pump (310) may be provided in multiple numbers to form a mutually back-up structure, and the multiple fuel extraction pumps (310) may be provided to operate simultaneously and share the load. Alternatively, the fuel extraction pumps (310) may be provided in multiple numbers in series to utilize a multi-stage pressurization method.

[0053] The fuel supply unit (110a) includes a fuel heat exchanger (111) and a fuel supply pump (112). The fuel heat exchanger (111) controls the temperature of the fuel. The fuel heat exchanger (111) may be provided upstream of the fuel supply pump (112), that is, between the fuel withdrawal pump (310) and the fuel supply pump (112). In addition, the fuel heat exchanger (111) may be provided downstream of the fuel supply pump (112), and may be provided upstream and downstream of the fuel supply pump (112), respectively. The fuel heat exchanger (111) may use a non-limiting medium such as glycol water (GW), seawater, fresh water, or steam to control the temperature of the fuel in response to the temperature required by the demander (200).

[0054] The fuel heat exchanger (111) may be a heater that heats fuel. The fuel heat exchanger (111) may heat fuel stored in a storage tank (300). Specifically, the fuel heat exchanger (111) may control the temperature of the fuel in the storage tank (300) so that, when the fuel recovered from the demand source (200) and the fuel in the storage tank (300) are mixed, the temperature of the mixed fuel becomes higher than the pour point of the sealing oil. Therefore, the fuel heat exchanger (111) may maintain the fluidity of the sealing oil in the demand source (200), etc.

[0055] Preferably, the fuel heat exchanger (111) may be provided upstream of the point where the fuel recovery line (L20) is connected to the fuel supply line (L10). Therefore, the fuel heat exchanger (111) can control the temperature of the fuel in the storage tank (300) before the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) and the fuel in the storage tank (300) are mixed. Therefore, the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) and the fuel in the storage tank (300) can be prevented from being mixed and the fluidity of the sealing oil from being lost.

[0056] In addition, the required temperature of the demand source (200) is generally higher than the storage temperature of the storage tank (300) (below the fuel boiling point at atmospheric pressure), and the temperature increase that occurs when the fuel extraction pump (310) and the fuel supply pump (112) are pressurized is not enough to meet the required temperature of the demand source (200), so a fuel heat exchanger (111) can be used.

[0057] However, the fuel heat exchanger (111) is installed upstream of the fuel supply pump (112) to appropriately control the temperature of the fuel so that fuel vapor does not flow into the fuel supply pump (112). At this time, the fuel heat exchanger (111) controls the heating temperature of the fuel by taking into account that the fuel is recovered by the fuel recovery unit (110b).

[0058] The fuel heat exchanger (111) is supplied with heat, so that the heat can be used to heat the fuel. That is, the fuel heat exchanger (111) can be provided in a form that mutually exchanges heat between the heat and the fuel.

[0059] Alternatively, the fuel heat exchanger (111) may be a water bath type heater in which fuel passes through the inside of a water tank. In this case, the water bath type heater may be a water bath type steam heater that heats the water inside with steam, or a water bath type electric heater that heats the water inside with electricity.

[0060] The fuel supply pump (112) pressurizes the fuel pressurized by the fuel withdrawal pump (310) to correspond to the pressure required by the demander (200). As described in the fuel withdrawal pump (310), one or more fuel supply pumps (112) may be provided in series or parallel.

[0061] The fuel supply pump (112) may be provided as a variable capacity type, and the load of the fuel supply pump (112) may be varied according to the measurement value of a flow meter that may be provided between the fuel withdrawal pump (310) and the fuel supply pump (112). In this case, the flow meter may be provided at a location where the flow rate of the fuel recovered by the fuel recovery unit (110b) is reflected.

[0062] The fuel recovery unit (110b) described below can transfer fuel discharged from a demand source (200) to a fuel supply pump (112). However, the fuel supply pump (112) does not allow gaseous inflow due to its specifications. Therefore, it is required that the fuel upstream of the fuel supply pump (112) exists only in a liquid phase, and for this purpose, the temperature and pressure upstream of the fuel supply pump (112) can be effectively controlled.

[0063] For example, fuel recovered by the fuel recovery unit (110b) can be cooled, and the fuel pressure upstream of the fuel supply pump (112) can be maintained high to increase the boiling point of the fuel and suppress vaporization.

[0064] The fuel valve unit (120) may be provided upstream or downstream of the demand source (200). The fuel valve unit (120) may include a fuel supply valve provided upstream of the demand source (200) to control the supply flow rate of fuel, and a fuel return valve provided downstream of the demand source (200) to control the return flow rate of fuel, etc. The fuel valve unit (120) may be a fuel valve train (FVT), the fuel supply valve may be a fuel supply valve train (SVT), and the fuel return valve may be a fuel return valve train (RVT).

[0065] The fuel recovery unit (110b) can recover fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel flow unit (100) when the demand source (200) is stopped from operating. For example, the fuel recovery unit (110b) can recover fuel when the demand source (200) is stopped normally due to regular maintenance, normal operation termination, etc., and can recover fuel when the demand source (200) is stopped in an emergency due to fuel leakage, fire, overheating, explosion, etc.

[0066] In addition, the fuel recovery unit (110b) can recover fuel returned from the demand source (200) to which surplus flow is supplied, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0067] At this time, the surplus fuel may pass through at least a portion of the demand source (200) and then be discharged from the demand source (200). In this case, oil or foreign substances used within the demand source (200) may be mixed into the fuel. Therefore, the surplus fuel discharged from the demand source (200) is contaminated, and when the recovered fuel is returned to the storage tank (300), the fuel in the storage tank (300) may be contaminated.

[0068] However, since this surplus fuel is consumable at the demand site (200), the fuel recovery unit (110b) transfers the surplus fuel discharged from the demand site (200) to the fuel supply unit (110a). Specifically, the fuel recovery unit (110b) can transfer the surplus fuel from the fuel supply unit (110a) to the fuel supply pump (112). This transfer of fuel is performed by the fuel recovery line (L20). The fuel recovery line (L20) may be provided with a recovery heat exchanger (113) or a separator (114).

[0069] The recovery heat exchanger (113) cools the fuel discharged from the demand source (200). Since the fuel has passed through the demand source (200), it may be heated by the heat generated by the demand source (200). The fuel passing through the demand source (200) may have a temperature higher than the required temperature of the demand source (200). The recovery heat exchanger (113) can lower the temperature of the overheated fuel, adjust the temperature of the fuel to the required temperature of the demand source (200), and deliver the fuel to the demand source (200).

[0070] In addition, if the heated fuel is returned as is and flows into the fuel supply pump (112), it may cause the inflow of gaseous fuel into the fuel supply pump (112). Therefore, the recovery heat exchanger (113) cools the fuel with fresh water or the like and transfers it between the fuel withdrawal pump (310) and the fuel supply pump (112) in the fuel supply unit (110a), thereby preventing the fuel gaseous fuel from flowing into the fuel supply pump (112).

[0071] The fuel heat exchanger (111) and the recovery heat exchanger (113) can be integrated. Specifically, the fuel heat exchanger (111) and the recovery heat exchanger (113) are integrated into an integrated heat exchanger, and the integrated heat exchanger can control the temperatures of the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10) and the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) within a single housing (not shown). For example, the integrated heat exchanger can heat the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10) and cool the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20).

