A fuel supply method and apparatus for a methanol engine

Abstract

The application discloses a methanol engine fuel supply device, which comprises a fuel total inlet, a fuel total outlet, a first fuel valve, a booster pump, a fuel filter, a safety valve, a second fuel valve, a temperature regulating system, a pressure stabilizing system and an engine fuel system inlet, the fuel total inlet is connected with a methanol tank fuel outlet of a methanol tank, the fuel total inlet is connected with a first fuel valve inlet, the first fuel valve outlet is connected with the fuel filter, the fuel filter is connected with the booster pump, and the booster pump is connected with the safety valve. The methanol engine fuel supply method and device meet the operation requirements of the methanol engine, ensure the normal work of the methanol engine, and greatly improve the use convenience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of methanol engine technology, specifically to a method and apparatus for supplying fuel to a methanol engine. Background Technology

[0002] Existing reciprocating internal combustion engines mainly use diesel, gasoline, and natural gas as fuel, and the fuel supply device technology is mature.

[0003] Methanol is a liquid at room temperature and pressure. It is a colorless and flammable organic compound that can burn in air to produce carbon dioxide and water. It can be produced from carbon dioxide and hydrogen and will be a representative carbon-neutral fuel. It is considered one of the most promising clean fuels to replace petrochemical oils and can become a relatively clean new alternative fuel for reciprocating internal combustion engines.

[0004] However, methanol has the property of easily melting rubber, which is different from diesel, gasoline and natural gas. Therefore, the fuel supply device of methanol engine cannot use the existing fuel supply device of engine. The volatility of methanol causes the fuel line to contain gas and liquid two-phase fuel, resulting in fuel pressure fluctuations, which is not conducive to stable engine operation. The low temperature and ignition point of methanol are higher than those of diesel, gasoline and natural gas, making it difficult to start the engine in low temperature environment. Therefore, a methanol fuel supply device is needed to meet the operating requirements of methanol engine. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the existing defects and provide a methanol engine fuel supply method and device, which completes the pressure control, flow control, temperature control and separation of methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow to eliminate volatile gas in the methanol fuel supply process, so that the cleanliness of methanol fuel, supply pressure and supply temperature meet the operating requirements of methanol engine, and ensure the normal operation of methanol engine, which can effectively solve the problems in the background art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a methanol engine fuel supply device, comprising a total fuel inlet, a total fuel outlet, a first fuel valve, a booster pump, a safety valve, a second fuel valve, and a pressure stabilizing system. The total fuel inlet is connected to the methanol tank fuel outlet of the methanol tank. The total fuel inlet is connected to the inlet of the first fuel valve. The outlet of the first fuel valve is connected to a fuel filter. The fuel filter is connected to the booster pump. The booster pump is connected to the safety valve. One end of the safety valve is connected to a temperature control system. A second fuel valve and a temperature sensor are installed on the pipeline between the temperature control system and the pressure stabilizing system. The pressure stabilizing system is connected to the total fuel outlet through a fuel pipeline. A pressure sensor is installed on the fuel pipeline. The total fuel outlet is connected to the engine fuel system inlet, which is located on the engine fuel system.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fuel filter includes a fuel filter inlet, a first manual valve, a second manual valve, a first filter, a second filter, and a fuel filter outlet. The outlet of the first fuel valve is connected to the fuel filter inlet. The first manual valve and the second manual valve are used to control the path of fuel through the first filter and the second filter, respectively. The fuel filter outlet is connected to the inlet of the booster pump. The first manual valve and the second manual valve are simultaneously linked and placed in three different positions to control the path of fuel through the first filter and the second filter.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the safety valve includes a safety valve inlet, a safety valve outlet, and a safety valve vent. The outlet of the booster pump is connected to the safety valve inlet, the safety valve vent is connected to the pipeline between the first fuel valve and the fuel filter inlet, and the safety valve outlet is connected to the inlet of the temperature control system.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the temperature control system includes a fuel chamber, a circulating water chamber and a liquid chamber, and the engine cooling system is provided with a cooling water outlet and a cooling water inlet.

[0010] The fuel chamber has a fuel chamber inlet and a fuel chamber outlet at its two ends, respectively. The fuel chamber inlet is connected to the safety valve outlet, and the fuel chamber outlet is connected to the second fuel valve.

[0011] The cooling water outlet is connected to the circulating water inlet, the cooling water inlet is connected to the circulating water outlet, the circulating water inlet is connected to a three-way valve, the three-way valve includes a three-way valve inlet, a three-way valve first outlet and a three-way valve second outlet, the flow rates of the three-way valve first outlet and the three-way valve second outlet have an inverse proportional adjustment relationship, the circulating water inlet is connected to the three-way valve inlet, the three-way valve first outlet is connected to the circulating water chamber inlet, the circulating water chamber outlet is connected to the circulating water outlet, and the three-way valve second outlet is connected to the pipeline between the circulating water chamber outlet and the circulating water outlet;

[0012] The liquid chamber has a liquid chamber inlet and a liquid chamber outlet at its two ends. The liquid chamber inlet is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump, the liquid chamber outlet is connected to the inlet of the thermostat, and the outlet of the thermostat is connected to the inlet of the circulating pump.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the methanol tank is provided with a methanol tank fuel recovery port, the methanol tank fuel recovery port is connected to a fuel vent, the fuel vent is connected to a fuel pipeline, and a third fuel valve is provided on the connecting pipeline between the fuel vent and the fuel pipeline.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the pressure stabilizing system includes a fuel inlet, a fuel outlet, and a gas vent. The outlet of the second fuel valve is connected to the fuel inlet. The gas vent is disposed on the pipeline between the third fuel valve and the fuel vent. The fuel outlet is connected to the inlet of the fuel pipeline.

