Fuel storage and supply apparatus with fuel conditioning assembly

Abstract

A fuel storage and supply apparatus serves as a source of fuel to be dispensed via at least one fuel dispenser. The apparatus includes a reservoir for containing a quantity of fuel. A pump assembly draws fuel from the reservoir and provides the fuel under pressure to a fuel supply line. A fuel conditioning assembly includes a housing having a storage volume, a housing inlet to receive fuel under pressure generated by the pump assembly, a housing outlet through which fuel exits the housing, and a housing port through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. A vacuum source is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the outlet so that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water ingress device in fluid communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located near a bottom of the container.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application is based on and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 085,697, filed September 30, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 488,451, filed September 29, 2021, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to a fuel distribution environment having one or more fuel storage tanks. More specifically, this invention relates to a fuel distribution environment in which one or more storage tanks are equipped with fuel conditioning components. Background Technology

[0004] Fuel distribution environments such as retail gas stations and fuel depots are typically in fuel containers (such as underground storage containers).

[0005] Fuel is stored in the UST (Upper Usage Station). In some cases, small amounts of water or debris may be introduced into the storage tank, which can cause fuel degradation. For example, during rainfall, water often flows across the road surface in the open area in front of the service station and enters the storm drains. Occasionally, some of this water may enter the underground storage tank. Typically, the density of water and debris is greater than that of the fuel stored in the container, and therefore settles near the bottom of the container. Water and fuel are immiscible, which causes a water layer to form below the fuel, thus creating a fuel / water interface layer in the storage tank. The level of the fuel / water interface is usually monitored to ensure that water is not introduced into the inlet through which fuel is drawn from the container.

[0006] When storing ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel and / or ULSD blended with biodiesel fuel products, it is possible to utilize microorganisms (such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa) to generate hydrocarbons. These microorganisms can cause microbial-induced corrosion (MIC) in fuel delivery systems and auxiliary components, including fuel distributor components, metering devices, shear valves, and fuel nozzles. Furthermore, microbial contamination may occur.

[0007] Expensive proactive measures can be taken to clean contaminated containers, remove water, and polish the fuel. This requires shutting down the container, adding additional lost-sales costs to already high cleaning costs. Such proactive measures typically involve passing the container contents multiple times through progressively restrictive filter media and finally through a coalescing filter to remove any free water. These cleaning systems are large-scale, often vehicle-mounted, and designed to clean contamination rather than prevent it.

[0008] Passive measures have been used to prevent or detect water ingress into fuel containers, such as vent caps, inlet seals, container inspections, and periodic quality testing. However, even small amounts of water can cause degradation of the fuel container and / or the fuel. When water is detected, it may be necessary to pump all fuel in the reservoir into a settling container to drain the water. After the water is drained, the fuel can then be reintroduced into the reservoir. Alternatively, the fuel container can be allowed to settle, and the water at the bottom of the fuel container can be pumped out using a suction hose until the water layer is removed and only fuel flows through the suction hose. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention recognizes and seeks to address the above and other considerations of existing technical structures and methods. In this regard, certain exemplary and non-limiting aspects of the invention will now be described. These aspects are intended to provide some context for certain principles associated with the invention, and are not intended to limit the full scope of the invention.

[0010] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a fuel storage and supply apparatus for use as a source of fuel to be distributed in a fuel distribution environment via at least one fuel dispenser. The apparatus includes a reservoir for holding a quantity of fuel. A pump assembly is also provided for drawing fuel from the reservoir and supplying fuel under pressure. A fuel supply line is configured to transport fuel under pressure from the pump assembly.

[0011] The fuel storage and supply equipment also includes a fuel conditioning assembly comprising: a housing having a storage volume; a housing inlet receiving fuel under pressure generated by a pump assembly; a housing outlet through which fuel exits the housing; and a housing port through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. A vacuum source in fluid communication with the housing outlet is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the housing outlet so that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water inlet device in fluid communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located near the bottom of the fuel reservoir.

[0012] According to one exemplary embodiment, an inlet valve positioned to allow flow into the housing inlet and an outlet valve positioned to allow flow out from the housing outlet are also provided. The vacuum source may include a siphon element through which pressurized fuel flows to create a vacuum at a vacuum port of the siphon element, the vacuum port being selectively fluidly in communication with the housing outlet via the outlet valve. The siphon element may include a siphon cartridge attached to a packer manifold of the pump assembly. In this embodiment, the pressurized fuel flowing through the siphon element may be the amount of fuel transferred at a pressure provided by the pump assembly. The fuel may be selectively returned to a reservoir via a water inlet device through the housing port.

[0013] According to one exemplary embodiment, the housing may also have a filter medium for removing particles. Furthermore, the housing may have a water separation section that removes water from the fuel supplied to the housing via the housing inlet. A filter may be located above the water separation section.

[0014] According to one exemplary embodiment, the port may be located above the highest permissible water level in the housing. For example, the fuel regulating assembly may also have a level indicator operable to indicate the water level in the housing.