[0072] The fuel heat exchanger (111) and the recovery heat exchanger (113) may share a heat medium. In addition, the integrated heat exchanger may exchange heat between the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) and the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0073] Preferably, the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) and the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10) can be mixed after their temperatures are controlled by the integrated heat exchanger. Accordingly, the temperature of the sealing oil in the fuel recovery line (L20) can be prevented from dropping below the pour point.

[0074] The integrated heat exchanger may be provided upstream of the point where the fuel recovery line (L20) is connected to the fuel supply line (L10).

[0075] A separator (114) is provided in parallel to a portion of a fuel return line (L20) and temporarily stores fuel. The separator (114) is branched and connected upstream of the fuel supply pump (112) based on the flow of fuel delivered from the demand source (200) to the fuel supply pump (112). The separator (114) stores at least a portion of the fuel returned from the demand source (200) and performs gas-liquid separation, thereby preventing gas from flowing into the fuel supply pump (112). Specifically, the separator (114) can perform gas-liquid separation of the inert gas and fuel used for purging, such as the fuel supply line (L10). The fuel temporarily stored in the separator (114) can be supplied to the demand source (200) when the demand source (200) is in operation.

[0076] Additionally, the separator (114) may be configured to remove lubricating oil contained in the fuel. The separator (114) may have a structure including a gas-liquid separator and a knockout drum. In this case, the fuel first flows into the gas-liquid separator to separate the gas phase, and at least a portion of the liquid fuel flows into the knockout drum to separate the lubricating oil. In other words, the separation of the gas phase and the lubricating oil described above may be achieved by a separate structure, but the separator (114) may conveniently include a structure that implements these functions.

[0077] The separator (114) can recover and store fuel discharged from at least one of the fuel supply unit (110a), the fuel recovery unit (110b), the demand unit (200), and the fuel valve unit (120). Specifically, the separator (114) can recover and store fuel discharged from either the fuel supply unit (110a) or the demand unit (200). Fuel discharged from the demand unit (200) can be recovered to the separator (114) along a line directly connected to the demand unit (200) or a line connected to the fuel valve unit (120).

[0078] The separator (114) can recover a portion of the fuel delivered to the demand source (200) when the demand source (200) is in operation, and can deliver the fuel discharged from the demand source (200) to the fuel processing unit (500) through the knockout drum (420) when the demand source (200) is stopped. At this time, the separator (114) can recover liquid fuel to the fuel supply unit (110a) through the fuel recovery unit (110b), and deliver gaseous fuel to the fuel processing unit (500) through the knockout drum (420).

[0079] The separator (114) may be maintained at a certain pressure and temperature to maintain the fuel in a liquid state. For example, the separator (114) may be maintained at 50°C or lower and 20 barg or lower to maintain the ammonia fuel in a liquid state.

[0080] The knockout drum (400, 420) can receive and store fuel recovered from the separator (114). The knockout drum (400, 420) can implement a gas-liquid separator function, similar to the separator (114).

[0081] The separator (114) can store fuel at a higher pressure than the knockout drum (400, 420). Specifically, the separator (114) can have a pressure higher than a certain value, and the knockout drum (400, 420) can have a normal pressure. For example, the separator (114) can have a pressure that can maintain the fuel in a liquid state.

[0082] The knockout drum (400, 420) can store fuel at a lower pressure than the separator (114). Therefore, the knockout drum (400, 420) can recover fuel more quickly than the separator (114). The knockout drum (400, 420) can be used in an emergency shutdown when a large amount of fuel is discharged from a demand source (200) or the like in a short period of time.

[0083] The separator (114) can drain the fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit (110a) in the first stage while maintaining a pressurized state. The knockout drum (400, 420) can drain the fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit (110a) in the second stage while maintaining a low pressure state compared to the separator (114).

[0084] Upstream of the separator (114), a connecting line (L34) branching from the fuel recovery line (L20) and connected to the fuel delivery line (L30) may be provided. The connecting line (L34) may be connected upstream of the knockout drum (400).

[0085] Fuel may be delivered to the separator (114) during the first drain along the above-mentioned connection line (L34) and may be delivered to the knockout drum (400, 420) during the second drain. For example, when the demand source (200) is normally stopped, fuel may be delivered to the separator (114) during the first drain along the above-mentioned connection line (L34) and may be drained to the knockout drum (400, 420) during the second drain along the above-mentioned connection line (L34).

[0086] The fuel recovery unit (110b) can drain the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10) and the fuel recovery line (L20) primarily through the separator (114), and can drain the fuel in the fuel supply line (L10) secondarily through the knockout drum (400, 420).

[0087] The fuel supply line (L10) can be depressurized by the separator (114) during the first drain and by the knockout drum (400, 420) during the second drain.

[0088] The above fuel supply line (L10) can be depressurized by the separator (114) to a preset pressure during the first drain and then depressurized during the second drain, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0089] The inert gas supply unit (N2) is provided adjacent to the demand unit (200) upstream of the demand unit (200), and can supply purging gas to the fuel supply line (L10) after the secondary drain.

[0090] The knockout drum (400, 420) can separate the liquid discharged from the demand source (200) from a gas such as an inert gas, and the separated liquid can be reintroduced into the demand source (200) through a fuel supply unit (110a), etc. In addition, the fuel separated from the knockout drum (400, 420) can be delivered to a fuel processing unit (500). The inert gas separated from the knockout drum (400, 420) can be delivered to an inert gas supply unit (not shown).

[0091] The knockout drum (400, 420) can separate the fuel from an inert gas, etc., to prevent the pressure of the fuel from increasing excessively. In the event of an emergency stop of the demander (200), the knockout drum (400, 420) can transfer gaseous fuel or liquid fuel to a fuel processing unit (500) to be described later. Preferably, the knockout drum (400, 420) can transfer gaseous fuel to the fuel processing unit (500) and liquid fuel to the fuel flow unit (100). The knockout drum (400, 420) can transfer liquid fuel to the fuel flow unit (100) through a separator (114), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0092] The separator (114) can supply at least a portion of the fuel recovered from the demand source (200) to the demand source (200). When the demand source (200) is normally stopped, the separator (114) can transfer the gaseous fuel to the fuel processing unit (500). Specifically, the separator (114) can transfer the gaseous fuel to the fuel processing unit (500) through the knockout drum (400, 420).

[0093] In this specification, the term "gaseous fuel" or "liquid fuel" may include substances other than fuel. For example, the gaseous fuel may include gaseous fuel and an inert gas.

[0094] The knockout drum (400, 420) may include at least one of a first knockout drum (400) for recovering fuel discharged from the demand source (200); and a second knockout drum (420) for recovering fuel discharged from the fuel supply unit (110a).

[0095] In detail, the first knockout drum (400) can recover fuel discharged from the demand source (200) or the fuel valve unit (120). The first knockout drum (400) can recover fuel from the demand source (200) when the demand source (200) is in an emergency stop.

