Floating structure comprising a system for supplying a consumer with fuel produced from liquefied natural gas or from a mixture of methane and an alkane comprising at least two carbon atoms

Abstract

The present invention relates to a floating or onshore structure (70) comprising: at least one tank (3, 5) containing liquefied natural gas (LC1) or a mixture (LC2) containing liquid methane and liquid alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms; at least one consumer (7); and at least one supply system (1) for supplying fuel to the consumer (7) in a first configuration, the fuel being prepared from gas (G1) produced by vaporization of the liquefied natural gas (L1, LC1) contained in the tank, and for supplying fuel to the consumer in a second configuration, the fuel being prepared from gas (G2) produced by vaporization of the mixture (L2, LC2) contained in the tank (3, 5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of transporting and / or storing cryogenic liquids. More specifically, this invention relates to a floating or onshore structure in which at least one consumer is supplied with at least one fuel, which is prepared from a vaporized portion of a cryogenic liquid stored and / or transported in at least one tank of the structure. Background Technology

[0002] Gaseous hydrocarbons at room temperature and atmospheric pressure are liquefied at cryogenic temperatures, below -60°C, to facilitate their transport and / or storage. These liquefied hydrocarbons, also known as cryogenic liquids, are then placed in floating or onshore tanks.

[0003] However, such tanks are never completely insulated, so vaporization of the cryogenic liquid is unavoidable. This natural evaporation is called vaporization, and the gas produced by this natural evaporation is called vaporized gas (BOG). Therefore, a tank of this structure consists of a liquid cryogenic liquid and the gas produced by the vaporization of the liquid cryogenic liquid.

[0004] Part of the gas produced by the vaporization of a cryogenic liquid can be used as fuel to supply at least one consumer, such as an engine, which is configured to meet the operating energy requirements of a floating or onshore structure. Therefore, it can generate electricity for electrical equipment.

[0005] The consumer is typically adapted for transporting and / or storing a specific type of cryogenic liquid in the tanks within the structure. Therefore, when another type of cryogenic liquid is transported and / or stored in the structure, the gas produced by vaporization may not be usable as fuel for the consumer. Consequently, the structure is often dedicated to a specific type of cryogenic liquid. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a structure on which several types of cryogenic liquids are stored and / or transported simultaneously or alternately, and the cryogenic liquids can be processed to provide fuel to at least one consumption point of the structure.

[0007] The present invention proposes a floating or onshore structure comprising: at least one tank containing liquefied natural gas or a mixture containing liquid methane and an alkane comprising at least two carbon atoms; at least one consumer; and at least one supply system for supplying fuel prepared from gas produced by vaporization of the liquefied natural gas contained in the tank to the consumer in a first configuration, and for supplying fuel prepared from gas produced by vaporization of the mixture contained in the tank to the consumer in a second configuration, the supply system including a conversion device configured to alternate between the first and second configurations of the supply system, the supply system including a heat exchange module and a fuel preparation system, the heat exchange module being configured to at least partially liquefy the gas produced by vaporization of the mixture contained in the tank, the fuel preparation system being prepared from the at least partially liquefied gas, wherein the methane number of the fuel prepared from the at least partially liquefied gas is greater than the methane number of the mixture.

[0008] The methane index is a measure of the mechanical resistance to the impact generated in an engine during gas combustion; it is also known as engine knock. It is assigned to test fuels based on operation in a knock test cell under the same standard knock intensity. Pure methane is designated as the reference fuel with a methane number of 100. Pure dihydrogen is also used as a knock-sensitive reference fuel with a methane number of 0.

[0009] Therefore, the structure may be required to alternately store and / or transport a first cryogenic liquid and a second cryogenic liquid. Depending on the cryogenic liquid stored and / or transported in one or more tanks of the structure, the supply system of the structure is configured to supply fuel to the consumer of the structure. The fuel is prepared from the stored and / or transported cryogenic liquid. When the first cryogenic liquid and the second cryogenic liquid have different properties, a first configuration of the supply system allows fuel to be prepared from the first cryogenic liquid, and a second configuration of the supply system allows fuel to be prepared from the second cryogenic liquid. Changes in the configuration of the supply system are accomplished by a conversion device.

[0010] More specifically, the gas generated by the vaporization of the second cryogenic liquid (which is a mixture of liquid methane and an alkane containing at least two carbon atoms and is in liquid state) successively passes through the heat exchange module and the fuel preparation system to obtain fuel with a methane number higher than that of the mixture, and thus can be used by the consumer.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the alkane is selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof. It should be understood that, herein and hereinafter, "butane" refers to n-butane and isobutane, also known as 2-methylpropane.