[0015] According to one exemplary embodiment, the water inlet device may have a plurality of parallel pipes terminating at a plurality of locations spaced apart along the length of the water inlet device. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of parallel pipes may provide inflow and outflow depending on the operation of the fuel conditioning assembly. At least a portion of the water inlet device may be located inside a guide pipe extending into the fuel reservoir.

[0016] Another aspect of the invention provides a water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir. The water inlet device includes an elongated flow structure comprising a plurality of flexible flow tubes, each having a first end of a different length and a second end located at a common position. A header manifold is in fluid communication with the second end of the flow tubes and has a single connection port. Furthermore, the header manifold is configured to allow flow between the flow tubes and the connection port.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment, the elongated flow structure, when deployed in the fuel reservoir, preferably presents a generally L-shaped configuration. Furthermore, a sled structure may be located at the distal end of the elongated flow structure. Additionally, a sheath accommodating multiple flexible flow tubes may be provided. For example, the sheath may define an opening at the first end of each respective flow tube. Furthermore, an elongated substrate may be located within the sheath, such as a generally flat strip (e.g., formed of stainless steel).

[0018] Another aspect of the invention provides a water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir. The water inlet device includes an elongated flow structure comprising at least one flexible flow tube having a distal first end and a proximal second end. A manifold is in fluid communication with the second end of the flow tube and has at least one connection port. According to this aspect, the manifold is configured to allow flow between the flow tube and the connection port. An elongated substrate is adjacent to the flow tube, wherein the elongated flow structure, when deployed in the fuel reservoir, presents a generally L-shaped configuration.

[0019] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for controlling a fuel conditioning assembly operable to remove water from a fuel reservoir. One step of the method involves providing a housing having: a water-separating storage volume; a housing inlet for receiving fuel under pressure; a housing outlet through which fuel exits the housing; and a housing port located above a maximum permissible water level in the housing, through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. An inlet valve is positioned to allow inflow into the housing inlet, and an outlet valve is positioned to allow outflow from the housing outlet. A vacuum source fluidly in communication with the housing outlet via the outlet valve is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the housing outlet such that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water inlet device fluidly in communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located near the bottom of the fuel reservoir.

[0020] Another step of the method involves opening the outlet valve while closing the inlet valve to draw fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the inlet device and port, and returning the fuel to the fuel reservoir through the outlet valve. Another step of the method involves opening the inlet valve while closing the outlet valve to receive fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the inlet valve, and returning the fuel to the fuel reservoir through the port and inlet device.

[0021] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for arranging a water inlet device in a fuel reservoir. One step of the method involves providing a water inlet device having an elongated flow structure including at least one flexible flow tube and an elongated base plate adjacent to the flow tube, wherein the base plate provides a semi-rigid characteristic allowing the elongated flow structure to be guided. Another step of the method involves providing a guide tube having a straight portion and an arcuate portion located at a distal end of the guide tube. A further step of the method involves mounting the guide tube substantially vertically into the fuel reservoir, with the arcuate portion pointing in a desired guiding direction. A further step of the method involves moving the elongated flow structure of the water inlet device through the guide tube into a deployment position.

[0022] The various systems and methods of this invention utilize multiple combinations of the disclosed elements and method steps supported throughout this disclosure. Therefore, combinations of elements other than those discussed above may be claimed. Furthermore, one or more embodiments of the invention are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, and serve to illustrate the principles of the invention together with the description. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the complete and practical disclosure of the invention is set forth herein, including the best mode for those skilled in the art, in which:

[0024] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a fuel storage and supply device with a fuel regulating component according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 It is similar to Figure 1 The view shows the fuel regulation component in one operating mode.

[0026] Figure 3 It is similar to Figure 1 The view shows the fuel regulation component in another operating mode.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a fuel storage and supply device with a fuel regulating component according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a water inlet device that can be used with the fuel regulating assembly of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6A yes Figure 5 A partial view of the connection (manifold) section of the water inlet device.

[0030] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A cross-section of a portion of the connecting part.

[0031] Figure 7A yes Figure 5 A partial view of the middle section of the water inlet device.

[0032] Figure 7B It is cut along 7B-7B. Figure 7A The cross-section of the middle part.

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the end portion of the water inlet device.

[0034] Figure 9 A portion of the fuel reservoir is shown, including a guide tube within the fuel storage container for inserting a water inlet device.

[0035] Figure 10 The image shows an oil collection tank at a refueling location, with the water inlet device installed before installation.

[0036] Figure 11 The water inlet device is shown partially inserted into the fuel reservoir.

[0037] Figure 12 The water inlet device is shown fully inserted into the fuel reservoir.

[0038] Figures 13 to 16This is a process flow diagram of the fuel regulation method according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of an above-ground storage tank using an alternative embodiment of the water inlet device according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An equidistant, enlarged, localized section of a portion of the above-ground storage and inlet device.