[0096] A fuel delivery line (L30) may be provided between the fuel flow unit (100) and the first knockout drum (400). Specifically, the fuel delivery line (L30) may be provided between the fuel valve unit (120) and the first knockout drum (400). The fuel delivery line (L30) may be provided by branching off from the fuel recovery line (L20) downstream of the demand source (200).

[0097] A flow control valve (CV) may be provided upstream of the knockout drum (400, 420) to control the flow of fuel in one direction. Specifically, the flow control valve (CV) may be provided upstream of the first knockout drum (400). More specifically, the flow control valve (CV) may be provided on the fuel delivery line (L30). The flow control valve (CV) may prevent the fuel in the fuel delivery line (L30) from flowing back to the demander (200). The flow control valve (CV)

[0098] The second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the fuel supply recovery unit (110). The second knockout drum (420) can be provided downstream of the separator (114). The second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the separator (114).

[0099] The fuel treatment unit (500) can treat fuel discharged from a portion where fuel is stored or flows. In the fuel treatment unit (500), the fuel can be absorbed or dissolved in a fire prevention material.

[0100] The fuel processing unit (500) may be formed as a scrubber. For another example, the fuel processing unit (500) may be an absorption tank. For another example, the fuel processing unit (500) may be formed in the form of a combination of a scrubber and an absorption tank. For example, the upper part of the fuel processing unit (500) may be formed in the form of a scrubber including a disaster prevention material supply unit (not shown) that sprays disaster prevention materials, and the lower part may be formed in the form of an absorption tank that stores disaster prevention materials and absorbs fuel.

[0101] When inert gas, purging gas, fire prevention material, etc. are injected into the fuel supply line (L10), etc., the inert gas, etc. can pass through the demand source (200), etc., and the remaining fuel can be discharged from the fuel supply line (L10), etc.

[0102] A master valve (MV) may be provided upstream of the demand source (200). The fuel valve unit (120) may include the master valve (MV). The master valve (MV) may block the flow of fuel supplied to the demand source (200) until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches a preset pressure. The master valve (MV) may be provided downstream of the demand source (200), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0103] The fuel recovery unit (110b) may include a recovery tank (410) that stores liquid fuel separated from the first knockout drum (400) and delivers the liquid fuel to the fuel recovery unit (110b). The recovery tank (410) and the first knockout drum (400) may be connected to a first recovery line (L41). The recovery tank (410) may be connected to the fuel recovery unit (110b) through a second recovery line (L42). In addition, the recovery tank (410) may be connected to a fuel processing unit (500) along a third fuel processing unit line (L45), and the fuel stored in the recovery tank (410) may be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500) and processed.

[0104]

[0105] The fuel processing unit (500) can collect and process fuel discharged from the demand source (200) or the fuel flow unit (100). The fuel processing unit (500) can collect fuel during a normal stop or emergency stop. Specifically, the fuel processing unit (500) can process fuel discharged from the knockout drum (400, 420) or the separator (114).

[0106] The fuel processing unit (500) can utilize a decontaminating agent to efficiently process / clean the fuel contained in the recovered gas. That is, the fuel processing unit (500) can supply a decontaminating agent to the fuel recovered from the demand source (200) or the fuel flow unit (100).

[0107] The fuel treatment unit (500) may generate wastewater inside the fuel treatment unit (500) while treating fuel discharged from the demand source (200) or the fuel flow unit (100) using a disaster prevention material. The wastewater may remain or be stored in the fuel treatment unit (500). The wastewater stored in the fuel treatment unit (500) may contain at least a portion of the disaster prevention material, or may be composed solely of the disaster prevention material. For example, the wastewater refers to a solution in which fuel is dissolved in the disaster prevention material, and for example, the wastewater may be ammonia water.

[0108] The fuel processing unit (500) may include a fuel collection unit (510) that processes fuel using a fire prevention material. The fuel collection unit (510) may include at least one of an absorption tank that stores the fire prevention material therein and a scrubber that sprays the fire prevention material therein. For example, the fuel collection unit (510) may be an integrated scrubber in which the fire prevention material is stored at the bottom and sprayed at the top.

[0109] The fuel treatment unit (500) may be provided with sensors. For example, the fuel collection unit (510) may be provided with at least one of a level sensor for measuring the level of wastewater stored therein, a pH sensor for measuring the pH of wastewater stored therein, and an ion concentration sensor for measuring the cation concentration of wastewater stored therein. In addition, the fuel treatment unit (500) may be provided with a sensor for measuring the density, electrical conductivity, or turbidity of wastewater, and various sensors may be used in combination. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0110] Fuel recovered from the fuel recovery unit (110b) or the like can be delivered to the fuel collection unit (510). Preferably, fuel recovered from the fuel recovery unit (110b) or the like can be injected into the lower portion of the fuel collection unit (510). Specifically, fuel recovered from the fuel recovery unit (110b) or the like can be injected into the inside of the fire prevention material stored in the fuel collection unit (510).

[0111] Specifically, the fuel collection unit (510) may be provided with a fire extinguishing material supply unit (not shown) that supplies a fire extinguishing material to the inside of the housing (not shown). Specifically, the fire extinguishing material supply unit may spray the fire extinguishing material into the inside of the fuel collection unit (510). Water may be used as the fire extinguishing material, but any material capable of dissolving fuel may be used as the fire extinguishing material without limitation.

[0112] The fuel collection unit (510) may include a packing unit (not shown) within the housing to increase contact between the fuel and the fire prevention material. The packing unit may be made of a material with a large surface area, such as a porous material. Furthermore, various packing methods, such as random packing and structured packing, may be applied to the packing unit, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0113] The fuel treatment unit (500) can discharge fuel gas upward and discharge fuel dissolved in the fire prevention material downward. The fuel treatment unit (500) can include a vent unit (520) for discharging fuel gas and a wastewater tank (530) for storing fuel dissolved in the fire prevention material.

[0114] The vent section (520) can discharge fuel gas when the concentration of the fuel gas is below a certain value. For example, the vent section (520) can discharge fuel gas when the concentration of the fuel gas is below 25 ppm.

[0115] The wastewater tank (530) can store wastewater discharged from the fuel collection unit (510). Specifically, the wastewater tank (530) can store wastewater discharged from the fuel collection unit (510). The wastewater stored in the wastewater tank (530) refers to a solution in which fuel is dissolved in a disaster prevention material, and for example, the wastewater can be ammonia water.

[0116] The wastewater tank (530) can maintain the wastewater at a constant level. At this time, the wastewater level can be managed to an appropriate level by a level sensor (not shown) provided in the wastewater tank (530).

[0117] The wastewater tank (530) can generate fuel vapor from wastewater. The wastewater tank (530) can process the fuel vapor by circulating the fuel vapor to the fuel treatment unit (500). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0118] Some of the fuel vaporized in the wastewater tank (530) may be discharged into the atmosphere through a vent mast (not shown). The fuel flowing into the vent mast may be controlled so that its concentration does not exceed safety or environmental regulations.

[0119] The above fuel collection unit (510) can maintain the wastewater at a constant level. When the level of the wastewater stored in the fuel collection unit (510) is above a certain value, the wastewater can be delivered to the wastewater tank (530).