[0012] According to one implementation scheme, the methane number of the mixture is less than 70.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the fuel preparation system includes at least one gas outlet connected to a consumer for delivering fuel, a supply branch configured to supply at least a portion of the gas generated by the vaporization of a mixture from a tank to an inlet of the preparation system, and wherein a heat exchange module includes: at least one thermal heat exchanger including a first channel constituting the supply branch and arranged between the gas inlet of the supply system and the inlet of the preparation system; and a cooling branch configured to allow liquefied natural gas or a mixture to pass through, the cooling branch including a second channel of the thermal heat exchanger configured to exchange calories with the first channel of the thermal heat exchanger to at least partially liquefy the gas flowing in the first channel of the thermal heat exchanger.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the heat exchange module includes at least one heat exchanger, the at least one heat exchanger including a first channel forming a supply branch, the first channel being disposed between a gas inlet of the supply system and an inlet of a first channel of the heat exchanger, the gas inlet being connected to a gas outlet of a tank, the heat exchanger including a second channel forming a supply branch and connected to the first channel via a connecting portion of the supply branch, the connecting portion including at least one compression device.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the heat exchange module includes a heat exchanger comprising a first channel forming a supply branch and arranged between the outlet of a second channel of the heat exchanger and the inlet of a first channel of the thermal heat exchanger. The heat exchanger also includes a second channel forming a sampling branch configured to supply at least a portion of liquefied natural gas (particularly the liquid phase of liquefied natural gas) or a mixture (particularly the liquid phase of a mixture) from the tank to the fuel inlet of the propulsion device of the structure. The first channel of the heat exchanger is configured to exchange calories with the second channel of the heat exchanger. The first channel of the thermal heat exchanger can therefore be arranged between the outlet of the second channel of the heat exchanger and the inlet of the preparation system.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes a bypass branch of a first channel of a heat exchanger, which connects the inlet and outlet of the first channel of the heat exchanger. The bypass branch is therefore installed parallel to the first channel of the heat exchanger. When cryogenic liquid flows through the supply system, the liquid can flow through either the first channel of the heat exchanger or the bypass branch.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes a bypass branch of a second channel of a heat exchanger, which connects the inlet of the second channel to the outlet of the second channel. The bypass branch is therefore installed parallel to the second channel of the heat exchanger. When a cryogenic liquid flows through the supply system, the liquid can flow through either the second channel of the heat exchanger or the bypass branch.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes at least a bypass branch of the preparation system, which is disposed between the outlet of the compression unit and the gas outlet of the preparation system. Therefore, if fuel preparation does not require a preparation system, the preparation system can be avoided.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes a fuel heater-cooler disposed between the gas outlet of the preparation system and the gas outlet of the supply system connected to the fuel inlet of the consumer. Therefore, the fuel is at an optimal temperature for use by the consumer.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes a switching device configured to alternate between a first configuration and a second configuration of the supply system.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the conversion device includes a plurality of regulating devices at least partially disposed in a supply branch, the plurality of regulating devices including a first regulating device arranged to control the gas flow in a first channel or bypass branch of the heat exchanger.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the conversion device includes a plurality of regulating devices at least partially arranged in a cooling branch, the plurality of regulating devices including at least a second regulating device arranged to control liquid flow in a second channel of the heat exchanger or liquid flow into a bypass branch. Additionally or alternatively, the second regulating device may also be arranged to control liquid flow in a connection passage of the supply system. The connection passage connects the inlet of the second channel of the heat exchanger to a connection point in the cooling branch. The connection point is located in the cooling branch between the second control device of the distribution device and the injection device.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the conversion device includes a plurality of regulating devices arranged at least partially in a bypass branch and / or a supply branch, the plurality of regulating devices including a third regulating device arranged to control the flow of liquid in a second channel or a bypass branch of the heat exchanger.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the preparation system includes a first-phase separator, a second-phase separator, and an expansion device disposed on a pipeline connecting the liquid outlet of the first-phase separator to the inlet of the second-phase separator. The inlet of the first-phase separator is connected, for example, via a conduit to a heat exchange module, preferably to the outlet of a first channel of a thermal heat exchanger. At least one gas outlet of the first-phase separator is connected to a consumer to deliver fuel. The supply system is configured to provide fluid communication between the liquid outlet of the second-phase separator and at least one tank, for example, via a conduit. Therefore, byproducts generated during fuel preparation can be used.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the gas outlet of the second phase separator is connected to a junction of the supply branch, which is located between the gas outlet of the tank and the inlet of the compression unit. The connection between the gas outlet of the second phase separator and the junction can be achieved via a conduit.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the cooling branch includes a cooling device arranged between the liquid inlet of the supply system and the inlet of the second channel of the heat exchanger to alternately cool the liquefied natural gas and the mixture. This allows for the subcooling of either the liquefied natural gas or the mixture, thereby improving heat exchange between the first and second channels of the heat exchanger. The mixture consists of liquid methane and alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms and in a liquid state. Preferably, the alkanes may be selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is oriented in the opposite direction to the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger. In other words, the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is countercurrent to the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the flow direction of liquefied natural gas or mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is opposite to the flow direction of liquefied natural gas or mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger. In other words, the flow of liquefied natural gas or mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is countercurrent to the flow of liquefied natural gas or mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is in the same direction as the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger. In other words, the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the first channel of the heat exchanger is parallel to the flow of liquefied natural gas or a mixture in the second channel of the heat exchanger.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the supply system includes a temperature control device configured to measure the temperature of liquefied natural gas or mixture at the outlet of a second channel of a heat exchanger, and to adjust the flow rate of liquefied natural gas or mixture flowing in a cooling branch based on the measured temperature.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the preparation system includes a connecting branch between a first connection point and a second connection point, the first connection point being arranged between the outlet of a compression device and the inlet of a first channel of a heat exchanger, preferably the inlet of a second channel of the heat exchanger, and the second connection point being arranged on a sampling branch configured to carry at least a portion of the liquid from the tank to the fuel inlet of the propulsion device; the compression device is configured to compress the natural gas or mixture flowing therethrough to a pressure suitable for use by the consumption device, and the supply system includes an expansion member arranged between the first connection point and the inlet of the first channel of the heat exchanger, such that the liquefied natural gas or mixture has a pressure suitable for the preparation system at the outlet of the expansion member.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the preparation system includes a connecting branch between a first connection point and a second connection point, the first connection point being arranged between the outlet of the compression unit and the inlet of a first channel of a heat exchanger, preferably the inlet of a second channel of the heat exchanger, and the second connection point being arranged on a sampling branch, the sampling branch being configured to carry at least a portion of the liquid from the tank to the fuel inlet of the propulsion unit; the compression unit includes a first portion partially arranged on the supply branch and a second portion on the connecting branch, the first connection point being arranged between the first portion and the second portion of the compression unit, the compression unit being configured such that the liquefied natural gas or mixture has a pressure suitable for the preparation system at the outlet of the first portion of the compression unit corresponding to the first connection point, and such that the fluid has a pressure suitable for use by a consumption device at the outlet of the second portion of the compression unit corresponding to the second connection point.

[0033] The present invention also proposes a cryogenic liquid transport system, the system comprising a structure having at least one of the aforementioned features, an insulated conduit arranged to connect a tank mounted in a floating structure to a floating or onshore storage facility, and a pump for driving cryogenic liquid through the insulated conduit from the floating or onshore storage facility to the tank of the structure or from the tank to the floating or onshore storage facility.

[0034] The present invention also provides a method for loading or unloading a structure having at least one of the aforementioned features, wherein cryogenic liquid is transported from a floating or onshore storage facility to a tank of a floating structure or from a tank of a floating structure to a floating or onshore storage facility via an insulated pipe.

[0035] This invention proposes a method for preparing fuel from a gas, wherein the gas is generated by the evaporation of a cryogenic liquid containing at least methane; preferably, the cryogenic liquid is a mixture of liquid methane and an alkane containing at least two carbon atoms, and is stored in at least one tank. The fuel is prepared by a supply system having at least one of the aforementioned features, the supply system being in a second configuration, wherein gas flow occurs at least in the supply branch through a first channel passing through a heat exchanger and then through the preparation system. The alkane may be selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least a mixture thereof. More preferably, the mixture comprises at least liquid ethane and liquid methane.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the airflow passes through the first channel and the second channel of the heat exchanger before passing through the first channel of the heat exchanger.

[0037] The present invention provides a method for preparing fuel from gas generated by the vaporization of a cryogenic liquid containing at least methane; the cryogenic liquid is preferably liquefied natural gas and is stored in at least one tank; the fuel is prepared by a supply system having at least one of the aforementioned features; the flow of the gas occurs at least in the supply branch by passing through a compression device and then entering a bypass branch.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the flow of gas occurs by passing through a bypass branch before passing through the compression device. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and several exemplary embodiments, which are given for illustrative purposes and are not limited to the accompanying schematic diagrams, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a floating structure including the consumer supply system according to the invention in the first embodiment;

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the supply system in the first configuration;

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the supply system in the second configuration;

[0043] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a floating structure including the consumer supply system according to the invention in the second embodiment;

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a floating structure including the consumer supply system according to the present invention in the third embodiment;

[0045] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a floating structure including the consumable supply system according to the present invention in the fourth embodiment;

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the floating structure and the loading / unloading terminal for the tank used in the floating structure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] First, it should be noted that although the accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention in detail, these drawings can, of course, be used to better define the invention where appropriate. It should also be noted that in all the drawings, similar and / or elements performing the same function are represented by the same frame of reference.

[0048] The present invention relates to a floating or onshore structure, characterized in that it comprises: at least one tank containing a first cryogenic liquid, preferably liquefied natural gas, or a second cryogenic liquid, preferably a mixture of liquid alkane containing at least two carbon atoms and liquid methane; at least one consumer; and characterized in that it includes at least one supply system for supplying fuel to the consumer in a first configuration, the fuel being prepared from gas generated by the vaporization of the first cryogenic liquid contained in the tank, and for supplying fuel to the consumer in a second configuration, the fuel being prepared from gas generated by the vaporization of the second cryogenic liquid contained in the tank.