[0041] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 An equidistant, enlarged, localized section of a portion of the above-ground storage and inlet device.

[0042] Figure 20 yes Figure 17 An equidistant, enlarged, localized section of a portion of the above-ground storage and inlet device. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of illustration rather than limitation of the invention. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used in another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover such modifications and variations and their equivalents that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0044] Figure 1 A fuel storage and supply system 10 is shown, having a fuel reservoir 12 (such as an underground reservoir (UST)) that stores a quantity of fuel 14 dispensed by a fuel dispenser in a fuel distribution environment (such as a retail gas station). In this case, a quantity of water 16 (or a mixture of fuel and water) is located at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12. Although not shown, a container probe typically extends into the fuel reservoir 12. The container probe has a fuel level sensor for determining the level of fuel 14 in the fuel reservoir 12 and a water level sensor for determining the level of water 16 in the fuel reservoir 12. A fuel pump (such as pump assembly 18 in the illustrated embodiment) is associated with the fuel reservoir 12 to pump fuel 14 into one or more fuel supply lines 20, which supply fuel to the fuel dispenser. The path that allows fuel 14 to flow from the fuel pump to the fuel dispenser is the dispenser flow path.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, pump assembly 18 includes a pump 22, such as a submersible turbopump (STP), immersed in fuel 14 at the lower end of column 24. A packer manifold 26 defining the main fluid passage is located at the upper end of column 24. Pump 22 delivers fuel 14 from fuel reservoir 12 through column 24 to packer manifold 26 and continues to fuel supply line 20. Check valve 28 is located at the outlet of pump assembly 18 to retain fuel 14 under pressure in fuel supply line 20 when pump 22 is off (e.g., when not dispensing). As those skilled in the art will understand, when fuel reservoir 12 is a UST, packer manifold 26 will typically be located in a containment sump defined below ground level. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that although shown as a submersible turbopump, pump 22 can be any mechanism suitable for drawing fuel 14 from fuel reservoir 12. One example of pump 22 is the Red Jacket submersible turbine pump sold by Veeder-Root, a company in Simsbury, Connecticut.

[0046] An automatic tank metering device (ATG) 30 manages the storage and supply of fuel 14. (Suitable ATGs include the TLS-450 ATG and TLS-350 ATG sold by Veeder-Root). In this regard, the ATG 30 is electrically connected to a container probe to determine the levels of fuel 14 and water 16 in the fuel reservoir 12. The ATG 30 is also electrically connected to fuel dispenser gauges in the fuel dispenser, or otherwise connected to the control circuitry of the fuel dispenser, and to pump 22. The ATG 30 preferably also communicates electrically with a pressure sensor arranged along the fuel supply line 20.

[0047] Using information received from the fuel dispenser gauges and pressure sensors, the ATG 30 can operate the pump 22 to meet the fuel dispenser's needs. Furthermore, using readings from the line pressure sensor, the ATG 30 can detect potential leaks in the fuel supply line 20. For example, the ATG 30 can use the pump 22 to pressurize the fuel supply line 20 during periods when the fuel dispenser is not dispensing fuel 14. Once the fuel supply line 20 is pressurized, the ATG 30 shuts off the pump 22 and monitors the pressure in the supply line using the line pressure sensor. Due to the presence of the check valve 28, the fuel supply line 20 should maintain pressure for a predetermined period of time. If the ATG 30 determines that the pressure in the fuel supply line 20 drops too much or too quickly, this can indicate a leak somewhere in the fuel storage and supply system 10. The line pressure sensor used to measure the pressure in the fuel supply line 20 can be positioned at any suitable point between the pump assembly 18 and the fuel dispenser.

[0048] Fuel conditioning components (such as in-sump fuel conditioning (ISFC) component 100) are configured to improve the quality of fuel 14 in fuel reservoir 12. Specifically, ISFC component 100 operates to receive fuel 14 from fuel reservoir 12 and, in the presence of water 16, to accept water. A water removal device 102 serves to remove and collect water from the fuel. The water removal device 102 may also include a filter element to remove particulate matter or other contaminants from the fuel. After water is removed and / or the fuel is filtered, the fuel is returned to fuel reservoir 12. The water removal device 102 may advantageously be located in the aforementioned containment pit, although this is not essential for operation.

[0049] According to this embodiment, water is separated from fuel by gravity within the coalescing housing 104. In this respect, the coalescing housing 104 has a volume into which fuel and / or water at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 are drawn. As can be seen, the ISFC assembly 100 includes a water inlet device (WID) 106 in fluid communication with a port 108 defined in the coalescing housing 104. For example, the port 108 may be located on one side of the coalescing housing 104 at a position above the maximum permissible water level.