[0015] A method for supplying fuel to a methanol engine includes a method for pre-supplying fuel before engine start-up and a method for rapid engine start-up and operation.

[0016] The method for pre-supplying fuel before engine start is as follows: if the engine is not running, the first fuel valve, the second fuel valve, and the third fuel valve are opened. If the engine is not running, the booster pump operates at 25% speed to deliver a small amount of fuel. The methanol fuel in the methanol tank flows back to the methanol tank through the first fuel valve, the second fuel valve, and the third fuel valve to form a closed loop. This completes the temperature control and separation of the methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow to eliminate volatile gases during the methanol fuel supply process. Before the methanol engine starts, the supply temperature of the methanol fuel meets the requirements of the methanol engine, thus preparing for the start of the methanol engine.

[0017] The engine quick start operation method is as follows: the first fuel valve, the second fuel valve and the third fuel valve are opened. When the engine is started, the first fuel valve and the second fuel valve remain open, and the third fuel valve closes and acts simultaneously with the engine start command. Methanol fuel cannot flow back to the methanol tank through the third fuel valve, so that the methanol fuel pressure between the total fuel outlet and the engine fuel system inlet quickly meets the engine start requirements, so that the methanol engine can start smoothly and enter the operating condition.

[0018] After the engine starts, the pressure sensor monitors the methanol pressure in real time and controls the booster pump speed according to the set first reference value of methanol pressure.

[0019] When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line is lower than the first reference value, the booster pump is controlled to increase the pressure.

[0020] When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line is equal to the first reference value, the booster pump is controlled to maintain its speed so that the pressure remains constant.

[0021] When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line is higher than the first reference value, the booster pump is controlled to slow down and reduce the pressure.

[0022] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, it also includes an engine normal shutdown protection method: when the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve and the second fuel valve are open, and the third fuel valve is closed. When the engine needs to be stopped due to the operating condition, the third fuel valve opens simultaneously with the engine shutdown command, so that the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet and the engine fuel system inlet flows back to the methanol tank through the third fuel valve, reducing the working pressure of the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can be safely shut down.

[0023] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, it also includes an emergency engine stop protection method: when the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve and the second fuel valve are open, and the third fuel valve is closed. When the engine performs an emergency stop action from the operating condition, the first fuel valve and the second fuel valve close simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, so that methanol in the methanol tank cannot enter the fuel supply system. The third fuel valve opens simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, so that the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet and the engine fuel system inlet flows back to the methanol tank through the third fuel valve, stopping the supply of fuel to the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can stop running in an emergency.

[0024] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it further includes using the engine cooling system to control the temperature during the methanol fuel supply process through a circulating water temperature control system and a liquid temperature control system.

[0025] The temperature control process of the circulating water temperature control system is as follows:

[0026] When the fuel chamber outlet temperature is lower than the first reference value for methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet of the three-way valve increases to 100%, and the flow rate of the second outlet of the three-way valve decreases to 0%. Understandably, when the flow rate of the first outlet of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the second outlet of the three-way valve closes, and the first outlet of the three-way valve enters the circulating water chamber through 100% coolant, so that the circulating water chamber receives the maximum amount of coolant to raise the temperature of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber.

[0027] When the fuel chamber outlet temperature equals the first reference value of methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet of the three-way valve is 50%, and the flow rate of the second outlet of the three-way valve is 50%. Understandably, 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve enters the circulating water chamber through the first outlet, ensuring the circulating water chamber receives 50% coolant to stabilize the temperature of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber. 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve merges with the 50% coolant at the outlet of the circulating water chamber at the circulating water outlet, and then 100% enters the cooling water inlet of the engine cooling system.

[0028] When the fuel chamber outlet temperature is higher than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet of the three-way valve decreases to 0%, and the flow rate of the second outlet of the three-way valve increases to 100%. Understandably, when the flow rate of the second outlet of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the first outlet of the three-way valve closes, preventing coolant from entering the circulating water chamber and stopping the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber from rising in temperature. 100% of the coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve enters the cooling water inlet of the engine cooling system from the circulating water outlet through the second outlet of the three-way valve.

[0029] The temperature control process of the liquid temperature control system is as follows:

[0030] When the methanol temperature in the thermostat is lower than the first reference value for methanol temperature, solar energy is used to heat the methanol in the thermostat.

[0031] When the methanol temperature in the thermostat is higher than the first reference value for methanol temperature, wind power is used to cool the methanol in the thermostat.

[0032] Furthermore, by setting a first reference value for the methanol temperature at the fuel chamber outlet, the circulation pump speed is controlled to enable the liquid temperature control system to complete the temperature control work. More specifically:

[0033] When the outlet temperature of the fuel chamber is lower than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump is made to work at medium speed, so that a medium amount of methanol in the thermostat is delivered to the liquid chamber through the liquid chamber inlet, and the methanol temperature in the thermostat is used to raise the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

[0034] When the outlet temperature of the fuel chamber is higher than the first reference value of the methanol temperature, the circulation pump is activated at high speed, so that a large amount of methanol in the thermostat is transported to the liquid chamber through the liquid chamber inlet, and the methanol temperature in the thermostat is used to reduce the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

[0035] When the fuel chamber outlet temperature equals the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump operates at low speed, allowing a small amount of methanol in the thermostat to be transported to the liquid chamber through the liquid chamber inlet, and the temperature of the methanol in the thermostat is used to maintain the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