[0049] The alkane containing at least two carbon atoms may be selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof. More preferably, the mixture includes liquid ethane and liquid methane.

[0050] Figure 1 A floating structure 70 is schematically shown, comprising at least one tank 3, 5 for storing and / or transporting at least one cryogenic liquid LC1, LC2 containing methane. In the example shown, structure 70 includes multiple tanks 3, 5 containing cryogenic liquids LC1, LC2.

[0051] The cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 containing methane can be liquefied natural gas LC1 or a mixture LC2 of liquid methane and an alkane having at least two carbon atoms and being in a liquid state (particularly at atmospheric pressure). Preferably, the methane index of the mixture LC2 is less than 70. It should be understood that the supply system 1 is configured such that the fuel prepared from the gas produced by the vaporization of the mixture has a higher methane number than the mixture.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the alkane having at least two carbon atoms is selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof. Preferably, the mixture consists of liquid ethane and liquid methane.

[0053] Reference Figure 1 Tanks 3 and 5 contain liquid cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 in the form of L2 and L1. Due to imperfect thermal insulation of tanks 3 and 5, some of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 vaporize. Therefore, tanks 3 and 5 of structure 70 contain cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 in liquid form as L2 and L1 and cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 in gaseous form as G1 and G2.

[0054] Structure 70 includes at least one propulsion device 9 supplied with fuel. For example, the at least one propulsion device 9 may be a propulsion engine for this structure, such as a ME-GI or XDF engine. It should be understood that this is only one exemplary embodiment of the invention, and different propulsion devices may be installed without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0055] refer to Figure 1 Structure 70 includes a system 11 for supplying fuel to propulsion device 9. The supply system 11 includes a sampling branch 13 for sampling the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 contained in at least one tank 3 and 5 of structure 70.

[0056] The liquid inlet 131 of sampling branch 13 is immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 to allow penetration of the liquid phases L1 and L2. The gas outlet 133 from sampling branch 13 is connected to the inlet 903 of propulsion device 9 to deliver fuel thereto.

[0057] Sampling branch 13 includes a compression member 15 to supply fuel to the propulsion unit under sufficient pressure. Sampling branch 13 may include a heater-cooler 17 to bring the fuel to a suitable temperature. The fuel is in a gaseous state at the gas outlet 133 of sampling branch 13. If the cryogenic liquid containing methane is liquefied natural gas (LNG), the propulsion unit 9 will be supplied with gaseous LNG LC1. If the cryogenic liquid containing methane is a mixture of liquid methane and alkanes having at least two carbon atoms and being in a liquid state, then the propulsion unit 9 will be supplied with a gaseous mixture LC2.

[0058] Sampling branch 13 may include at least one sampling valve 19 to control the penetration of liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 contained in at least one tank 3, 5. In other words, sampling valve 19 allows penetration, inhibits penetration, and / or regulates the penetration flow rate of liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2. Sampling valve 19 is arranged between inlet 131 of sampling branch 13 and inlet of heater-cooler 17. Sampling valve 19 may be a three-way valve or two valves, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0059] exist Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, sampling branch 13 includes several liquid inlets 131, each immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 in different tanks 3 and 5. Sampling branch 13 also includes several sampling valves 19 arranged to selectively allow penetration of the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 into the tanks. The plurality of sampling valves 19 also allow adjustment of the flow rate of the penetrated liquid phases L2 and L1.

[0060] The sampling branch 13 may include at least one pump 135 immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 to facilitate penetration of the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2. The pump 135 is arranged at the liquid inlet 131 of the sampling branch 13.

[0061] refer to Figure 1 Structure 70 includes at least one fuel consumer 7, the fuel being prepared from gas contained in the structure's (multiple) tanks 3, 5, the gas being gaseous phase G1G2 generated by the vaporization of cryogenic liquids LC1, LC2 stored and / or transported in the structure's (multiple) tanks 3, 5.

[0062] As an example, the at least one consumer 7 may be a DFDE (dual-fuel diesel generator) type generator, that is, a gas consumer configured to ensure the power supply to structure 70. It should be understood that this is merely one exemplary embodiment of the invention, and different gas consumer installations may be provided without departing from the invention.

[0063] Structure 70 includes a supply system 1 for supplying fuel to consumer 7. Supply system 1 includes: at least one gas inlet 101 in fluid communication with at least one gas outlet 303, 503 from tank(s) 3, 5 of structure 70; and gas outlet 103 in fluid communication with at least one fuel inlet 701 of consumer 7.

[0064] The supply system 1 includes a fuel preparation system 45, at least one of which has a gas outlet 453 connected to a consumer 7 to deliver fuel and to a supply branch 21 configured to bring at least a portion of the gases G1 and G2 from tanks 3 and 5 to an inlet 451 of the preparation system 45.

[0065] The supply system 1 includes a heat exchange module 22, which is configured to at least partially liquefy the gas generated by the vaporization of a mixture LC2 contained in at least one of the tanks 3 and 5.

[0066] The heat exchange module 22 includes a heat exchanger 23, which includes a first channel 25 forming a supply branch 21. The first channel 25 is located at at least one gas inlet 211 of the supply branch 21. The gas inlet 211 of the supply branch 21 forms part of the gas inlet 101 of the supply system 1. The gas inlet 211 of the supply branch 21 is therefore connected via a conduit to a gas outlet 303, 503 of at least one of the tanks 3, 5 of the structure 70.

[0067] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, supply branch 21 includes a plurality of gas inlets 211, which form part of a plurality of gas inlets 101 of supply system 1. Each gas inlet 211 of supply branch 21 is connected to a gas outlet 303, 503 of tanks 3, 5 of structure 70.

[0068] The supply system 1 includes a bypass branch 29 of the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23. The bypass branch 29 connects the inlet 251 and the outlet 253 of the first channel 25. The bypass branch 29 is therefore installed in parallel with the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0069] Reference Figure 1 The heat exchanger 23 includes a second channel 27 that forms part of the supply branch 21. The second channel 27 is connected to the first channel 25 via a connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21. In other words, the outlet of the first channel 253 is connected to the inlet of the second channel 271 via the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21.

[0070] The second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23 is configured to exchange heat with the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0071] The connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21 includes at least one compression device 31 configured to increase the pressure of the fluid flowing in the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21. Therefore, the compression device is arranged between the outlet 253 of the first channel 25 and the inlet 271 of the second channel 27.

[0072] The heat exchange module 22 includes a heat exchanger 37, which includes a first channel 39 that forms the supply branch 21. The first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37 is arranged between the outlet 273 of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 451 of the preparation system 45.

[0073] refer to Figure 1The supply system 1 includes a cooling branch 33, which is configured to allow a portion of the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 contained in at least one tank 3, 5 of the structure 70 to pass through it. Therefore, a portion of the liquid phase L1 of the liquefied natural gas LC1 or a portion of the liquid phase L2 of the mixture LC2 can flow into the cooling branch 33.

[0074] More specifically, the liquid inlet 331 of the cooling branch 33 is immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 contained in the (multiple) tanks 3 and 5 of the structure 70. The liquid inlet 331 of the cooling branch 33 is part of the liquid inlet 105 of the supply system 1. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the cooling branch 33 includes a plurality of liquid inlets 331, each of which is immersed in tanks 3 and 5, which are different from the structure 70.