[0050] In this embodiment, WID 106 includes a portion positioned along the bottom of fuel reservoir 12. Preferably, the inlet 110 of WID 106 can be located substantially at the distal end of WID 106 (i.e., the end in the flow path away from port 108). Thus, taking into account the geometry of the container and any tilt in the orientation of fuel reservoir 12, inlet 110 can be positioned near the lowest point in fuel reservoir 12. This will facilitate the retrieval of potentially more water from fuel reservoir 12 than in other cases. In this embodiment, WID 106 is also used in certain operating modes to return fuel to fuel reservoir 12.

[0051] The water removal device 102 includes a level indicator 112 that provides indication of the water level (or amount) in the coalescing housing 104. In this embodiment, the level indicator 112 is in the form of a probe having a float 114 that follows the fuel-water interface 116 in the housing. The water level is used to determine when the coalescing housing 104 needs to be emptied. Furthermore, as will be explained more fully below, changes in the water level can be used to indicate certain aspects of the operation of component 100.

[0052] Inlet valve 118 (such as an electrically operated ball valve) opens to allow fuel to flow under pressure into dewatering device 102. As can be seen, inlet valve 118 is located along branch line 120, which is in fluid communication with the outlet of pump assembly 18 downstream of check valve 28. When inlet valve 118 is open, fuel flows into the inlet of dewatering device 102, which in this case is the inlet of filter unit 122. Similarly, outlet valve 124 (such as an electrically operated ball valve) is located at the outlet of filter unit 122 (and therefore the outlet of dewatering device 102).

[0053] In this embodiment, the filtration unit 122 includes a filter medium 126 through which fuel passes to remove filterable particles and the like. After passing through the filter medium from the inlet, the fuel then flows into the water separation section 128 of the filtration unit 122. The water separation section 128 removes and collects any water emulsified in other clean fuels. Finally, this collected water falls to the bottom of the coalescing housing 104.

[0054] A vacuum source (such as a vacuum pump or siphon) is located downstream of the outlet valve 124 along the outlet line 130 to draw fluid from the dehydration device 102. In this embodiment, the vacuum source includes a siphon device 132 that applies a vacuum to the outlet of the dehydration device 102 when the outlet valve 124 is open. A vacuum is generated by the venturi effect as fuel passes through the constriction section in the siphon device 132. In this embodiment, fuel used to generate the vacuum is supplied via the pump assembly 18 along the branch line 134 through the siphon device 132 and returned to the fuel reservoir 12. Preferably, as shown, this return is located closer to the top of the container than the bottom to minimize interference from water at the bottom. The outlet line 130 is connected to the siphon device 132 at a port in fluid communication with the constriction section. Although the siphon device 132 is located in... Figure 1 It is shown as a separate device, but it may also preferably be configured as a siphon tube inserted into one port of the packer manifold 26, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,726,336, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0055] One or more pressure sensors can be installed at the inlet and / or outlet of the dewatering device 102 to determine the condition of the filter media 126. For example, the illustrated embodiment utilizes a pressure sensor 135 located at the outlet of the dewatering device 102. Pressure readings acquired during use can be compared with baseline pressure readings acquired when the filter media 126 is new. If the pressure has dropped below a predetermined threshold from the baseline value (e.g., 20 psi), this indicates that the filter media 126 requires servicing or replacement. As can be seen, the level indicator 112, inlet valve 118, outlet valve 124, and pressure sensor 135 are all electrically in communication with the ATG 30, in which case the ATG is appropriately programmed to control the ISFC component 100. In other embodiments, a separate controller electrically in communication with the ATG 30 may be provided.

[0056] Now for reference Figure 2 The ISFC assembly 100 can operate with the inlet valve 118 closed and the outlet valve 124 open. In this case, the pump assembly 18 causes pressurized fuel to flow through the siphon device 132. However, since the inlet valve 118 is closed, no fuel flows into the inlet of the dewatering device 102. Therefore, the dewatering device 102 will be emptied. Water and / or fuel at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 are thus drawn through WID 106 and enter the coalescing housing 104 via port 108. The water entering the coalescing housing 104 falls to the bottom by gravity and is collected, as shown at 136. Fuel above the fuel-water interface 116 is drawn into the outlet line 130 and circulated back to the fuel reservoir 12 via the siphon device 132.

[0057] The reading from level indicator 112 is interpreted by ATG 30 to determine whether water is being removed from the fuel. For example, level indicator 112 can be monitored by software running in ATG 30 during cycles when water and / or fuel are being drawn from the bottom of fuel reservoir 12. If water is being collected during a suction cycle (as indicated by a rise in fuel-water interface 116), the ISFC assembly 100 will continue to operate to obtain additional water. If water is no longer being collected by suction, the ISFC assembly 100 can initiate intermittent reverse flow cycles to push water along the bottom of the container towards inlet 110 of WID 106 or to clear any potential blockages in the pipe. Once all water has been removed, the ISFC assembly 100 can be deactivated and await the next fuel delivery to fuel reservoir 12. By monitoring the level at fuel-water interface 116, direct control of inlet valve 118 and outlet valve 124 prevents any water from spraying out of the outlet port of dewatering device 102. This prevents the undesirable situation of emulsified water and fuel product returning to the container.