[0120] In addition, the level of wastewater or disaster prevention materials stored in the fuel collection unit (510) can be maintained above a certain value. When wastewater is transferred from the fuel collection unit (510) to the wastewater tank (530), disaster prevention materials can be supplied to the fuel collection unit (510). When the pH of the wastewater stored in the fuel collection unit (510) is above a certain value, a neutralizing agent can be supplied to the fuel treatment unit (500). By controlling the pH, the collection efficiency of ammonia fuel can be increased.

[0121] A first fuel treatment line (L40) may be provided between the fuel treatment unit (500) and the first knockout drum (400). A second fuel treatment line (L44) may be provided between the fuel treatment unit (500) and the second knockout drum (420). The first fuel treatment line (L40) and the second fuel treatment line (L44) may be connected.

[0122] The above second knockout drum (420) may be omitted, and in this case, the fuel processing unit (500) may be connected to a second fuel delivery line (L31) extending from the separator (114).

[0123] A quantity of fuel greater than the required flow rate is delivered to the demand source (200), and surplus fuel from the demand source (200) can be recovered through the fuel recovery unit (110b).

[0124] The demand source (200) is normally stopped for regular maintenance or when normal operation is terminated, and the demand source (200) may be stopped in an emergency if fuel leakage, fire, overheating, explosion, etc. occur and the supply of fuel may lead to additional accidents.

[0125] In addition, in the case of a general stop of the demand source (200), the fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel supply unit (110a) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500). Specifically, in the case of a general stop of the demand source (200), the fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel supply unit (110a) can be delivered to the separator (114), and the fuel from the separator (1140) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500). More specifically, in the case of a general stop of the demand source (200), the fuel recovered from the demand source (200) can be delivered to the separator (114) along the fuel recovery line (L20).

[0126] In the case of a general stop of the demand source (200), the fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel supply unit (110a) can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a) along the fuel recovery line (L20). Specifically, at least a portion of the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) can be delivered to the separator (114) along the separator supply line (L21). The fuel in the separator (114) is separated into gaseous and liquid phases, and the liquid fuel can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a) along the separator discharge line (L22).

[0127] Fuel from the demand source (200) can be recovered through a separator (114) or a knockout drum (400, 420). Fuel from the fuel supply unit (110a) can be recovered through a separator (114). Here, the fuel supply unit (110a) may refer to a fuel supply line (L10) provided upstream of the demand source (200) or a device provided in the fuel supply line (L10).

[0128] The first knockout drum (400) can recover fuel discharged from the demand source (200), and the second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the fuel supply unit (110a). At this time, the second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the fuel supply line (L10) or fuel discharged from the fuel supply line (L10).

[0129] The fuel in the separator (114) can be delivered to the second knockout drum (420). Specifically, the gaseous fuel separated in the separator (114) can be delivered to the second knockout drum (420). The gaseous fuel can be delivered to the second knockout drum (420) together with an inert gas.

[0130] The second knockout drum (420) may have a lower pressure than the separator (114). Fuel may be depressurized in the second knockout drum (420) and delivered to the fuel processing unit (500). The second knockout drum (420) may be omitted, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0131] In the event of an emergency stop of the demand source (200), fuel must be urgently discharged from the demand source (200) and the like, and the fuel can be recovered from the knockout drum (400, 420). In the event of an emergency stop of the demand source (200), fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel supply unit (110a) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500) along the fuel delivery line (L30). In the event of an emergency stop of the demand source (200), the knockout drum (400) can recover fuel from the fuel valve unit (120) that supplies fuel to the demand source (200) from the demand source (200) or from upstream of the demand source (200). Specifically, in the event of an emergency stop, fuel can be recovered from the first knockout drum (400). Since the above knockout drum (400, 420) has a lower pressure than the fuel discharged from the demand source (200), etc., the fuel can be quickly recovered to the knockout drum (400, 420).

[0132] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Any details that overlap with those described above may be omitted.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 2, a fuel processing system (1) according to a second embodiment of the present invention comprises: a fuel supply line (L10) for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank (300) to a demander (200); and a fuel recovery line (L20) for recovering fuel discharged from either the fuel supply line (L10) or the demander (200); a separator (114) connected to the fuel recovery line (L20) for storing fuel recovered from either the fuel supply line (L10) or the demander (200); a knockout drum (400) connected to the fuel recovery line (L20) for storing fuel recovered from a fuel valve unit (120) for supplying fuel to the demander (200) from the demander (200) or upstream of the demander (200); And it includes a fuel processing unit (500) that processes fuel using a fire prevention material, and the separator (114) is connected to the knockout drum (400) to transfer at least a portion of the fuel to the knockout drum (400), and the fuel processing unit (500) processes the fuel transferred from the knockout drum (400).

[0134] The fuel processing system (1) above can be in a first state in which the demand source (200) is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source (200) is in an emergency stop in an emergency situation. In the first state, fuel in the demand source (200) can be delivered to the separator (114) through the fuel recovery line (L20), and in the second state, fuel in the demand source (200) can be delivered to the knockout drum (400) through the fuel recovery line (L20).

[0135] The fuel processing system (1) includes a fuel supply unit (110a) that supplies fuel stored in a storage tank (300) to a demander (200); and a fuel recovery unit (110b) that processes fuel discharged from either the fuel supply unit (110a) or the demander (200); and the fuel recovery unit (110b) includes a separator (114) that stores fuel discharged from either the fuel supply unit (110a) or the demander (200) and delivers it to the fuel supply unit (110a); and a knockout drum (400) that recovers fuel discharged from the demander (200), and the separator (114) delivers at least a portion of the fuel to the knockout drum (400).

[0136] When the demand source (200) is normally operated, the surplus fuel supplied to the demand source (200) can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a).

[0137] In the case of a general stop of the demand source (200), the fuel from the demand source (200) or the fuel supply unit (110a) can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a) along the fuel recovery line (L20). Specifically, at least a portion of the fuel in the fuel recovery line (L20) can be delivered to the separator (114) along the separator supply line (L21). The fuel in the separator (114) is separated into gaseous and liquid phases, and the liquid fuel can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a) along the separator discharge line (L22).

[0138] Fuel from the separator (114) can be delivered to the knockout drum (400). Specifically, the gaseous fuel separated from the separator (114) can be delivered to the knockout drum (400). The gaseous fuel can be delivered to the knockout drum (400) together with an inert gas. The knockout drum (400) can temporarily store the fuel delivered from the separator (114) and deliver it to the fuel processing unit (500) at a constant flow rate.

[0139] A knockout drum supply line (L32) may be provided between the separator (114) and the knockout drum (400). A valve (not shown) may be provided on the knockout drum supply line (L32) to prevent a backflow of fuel into the separator (114). When high-pressure fuel is delivered to the knockout drum (400) in the event of an emergency stop of the demander (200), the valve may block the backflow of fuel into the separator (114).

[0140] By directly connecting the separator (114) to the knockout drum (400) through the knockout drum supply line (L32), the number of knockout drums (400) to be installed in the ship can be minimized compared to when they are not directly connected.

[0141] A configuration with fewer knockout drums like this can reduce costs compared to installing multiple knockout drums and reduce the number of points where toxic fuels such as ammonia can leak.