[0075] exist Figure 1 In the sampling branch 33, the liquid inlet 331 may optionally be provided with at least one pump 335, which is immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 to facilitate the penetration of the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2.

[0076] In an embodiment not shown, cooling branch 33 includes multiple penetration valves to prohibit, permit, and control liquid phase sampling from the tank of the structure.

[0077] The heat exchanger 37 includes a second channel 41 that forms part of the cooling branch 33. Therefore, the cooling branch 33 includes the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37. The second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 is configured to exchange heat with the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37 in order to at least partially liquefy the gas flowing in the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37.

[0078] The outlet 413 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 is connected to the liquid outlet 333 of the cooling branch 33. The liquid outlet 333 of the cooling branch 33 is connected to a spray device 58 disposed inside the tanks 3 and 5. The spray device 58 is arranged above the liquid phase contained in the tanks 3 and 5. The spray device 58 allows the liquid from the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 to be dispersed in the form of droplets.

[0079] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment, the outlet 413 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 is connected to a plurality of liquid outlets 333 of the cooling branch 33, and each liquid outlet 333 is connected to a spray device 58 contained in tanks 3 and 5.

[0080] The outlet 413 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 is also connected to the discharge conduit 57 via the connecting conduit 56. The discharge conduit 57 will be described below.

[0081] The supply system 1 includes a dispensing device 64 configured to allow or prevent fluid from passing toward the injection device(s) 58 and / or toward the discharge duct 57.

[0082] The distribution device 64 includes multiple control devices 641 and 643. The first control device 643 is arranged on the connecting conduit 56. The first control device 643 is, for example, a one-way valve.

[0083] The second control device 641 is arranged on the cooling branch 33, between the junction of the cooling branch 33 and the connecting conduit 56 and the spray device 58. The second control device 641 is, for example, a one-way valve.

[0084] The cooling branch 33 includes a cooling device 35 disposed between the liquid inlet 105 of the supply system 1 and the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37. In other words, the cooling device 35 is disposed between the liquid inlet 331 of the cooling branch 33 and the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37.

[0085] The cooling device 35 is configured to cool the liquid phase portions L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 flowing in the cooling branch 33. For example, the cooling device 35 can alternately cool a portion of the liquid phase L1 of liquefied natural gas LC1 and a portion of the liquid phase L2 of the mixture LC2.

[0086] The supply system 1 includes a bypass branch 43 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37. The bypass branch 43 connects the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 to the outlet 413 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37. In other words, the bypass branch 43 is installed in parallel with the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger.

[0087] The supply system 1 includes a connection passage 330 from the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 to the connection point PR0 of the cooling branch 33. The connection point PR0 is arranged on the cooling branch 33 between the second control device 377 of the distribution device 64 and the spray device 58.

[0088] Reference Figure 1 The fuel preparation system 45, which prepares fuel from gas that has been at least partially liquefied by heat exchange module 22, includes a first phase separator 47, a second phase separator 55, and an expansion device 53.

[0089] The first phase separator 47 includes an inlet 471 connected to the outlet 393 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37. It should be understood that, in this case, the inlet 471 of the first phase separator 47 is part of the inlet 451 of the preparation system 45.

[0090] The first phase separator 47 includes a gas outlet 473, which forms part of the gas outlet 103 of the supply system 1. The gas outlet 473 of the first phase separator 47 is connected to the fuel inlet 701 of the consumer 7 to deliver fuel. The connection between the gas outlet 473 of the first phase separator 47 and the consumer 7 is ensured by a connecting conduit 49.

[0091] Therefore, it can be understood that the connecting conduit 49 also ensures the connection between the gas outlet 103 of the supply system 1 and the fuel inlet 701 of the consumer 7. It should also be understood that the gas outlet 473 of the first phase separator 47 is part of the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45, which in turn is part of the gas outlet 103 of the supply system 1.

[0092] The first phase separator 47 includes a liquid outlet 475, which is connected to the inlet 551 of the second phase separator 55 via a pipeline 51. An expansion device 53 is disposed on the pipeline 51. The pipeline 51 may be, for example, a conduit.

[0093] The second-phase separator 55 includes a gas outlet 553, which is connected via a conduit 59 to a junction PJ of the supply branch 21. The junction PJ is located between a gas outlet 303, 503 of at least one of the tanks 3, 5 of structure 70 and an inlet 311 of the compression device 31. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the connection point is located on the connection portion 211 of the supply branch 21.

[0094] The second-phase separator 55 includes a liquid outlet 555 in fluid communication with the tanks(s)3,5 of the structure 70. In other words, the liquid outlet 555 of the second-phase separator 55 is connected to the interior of at least one tank 3,5 via a discharge conduit 57. One end of the discharge conduit 57 is immersed in the liquid phases L1, L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1, LC2 stored and / or transported in the tanks 3,5. Figure 1 In the example shown, the discharge conduit 57 includes multiple ends, each of which is immersed in the liquid phases L1 and L2 of the cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2.

[0095] refer to Figure 1 The supply system 1 includes at least a bypass branch 61 of the preparation system 45. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the bypass branch 61 also allows bypassing the heat exchanger 23 and the thermal heat exchanger 37.

[0096] A bypass branch 61 is arranged between the outlet 313 of the compression device 31 and the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45. In other words, the bypass branch 61 connects the outlet 313 of the compression device 31 and the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the compression device 31 includes a plurality of compression stages 315.

[0097] The supply system 1 includes a fuel heater-cooler 65 arranged between the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45 and the gas outlet 103 of the supply system 1 connected to the fuel inlet 701 of the consumer 7. Therefore, it can be understood that in Figure 1 In one embodiment, the heater-cooler 65 is disposed on the connecting conduit 49 between the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45 and the fuel inlet 701 of the consumer 7.

[0098] The supply system 1 includes a switching device 69, which is configured to alternate between a first configuration and a second configuration of the supply system 1.

[0099] The conversion device 69 includes first regulating devices 231, 233, and 235, which are arranged to control the gas flow in the first channel 25 or bypass branch 29 of the heat exchanger 23. Therefore, the first regulating devices 231, 233, and 235 allow, prohibit, and / or regulate the flow of fluid in at least a portion of the supply system 1.

[0100] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the first regulating devices 231, 233, and 235 include multiple check valves. The first check valve 231 is located at the inlet 251 of the first passage 25 of the heat exchanger 23, the second check valve 233 is located at the outlet 253 of the first passage 25 of the heat exchanger 23, and the third check valve 235 is located in the bypass branch 29. These check valves 231, 233, and 235 allow or block fluid flow in the first passage 25 and / or the bypass branch 29 of the heat exchanger 23. In other words, these check valves 231, 233, and 235 are configured to be in an open position, a partially open position for regulating flow, or a closed position.

[0101] In an embodiment not shown, the first regulating device includes a two-way valve disposed at the junction between the supply branch and the bypass branch.

[0102] The conversion device 69 includes second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377, which are arranged to control the flow of liquid in the second channel 41 and / or bypass branch 43 and / or connecting passage 330 of the heat exchanger 37. Therefore, the second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 allow, prohibit, and / or regulate the flow of fluid in at least a portion of the supply system 1.

