Integral methanol fuel storage and supply system and method for inland water vessels

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of methanol supply system, in particular to a kind of integral methanol fuel storage supply utilization system and method for inland river ship.The present application includes the methanol cabin module and methanol supply module of integrated arrangement, the methanol cabin module includes methanol cabin body, and interface unit and sensor unit integrated on methanol cabin body;Methanol supply module includes methanol supply pipeline connected with methanol cabin body, and alcohol return pipeline and nitrogen purging pipeline connected with methanol supply pipeline.The present application is integrated by methanol cabin module and methanol supply module, factory production integrated inspection certification, realize direct overall installation on site, maximum utilization space, integrate multiple interfaces and sensors, optimize methanol supply pipeline structure, combination containment integrated components and function, realize safety protection, function integration and space optimization;Common equipment excavates universality, reduces repeated configuration, more suitable for compact layout of inland river ship.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of methanol supply system technology, specifically to an integrated methanol fuel storage, supply and utilization system and method for inland waterway vessels. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing global environmental awareness and energy structure transformation, methanol fuel, as a clean and renewable energy source, is being increasingly used in the marine sector. While technologies such as the marine methanol fuel supply system and its control method disclosed in Chinese Patent Publication No. CN117072357A exist for the promotion of methanol-fueled ships, methanol fuel storage often employs a distributed manufacturing and on-site assembly model, which has several drawbacks. In terms of space utilization, placing C-type storage tanks on the deck wastes space and affects cabin layout; on-site fabrication requires special design of the hull structure, making the construction of fuel tanks within the hull difficult and challenging for testing. Furthermore, the traditional method of separating storage and supply manufacturing and on-site assembly results in poor system integrity, a large workload, and less convenient overall testing compared to an integrated system. Therefore, developing an efficient, safe, and space-efficient methanol fuel storage, supply, and utilization system is essential. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an integrated methanol fuel storage, supply and utilization system and method for inland waterway vessels.

[0004] The technical solution adopted in this invention is as follows: An integrated methanol fuel storage, supply, and utilization system for inland waterway vessels includes an integrated methanol tank module and a methanol supply module, wherein: The methanol tank module includes a methanol tank body, and an interface unit and a sensor unit integrated on the methanol tank body. The interface unit is located on the top of the methanol tank body and includes a vent, a liquid phase inlet, and a return gas inlet. The sensor unit includes an oxygen concentration sensor, a pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor, wherein: The vent is connected to an external safety handling device via a vent pipeline and is used to release excess methanol gas from the chamber. The liquid phase port, connected to the supporting refueling station via a liquid phase pipeline, is used to refuel methanol fuel into the tank for storage. The return air port is connected to the outside air through a return air pipeline to balance the air pressure inside and outside the methanol tank. Oxygen concentration sensor, used to monitor the oxygen concentration in the methanol tank in real time; Pressure sensor used to measure the pressure value inside the methanol tank in real time; Temperature sensor used to continuously monitor the temperature of methanol in the methanol tank; The methanol supply module includes a methanol supply pipeline connected to the methanol tank body, and a methanol return pipeline and a nitrogen purging pipeline connected to the methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline includes, in sequence, an outlet ESD valve, a coarse filter, a methanol pump, a heat exchanger, a fine filter, a flow meter, and a methanol supply ESD valve. The outlet ESD valve is connected to the outlet of the methanol tank body, and the methanol supply ESD valve is connected to the inlet of the methanol tank body. The methanol return pipeline is connected to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve to control the supply and return of methanol. The nitrogen purging pipeline is connected to the outlet ESD valve, the heat exchanger, and the methanol supply ESD valve.