[0036] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: (1) The temperature control system consists of a fuel chamber, a circulating water chamber and a liquid chamber, and the temperature of methanol fuel in the fuel chamber is adjusted by the circulating water chamber and the liquid chamber; (2) The temperature control of the circulating water temperature control system and the liquid temperature control system is completed by setting the first reference value of methanol temperature; (3) The methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow is separated by the pressure stabilization system to eliminate volatile gas and ensure the stable delivery of methanol fuel; (4) The methanol fuel temperature is controlled by using the waste heat of the engine cooling system, which is energy-saving and environmentally friendly; (5) The temperature characteristics of the liquid chamber medium are the same as the temperature characteristics of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber by the temperature control system, which has better temperature control characteristics; (6) The circulating water temperature control combined with the liquid chamber temperature control accurately controls the fuel temperature in the fuel chamber, ensuring that the engine can start normally in a low temperature environment and meeting the operating requirements of the methanol engine. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention.

[0038] In the diagram: 1. Fuel main inlet, 2. Fuel main outlet, 3. Fuel vent, 4. Circulating water inlet, 5. Circulating water outlet, 6. First fuel valve, 7. Booster pump, 8. Safety valve, 8A. Safety valve inlet, 8P. Safety valve outlet, 8T. Safety valve vent, 9. Temperature sensor, 10. Second fuel valve, 11. Third fuel valve, 12. Pressure stabilizing system, 12A. Fuel inlet, 12B. Fuel outlet, 12C. Gas vent, 13. Pressure sensor, 14. Engine fuel system inlet, 15. Circulating pump, 16. Thermostat, 17. Three-way valve, 17A. Three-way valve inlet, 17P. Three-way valve first outlet, 17T. Three-way valve second outlet, 10A. Methanol tank, 1 00 Methanol tank fuel outlet, 101 Fuel pipeline, 102 Methanol tank fuel recovery port, 20A Fuel filter, 200 Fuel filter inlet, 201 First filter, 202 Second filter, 203 First manual valve, 204 Second manual valve, 205 Fuel filter outlet, 30A Temperature control system, 300 Fuel chamber, 301 Fuel chamber inlet, 302 Fuel chamber outlet, 40A Engine cooling system, 400 Circulating water chamber, 401 Cooling water outlet, 402 Circulating water chamber inlet, 403 Circulating water chamber outlet, 404 Cooling water inlet, 500 Liquid chamber, 501 Liquid chamber inlet, 502 Liquid chamber outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0040] Please see Figure 1 The present invention provides a technical solution: a methanol engine fuel supply device, the supply device is installed on the pipeline between the engine fuel system inlet and the methanol tank 10A, including a total fuel inlet 1, a total fuel outlet 2, a first fuel valve 6, a booster pump 7, a fuel filter 20A, a safety valve 8, a second fuel valve 10, a temperature control system 30A, a pressure stabilizing system 12 and an engine fuel system inlet 14.

[0041] A methanol tank 10A is equipped with a methanol tank fuel recovery port 102, which is connected to a fuel vent 3. The fuel vent 3 is connected to a fuel line 101. A third fuel valve 11 is installed on the connecting line between the fuel vent 3 and the fuel line 101. The methanol tank fuel outlet of the methanol tank 10A is connected to a total fuel inlet 1. The total fuel inlet 1 is connected to the inlet of a first fuel valve 6. The outlet of the first fuel valve 6 is connected to a fuel filter 20A. The fuel filter 20A is connected to a booster pump 7. The booster pump 7 is connected to a safety valve 8. One end of the safety valve 8 is connected to a temperature control system 30A. A second fuel valve 10 and a temperature sensor 9 are installed on the line between the temperature control system 30A and the pressure stabilizing system 12. The pressure stabilizing system 12 is connected to a total fuel outlet 2 via a fuel line 101. A pressure sensor 13 is installed on the fuel line 101. The total fuel outlet 2 is connected to an engine fuel system inlet 14, which is located on the engine fuel system.

[0042] Fuel filter 20A includes fuel filter inlet 200, first manual valve 203, second manual valve 204, first filter 201, second filter 202, and fuel filter outlet 205. The outlet of the first fuel valve 6 is connected to the fuel filter inlet 200. The first manual valve 203 and the second manual valve 204 are used to control the route of fuel through the first filter 201 and the second filter 202, respectively. The fuel filter outlet 205 is connected to the inlet of the booster pump 7. The booster pump 7 can operate at adjustable speed. When operating, the fuel delivery volume and fuel pressure can be changed by changing the speed, so that the fuel pressure and flow meet the fuel setting values ​​required by the engine.

[0043] The safety valve 8 includes a safety valve inlet 8A, a safety valve outlet 8P, and a safety valve vent 8T. The outlet of the booster pump 7 is connected to the safety valve inlet 8A. The safety valve vent 8T is connected to the pipeline between the first fuel valve 6 and the fuel filter inlet 200. The safety valve outlet 8P is connected to the inlet of the temperature control system 30A. The safety of the fuel chamber 300 can be ensured through the safety valve vent 8T.

[0044] The temperature control system 30A includes a fuel chamber 300, a circulating water chamber 400 and a liquid chamber 500. The engine cooling system 40A is provided with a cooling water outlet 401 and a cooling water inlet 404.

[0045] Fuel chamber 300 has a fuel chamber inlet 301 and a fuel chamber outlet 302 at its two ends. Fuel chamber inlet 301 is connected to safety valve outlet 8P, and fuel chamber outlet 302 is connected to second fuel valve 10.