[0058] As can be seen, in this embodiment, there is no intentional mixing of fuel and water. Specifically, water is prevented from entering and being trapped in the siphon tube by the position of port 108 and the operation of level indicator 112. Therefore, filter unit 122 is protected from large amounts of water, and this filter unit is used only for fine water removal and fuel polishing. This reduces the frequency of maintenance required for filter unit 122. It also reduces the occurrence of difficult-to-remove emulsion water.

[0059] Now for reference Figure 3 The ISFC assembly 100 can operate with inlet valve 118 open and outlet valve 124 closed. In this case, coalescing housing 104 is pressurized by pump assembly 18. Fuel then flows into coalescing housing 104 through filter unit 122. Particles in the fuel are thus removed by medium 126, and any small amount of water present is removed by water separation section 128. As described above, the removed water drips to the bottom of coalescing housing 104, while fuel returns to fuel reservoir 12 through port 108 and WID 106. For example, when it is necessary to fill coalescing housing 104 with fuel obtained by pump assembly 18 above the water level 16 in fuel reservoir 12, inlet valve 118 can be opened. Fuel returned to fuel reservoir 12 via WID 106 can be used to sweep (push) water along the bottom of fuel reservoir 12 towards inlet 110 (or to clear one or more pipes of WID 106).

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, WID 106 is used to alternately connect the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 to the coalescing housing 104 in a pressurized state (when inlet valve 118 is open) or a vented state (when inlet valve 118 is closed and outlet valve 124 is open). In this regard, WID 106 may have one or more tubes, such as multiple parallel tubes. In the case of multiple parallel tubes, one or more tubes may operate only in suction mode, while the others operate as sweeping lines. Alternatively, WID 106 may be configured such that all lines (tubes) operate simultaneously in suction and sweeping modes. In the case of a separate sweeping line, an inspection mechanism 138 may be provided to prevent suction into the sweeping tube. In this case, the single longest tube extends to the inlet 110 of WID 106 at the lowest point within the fuel reservoir 12, consistent with any inclination. Thus, water is collected at the lowest point by gravity or by utilizing additional force from the sweeping tube, which allows fuel to flow along the bottom of the container such that the collected water will tend to flow towards the lowest point. WID 106 is designed to allow water to move slowly, thereby reducing the risk of water emulsification with fuel. As will be explained below, the sweeping pipe may preferably terminate at multiple locations spaced apart from the distal end of WID 106 from where inlet 110 is located. (In embodiments without an inspection mechanism, the entire line will be drawn in or swept according to the flow direction.)

[0061] Figure 4 An alternative embodiment of the ISFC component 200 according to the invention is shown. Components unchanged from the previous embodiment will be identified by the same reference numerals. Similar components will be identified by a increment of one hundred from the reference numerals of the previous embodiment. In this case, separate suction lines and sweeping lines 206a and 206b are shown. As mentioned above, the lines can be encapsulated in a single water inlet device, but in this arrangement, the water inlet device does not need to have an inspection mechanism. Instead, the inspection mechanism 238 can be located at port 208. Sweeping line 206b may include multiple tubes with outlets at different locations to direct water to the lowest part of the fuel reservoir 12 as described above (where the inlet 210 of suction line 206a is located). In this illustration, sweeping line 206b is shown slightly above the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12, but in practice it can be placed on the bottom of the container together with suction line 206a.

[0062] In this embodiment, fuel is supplied along line 240, which is fluidly connected to outlet valve 224, to sweep line 206b. Outlet valve 224 has one inlet and two outlets, one of which is open and the other is closed, depending on the activation state of outlet valve 224. For example, if outlet valve 224 is deactivated, pressurized fuel exiting coalescing housing 104 is fed in via sweep line 206a. Pressurized fuel is supplied by pump assembly 18 along branch line 120 through inlet valve 118 (which is open). Fuel passes through filter unit 122 for polishing and fine dehydration before being supplied back to fuel reservoir 12.

[0063] Alternatively, outlet valve 224 can be activated, closing the outlet to line 240. Conversely, the outlet to line 230 will be opened. As described above, fuel flows from pump assembly 18 through siphon device 132 to create a vacuum at coalescing housing 104. With inlet valve 118 closed, water and / or fuel at the bottom of fuel reservoir 12 will be drawn into coalescing housing 104 for total water separation by gravity as described above.

[0064] Now for reference Figures 5 to 8 Further details regarding WID 106 will be provided below. As briefly described above, it has been found that vigorous agitation of water at the bottom of the fuel reservoir can lead to undesirable levels of emulsification between water and fuel. The WID 106 is designed so that the turbulence generated at the bottom of the container does not exceed very low levels, while providing ample passage for water intake. In swirl mode, pressure from pump assembly 18 creates a slow swirl motion that ejects fuel along the bottom of the container. Water is collected at a collection point located at the next available downstream channel or ultimately at the end suction point (e.g., the lowest point in the container).