[0142] A flow control valve (CV) may be provided upstream of the knockout drum (400, 420) to control the flow of fuel in one direction. Specifically, the flow control valve (CV) may be provided upstream of the first knockout drum (400). The flow control valve (CV) may prevent the fuel from flowing back to the demand source (200) due to the pressure of the fuel transmitted from the separator (114).

[0143] In the event of an emergency stop of the demand source (200), fuel must be urgently discharged from the demand source (200) and the like, and the fuel can be recovered from the knockout drum (400). Since the knockout drum (400) has a lower pressure than the fuel discharged from the demand source (200) and the like, the fuel can be quickly recovered to the knockout drum (400).

[0144] Fuel recovered from the knockout drum (400) can be delivered to the recovery tank (410). The fuel in the recovery tank (410) can be recovered to the fuel supply unit (110a). Specifically, the fuel in the recovery tank (410) can pass through the recovery heat exchanger (113) and be delivered upstream of the fuel supply pump (112). The fuel processing unit (500) can process the fuel delivered from the recovery tank (410).

[0145]

[0146] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 3, a fuel processing system (1) according to a third embodiment of the present invention comprises: a fuel supply pump (112a) that pressurizes fuel stored in a storage tank (300) according to a pressure demanded by a demander (200); a fuel recovery line (L20a) that recovers fuel discharged from the demander (200); a separator (114a) that is connected to the fuel recovery line and stores fuel recovered from the demander (200); a separator discharge line (L22a) that transfers fuel from the separator (114) to the fuel supply pump (112a); And it includes a bypass line (L24) connected from the fuel supply pump (112a) to the fuel recovery line (L20a), and the bypass line (L24) and the fuel recovery line (L20a) are opened so that fuel circulates through the fuel supply pump (112a) until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches a preset pressure.

[0148] Fuel may be circulated through the fuel supply pump (112a) until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches the required pressure of the demand source (200). For example, fuel may be circulated through the fuel supply pump (112a) until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches 80 to 90 bar.

[0149] The demand source (200) may include multiple demand sources. For example, the demand source (200) may include a first demand source (210) that provides propulsion power for the vessel and a second demand source (220) that generates power within the vessel. The first demand source (210) may be the main engine, and the second demand source (220) may be a power generation engine.

[0150] Figures 3 to 5 illustrate a fuel processing system in which fuel is supplied to and recovered from multiple demand sources. The line through which fuel is supplied to and recovered from a first demand source (210) and the equipment of said line are indicated by the symbol a, and the line through which fuel is supplied to and recovered from a second demand source (220) and the equipment of said line are indicated by the symbol b.

[0151] However, even if the line through which fuel is supplied and recovered to the first demand source (210) and the device of the line are indicated, the line through which fuel is supplied and recovered to the second demand source (220) and the device of the line may be included, and the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the line or device of the first demand source (210) may be applied to the line of the second demand source (220), etc., and conversely, the line or device of the second demand source (220) may be applied to the line of the first demand source (210), etc.

[0152] The line and device provided at the first demand source (210) may be indicated as the first line and the first device, and here, 'first' may be omitted, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0153] Fuel in the storage tank (300) can be supplied to a demand source (200). Specifically, fuel in the storage tank (300) can be supplied to a first demand source (210) or a second demand source (220). Some of the fuel supplied from the storage tank (300) to the demand source (200) can be recovered to the storage tank (300). Fuel in the storage tank (300) can be supplied to the fuel supply unit (110a) by a fuel withdrawal pump (310).

[0154] The fuel supply unit (110a) can control the temperature and pressure of the fuel according to the required temperature and pressure of the demander (200) and deliver the fuel to the demander (200). The fuel supply unit (110a) can include a filter (not shown) for removing foreign substances from the fuel, a fuel heat exchanger (111) for controlling the temperature of the fuel to the required temperature of the demander (200), and a fuel supply pump (112) for pressurizing the fuel to the required pressure of the demander (200).

[0155] A filter (not shown) may be provided upstream of the fuel heat exchanger (111). Downstream of the filter, a first fuel supply line (L10a) connected to a first demand source (210) and a second fuel supply line (L10b) connected to a second demand source (220) may be branched.

[0156] A fuel heat exchanger (111) may be provided upstream of a fuel supply pump (112). The fuel heat exchanger (111) controls the temperature of fuel supplied to a first demand source (210) and may control the temperature of fuel supplied to a second demand source (220). A first fuel supply line (L10a) connected to the first demand source (210) and a second fuel supply line (L10b) connected to the second demand source (220) may be branched downstream of the fuel heat exchanger (111).

[0157] A flow meter (FE) may be provided in the fuel supply line (L10). Specifically, the flow meter (FEa) may be provided downstream of the fuel heat exchanger (111). More specifically, the flow meter (FEa) may be provided downstream of the point where the first fuel supply line (L10a) and the second fuel supply line (L10b) branch off. Additionally, the flow meter (FEa) may be provided upstream of the point where the fuel recovery line (L20a) is connected to the fuel supply line (L10a).

[0158] The above flow meter (FEa) may be provided in multiple numbers in the fuel supply line (L10). The flow meter (FEa) may include a first flow meter (FEa1) provided upstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) and a second flow meter (FEa2) provided downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a), with the fuel supply pump (112) as the boundary. The amount of fuel consumed can be checked by the first flow meter (FEa1), and the amount of fuel supplied to the engine can be checked by the second flow meter (FEa2).

[0159] The above flow meter (FEa) can be controlled to operate according to the fuel recovery by the fuel recovery unit (110b). For example, the first flow meter (FEa1) can be stopped when the fuel recovery is stopped. Specifically, the first flow meter (FEa1) can be stopped when the fuel recovery is stopped during a general stop of the first demand source (210). Since there is no fuel to be recovered, the fuel consumption to be measured by the first flow meter (FEa1) can be confirmed by the second flow meter (FEa2). In this case, the fuel can bypass the first flow meter (FEa1).

[0160] When the demand source (200) is configured in multiple units, the first flow meter (FEa1) may be operated. For example, when the first demand source (210) and the second demand source (220) are provided, the flow rate of fuel supplied to the first demand source (210) may be confirmed by the first flow meter (FEa1). In addition, the flow rate of fuel supplied to the second demand source (220) may be confirmed by the second demand source upstream flow meter (Feb1).

[0161] The fruit (refrigerant) used in the fuel heat exchanger (111) may be supplied by a fruit supply unit (600). The fruit supply unit (600) may include a fruit storage unit (610) for storing fruit, a fruit pump (620) for pressurizing the fruit in the fruit storage unit (610), and a fruit heat exchanger (630) for cooling the fruit.

[0162] The above fruit pumps (620) may be configured in multiple numbers in parallel. At least one fruit pump (620) may be provided in a bypass line (not shown) of the fruit line (L60).

[0163] The above-mentioned heat exchanger (630) can exchange heat between the fuel supplied to the fuel heat exchanger (111) and the fuel discharged from the fuel heat exchanger (111). The fuel heat exchanger (111) and the recovery heat exchanger (113) can control the temperature of the fuel using a non-limiting heat source such as glycol water (GW), seawater, fresh water, steam, etc., but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0164] The fruit can be supplied to the fuel heat exchanger (111) along the fruit line (L60). The fruit line (L60) can form a closed loop.