[0005] This technical solution integrates the methanol tank module and methanol supply module into a single design, with factory manufacturing, testing, and certification. It allows for direct, integrated installation on-site, maximizing space utilization. By integrating multiple interfaces and sensors and optimizing the methanol supply pipeline structure, it achieves safe storage, stable supply, and efficient utilization of methanol fuel, thus better meeting the needs of inland waterway vessels. Specifically, through integrated design, the interface unit of the methanol tank module enables methanol fuel filling, excess gas emission, and pressure balance inside and outside the tank. The sensor unit provides real-time feedback on oxygen concentration, pressure, and temperature data inside the tank. The methanol supply module relies on the outlet ESD valve for delivery. After coarse filtration, pumping, heat exchange, fine filtration, and metering, the methanol is output through the supply ESD valve. The return pipeline controls the reflux, and the nitrogen purging pipeline cleans the pipeline. All links are tightly connected.

[0006] In addition, the integrated methanol fuel storage, supply and utilization system and method for inland waterway vessels proposed in the present invention also has the following additional technical features: According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a combined enclosure and a fuel connector. The combined enclosure extends from the top of the methanol tank module to the side of the methanol supply module, and closes to the bottom of the methanol tank module after wrapping the methanol supply module. The fuel connector location and the fuel preparation room function are combined. The coarse filter and the pressure regulating valve are integrated in one enclosure to form a methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline enclosure is made of the same material as the methanol tank, and a sludge collection tray for integrating a sewage trap and a methanol skid is set at the bottom.

[0007] This technical solution integrates related components and functions through a combined enclosure to achieve safety protection, functional integration, and space optimization for the methanol fuel storage and supply system. Specifically, the combined enclosure connects and encloses the methanol tank module and the methanol supply module, forming a relatively independent and safe closed space. Using the same material as the methanol tank ensures the enclosure's corrosion resistance and airtightness, preventing methanol leakage and diffusion. Combining the fuel connection point with the fuel preparation room optimizes the spatial and functional layout and reduces redundant construction. Integrating the coarse filter and pressure regulating valve within the enclosure is based on a compact piping system design, shortening pipeline connection distances and reducing fluid resistance and energy loss. A wastewater trap integrated with a collection tray at the bottom uses gravity to collect any potentially leaked methanol liquid for centralized treatment.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol tank body, fuel connector and fuel preparation room share a set of hoisting equipment and ventilation and maintenance equipment.

[0009] This technical solution uses a single set of hoisting and ventilation maintenance equipment to connect the methanol tank body, fuel connectors, and fuel preparation room. It achieves this by deeply analyzing and integrating the functions of the relevant equipment, thus exploring the versatility of the equipment in different scenarios. The hoisting equipment can meet the hoisting needs of different components during installation and maintenance, while the ventilation maintenance equipment can ensure air circulation and environmental safety in multiple areas, maximizing the utilization of equipment resources, reducing redundant configurations, and lowering overall costs and space occupation.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol tank body is configured according to the ship layout or the irregular shape of the compartment structure, and the overall structure maximizes the use of the ship's compartment layout; the methanol tank body is a type B membrane tank, a type C storage tank or a square storage tank, and the main material is stainless steel, and the specifications and models are selected according to the design requirements.

[0011] This technical solution features a uniquely shaped methanol tank body that perfectly fits the cabin; the Type B membrane tank is structurally more flexible and can adapt to irregular shapes, while the stainless steel material provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term safe storage of methanol; specifications and models can be selected as needed to meet the installation requirements of different ships and enhance the versatility of the methanol storage system.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply module further includes a pressure regulating valve disposed on the methanol supply pipeline, the pressure regulating valve being used to regulate the pressure within the methanol supply pipeline.

[0013] In this technical solution, excessive pressure will damage pipelines and related equipment, causing safety hazards such as methanol leakage; excessive pressure will prevent a stable delivery of methanol to the equipment. By adding a pressure regulating valve to the methanol supply pipeline, dynamic adjustment of the pipeline pressure can be achieved, thereby ensuring a more stable and safer delivery of methanol.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply pipeline is provided with a ventilation outlet, the ventilation outlet of the connection joint is provided with a ventilation valve for easy access and maintenance.