[0065] In this embodiment, WID 106 includes a connecting element or manifold 502 located at its proximal end (i.e., the end where it connects to other tubes of the IFSC assembly 100) and includes an elongated flow structure 503. Figure 6A and 6BAs shown, manifold 502 in this embodiment is configured as a "6-to-1" manifold, whereby six tubes (such as tube 504) of the elongated flow structure 503 converge to a single inlet / outlet 506. Tube 504 is preferably made of any suitable flexible material (such as FEP). In a preferred embodiment, tube 504 may have a diameter of ¼” or 3 / 8”. Furthermore, tube 504 may be encased in a suitable sheath 508 (such as PVC heat-shrinkable material). A substrate or strip 510 extends along the entire length of WID 106 to restrict movement and allow the distal end of WID 106 to be precisely positioned at the lowest point in the container. In a preferred embodiment, strip 510 may be stainless steel. Strip 510 provides a semi-rigid characteristic that allows the elongated flow structure 503 to be guided, as will be described more fully below. Regardless of size and material, the preferred implementation is positioned in such a way that the tubes are equidistant along the length of the container and the tube diameter is balanced with the resulting flow area, resulting in an operating pressure differential of less than 2 pounds per square inch (psi) and an intake flow rate of less than 2 gallons per minute (gpm), which creates optimal efficiency for water removal.

[0066] like Figure 5 As shown, the elongated flow structure 503 is typically L-shaped during installation, thus having a generally vertical branch and a generally horizontal branch along the bottom of the container. While an embodiment is envisioned where the corresponding pipe 504 terminates at one location along the horizontal branch, in the embodiment shown, the corresponding pipe 504 terminates at multiple locations spaced apart along the horizontal branch to create multiple inlets / outlets for water collection and fuel ejection during swirl. Figure 7A and 7B One such location is shown, where the inlet / outlet 512 is generated via the termination of pipe 504. In this respect, different pipes can have different diameters to preferentially flow through the longest pipe extending to the end of WID 106. For example, the longest pipe can have an inner diameter of 3 / 8”, and the shorter pipes can have an inner diameter of ¼”.

[0067] Now for reference Figure 8 The distal end of the elongated flow structure 503 has an enlarged tip portion 516 that surrounds the end of the longest tube 504. In this example, the tip portion 516 carries an angled sled 518 that facilitates movement of the tip portion 516 along the bottom of the container during installation. As shown, the right-angle splitter 520 directs the end opening 522 toward the bottom of the container. Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments without this sled structure are also contemplated.

[0068] In this embodiment, WID 106 is formed as a flexible element in which all flow is divided into chambers via a common piping system. This design directs all flow through the common chambers and common piping, and connects to the in-tank fuel regulator (filter unit) via an open port without valves. Furthermore, in both modes, WID 106 draws in water and directs any accumulated water and pressurized clean fuel in a fully distributed manner.

[0069] Furthermore, WID 106 is simply guided to the bottom of the container and pushed along the length of the container bottom via a guide tube. The WID is essentially self-deploying and has minimal impact and damage to the container structure. Therefore, Figure 9 A guide tube 550 located in the fuel reservoir 12 is shown to facilitate the insertion of the WID 106. The guide tube 550 includes a generally straight portion 552 extending vertically into the interior of the fuel reservoir 12. An arcuate portion 554 is located at the distal end of the guide tube 550. In this embodiment, the guide tube 550 is mounted via a tubular riser 556 located in a slot 558. The proximal end of the guide tube 550 carries a flange 560 attached to the riser 556 (e.g., by bolts). Preferably, the flange 560 may have markings (such as arrows) indicating the direction of the arcuate portion 554, allowing the installer to point the arcuate portion towards the lowest part of the container (where water is easily collected).

[0070] Figure 10 The image shows WID 106 before its installation in fuel reservoir 12. As can be seen, in this embodiment, the elongated flow structure 503 is initially wound up for efficient storage. Installation begins with inserting the tip portion 516 into the proximal end of the guide tube 550 in the slot 558. (The slot cover 561 is removed and shown as an empty surface near the front of the slot opening.) When the elongated flow structure 503 is unwound, the additional length of the elongated flow structure 503 is fed into the guide tube 550. Figure 11 As shown, the tip portion 516 of the elongated flow structure 503 eventually exits the arcuate portion 554 of the guide tube 550. Due to the orientation of the arcuate portion 554, the tip portion 516 will move along the bottom of the container as the installation progresses toward the desired location in the container (typically at or near the lowest point). Once the manifold 502 is located at the flange 560 of the guide tube 550, the tip portion 516 will be in the desired location.