[0046] Cooling water outlet 401 is connected to circulating water inlet 4, cooling water inlet 404 is connected to circulating water outlet 5, circulating water inlet 4 is connected to three-way valve 17, three-way valve 17 includes three-way valve inlet 17A, three-way valve first outlet 17P and three-way valve second outlet 17T, the flow rates of three-way valve first outlet 17P and three-way valve second outlet 17T have an inverse proportional adjustment relationship, that is, when the flow rate of three-way valve first outlet 17P increases, the flow rate of three-way valve second outlet 17T decreases, and when the flow rate of three-way valve first outlet 17P decreases, the flow rate of three-way valve second outlet 17T increases. Circulating water inlet 4 is connected to three-way valve inlet 17A, three-way valve first outlet 17P is connected to circulating water chamber inlet 402 of circulating water chamber 400, circulating water chamber outlet 403 of circulating water chamber 400 is connected to circulating water outlet 5, and three-way valve second outlet 17T is connected to the pipeline between circulating water chamber outlet 403 and circulating water outlet 5. The above connections constitute a circulating water temperature control system.

[0047] The circulating water temperature control system allows the coolant in the engine cooling system 40A to flow out from the coolant outlet 401 into the circulating water inlet 4 and reach the electric three-way valve inlet 17A. The coolant passing through the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve enters the circulating water chamber 400 from the circulating water chamber inlet 402, reaches the circulating water outlet 5 from the circulating water chamber outlet 403, and enters the engine cooling system 40A through the coolant inlet 404. The coolant passing through the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve reaches the circulating water outlet 5 and enters the engine cooling system 40A through the coolant inlet 404. This makes the circulating water temperature control system and the engine cooling system 40A form a closed loop. The engine coolant temperature is used to control the methanol fuel temperature of the fuel supply system, providing the engine with fuel at the appropriate operating temperature.

[0048] The liquid chamber 500 has a liquid chamber inlet 501 and a liquid chamber outlet 502 at its two ends. The liquid chamber inlet 501 is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump 15, the liquid chamber outlet 502 is connected to the inlet of the thermostat 16, and the outlet of the thermostat 16 is connected to the inlet of the circulating pump 15. The above connections constitute a liquid temperature control system.

[0049] When the circulating pump 15 in the liquid temperature control system is working, it draws methanol from the thermostat 16 and enters the liquid chamber 500 from the liquid chamber inlet 501. The methanol flows back to the thermostat 16 from the liquid chamber outlet 502 to form a closed loop. The temperature of the methanol fluid in the thermostat 16 is used to complete the methanol fuel temperature control of the fuel supply system, so as to provide the engine with fuel at the appropriate temperature required for operation.

[0050] The pressure stabilizing system 12 includes a fuel inlet 12A, a fuel outlet 12B, and a gas vent 12C. The outlet of the second fuel valve 10 is connected to the fuel inlet 12A. The gas vent 12C is located on the pipeline between the third fuel valve 11 and the fuel vent 3. The fuel outlet 12B is connected to the inlet of the fuel pipeline 101. The gas vent 12C discharges the volatile gas after the separation of the methanol fuel gas and liquid phases.

[0051] During operation, methanol fuel in methanol tank 10A enters the first fuel valve 6 through the fuel inlet 1. When the first fuel valve 6 is opened, methanol reaches the fuel filter inlet 200 through the first fuel valve 6. The first manual valve 203 and the second manual valve 204 of fuel filter 20A are operated to position 3, so that the first filter 201 and the second filter 202 work simultaneously to remove particulate matter and wax from the methanol and clean it. Methanol enters the booster pump 7 inlet through the fuel filter outlet 205.

[0052] When the first manual valve 203 and the second manual valve 205 are in position 1, the second filter 202 is closed, and the first filter 201 is activated to replace the second filter 202 during the fuel supply system's fuel delivery operation.

[0053] When the first manual valve 203 and the second manual valve 205 are in position 2, the first filter 201 is closed and the second filter 202 is activated, so that the fuel supply system can replace the first filter 201 during the fuel delivery process.

[0054] With the first fuel valve 6 closed, methanol cannot reach the fuel filter inlet 200 through the first fuel valve 6.

[0055] Start the booster pump 7 to increase the methanol pressure so that it enters the safety valve inlet 8A from the outlet of the booster pump 7.

[0056] More specifically, the booster pump 7 is configured with different speed regulation modes depending on whether the engine is not running or is running:

[0057] When the engine is not running, the booster pump 7 is set to operate at 25% speed to deliver a small amount of fuel after starting.

[0058] When the engine is running, the first reference value of methanol pressure is set to control the speed adjustment of the booster pump 7 so that the fuel pressure of the fuel supply system reaches the set value requirement.

[0059] When the methanol pressure at the outlet of booster pump 7 does not exceed the release pressure setting value of safety valve, the release port 8T of safety valve is closed, and methanol enters the fuel chamber inlet 301 of temperature control system 30A from the outlet 8P of safety valve. When the methanol pressure at the outlet of booster pump 7 exceeds the release pressure setting value of safety valve 8, the release port 8T of safety valve is opened, so that the methanol exceeding the release pressure setting value flows back to the pipeline between the first fuel valve 6 and the fuel filter inlet 200 through the release port 8T of safety valve, reducing the pressure at the outlet 8P of safety valve and ensuring the safety of fuel chamber 300.

[0060] Methanol enters fuel chamber 300 through fuel chamber inlet 301 of temperature control system 30A. After temperature adjustment by fuel temperature control system 30A, methanol is delivered from fuel chamber outlet 302 to inlet of second fuel valve 10. The fuel temperature control system includes circulating water temperature control system and liquid temperature control system.