[0165] Additionally, the fruit of the fruit supply unit (600) can be delivered to a recovery heat exchanger (113) provided in a fuel recovery line (L20). Specifically, the fruit line (L60) can be connected to a first recovery heat exchanger (113a) provided in a first fuel recovery line (L20a) and can be connected to a second recovery heat exchanger (113b) provided in a second fuel recovery line (L20b). The first recovery heat exchanger (113a) and the second recovery heat exchanger (113b) can be connected to a heat exchanger circulation line (L61) to share the fruit.

[0166] The above-mentioned heat line (L60) may be connected to a recovery heat exchanger (113) via the fuel heat exchanger (111). Specifically, the heat line (L60) passing through the fuel heat exchanger (111) may be branched and connected to a first recovery heat exchanger (113a) and a second recovery heat exchanger (113b). The heat line (L60) may be connected to a heat exchanger (630) via the first recovery heat exchanger (113a) and the second recovery heat exchanger (113b).

[0167] In the fuel heat exchanger (111), the fruit can be cooled, and the cooled fruit can be used for fuel cooling in the first recovery heat exchanger (113a) and the second recovery heat exchanger (113b).

[0168] A bypass line (L24) branching from the fuel supply line (L10a) may be provided upstream of the first demand source (210). The bypass line (L24) may be connected to a fuel recovery line (L20a). Fuel may be circulated through the bypass line (L24) and the fuel recovery line (L20a), and the pressure of the fuel upstream of the first demand source (210) may be increased to the required pressure of the first demand source (210).

[0169] An inert gas can be supplied to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) by an inert gas supply unit (N2). The first fuel recovery unit (110b1) can recover fuel from the first demand source (210) or the first fuel supply unit (110a1). The first separator (114a) can separate the inert gas and the fuel.

[0170] The first fuel recovery unit (110b1) can deliver fuel to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) along the first fuel recovery line (L20a). The fuel can be delivered to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) via the first separator (114a). A first separator supply line (L21a) can be provided, branching from the first fuel recovery line (L20a) and connected to the first separator (114a). The first separator (114a) can deliver fuel to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) along the first separator discharge line (L22a). Fuel from the first fuel recovery unit (110b) can be delivered to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) along the first fuel recovery line (L20a) and can be delivered to the first separator (114a) along the first separator supply line (L21a).

[0171] The above-mentioned bypass line (L24) may be connected upstream of the point where the first separator discharge line (L22a) is connected to the fuel recovery line (L20a). The fuel of the first separator discharge line (L22a) and the fuel of the bypass line (L24) may be mixed and delivered to the first recovery heat exchanger (113a).

[0172] The fuel processing system (1) may include a pressure control valve (V1) provided in the bypass line (L24) and whose opening and closing are controlled according to the pressure of the bypass line (L24); and a level control valve (V2) provided in the separator discharge line (L22a) and whose opening and closing are controlled according to the fuel level of the separator (114). A level sensor (not shown) for measuring the fuel level may be provided in the separator (114). Since the fuel exists in the form of a liquid in the separator (114), the fuel may collect in the lower portion of the separator (114). The level control valve (V2) may discharge the fuel according to the level of the surplus fuel recovered from the fuel recovery unit (110b1) or the fuel recovered by the stoppage of the demander (200).

[0173] The above pressure control valve (V1) can be opened until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches the preset pressure. The master valve (MV) provided upstream of the demand source (200) can block the flow of fuel supplied to the demand source (200) until the pressure downstream of the fuel supply pump (112a) reaches the preset pressure.

[0174] The first fuel recovery unit (110b1) can deliver fuel to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) along the first fuel delivery line (L30a). The fuel can be delivered to the first fuel supply unit (110a1) via the first knockout drum (400a). The first fuel delivery line (L30a) is connected to the first knockout drum (400a), and the first knockout drum (400a) can be connected to the first recovery tank (410a) along the first recovery line (L41a). The first recovery tank (410a) can be connected to the first separator (114a) along the second recovery line (L42a).

[0175] The first recovery tank (410a) may be connected to the first knockout drum (400a) along the first recovery recovery line (L43a). Fuel in the first recovery tank (410a) may be delivered to the first knockout drum (400a).

[0176] The fuel processing system (1) includes a fuel processing unit (500) that processes fuel using a fire prevention material, and fuel discharged from at least one of the first knockout drum (400a), the second knockout drum (420), and the recovery drum (400b) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500).

[0177] The first knockout drum (400a) and the first recovery tank (410a) may be connected to a fuel processing unit (500). Specifically, the first knockout drum (400a) may be connected to the fuel processing unit (500) along a first fuel processing unit line (L40a). The first recovery tank (410a) may be connected to the fuel processing unit (500) along a third fuel processing unit line (L45). Gaseous substances separated in the first knockout drum (400a) and the first recovery tank (410a) may be processed in the fuel processing unit (500).

[0178] The first separator (114a) may be connected to a second knockout drum (420) along a second fuel delivery line (L31a). The second knockout drum (420) may be connected to a fuel processing unit (500). The second knockout drum (420) may be connected to the fuel processing unit (500) along a second fuel processing unit line (L44). The gaseous material separated in the second knockout drum (420) may be processed in the fuel processing unit (500).

[0179] The first knockout drum (400a) can recover fuel discharged from the first demand source (210), and the second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the first fuel supply unit (110a1).

[0180] In detail, the first knockout drum (400a) can recover fuel from the first fuel valve unit (120a) that supplies fuel to the first demand source (210) at the first demand source (210) or upstream of the first demand source (210).

[0181] The second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel discharged from the first fuel supply line (L10a) or fuel discharged from the first fuel supply line (L10a) through the first fuel delivery line (L30a). Specifically, the fuel discharged from the first fuel supply line (L10a) or fuel discharged from the first fuel supply line (L10a) is delivered to the first separator (114a) through the first fuel recovery line (L20a), and the fuel in the first separator (114a) can be recovered in the second knockout drum (420).

[0182] For example, the first knockout drum (400a) can recover fuel from the first fuel valve unit (120a) and the downstream of the first fuel valve unit (120a), and the second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel from the upstream of the first fuel valve unit (120a).

[0183] The first knockout drum (400a) can recover fuel from the first demand source (210) during an emergency stop of the first demand source (210), and the second knockout drum (420) can recover fuel from the first demand source (210) during a normal stop.

[0184] The fuel processing system (1) can be in a first state in which the demand source (210) is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source (210) is stopped in an emergency situation. In the first state, fuel in the first demand source (210) can be delivered to the separator (114a) through the fuel recovery line (L20a), and in the second state, fuel in the demand source (210) can be delivered to the knockout drum (400a) through the fuel recovery line (L20a).

[0185]

[0186] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] Below, the second fuel supply unit (110a2) and the second fuel recovery unit (110b2) of the second demand source (210) will be described, and any content that overlaps with the above content may be omitted.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 4, a fuel processing system (1) according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention includes a first fuel supply line (L10a) for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank (300) to a first demand source (210); a second fuel supply line (L10b) for supplying fuel stored in the storage tank (300) to a plurality of second demand sources (220); a first separator (114a) for storing fuel recovered from the first demand sources (210); and a second separator (114b) for storing fuel recovered from a plurality of second demand sources (220).