[0071] Figures 13 to 16 Several aspects of the operation of IFSC components 100 and 200 (e.g., under the control of ATG 30) are illustrated. Reference is now made to... Figure 13Once the system startup is complete (as shown in step 1300), it is determined whether fuel delivery is in progress (as shown in step 1302). If so, the IFSC component enters polishing mode (as shown in step 1304), in which the pressurized fuel supplied by the pump component is filtered and fine water removal is performed. The polishing mode may continue for a period of time (e.g., 30 minutes) after fuel delivery is complete to ensure that the fuel is properly conditioned after being agitated in the container due to delivery. If no water was collected the previous day (as shown in decision point 1306), the IFSC component enters idle mode (as shown in step 1308). If water is received, the process continues (as shown in step 1310) until... Figure 14 .

[0072] Now for reference Figure 14 The IFSC component determines whether the time of day is greater than or equal to the programmed start time (as shown in step 1400). For example, the programmed start time may be based on a time of day when the fuel dispenser is expected to be inactive, such as late at night. If the start time has not been reached, the IFSC component remains in idle mode (as shown in step 1402). If the start time has been reached, it is determined whether water generated since the last start has been drained from the coalescing housing (as shown in step 1404). If not, it is determined whether any filter media in the dewatering device 102 has been replaced (as shown in step 1406). If water has been drained or the filter media has been replaced, the system enters fill mode (as shown in step 1408), in which pressurized fuel is fed into the coalescing housing.

[0073] Next, the system begins operation in suction mode while the counter is at n=0 (as shown in steps 1410, 1412, and 1414). Then, it is determined whether the float in the coalescing housing has moved upwards, indicating that water is being collected from the reservoir (as shown in steps 1416 and 1418). If the float remains at the bottom of the coalescing housing, the suction process continues as indicated in steps 1420 and 1422 until n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 3 or a user-programmed limit). If the float has risen more than a previously determined threshold (e.g., 0.025 inches or otherwise selected), suction is repeated. If the float no longer moves upwards (e.g., moves upwards less than the threshold), the process increases until n is greater than 3 or the user-programmed limit (as shown in steps 1420 and 1422). If the float no longer moves upwards (e.g., moves upwards less than the threshold), the process proceeds to... Figure 15 (As shown in step 1424)

[0074] Now for reference Figure 15The counter is then set back to n=0 (as shown in step 1102). If a sweeper is installed (as shown in step 1500), the process enters sweep mode (as shown in step 1504) for a period of time (e.g., two minutes or as set by the user). As mentioned above, this tends to clean the tubing and also moves any water along the bottom of the reservoir. The IFSC component then enters suction mode again (as shown in step 1506). It is determined whether the water float has moved upward, indicating that water is being collected (as shown in step 1508). If the water float moves upward, suction mode continues (at least until the coalescing housing reaches its water limit).

[0075] If the float does not move upward (e.g., the upward movement is less than a threshold), the counter increments (as shown in steps 1510 and 1512) until n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 2 or a user-programmed limit). If n is not greater than a certain count (e.g., 2), the sweep mode is restarted. If n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 2), the process proceeds to... Figure 16 (As shown in step 1514).

[0076] Now for reference Figure 16 The IFSC component can then determine whether a filter has been installed (as shown in step 1600). If it has been installed and the programmed polishing time is greater than zero (as shown in step 1602), the IFSC component enters polishing mode (as shown in step 1604). Then, the IFSC returns to idle mode (as shown in step 1606).

[0077] Figures 17 to 20 Several aspects of an alternative embodiment of the water inlet device (WID) 1700 according to the invention are shown. The WID 1700 can be similar to the WID 106 in several respects, but is installed in an above-ground fuel reservoir 1702. Since the sides of the fuel reservoir 1702 are exposed (i.e., not buried), the WID 1700 can be substantially straight (i.e., not L-shaped) and installed near the bottom of the container via an orifice 1704. For example, a manifold 1706 of the WID 1700 can define an external thread 1708 that engages the internal thread of the orifice 1704 to hold the WID 1700 in place. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the manifold 1706 can otherwise be similar to the manifold 502 discussed above. In this respect, the manifold 1706 can include an inlet / outlet 1710 that allows fluid communication with port 108. Figure 20 In this embodiment, the pipe between the inlet / outlet 1710 and the port 108 will be located outside the fuel reservoir 1702.

[0078] WID 1700 also includes an elongated flow structure 1712 extending along the bottom of the fuel reservoir 1702. As those skilled in the art will understand, the flow structure 1712 may be similar in several respects to the elongated flow structure 503 discussed above. For example, the flow structure 1712 may have a substrate or strip 1714 (e.g., a semi-rigid strip) along which one or more tubes extend. Although in Figures 18 to 20 Only one such tube 1716 is shown in the partial view, but multiple parallel tubes can typically be provided. For this purpose, the parallel tubes can be located and held in multiple spaced structures 1718 arranged along the length of the strip 1714. Furthermore, similar to the description above, these tubes can be encased in a sheath.

[0079] Although multiple implementations have been envisioned, in this implementation the WID 1700 directs all flow through the common chamber and common pipe, and connects to the tank fuel regulator through an open port without valves.