[0061] A temperature sensor 9 is installed on the pipeline between the fuel chamber outlet 302 of the fuel chamber 300 and the second fuel valve 10. The temperature sensor 9 monitors the methanol temperature in real time so that the circulating water temperature control system and the liquid temperature control system can complete the temperature control of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber 300.

[0062] When the second fuel valve 10 is opened, methanol enters the pressure stabilizing system 12 from the fuel inlet 12A through the second fuel valve 10. The pressure stabilizing system 12 has the function of stabilizing the fuel pressure in the fuel line. It can quickly and smoothly stabilize the pressure change in the fuel line caused by the sudden change in engine operating conditions, ensure the pressure of the fuel outlet 2 of the supply device is stable, and enable the engine to run stably.

[0063] The pressure stabilizing system 12 separates the gas-liquid two-phase flow of methanol fuel and eliminates volatile gases. It is connected to the fuel vent 3 through the gas vent 12C on the pressure stabilizing system 12, so that the gas entering the pressure stabilizing system 12 is discharged from the gas vent 12C and flows back to the methanol tank 10A from the fuel vent 3. After the pressure stabilizing system 12 separates the gas-liquid two-phase flow of methanol fuel and eliminates volatile gases, the gas-free methanol flows out from the fuel outlet 12B of the pressure stabilizing system 12 and enters the fuel pipeline 101 before the total fuel outlet 2. This avoids pressure fluctuations caused by the gas-liquid two-phase flow in the fuel pipeline 101, ensures the pressure of the total fuel outlet 2 is stable, and enables the engine to operate stably.

[0064] With the second fuel valve 10 closed, methanol cannot enter the pressure regulating system 12 from the fuel inlet 12A in the pressure regulating system 12 through the second fuel valve 10.

[0065] A pressure sensor 13 is installed on the fuel pipeline 101 between the fuel outlet 12B and the total fuel outlet 2 of the pressure stabilizing system 12 to monitor the methanol pressure in real time. When the engine is running, the first reference value of methanol pressure is set to control the speed adjustment of the booster pump 7 so that the fuel pressure of the fuel supply system meets the set value requirement.

[0066] When the third fuel valve 11 is opened, the methanol in the fuel pipeline 101 before the total fuel outlet 2 can flow back to the methanol tank 10A from the fuel vent 3.

[0067] When the third fuel valve 11 is closed, the methanol in the fuel pipeline 101 before the total fuel outlet 2 cannot flow back from the fuel vent 3 to the methanol tank 10A.

[0068] A method for supplying fuel to a methanol engine includes a method for pre-supplying fuel before engine start-up and a method for rapid engine start-up and operation.

[0069] The pre-fueling method before engine start is as follows: if the engine is not running, the first fuel valve 6, the second fuel valve 10, and the third fuel valve 11 are opened. When the engine is not running, the booster pump 7 operates at 25% speed to deliver a small amount of fuel. The methanol fuel in the methanol tank 10A flows back to the methanol tank 10A through the first fuel valve 6, the second fuel valve 10, and the third fuel valve 11 to form a closed loop. This completes the temperature control and separation of the methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow to eliminate volatile gases during the methanol fuel supply process. Before the methanol engine starts, the supply temperature of the methanol fuel meets the requirements of the methanol engine, thus preparing for the start of the methanol engine.

[0070] The engine quick start operation method is as follows: the first fuel valve 6, the second fuel valve 10 and the third fuel valve 11 are opened. When the engine is started, the first fuel valve 6 and the second fuel valve 10 remain open, and the third fuel valve 11 closes and operates simultaneously with the engine start command. Methanol fuel cannot flow back to the methanol tank 10A through the third fuel valve 11, so that the methanol fuel pressure between the total fuel outlet 2 and the engine fuel system inlet 14 quickly meets the engine start requirements, so that the methanol engine can start smoothly and enter the operating condition.

[0071] After the engine starts, pressure sensor 13 monitors the methanol pressure in real time and controls the booster pump speed adjustment based on the set first reference value of methanol pressure.

[0072] When the methanol fuel pressure in fuel line 101 is lower than the first reference value, the booster pump 7 is controlled to increase the pressure.

[0073] When the methanol fuel pressure in fuel line 101 is equal to the first reference value, control the booster pump 7 to maintain its speed so that the pressure remains constant.

[0074] When the methanol fuel pressure in fuel line 101 is higher than the first reference value, the booster pump 7 is controlled to reduce its speed and lower the pressure.

[0075] The normal engine shutdown protection method is as follows: When the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve 6 and the second fuel valve 10 are open, and the third fuel valve 11 is closed. When the engine needs to be stopped due to the operating condition, the third fuel valve 11 opens and acts simultaneously with the engine shutdown command, so that the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet 2 and the engine fuel system inlet 14 flows back to the methanol tank 10A through the third fuel valve 11, reducing the working pressure of the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can be safely shut down.

[0076] The engine emergency stop protection method is as follows: When the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve 6 and the second fuel valve 10 are open, and the third fuel valve 11 is closed. When the engine performs an emergency stop action from the operating condition, the first fuel valve 6 and the second fuel valve 10 close simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, preventing methanol in the methanol tank 10A from entering the fuel supply system. The third fuel valve 11 opens simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, allowing the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet 2 and the engine fuel system inlet 14 to flow back to the methanol tank 10A through the third fuel valve 11, stopping the supply of fuel to the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can stop running in an emergency.