[0189] At least a portion of the fuel discharged from the first demand source (210) is delivered to the first fuel supply line (L10a) along the first fuel recovery line (L20a) connecting the first demand source (210) and the first fuel supply line (L10a), and the fuel discharged from a plurality of second demand sources (220) can be delivered to the first fuel supply line (L10a) via the second separator (114b).

[0190] The first demand source (210) may be a main engine that provides propulsion power for the ship, and the second demand source (220) may be a power generation engine that produces electricity within the ship.

[0191] The fuel processing system (1) includes a second fuel supply pump (112b) that pressurizes fuel stored in a storage tank (300) according to the required pressure of a second demand source (220), and the second separator (114b) can transfer at least a portion of the recovered fuel to the upstream of the second fuel supply pump (112b).

[0192] Fuel can be supplied to a second demand source (220) along a second fuel supply line (L10b). A second demand source bypass line (L12) can be branched from the second fuel supply line (L10b) upstream of the second demand source (220) and connected upstream of a second fuel supply pump (112b).

[0193] A second recovery heat exchanger (113b) may be provided on the second demand source bypass line (L12). The second separator discharge line (L22b) may be connected to the second demand source bypass line (L12). Specifically, the second separator discharge line (L22b) may be connected upstream of the second recovery heat exchanger (113b). A pressure control valve (V1) may be provided on the second demand source bypass line (L12).

[0194] The inert gas supply unit (N2) can supply inert gas to the second separator (114b). At least a portion of the inert gas supplied from the inert gas supply unit (N2) can be supplied to the second recovery tank (410b).

[0195] The second fuel recovery unit (110b2) can deliver fuel to the second separator (114b) along the second fuel recovery line (L20b). Specifically, fuel discharged from multiple second demand sources (220) can be delivered to the second separator (114b). That is, multiple second fuel recovery lines (L20b) can be connected to the second separator (114b).

[0196] A plurality of second fuel recovery lines (L20b) may be connected to a second separator supply line (L21b). The second separator (114b) may deliver fuel to the second fuel supply unit (110a2) along the second separator discharge line (L22b). Fuel from the second fuel recovery unit (110b2) may be delivered to the second fuel supply unit (110a2) via the second separator (114b).

[0197] The second recovery heat exchanger (113b) can cool the fuel recovered along the second separator discharge line (L22b). Since the fuel recovered from the second separator (114b) may be heated by the second demand source (210), the second recovery heat exchanger (113b) can lower the temperature of the fuel and deliver the fuel to the second demand source (210). A level control valve (V2) may be provided on the second separator discharge line (L22b).

[0198] The fuel processing system (1) can be in a first state in which the second demand source (220) is normally stopped, and a second state in which the second demand source (220) is stopped in an emergency situation. In the first state, fuel in the second demand source (220) can be delivered to the second separator (114b), and in the second state, fuel in the second demand source (220) can be delivered to the recovery drum (400b).

[0199]

[0200] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 5, a fuel processing system (1) according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention includes: a first fuel supply line (L10a) for supplying fuel stored in a storage tank (300) to a first demand source (210); a second fuel supply line (L10b) for supplying fuel stored in the storage tank (300) to a plurality of second demand sources (220); a first fuel recovery line (L20a) for recovering fuel discharged from any one of the first fuel supply line (L10a) and the first demand source (210); And it includes a second fuel supply line (L20b) and a second fuel recovery line (L20b) that processes fuel discharged from one of the plurality of second demand sources (220), and the second fuel recovery line (L20b) includes a recovery drum (400b) that stores fuel discharged from the second fuel supply line (L10b) and fuel discharged from the plurality of second demand sources (220).

[0202] The demand source (200) may include a first demand source (210) and a plurality of second demand sources (220). The first demand source (210) may be a main engine that provides propulsion power for the ship, and the second demand source (220) may be a power generation engine that produces electricity within the ship.

[0203] Fuel from the first demand source (210) can be discharged to the first knockout drum (400a) during an emergency stop of the first demand source (210). Fuel from the first demand source (210) can be discharged to the first separator (114a) during a normal stop of the first demand source (210). Fuel collected in the first separator (114a) can be discharged to the second knockout drum (420).

[0204] The above second knockout drum (420) may be omitted, in which case the fuel of the first separator (114a) may be discharged to the first knockout drum (400a), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0205] The fuel of the first knockout drum (400a) and the second knockout drum (420) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500). In addition, the fuel of the first recovery tank (410a) provided between the first knockout drum (400a) and the first separator (114a) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500).

[0206] Fuel from the second demand source (220) can be discharged to the recovery drum (400b) when the second demand source (220) is in an emergency stop. Fuel from the second demand source (220) can be discharged to the second separator (114a) when the second demand source (220) is in a normal stop. Fuel collected in the second separator (114b) can be discharged to the recovery drum (400b). Fuel from the recovery drum (400b) can be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500).

[0207] The fuel processing system (1) may include a second separator (114b) that stores fuel recovered from the second fuel supply line (L10b) and one of the plurality of second demand sources (220). A recovery drum (400b) may be provided downstream of the second separator (114b). The fuel in the second separator (114b) may be delivered to the recovery drum (400b) along the recovery drum supply line (L33). In addition, at least a portion of the second separator (114b) may be recovered through the second fuel supply line (L10b).

[0208] The fuel processing system (1) may include a recovery drum supply line (L33) through which fuel stored in the second separator (114) is delivered to the recovery drum (400b); and a second fuel delivery line (L30b) through which fuel discharged from the second demand source (220) or fuel valve unit (120b) is delivered to the recovery drum (400b).

[0209] The second fuel recovery unit (110b2) can deliver fuel to the second fuel supply unit (110a2) along the second fuel delivery line (L30b). Specifically, the fuel can be delivered to the second fuel supply unit (110a2) via the recovery drum (400b).

[0210] The fuel processing system (1) may include a second recovery tank (410b) that stores liquid fuel separated from the recovery drum (400b) and transfers the liquid fuel to the second separator (114).

[0211] The recovery drum (400b) may be connected to a second recovery tank (410b) along a recovery drum discharge line (L41b). The second recovery tank (410b) may be connected to a second separator (114b) along a separator recovery line (L42a).

[0212] The second fuel delivery line (L30b) can recover fuel from the second fuel recovery unit (110b2) during an emergency stop of the second demand source (220), and the second fuel recovery line (L20) can recover fuel from the second fuel recovery unit (110b2) during a normal stop of the second demand source (220).

[0213] Since high-pressure fuel can be sucked into the second separator (114b) along the second fuel delivery line (L30b), the second fuel delivery line (L30b) can be separated from the recovery drum supply line (L33). That is, the second fuel delivery line (L30b) and the recovery drum supply line (L33) can each be connected to the recovery drum (400b).

[0214] The fuel processing system (1) may include a fuel processing unit (500) that processes fuel delivered from the second recovery tank (410b). The recovery drum (400b) may be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500) along the second fuel processing unit line (L40b). The fuel in the second recovery tank (410b) may be delivered to the fuel processing unit (500) via the recovery drum (400b).