[0080] Reference is made to U.S. Publication No. 2020 / 0102207A1, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0081] It should be understood that embodiments of the present invention provide compact and efficient fuel conditioning and filtration capabilities. In this regard, removing water from the fuel transport system (UST) is necessary to prevent contamination and corrosion of the US and other components. The apparatus and methods described herein provide direct benefits in terms of water removal due to the wider contact with the bottom of the water collection container and adaptation to site conditions when water is absent or unavailable. Real-time and historical information regarding water collection allows for predictive maintenance and water removal from the coalescing shell itself. Furthermore, through adaptive water removal, the pump does not operate when water is absent or unavailable, resulting in significant energy savings compared to systems operating at programmed times within a programmed period. Additionally, by contacting the bottom of the container over a large area along its length, the system can collect more water than in other cases.

[0082] Having benefited from the teachings set forth in the foregoing description and associated drawings, those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will conceive of numerous modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that such modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, while exemplary embodiments are described in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions in the foregoing description and associated drawings, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. In this regard, for example, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated to fall within the scope of the invention. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used in a general sense only and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A fuel storage and supply device for use as a source of fuel to be distributed in a fuel distribution environment via at least one fuel dispenser, comprising: A fuel storage container for holding a certain amount of said fuel; A pump assembly for drawing fuel from the fuel reservoir and supplying the fuel under pressure; A fuel supply line configured to deliver the fuel under pressure from the pump assembly; Fuel regulating components, including: A housing having a storage volume, the housing having: a housing inlet for receiving fuel under pressure generated by the pump assembly; a housing outlet through which fuel leaves the housing; and a housing port through which fuel can be drawn into the housing; A vacuum source, in fluid communication with the housing outlet, operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the housing outlet, allowing fluid to be drawn into the housing via the housing port; and A water inlet device, in fluid communication with the housing port, the water inlet device having at least one inlet located near the bottom of the fuel reservoir. The shell port is located above the highest permissible water level in the shell.

2. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 1, further comprising: An inlet valve is configured to allow flow into the housing inlet; And an outlet valve, positioned to allow flow from the outlet of the housing.

3. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The vacuum source includes a siphon element through which pressurized fuel flows to create a vacuum at a vacuum port of the siphon element, the vacuum port being selectively fluidly connected to the housing outlet via the outlet valve.

4. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The siphon element includes a siphon tube attached to the packer manifold of the pump assembly.

5. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The pressurized fuel flowing through the siphon element is the amount of fuel transferred under pressure provided by the pump assembly.

6. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 2, wherein, Fuel is selectively returned to the fuel reservoir via the water inlet device and the housing port.

7. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The housing also has a filter medium for removing particles.

8. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 7, wherein, The housing has a water separation section that removes water from the fuel supplied to the housing via the housing inlet.

9. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 8, wherein, The filter medium is located above the water separation section.

10. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The fuel regulating assembly also has a level indicator operable to indicate the water level in the housing.

11. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The water inlet device has a plurality of parallel pipes, which terminate at a plurality of locations spaced apart along the length of the water inlet device.

12. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the plurality of parallel tubes provides inflow and outflow according to the operation mode of the fuel conditioning assembly.

13. The fuel storage and supply equipment according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the water inlet device is located inside a guide pipe that extends into the fuel reservoir.

14. A method for controlling a fuel conditioning assembly, the fuel conditioning assembly being operable to remove water from a fuel reservoir, the method comprising the steps of: (a) Provide: The shell has: a water-separated storage volume; a shell inlet for receiving fuel under pressure; a shell outlet through which fuel leaves the shell; and a shell port located above the highest permissible water level in the shell, through which fuel can be drawn into the shell. An inlet valve is configured to allow flow into the housing inlet; And an outlet valve, positioned to allow flow from the outlet of the housing; A vacuum source, in fluid communication with the housing outlet via the outlet valve, is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the housing outlet, allowing fluid to be drawn into the housing via the housing port; as well as A water inlet device, in fluid communication with the housing port, the water inlet device having at least one inlet located near the bottom of the fuel reservoir; (b) Open the outlet valve and close the inlet valve to draw fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the water inlet device and the housing port and return the fuel to the fuel reservoir via the outlet valve; as well as (c) Open the inlet valve and close the outlet valve at the same time to receive fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the inlet valve and return fuel to the fuel reservoir through the housing port and the water inlet device.

15. The method for controlling a fuel regulation assembly according to claim 14, wherein, When the inlet valve is open, the fluid passes through the filter.

16. The method for controlling a fuel regulating assembly according to claim 14, further comprising: (d) Monitor the water level in the shell.

17. The method for controlling a fuel regulating assembly according to claim 16, further comprising: (e) If the water level in the housing exceeds the maximum permissible water level, the inlet valve and the outlet valve will be in the closed position or remain in the closed position.

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