[0103] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 include multiple check valves. A first check valve 371 is located at the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37; a second check valve 373 is located at the outlet 413 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37; a third check valve 375 is located in the bypass branch 43; and a fourth check valve 377 is located in the connection passage 330. The check valves of the second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 allow or prevent fluid from flowing through the first channel 25 and / or the bypass branch 43 of the heat exchanger 37, and / or the fourth check valve 377 located in the connection passage 330. In other words, the check valves of the second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 are configured to be in an open position, a partially open position for regulating flow, or a closed position.

[0104] In an embodiment not shown, the second regulating device includes a two-way valve disposed at the junction between the cooling branch and the bypass branch.

[0105] The conversion device 69 includes third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615, which are arranged to control the flow of liquid in the second channel 27 or bypass branch 61 of the heat exchanger 23. Therefore, the third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 allow, prohibit, and / or regulate the flow of fluid in at least a portion of the supply system 1.

[0106] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 include multiple check valves. A first check valve 611 is located at the inlet 271 of the second passage 27 of the heat exchanger 23, a second check valve 613 is located on the bypass branch 61, and a third check valve 615 is located at the gas outlet 453 of the preparation system 45. The check valves of the third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 allow or block fluid flow in the second passage 27 and / or the bypass branch 61 of the heat exchanger 23. In other words, the check valves of the third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 are configured to be in an open position, a partially open position regulating the flow rate, or a closed position.

[0107] In an embodiment not shown, the third regulating device includes a two-way valve or a three-way valve disposed at the junction between the supply branch and the bypass branch, and at the junction between the bypass branch and the connecting conduit.

[0108] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the supply system 1 in its first configuration. Tanks 3 and 5 of configuration 70 contain cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2, including methane. The first configuration of supply system 1 is particularly suitable when the cryogenic liquid LC1 is liquefied natural gas LC1.

[0109] In the first configuration of the supply system 1, the first regulating devices 231, 233, and 235 allow fluid to flow in the bypass branch 29 and prohibit fluid from flowing in the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0110] The second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 allow fluid to flow in the bypass branch 43, prohibit fluid from flowing in the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37, and prohibit fluid from flowing in the connecting passage 330.

[0111] The third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 allow fluid flow in the bypass branch 61. The third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 prohibit the flow of fluid in the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37, the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23, and the preparation system 45.

[0112] In this first configuration, gas G1 generated by the vaporization of a cryogenic liquid LC1 in the form of liquid L1 contained in the plurality of tanks 3, 5 of structure 70 is drawn from one of the tanks 3, 5 via supply branch 21. Gas G1 enters bypass branch 29.

[0113] Then, gas G1 is compressed by compression device 31. Therefore, the pressure of gas G1 at the inlet 311 of compression device 31 is lower than the pressure of gas G1 at the outlet 313 of compression device 31.

[0114] Compressed gas G1 flows into bypass branch 61. Therefore, compressed gas G1 avoids heat exchanger 23, thermal heat exchanger 37 and preparation system 45.

[0115] After passing through bypass branch 61, compressed gas G1 flows into connecting branch 49 and passes through heater-cooler 65, which raises the temperature of compressed gas G1 before being directed to at least one consumer 7. Compressed gas G1 cannot enter the first phase separator 47 because the third check valve 615 of the third regulating devices 611, 613, 615 prevents it from entering.

[0116] In parallel, a portion of the cryogenic liquid LC1 in the form of liquid L1 in at least one tank 3, 5 of structure 70 is sampled. Liquid L1 flows sequentially in cooling branch 33, in cooling device 35 that cools liquid L1, in cooling branch 33, in bypass branch 43, and then again in cooling branch 33.

[0117] The dispensing device 64 is configured to allow liquid L1 to flow into the connecting conduit 56 and thus reach the discharge conduit 57, and the configuration prevents liquid L1 from flowing toward the injection device 58.

[0118] Figure 3 The supply system 1 in the second configuration is shown. Tanks 3 and 5 of configuration 70 contain cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2, including methane. The second configuration of the supply system is particularly suitable when the cryogenic liquid LC2 is a mixture L2 of liquid methane and liquid alkane containing at least two carbon atoms. Preferably, the content of liquid alkane having at least two carbon atoms is greater than the content of liquid methane in mixture L2.

[0119] In the first configuration of the supply system 1, the first regulating devices 231, 233, 235 allow fluid to flow in the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23 and prohibit fluid from flowing in the bypass branch 29.

[0120] The second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, and 377 allow fluid to flow in the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37, prohibit fluid from flowing through the bypass branch 43, and prohibit fluid from flowing through the connecting passage 330.

[0121] The third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 allow fluid flow in the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37, the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23, and the preparation system 45. The third regulating devices 611, 613, and 615 prohibit the flow of fluid in the bypass branch 61.

[0122] In this second configuration, gas G2 generated by the vaporization of cryogenic liquid LC2 in the form of liquid L2 contained in the plurality of tanks 3, 5 of structure 70 is taken out from one of the tanks 3, 5 through supply branch 21.

[0123] Gas G2 flows in the first channel 25 of heat exchanger 23 by exchanging heat with the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23. At the outlet 253 of the first channel 25 of heat exchanger 23, the temperature of gas G2 has increased.

[0124] The heated gas G2 is then compressed by the compression device 31. Therefore, the gas G2 has a pressure at the outlet 313 of the compression device 31 suitable for entering the preparation system 45. For example, in this embodiment, the pressure at the outlet 313 of the compression device 31 is 6.5 bar. The temperature of the compressed gas G2 is maintained substantially the same as the temperature of the gas G2 at the outlet of the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0125] Then, gas G2 flows into the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23, generating heat by exchanging heat with the first channel 25 of heat exchanger 23. Therefore, the temperature of gas G2 decreases at the outlet of the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23.

[0126] In the heat exchanger 23, the direction of the compressed gas flow G2 in the second channel 27 is opposite to the direction of the gas flow G1 in the first channel 25.

[0127] Then, gas G2 flows in the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37. Gas G2 generates heat again by exchanging heat at the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37. Then, gas G2 is at least partially liquefied.

[0128] At the outlet 393 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37, there exists a mixture of gases and liquids with different compositions. The fuel preparation system 45 will allow fuel to be separated from this mixture.

[0129] The mixture passes through the first phase separator 47. The gas phase, which serves as fuel for the consumer 7, is separated from the liquid phase of the mixture. The gas phase contained in the first phase separator 47 flows into the connecting branch 49 to be supplied to the consumer via the heater-cooler 65.

[0130] The liquid phase of the mixture is sent to the second phase separator 55 through pipeline 51, which connects the liquid outlet 475 of the first phase separator 47 to the inlet 551 of the second phase separator 55.

[0131] Through line 51, the liquid phase of the mixture is expanded by expansion device 53. A portion of the liquid phase evaporates, producing another mixture consisting of a liquid and a gas phase, which is then decanted in second phase separator 55.

[0132] The liquid phase contained in the second phase separator 55 is returned to at least one of the tanks 3 and 5 of the structure 70. The gas phase contained in the second phase separator 55 is returned to the supply branch 21 at the junction PJ, which is located between the outlet 253 of the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 311 of the compression device 31.

[0133] In parallel, a portion of the cryogenic liquid LC1 in the form of liquid L1 in at least one tank 3, 5 of structure 70 is sampled. Liquid L1 flows into cooling branch 33 and successively enters the second channel 41 of cooling device 35 and heat exchanger 37, and is finally dispersed in one of tanks 3, 5 by spray device 58.