[0077] The methanol engine fuel supply method also includes using the engine cooling system to control the temperature during the methanol fuel supply process through a circulating water temperature control system and a liquid temperature control system. The specific adjustment method of the circulating water temperature control system is as follows:

[0078] When the engine is off, the method of adding coolant to the engine cooling system 40A is used to complete the method of adding coolant to the circulating water temperature control system; when the engine is off, the flow ratio of the three-way valve inlet 17A, the three-way valve first outlet 17P, and the three-way valve second outlet 17T is: 17A:17P:17T = 100%:75%:25%;

[0079] During the process of adding coolant to the engine cooling system 40A, the coolant enters the circulating water temperature control system pipeline from the cooling water outlet 401 of the engine cooling system 40A through the circulating water inlet 4 and reaches the three-way valve inlet 17A.

[0080] 75% of the 100% coolant at the inlet 17A of the three-way valve flows out from the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve, enters the circulating water chamber 400 through the inlet 402, and flows out from the outlet 403 of the circulating water chamber to the outlet 5 of the circulating water chamber.

[0081] 25% of the 100% coolant at the inlet 17A of the three-way valve flows out from the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve to the circulating water outlet 5.

[0082] The coolant from the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve and the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve merges at the circulating water outlet 5 and then enters the engine cooling system 40A from the coolant inlet 404.

[0083] During the coolant filling process, the coolant flow process causes the air in the circulating water chamber 400 of the circulating water temperature control system to be discharged from the gas-liquid separation port of the engine cooling system 40A. In particular, the gas-liquid separation port is provided in the engine cooling system 40A to ensure that the coolant at the cooling water outlet 401 of the engine cooling system 40A is free of gas, ensuring that the circulating water temperature control system is full of coolant and avoiding pressure fluctuations and flow reduction caused by air resistance in the pipeline.

[0084] After the engine cooling system 40A is filled with coolant, the circulating water chamber 400 of the circulating water temperature control system is filled with coolant. The circulating water temperature control system and the engine cooling system 40A form a closed loop, completing the coolant filling work of the circulating water temperature control system.

[0085] Temperature sensor 9 monitors methanol temperature in real time. The first reference value of methanol temperature at fuel chamber outlet 302 controls the operation logic of three-way valve 17, enabling the circulating water temperature control system to complete temperature regulation. More specifically:

[0086] When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 is lower than the first reference value for methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve 17 increases to 100%, and the flow rate of the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve decreases to 0%. Understandably, when the flow rate of the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve closes, and the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve enters the circulating water chamber 400 through 100% coolant, so that the circulating water chamber 400 receives the maximum amount of coolant to raise the temperature of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber 300.

[0087] When the temperature at fuel chamber outlet 302 equals the first reference value for methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve 17 is 50%, and the flow rate of the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve is 50%. Understandably, 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve 17 enters the circulating water chamber 400 through the first outlet 17P, so that the circulating water chamber 400 receives 50% coolant to stabilize the temperature of the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber. 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve 17 merges with the 50% coolant at the outlet 403 of the circulating water chamber at the outlet 5, and then 100% enters the cooling water inlet 404 of the engine cooling system 40A.

[0088] When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 is higher than the first reference value for methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve 17 decreases to 0%, and the flow rate of the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve increases to 100%. Understandably, when the flow rate of the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve closes, preventing coolant from entering the circulating water chamber 400 and stopping the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber 300 from rising in temperature. 100% of the coolant at the inlet 17A of the three-way valve enters the cooling water inlet 404 of the engine cooling system 40A from the circulating water outlet 5 through the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve 17.

[0089] By setting the flow ratio between the first outlet 17P of the three-way valve and the second outlet 17T of the three-way valve, the first reference value of the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 controls the operation of the three-way valve 17. The circulating water outlet 5 maintains 100% coolant entering the engine cooling system 40A from the cooling water inlet 404, ensuring the safety of the methanol engine cooling system 40A.

[0090] The method of controlling the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet 302 by using the engine cooling system 40A and the circulating water temperature regulation system has the effect of raising the temperature of methanol fuel, so that the methanol engine operating in a low temperature environment can obtain methanol fuel at a suitable temperature, and save energy by utilizing the engine's waste heat.

[0091] The specific adjustment methods for the circulating water temperature control system are as follows:

[0092] Methanol is added to thermostat 16 to fill the system piping and liquid chamber 500. The thermostat 16 has self-regulating heating and cooling functions to ensure that the methanol temperature inside the thermostat 16 equals the first reference value for methanol temperature. More specifically:

[0093] When the methanol temperature in thermostat 16 is lower than the first reference value for methanol temperature, solar energy is used to heat the methanol in thermostat 16.

[0094] When the methanol temperature in thermostat 16 is higher than the first reference value for methanol temperature, wind power is used to cool down the methanol in thermostat 16.

[0095] Furthermore, by setting a first reference value for the methanol temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302, the speed of the circulating pump 15 is controlled to enable the liquid temperature control system to complete the temperature control work. More specifically:

[0096] When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 is lower than the first reference value for methanol temperature, the circulation pump 15 is made to operate at medium speed, so that a medium amount of methanol in the thermostat 16 is delivered to the liquid chamber 500 through the liquid chamber inlet 501, and the methanol temperature in the thermostat 16 is used to raise the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

[0097] When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 is higher than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump 15 is activated at high speed, so that a large amount of methanol in the thermostat 16 is transported to the liquid chamber 500 through the liquid chamber inlet 501, and the methanol temperature in the fuel chamber is reduced by using the methanol temperature in the thermostat 16.