[0215] The recovery drum (400b) can recover fuel discharged from the second demand source (220) and fuel discharged from the second fuel supply unit (110a2). Specifically, the recovery drum (400b) can recover fuel from the second fuel valve unit (120b) that supplies fuel to the second demand source (220) from the second demand source (220) or upstream of the second demand source (220) through the second fuel delivery line (L30b).

[0216] In addition, the recovery drum (400b) can recover fuel discharged from the second fuel supply line (L10b) or fuel discharged from the second fuel supply line (L10b). Specifically, the fuel discharged from the second fuel supply line (L10b) or fuel discharged from the second fuel supply line (L10b) is delivered to the second separator (114b) along the second fuel recovery line (L20b), and the fuel in the second separator (114b) can be recovered in the recovery drum (400b).

[0217] For example, the recovery drum (400b) can recover fuel from the second fuel valve unit (120b) and the upstream and downstream portions of the second fuel valve unit (120b). However, the fuel recovered from the upstream portion of the second fuel valve unit (120b) may be delivered through the second separator (114b).

[0218] When the plurality of second demand sources (220) are in an emergency stop, fuel discharged from the second demand sources (220) is delivered to the recovery drum (400b), and when the plurality of second demand sources (220) are in a normal stop, fuel discharged from the second demand sources (220) can be delivered to the recovery drum (400b) via the second separator (114b).

[0219] The fuel processing system (1) can be in a first state in which the second demand source (220) is normally stopped, and a second state in which the second demand source (220) is stopped in an emergency situation. In the first state, fuel in the second demand source (220) can be delivered to the second separator (114b), and in the second state, fuel in the second demand source (220) can be delivered to the recovery drum (400b).

[0220]

[0221] In this way, the fuel processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a separator, a knockout drum, or a recovery drum having different operating pressures. At least a portion of the fuel stored in the separator may be recovered to the knockout drum.

[0222] The knockout drum can recover fuel from a demand source or a fuel valve unit. Specifically, the knockout drum can recover fuel from the demand source during an emergency or critical shutdown of the demand source. The separator can recover fuel from the demand source during a normal shutdown of the demand source. The knockout drum can store fuel delivered from the separator during a normal shutdown. The knockout drum can deliver fuel to a fuel processing unit.

[0223] The above knockout drums may be configured in multiple numbers, and the fuel from the separator may be discharged into at least one knockout drum. At least one knockout drum may recover fuel from the demand source during an emergency stop of the demand source, and at least one other knockout drum may recover fuel from the separator during a normal stop.

[0224] It is preferable that the above knockout drums be comprised of a small number. For example, the knockout drums can recover fuel from a demand source or fuel valve unit during an emergency stop, and can receive and store fuel from a separator during a normal stop.

[0225] A configuration with fewer knockout drums like this can reduce costs compared to installing multiple knockout drums and reduce the number of points where toxic fuels such as ammonia can leak.

[0226] The knockout drum configuration may vary depending on the main engine and the generator engine. For example, the main engine may be provided with a separate knockout drum for recovering fuel from the engine or fuel valve unit, and a separate knockout drum for receiving and storing fuel from the separator. For the generator engine, the recovery drum for recovering fuel from the engine or fuel valve unit may receive and store fuel from the separator.

[0227] A line connecting the separator and the recovery drum and a line connecting the engine or fuel valve section and the recovery drum are respectively provided, so that fuel from the engine or fuel valve section with high pressure can be prevented from flowing back to the separator.

[0228] Additionally, a fuel processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention can regulate fuel pressure by circulating fuel from a fuel supply unit to a fuel supply pump. At this time, fuel recovered by the fuel supply pump can be delivered to the fuel supply unit together with fuel delivered from a separator and fuel recovered from a fuel recovery unit.

[0229] In addition, a fuel processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first demand source that provides propulsion power for a ship and a second demand source that produces electric power within the ship, and fuel recovered from the first demand source can be delivered to a separator or a fuel supply unit, and fuel recovered from a plurality of second demand sources can be delivered to one separator.

[0230] In addition, a fuel processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first demand source that provides propulsion power for a ship and a second demand source that produces electric power within the ship, and fuel recovered from the first demand source can be delivered to a first knockout drum and a first separator, and fuel from the first separator can be delivered to the second knockout drum. Fuel recovered from the second demand source can be delivered to the second separator, and fuel from the second separator can be delivered to a recovery drum.

[0231] A first recovery tank may be provided between the first knockout drum and the first separator, and a second recovery tank may be provided between the recovery drum and the second separator, and the fuel in the first recovery tank may be delivered to the fuel processing unit.

[0232]

[0233] The present invention encompasses all embodiments resulting from a combination of the above embodiments and known techniques, in addition to the embodiments described above.

[0234] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific examples, this is intended to specifically explain the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent that modifications and improvements can be made by those skilled in the art within the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0235] All simple modifications or changes of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be made clear by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fuel supply line that supplies fuel stored in a storage tank to a demand source; and A fuel recovery line for recovering fuel discharged from one of the above fuel supply line and the above demand source; A separator connected to the fuel recovery line and storing fuel recovered from one of the fuel supply line and the demand source; A knockout drum connected to the fuel recovery line and storing fuel recovered from a fuel valve unit that supplies fuel to the demander from the demander or upstream of the demander; and Includes a fuel treatment unit that treats fuel using a fire prevention material, The separator is connected to the knockout drum and transfers at least a portion of the fuel to the knockout drum, The above fuel processing unit, A fuel processing system that processes fuel delivered from the above knockout drum.

2. In paragraph 1, The above demand source includes a first state in which the demand source is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source is stopped in an emergency situation, In the above first state, the fuel in the demand source is delivered to the separator through the fuel recovery line, A fuel processing system in which, in the second state, fuel in the demand source is delivered to the knockout drum through the fuel recovery line.

3. In paragraph 1, A recovery tank is included that stores the liquid fuel separated from the knockout drum and delivers the liquid fuel to the fuel recovery line. The above recovery tank, A fuel processing system in which gaseous fuel among the fuels received and stored from the above separator or the above demand source is delivered to the fuel processing unit.

4. In paragraph 1, It includes a flow control valve installed downstream of the above demand source to control the flow of fuel in one direction, The above flow control valve, A fuel handling system that blocks the backflow of fuel from the knockout drum to the demand source.

5. Fuel supply line that supplies fuel stored in the storage tank to the demand source; A fuel recovery line for recovering fuel discharged from one of the above fuel supply line and the above demand source; A separator connected to the fuel recovery line and storing fuel recovered from one of the fuel supply line and the demand source; A first knockout drum connected to the fuel recovery line and storing fuel recovered from a fuel valve unit that supplies fuel to the demand source from the demand source or upstream of the demand source; A second knockout drum for recovering fuel discharged from the separator; and A fuel processing system comprising a fuel processing unit that processes fuel delivered from the first knockout drum or the second knockout drum using a fire-prevention material.

6. In paragraph 5, The above demand source includes a first state in which the demand source is normally stopped and a second state in which the demand source is stopped in an emergency situation, In the above first state, the fuel in the demand source is delivered to the separator through the fuel recovery line, A fuel processing system in which, in the second state, the fuel in the demand source is delivered to the first knockout drum through the fuel recovery line.

7. A vessel comprising the fuel processing system of any one of claims 1 to 6.

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