[0134] Therefore, in Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the dispensing device 64 is configured to prevent liquid L1 from flowing into the connecting conduit 56 and to allow liquid L1 to flow to the injection device 58.

[0135] The flow of the cryogenic liquid in the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 allows for at least partial liquefaction of the gas passing through the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37.

[0136] In the heat exchanger 37, the flow direction of gas G2 in the first channel 39 is opposite to the flow direction of liquid G2 in the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37.

[0137] Figure 4 A second embodiment of a fuel supply system for (multiple) consuming units is shown. The supply system is characterized by a heat exchange module comprising a heat exchanger to supply the propulsion unit with the coldness of liquid drawn from at least one tank of the structure. The fuel is prepared from liquefied natural gas or from a mixture of liquid methane and alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms and in a liquid state (particularly at atmospheric pressure), the mixture being contained in at least one tank of a floating structure. Preferably, the alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms are selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof.

[0138] The same elements in the third embodiment and the other embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings. For the description of the same elements, please refer to the description of the preceding embodiments.

[0139] refer to Figure 4 The heat exchange module 22 of the supply system 1 includes a heat exchanger 91, which includes a first channel 93 constituting the supply branch 21 and a second channel 95 constituting the sampling branch 13.

[0140] The first channel 93 of heat exchanger 91 is arranged between the outlet 273 of the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 391 of the first channel 39 of heat exchanger 37. The second channel 95 of heat exchanger 91 is arranged between the liquid inlet 131 of sampling branch 13 and compression member 15. The first channel 93 of heat exchanger 91 is configured to exchange calories with the second channel 95 of heat exchanger 91.

[0141] When the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 are taken out from one of the tanks 3 and 5 of structure 70 to supply the propulsion device 9, the liquid phases L1 and L2 of cryogenic liquids LC1 and LC2 flow into the sampling branch 13, pass through the second channel 95 of the heat exchanger 91, and then enter the compression member 15.

[0142] Simultaneously, a gaseous phase G2 of a mixture LC2 of liquid methane and liquid alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms is drawn from tanks 3 and 5. Therefore, mixture LC2 flows into supply branch 21 to prepare fuel for (multiple) consumers 7. More specifically, before entering preparation system 45, mixture LC2 passes successively through the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23, the first channel 93 of heat exchanger 91, and the first channel 39 of heat exchanger 37.

[0143] In this configuration, the flow of liquefied natural gas (LNG) or the mixture in the second channel 95 of the heat exchanger 91 occurs in the same direction as the flow of the mixture in the first channel 93 of the heat exchanger 91. Therefore, the mixture is colder at the outlet 933 of the first channel 93 than at the inlet 931 of the first channel 91 of the heat exchanger 91. Furthermore, LNG LC1 or the mixture LC2 is hotter at the outlet 953 of the second channel 95 than at the inlet 951 of the second channel 95 of the heat exchanger 91. Therefore, it is understood that, in the same configuration, there can be a tank including LNG LC1 and multiple tanks including the mixture LC2, where LNG LC1 is used to supply the propulsion unit 9 through the second channel 95 of the heat exchanger 91, and the vaporization of the mixture LC2 is used to prepare fuel for the (multiple) consumption units 7 through the first channel 93 of the heat exchanger.

[0144] like Figure 4 In the second embodiment shown, the preparation system 45 includes a first phase separator 47 and an expansion device 53 as described in the first embodiment. More specifically, the preparation system 45 here includes only the first phase separator 47 and the expansion device 53. The liquid outlet 475 of the first phase separator 47 is in fluid communication with at least one of the tanks 3, 5 of the structure 70 via a line 51 connected to a discharge conduit 57. The expansion device 53 is arranged on the line 51 that connects the liquid outlet 475 of the first phase separator 47 to the discharge conduit 57.

[0145] In this second embodiment, and optionally, the supply system 1 includes a control device 401 configured to raise the fluid temperature at the outlet 393 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37, and thus regulate the fluid flow at the inlet 411 of the second channel 41 of the heat exchanger 37 via the conversion device 69, and more specifically via the second regulating devices 371, 373, 375, 377. Therefore, optimal liquefaction of the fluid is ensured at the outlet 393 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37.

[0146] Figure 5 A third embodiment of a fuel supply system for (multiple) consuming units is shown. The special feature of this supply system is that it is configured to supply fuel to the propulsion unit in addition to the (multiple) consuming units. The fuel is prepared from liquefied natural gas or from a mixture of liquid methane and liquid alkanes having at least two carbon atoms, the mixture being contained in at least one tank of a floating structure. Preferably, the alkanes having at least two carbon atoms are selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof.

[0147] The same elements in the third embodiment and the other embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings. For the description of the same elements, please refer to the description of the preceding embodiments.

[0148] refer to Figure 5 The supply system 1 includes an attachment branch 319, which is connected to a first attachment point PR1 arranged on the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21 and a second attachment point PR2 arranged on the sampling branch 13.

[0149] The first auxiliary connection point PR1 is arranged on the supply branch 21, located between the gas inlet 211 of the supply branch 21 and the inlet 391 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37. More specifically, in Figure 5 In the heat exchanger 23, the first attachment point PR1 is located between the outlet 253 of the first channel 25 and the inlet 271 of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0150] The second attachment point PR2 is located between the outlet of the heater-cooler 17 and the gas outlet 133 from the sampling branch 13, that is, between the outlet of the heater-cooler 17 and the fuel inlet 901 of the propulsion device 9.

[0151] The compression device 31 is a compressor comprising multiple compression stages 315, configured to compress the fluid flowing in the supply branch 21. A first portion of the compression stage 315 is arranged on the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21, and a second portion of the compression stage 315 is arranged on the attachment branch 319.

[0152] The low-pressure outlet 313 of the compression device 31 is arranged between the first portion and the second portion of the compression stage 315 of the compression device 31. The low-pressure outlet 313 corresponds to the first connection point PR1. After passing through the first portion of the compression stage 315, at least a portion of the fluid flowing at the low-pressure outlet 313 of the compression device 31 has a pressure suitable for the preparation system 45.

[0153] The high-pressure outlet 317 of the compressor 31 is arranged on the connecting branch 313 and corresponds to the outlet of the last compression stage 315 of the second section of the compression stage 315 arranged on the attachment branch 319. Therefore, another portion of the fluid that has passed through the first section of the compression stage flows into the connecting branch 319 and through the second section 315 of the compression stage. The fluid at the high-pressure outlet 317 of the compressor 31 has a suitable pressure for the propulsion device 9. For example, the fluid at the high-pressure outlet 317 of the compressor 315 has a pressure between 30 bar and 40 bar.

[0154] The supply system 1 includes a sharing device 66 configured to prevent or allow fluid flow to the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23, and configured to prevent or allow fluid flow in the connecting branch 319.

[0155] The sharing device 66 includes multiple distribution devices 661 and 663. The first distribution device 661 is arranged on the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21, located between the first connection point PR1 and the inlet of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23. The first distribution device 661 is, for example, a one-way valve. The second distribution device 663 is arranged on the connection branch 319 between the high-pressure outlet 315 of the compressor 31 and the second connection point PR2. The second distribution device 663 is, for example, a one-way valve.

[0156] In the third embodiment, the sharing device 66 is configured such that fluid is allowed to flow to the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 25 after passing through the first portion of the compression stage 315 of the compression device 31. Conversely, in this configuration, the sharing device 66 prohibits fluid flow in the connecting branch 319.