[0098] When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet 302 is equal to the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump 15 operates at low speed, allowing a small amount of methanol in the thermostat 16 to be transported to the liquid chamber 500 through the liquid chamber inlet 501, and the temperature of the methanol in the thermostat 16 is used to maintain the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

[0099] In particular, methanol is preferred as the temperature control medium for liquid temperature control systems.

[0100] This invention eliminates volatile gases by controlling pressure, flow, and temperature during the methanol fuel supply process and separating the methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow, thereby ensuring that the cleanliness, supply pressure, and supply temperature of the methanol fuel meet the operating requirements of the methanol engine, guaranteeing the normal operation of the methanol engine, and completing the fuel supply for the methanol engine.

[0101] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A methanol engine fuel supply device, characterized in that: The system includes a main fuel inlet (1), a main fuel outlet (2), a first fuel valve (6), a booster pump (7), a safety valve (8), a second fuel valve (10), and a pressure stabilizing system (12). The main fuel inlet (1) is connected to the methanol tank fuel outlet of the methanol tank (10A). The main fuel inlet (1) is connected to the inlet of the first fuel valve (6). The outlet of the first fuel valve (6) is connected to the fuel filter (20A). The fuel filter (20A) is connected to the booster pump (7). The booster pump (7) is connected to the safety valve (8). One end of the safety valve (8) is connected to the temperature control system (30A). A second fuel valve (10) and a temperature sensor (9) are installed on the pipeline between the temperature control system (30A) and the pressure stabilizing system (12). The pressure stabilizing system (12) is connected to the fuel outlet (2) through the fuel pipeline (101). A pressure sensor (13) is installed on the fuel pipeline (101). The fuel outlet (2) is connected to the engine fuel system inlet (14). The engine fuel system inlet (14) is located on the engine fuel system. The temperature control system (30A) includes a fuel chamber (300), a circulating water chamber (400) and a liquid chamber (500), and the engine cooling system (40A) is provided with a cooling water outlet (401) and a cooling water inlet (404). The fuel chamber (300) is provided with a fuel chamber inlet (301) and a fuel chamber outlet (302) at both ends. The fuel chamber inlet (301) is connected to the safety valve outlet (8P), and the fuel chamber outlet (302) is connected to the second fuel valve (10). The cooling water outlet (401) is connected to the circulating water inlet (4), the cooling water inlet (404) is connected to the circulating water outlet (5), the circulating water inlet (4) is connected to the three-way valve (17), the three-way valve (17) includes a three-way valve inlet (17A), a three-way valve first outlet (17P) and a three-way valve second outlet (17T), the flow rates of the three-way valve first outlet (17P) and the three-way valve second outlet (17T) have an inverse proportional adjustment relationship, the circulating water inlet (4) is connected to the three-way valve inlet (17A), the three-way valve first outlet (17P) is connected to the circulating water chamber inlet (402) of the circulating water chamber (400), the circulating water chamber outlet (403) of the circulating water chamber (400) is connected to the circulating water outlet (5), and the three-way valve second outlet (17T) is connected to the pipeline between the circulating water chamber outlet (403) and the circulating water outlet (5); The liquid chamber (500) is provided with a liquid chamber inlet (501) and a liquid chamber outlet (502) at both ends. The liquid chamber inlet (501) is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump (15), the liquid chamber outlet (502) is connected to the inlet of the thermostat (16), and the outlet of the thermostat (16) is connected to the inlet of the circulating pump (15). Its fuel supply method includes using the engine cooling system (40A) to control the temperature during the methanol fuel supply process through a circulating water temperature control system and a liquid temperature control system; The temperature control process of the circulating water temperature control system is as follows: When the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet (302) is lower than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve (17) increases to 100%, the flow rate of the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve decreases to 0%, and when the flow rate of the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve closes, and the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve enters the circulating water chamber (400) through 100% coolant, so that the circulating water chamber (400) receives the most coolant to raise the temperature of methanol fuel in the fuel chamber (300); When the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet (302) is equal to the first reference value of methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve (17) is 50%, the flow rate of the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve is 50%, and 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve 17 enters the circulating water chamber (400) through the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve, so that the circulating water chamber (400) gets 50% coolant to stabilize the temperature of methanol fuel in the fuel chamber; 50% of the 100% coolant at the inlet of the three-way valve (17) enters the cooling water inlet (404) of the engine cooling system (40A) after merging with the 50% coolant at the outlet of the circulating water chamber 403 through the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve. When the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet (302) is higher than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the flow rate of the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve (17) decreases to 0%, and the flow rate of the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve increases to 100%. When the flow rate of the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve increases to 100%, the first outlet (17P) of the three-way valve closes, so that the circulating water chamber (400) does not enter the coolant and stops the methanol fuel in the fuel chamber (300) from rising in temperature. 100% of the coolant in the inlet (17A) of the three-way valve enters the cooling water inlet (404) of the engine cooling system (40A) through the second outlet (17T) of the three-way valve (17). The temperature control process of the liquid temperature control system is as follows: When the methanol temperature in the thermostat (16) is lower than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the methanol in the thermostat (16) is heated by solar energy. When the methanol temperature in the thermostat (16) is higher than the first reference value of methanol temperature, wind energy is used to cool down the methanol in the thermostat (16). When the temperature at the fuel chamber outlet (302) is lower than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump (15) is made to work at medium speed, so that a medium amount of methanol in the thermostat (16) is delivered to the liquid chamber (500) through the liquid chamber inlet (501), and the methanol temperature in the fuel chamber is increased by using the methanol temperature in the thermostat (16). When the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet (302) is higher than the first reference value of methanol temperature, the circulation pump (15) is made to work at high speed, so that a large amount of methanol in the thermostat (16) is transported to the liquid chamber (500) through the liquid chamber inlet (501), and the methanol temperature in the fuel chamber is reduced by using the methanol temperature in the thermostat (16). When the temperature of the fuel chamber outlet (302) is equal to the first reference value of the methanol temperature, the circulation pump (15) is operated at low speed, so that a small amount of methanol in the thermostat (16) is transported to the liquid chamber (500) through the liquid chamber inlet (501), and the temperature of the methanol in the thermostat (16) is used to maintain the methanol fuel temperature in the fuel chamber.