[0157] like Figure 5 As shown, the third embodiment uses the preparation system 45 of the second embodiment, that is, it only has the first phase separator 47 and the expansion device 53.

[0158] Figure 6A fourth embodiment of a fuel supply system for (multiple) consuming units is shown. The special feature of this supply system is that it is configured to supply fuel to the propulsion unit in addition to the (multiple) consuming units. The fuel is prepared from liquefied natural gas or a mixture contained in at least one tank of a floating structure, said mixture being a mixture of liquid methane and alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms and existing in a liquid state. Preferably, the alkanes containing at least two carbon atoms are selected from ethane, propane, butane, and at least one mixture thereof.

[0159] In the figures, the same elements in the fourth embodiment and the other embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals. For the description of the same elements, please refer to the description of the preceding embodiments.

[0160] refer to Figure 6 The supply system 1 includes an attachment branch 319, which is connected to a first attachment point PR1 arranged on the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21 and a second attachment point PR2 arranged on the sampling branch 13.

[0161] More specifically, the first attachment point PR1 is located between the outlet 253 of the first channel 25 of the heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 271 of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23. The second attachment point PR2 is located between the outlet of the heater-cooler 17 and the gas outlet 133 from the sampling branch 13, that is, between the outlet of the heater-cooler 17 and the fuel inlet 901 of the propulsion device 9.

[0162] As the fluid flows in supply branch 21, it passes through the first channel 25 of heat exchanger 23, then through compression device 31, and then through the second channel 27 of heat exchanger 23 or connecting branch 319. At the outlet 313 of compression device 31, the fluid has sufficient pressure for use by propulsion device 9. Conversely, this pressure is too high for the fluid used by preparation system 45.

[0163] Therefore, the supply system 1 includes an expansion device 277 arranged on the supply branch 21 between the outlet 273 of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 391 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37. Thus, when fluid flows from the outlet 273 of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23 and the inlet 391 of the first channel 39 of the heat exchanger 37, it passes through the expansion device 277. The pressure of the fluid then decreases, making it usable by the preparation system 45. For example, the fluid pressure decreases from approximately 40 bar at the inlet of the expansion device 277 to approximately 6.5 bar at the outlet of the expansion device 277.

[0164] The supply system 1 includes a shared device 66 as described in the framework of the third embodiment. The shared device 66 is configured to prevent or allow fluid flow to the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23, and is configured to prevent or allow fluid flow to the connecting branch 319.

[0165] The first distribution device 661 is arranged on the connection portion 215 of the supply branch 21, between the first connection point PR1 and the inlet of the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23. The first distribution device 661 is, for example, a one-way valve.

[0166] The second distribution device 663 is arranged on the connecting branch 319 between the first connection point PR1 and the second connection point PR2. The second distribution device 663 is, for example, a one-way valve.

[0167] In the fourth embodiment, the sharing device 66 is configured such that fluid, after passing through the compression device 31, is allowed to flow to the second channel 27 of the heat exchanger 23 and is permitted to flow in the connecting branch 319. Therefore, the supply system 1 allows fuel to be supplied simultaneously to the propulsion device 9 and the (multiple) consumer(s) 7. In a variant of the fourth embodiment, the sharing device 66 prevents fluid flow in the connecting branch 319. In another variant of the fourth embodiment, the sharing device 66 prevents fluid from flowing to the inlet 271 of the second branch 27 of the heat exchanger 23.

[0168] like Figure 6 As shown, the fourth embodiment repeats the preparation system 45 of the second embodiment.

[0169] Reference Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the floating structure 70 shows sealed, insulated tanks 3 and 5 installed within a double-hulled structure 72. The floating structure 70 can be a ship or a floating platform. The walls of tanks 3 and 5 include a primary sealing barrier designed to contact the cryogenic liquid contained within the tanks 3 and 5, a secondary sealing barrier disposed between the primary sealing barrier and the double-hulled structure 72, and two insulating barriers disposed between the primary and secondary sealing barriers and between the secondary sealing barrier and the double-hulled structure 72, respectively. In a simplified version, the floating structure 70 comprises a simple hull.

[0170] Loading / unloading pipes 73 arranged on the upper deck of the floating structure 70 can be connected to sea or port terminals via suitable connectors to transport cryogenic liquid cargo from or to tanks 3 and 5.

[0171] Figure 7An example of a marine terminal including a loading and / or unloading station 75, an underwater conduit 76, and a shore facility 77 is shown. The loading and / or unloading station 75 is a fixed offshore facility comprising a boom 74 and a tower 78 supporting the boom 74. The boom 74 carries a bundle of insulated flexible tubing 79, which can be connected to a loading / unloading pipeline 73. The boom 74 is adjustable and adaptable to all floating structure templates 70. A connecting conduit (not shown) extends inside the tower 78. The loading and / or unloading station 75 allows the floating structure 70 to load and / or unload from the shore facility 77. The latter includes a cryogenic liquid tank 80 and a connecting conduit 81, which connects to the loading and unloading station 75 via an underwater conduit 76. The underwater conduit 76 allows cryogenic liquids to be transported over long distances, such as 5 kilometers, between the loading or unloading station 75 and the shore facility 77, allowing the floating structure 70 to remain offshore during loading and / or unloading operations.

[0172] To generate the pressure required to transport cryogenic liquids, pumps are used on the floating structure 70 and / or on the shore facility 77 and / or on the loading and unloading station 75.

[0173] Examples have been described for floating structures; however, they are also applicable to onshore structures. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the use of liquefied natural gas or a mixture of liquid methane and alkanes having at least two carbon atoms in a liquid state.

[0174] From the above description, it can also be understood that the preparation system can take at least two constructions, including, for example... Figure 4-6 The first configuration shown has a single-phase separator, or as... Figure 1-3 The second configuration shown has two cascaded phase separators, referred to as the first phase separator and the second phase separator.

[0175] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples just described, and many modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, technical features of various embodiments can be combined without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, a temperature control device can be implemented in the first embodiment, or the preparation system of the first embodiment can be used in other embodiments.

Claims

1. A floating or shore-based structure (70), comprising: At least one tank (3, 5) containing liquefied natural gas (LC1) or a mixture (LC2) containing liquid methane and an alkane containing at least two carbon atoms in a liquid state; at least one consumer (7); at least one supply system (1) for supplying fuel prepared from gas (G1) produced by vaporizing the liquefied natural gas (L1, LC1) contained in the tank to the consumer (7) in a first configuration, and for supplying gas (G2) produced by vaporizing the mixture (L2, LC2) contained in the tank (3, 5) to the consumer in a second configuration. The fuel prepared by the supply system (1) includes a switching device (69) configured to alternate between the first and second configurations of the supply system (1), the supply system (1) including a heat exchange module (22) and a fuel preparation system (45), the heat exchange module being configured to at least partially liquefy a gas (G2) produced by the vaporization of a mixture (L2, LC2) contained in the tanks (3, 5), the fuel preparation system preparing fuel from the at least partially liquefied gas, wherein the number of methanes in the fuel prepared from the at least partially liquefied gas is greater than the number of methanes in the mixture.

2. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 1, wherein, The fuel preparation system (45) includes at least one gas outlet (453) connected to the consumer (7) for supplying fuel, a supply branch (21) configured to supply at least a portion of the gas (G2) generated by the vaporization of the mixture (LC2) from the tank (3, 5) to the inlet (451) of the fuel preparation system (45), and wherein the heat exchange module (22) includes at least one thermal heat exchanger (37), the at least one thermal heat exchanger including a gas inlet constituting the supply branch (21) and arranged in the supply system (1). A first channel (39) between the inlet (451) of the fuel preparation system (45) and the first channel (39) of the fuel preparation system (45); a cooling branch (33) configured to allow liquefied natural gas (LC1) or a mixture (LC2) to pass through, the cooling branch (33) including a second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37) configured to exchange calories with the first channel (39) of the heat exchanger (37) in order to at least partially liquefy the gas flowing in the first channel (39) of the heat exchanger (37).

3. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 2, wherein, The heat exchange module (22) includes at least one heat exchanger (23), the at least one heat exchanger including a first channel (25) that constitutes the supply branch (21) and is disposed between the gas inlet of the supply system (1) and the inlet (391) of the first channel (39) of the thermal heat exchanger (37), the gas inlet (101) being connected to the gas outlet (303, 503) of the tank (3, 5), the heat exchanger (23) including a second channel (27) that constitutes the supply branch (21) and is connected to the first channel (25) through a connection portion (215) of the supply branch (21), the connection portion (215) including at least one compression device (31).

4. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 3, wherein, The heat exchange module (22) includes a heat exchanger (91) comprising a first channel (93) between the outlet (273) of the second channel (27) of the heat exchanger (23) and the inlet (391) of the first channel (39) of the thermal heat exchanger (37), the heat exchanger (91) comprising a second channel (95) of a sampling branch (13) configured to supply at least a portion of liquefied natural gas (LC1) or a mixture (LC2) from the tanks (3, 5) to the fuel inlet (901) of the propulsion device (9) of the floating or onshore structure (70), and the first channel (93) of the heat exchanger (91) configured to exchange calories with the second channel (95) of the heat exchanger (91).

5. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The supply system (1) includes a bypass branch (29) of the first channel (25) of the heat exchanger (23), the bypass branch (29) connecting the inlet (251) of the first channel (25) of the heat exchanger (23) and the outlet (253) of the first channel (25) of the heat exchanger (23).

6. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 5, wherein, The conversion device (69) includes a plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) at least partially disposed in the supply branch (21), the plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) including a first regulating device (231, 233, 235) which is arranged to control the gas flow in the first channel (25) of the heat exchanger (23) and / or the bypass branch (29).

7. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The supply system (1) includes a bypass branch (43) of the second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37), the bypass branch (43) connecting the inlet (411) of the second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37) to the outlet (413) of the second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37).

8. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 7, wherein, The conversion device (69) includes a plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) at least partially disposed in the cooling branch (33), the plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) including at least a second regulating device (371, 373, 375), the second regulating device being arranged to control the flow of liquid in the second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37) or the flow of liquid into the bypass branch (43).

9. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The supply system (1) includes at least a bypass branch (61) of the fuel preparation system (45), the bypass branch (61) being disposed between the outlet (313) of the compression device (31) and the gas outlet (453) of the fuel preparation system (45).

10. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 9, wherein, The conversion device (69) includes a plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) arranged at least partially in the bypass branch (61) and / or the supply branch (21), the plurality of regulating devices (231, 233, 235; 371, 373, 375, 377; 611, 613, 615) including a third regulating device (611, 613, 615) arranged to control the flow of liquid in the second channel (27) of the heat exchanger (23) or in the bypass branch (61).

11. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The fuel preparation system (45) includes a first phase separator (47), a second phase separator (55), and an expansion device (53) disposed on a pipeline (51) connecting the liquid outlet (475) of the first phase separator (47) to the inlet (551) of the second phase separator (55). The inlet (471) of the first phase separator is connected to the heat exchange module (22). At least one gas outlet (473) of the first phase separator (47) is connected to the consumer (7) to deliver fuel. The supply system (1) is configured to fluidly communicate the liquid outlet (555) of the second phase separator (55) with at least one tank (3, 5).

12. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 11, wherein, The gas outlet (553) of the second phase separator (55) is connected to the junction (PJ) of the supply branch (21) between the gas outlet (303, 503) of the tank (3, 5) and the inlet (311) of the compression device (31).

13. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The flow direction of liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the first channel (39) of the heat exchanger (37) is opposite to the flow direction of liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the second channel (41) of the heat exchanger (37).

14. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The flow direction of liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the first channel (25) of the heat exchanger (23) is opposite to the flow direction of liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the second channel (27) of the heat exchanger (23).

15. The floating or shore-based structure (70) according to claim 4, wherein, The flow orientation of the liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the first channel (93) of the heat exchanger (91) is the same as the flow direction of the liquefied natural gas (LC1) or mixture (LC2) in the second channel (95) of the heat exchanger (91).

16. A cryogenic liquid transport system comprising a floating or onshore structure (70) according to any one of the preceding claims, insulated pipes (73, 79, 76, 81) arranged to connect tanks (3, 5) installed in the floating or onshore structure (70) to a floating or onshore storage facility (77), and a pump for driving cryogenic liquid through the insulated pipes from the floating or onshore storage facility (77) to the tanks (3, 5) of the floating or onshore structure (70) or from the tanks (3, 5) of the floating or onshore structure (70) to the floating or onshore storage facility (77).

17. A method for loading or unloading a floating or shore-based structure (70) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, Cryogenic liquids are transported from a floating or onshore storage facility (77) to tanks (3, 5) of the floating or onshore structure (70) or from tanks (3, 5) of the floating or onshore structure (70) to the floating or onshore storage facility (77) via insulated pipes (73, 79, 76, 81).

18. A method for preparing fuel, said fuel being prepared from gas (G1, G2) produced by the vaporization of a cryogenic liquid (L1, LC1; L2, LC2) stored in at least one tank (3, 5) and containing at least methane, said fuel being prepared by a supply system (1) for supplying a floating or onshore structure (70), said floating or onshore structure (70) being a floating or onshore structure according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein the flow of gas (G2) occurs at least in the supply branch (21) through a first channel (39) through a heat exchanger (37) and then through a fuel preparation system (45).

19. A method for preparing fuel, said fuel being prepared from gases (G1, G2) produced by the vaporization of a cryogenic liquid (L1, LC1; L2, LC2) containing at least methane, said fuel being prepared by a supply system (1) for supplying a floating or onshore structure (70), said floating or onshore structure (70) being a floating or onshore structure according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein, The heat exchange module (22) includes at least one heat exchanger (23), the at least one heat exchanger including a first channel (25) constituting the supply branch (21) and disposed between the gas inlet of the supply system (1) and the inlet (391) of the first channel (39) of the thermal heat exchanger (37), the gas inlet (101) being connected to the gas outlet (303, 503) of the tank (3, 5), the heat exchanger (23) including a connecting portion (2) constituting the supply branch (21) and passing through the supply branch (21). 15) A second channel (27) connected to the first channel (25), the connection portion (215) including at least one compression device (31), wherein the supply system (1) includes at least a bypass branch (61) of the fuel preparation system (45), the bypass branch (61) being disposed between the outlet (313) of the compression device (31) and the gas outlet (453) of the fuel preparation system (45), wherein the flow of gas (G1) occurs at least in the supply branch (21) by passing through the compression device (31) and then into the bypass branch (61).

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