2. The methanol engine fuel supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fuel filter (20A) includes a fuel filter inlet (200), a first manual valve (203), a second manual valve (204), a first filter (201), a second filter (202), and a fuel filter outlet (205). The outlet of the first fuel valve (6) is connected to the fuel filter inlet (200). The first manual valve (203) and the second manual valve (204) are used to control the route of fuel through the first filter (201) and the second filter (202), respectively. The fuel filter outlet (205) is connected to the inlet of the booster pump (7). The first manual valve (203) and the second manual valve (204) can be simultaneously linked and placed in three different positions to control the route of fuel through the first filter (201) and the second filter (202).

3. A methanol engine fuel supply device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The safety valve (8) includes a safety valve inlet (8A), a safety valve outlet (8P), and a safety valve vent (8T). The outlet of the booster pump (7) is connected to the safety valve inlet (8A). The safety valve vent (8T) is connected to the pipeline between the first fuel valve (6) and the fuel filter inlet (200). The safety valve outlet (8P) is connected to the inlet of the temperature control system (30A).

4. A methanol engine fuel supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The methanol tank (10A) is provided with a methanol tank fuel recovery port (102), which is connected to a fuel discharge port (3). The fuel discharge port (3) is connected to a fuel pipeline (101), and a third fuel valve (11) is provided on the connecting pipeline between the fuel discharge port (3) and the fuel pipeline (101).

5. A methanol engine fuel supply device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pressure stabilizing system (12) includes a fuel inlet (12A), a fuel outlet (12B), and a gas vent (12C). The outlet of the second fuel valve (10) is connected to the fuel inlet (12A). The gas vent (12C) is located on the pipeline between the third fuel valve (11) and the fuel vent (3). The fuel outlet (12B) is connected to the inlet of the fuel pipeline (101).

6. A fuel supply method for a methanol engine fuel supply device as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that: This includes methods for pre-fueling the engine before starting and methods for rapid engine start-up and operation; The method for pre-supplying fuel before engine start is as follows: if the engine is not running, the first fuel valve (6), the second fuel valve (10) and the third fuel valve (11) are opened. If the engine is not running, the booster pump (7) operates at 25% speed to deliver a small amount of fuel. The methanol fuel in the methanol tank (10A) flows back to the methanol tank (10A) through the first fuel valve (6), the second fuel valve (10) and the third fuel valve (11) to form a closed loop. This completes the temperature control and separation of the methanol fuel gas-liquid two-phase flow to eliminate volatile gas during the methanol fuel supply process. Before the methanol engine starts, the supply temperature of the methanol fuel meets the requirements of the methanol engine, thus preparing for the start of the methanol engine. The engine quick start operation method is as follows: the first fuel valve (6), the second fuel valve (10) and the third fuel valve (11) are opened. When the engine is started, the first fuel valve (6) and the second fuel valve (10) remain open, and the third fuel valve (11) closes and acts simultaneously with the engine start command. Methanol fuel cannot flow back to the methanol tank (10A) through the third fuel valve (11), so that the methanol fuel pressure between the total fuel outlet (2) and the engine fuel system inlet (14) quickly meets the engine start requirements, so that the methanol engine can start smoothly and enter the operating condition. After the engine starts, the pressure sensor (13) monitors the methanol pressure in real time and controls the booster pump speed adjustment based on the set first reference value of methanol pressure. When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line (101) is lower than the first reference value, the booster pump (7) is controlled to increase the speed and pressure. When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line (101) is equal to the first reference value, the booster pump (7) is controlled to maintain the speed so that the pressure remains constant. When the methanol fuel pressure in the fuel line (101) is higher than the first reference value, the booster pump (7) is controlled to slow down and reduce the pressure.

7. A fuel supply method according to claim 6, characterized in that: It also includes a normal engine shutdown protection method: when the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve (6) and the second fuel valve (10) are open and the third fuel valve (11) is closed. When the engine needs to be stopped from the operating condition, the third fuel valve (11) opens and acts simultaneously with the engine shutdown command, so that the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet (2) and the engine fuel system inlet (14) flows back to the methanol tank (10A) through the third fuel valve (11), reducing the working pressure of the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can be safely shut down.

8. A fuel supply method according to claim 7, characterized in that: It also includes an emergency engine stop protection method: When the engine is running normally, the first fuel valve (6) and the second fuel valve (10) are open, and the third fuel valve (11) is closed. When the engine performs an emergency stop action from the operating condition, the first fuel valve (6) and the second fuel valve (10) close simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, so that the methanol in the methanol tank (10A) cannot enter the fuel supply system. The third fuel valve (11) opens simultaneously with the engine emergency stop command, so that the methanol fuel between the total fuel outlet (2) and the engine fuel system inlet (14) flows back to the methanol tank (10A) through the third fuel valve (11), stopping the supply of fuel to the engine fuel system and ensuring that the engine can stop running in an emergency.

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