[0015] In this technical solution, the ventilation outlet of the access joint connects the pipeline to the external ventilation system to ensure that the gas can be effectively discharged; the airtight door of the ventilation outlet is set to achieve relative sealing of the pipeline while ensuring the ventilation function, which not only prevents external interference, but also facilitates the entry and exit of maintenance personnel to carry out maintenance work.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply pipeline is provided with an external nitrogen interface, a methanol supply interface, a return interface, a hot water inlet / outlet, and a waste methanol recovery port; at the same time, the methanol supply pipeline is equipped with a GT203 methanol leak detector and an LS204 wastewater trap level sensor to detect methanol leaks in the premises.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a method for the storage, supply and utilization of integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels.

[0018] A method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels includes the following steps: S1. Through the liquid phase port of the interface unit in the methanol tank module, and using the supporting refueling station, methanol fuel is added to the methanol tank body via the liquid phase pipeline for storage. S2. The sensor unit works continuously. The oxygen concentration sensor monitors the oxygen concentration in the methanol tank in real time, the pressure sensor measures the pressure value in the methanol tank in real time, and the temperature sensor continuously monitors the temperature of methanol in the methanol tank. S3. Open the liquid outlet ESD valve. The methanol fuel in the methanol tank passes through the liquid outlet ESD valve, coarse filter, methanol pump, heat exchanger, fine filter, and flow meter in sequence, and is finally output to the equipment in use through the methanol supply ESD valve. S4. During the methanol supply process, when the gas pressure inside the methanol tank is not in balance with the external gas pressure, the gas pressure inside and outside the methanol tank is balanced by connecting the gas return port of the interface unit to the outside air through the gas return pipeline. S5. By connecting the methanol return pipeline to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve, the methanol return flow is controlled, so that when the equipment is stopped or the methanol supply needs to be adjusted, some methanol is returned to the methanol tank body. S6. When the methanol supply module is stopped, open the nitrogen purging line and use nitrogen to purge the line to remove any residual methanol.

[0019] This technical solution establishes a complete process for methanol fuel storage, monitoring, supply, adjustment, and cleaning, enabling the safe, stable storage and efficient utilization of methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels to meet operational needs. Specifically, methanol is added and stored through the liquid phase port of the methanol tank module interface unit. The sensor unit monitors the tank's environmental parameters in real time, opening components such as the liquid outlet ESD valve to ensure methanol is delivered to the equipment in sequence, achieving a stable supply. When the gas pressure is unbalanced, the return gas port is used to balance the pressure and maintain stability within the tank. The return flow is controlled through the methanol return pipeline, allowing for flexible adjustment of the supply. Finally, nitrogen is used to purge the pipeline to remove residual methanol and eliminate safety hazards.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S4, when there is excess methanol gas in the methanol tank, it is discharged through the vent of the interface unit and through the vent pipeline to an external safety treatment device for treatment to prevent the accumulation of methanol gas.

[0021] In this technical solution, methanol gas is discharged to an external safety treatment device to avoid direct discharge into the environment and causing pollution; excess methanol gas is discharged in a timely manner to prevent excessive pressure inside the tank, avoid damage to the methanol tank structure and explosion, and ensure the safety of the ship and personnel.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S4, the GT203 methanol leak detector on the methanol supply pipeline detects the methanol leak in the premises in real time, and the LS204 sewage trap level sensor monitors the liquid level in the sewage trap; if a methanol leak is detected, the leaked methanol is recovered through the waste methanol recovery port, and ventilation is carried out through the ventilation outlet.

[0023] This technical solution incorporates a GT203 methanol leak detector, which utilizes the chemical properties of methanol to react with the detection element and achieve real-time monitoring of the leak. The LS204 wastewater trap level sensor monitors the liquid level in the wastewater trap based on the pressure change generated by the liquid on the sensor probe. When methanol leaks, the waste methanol recovery port collects the leaked methanol using gravity or negative pressure, and the ventilation outlet carries away the leaked methanol vapor through airflow, reducing its concentration to a safe range.

[0024] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages: (1) Significant advantages of integration: The integrated setup makes the system more integrated, the factory manufactures, inspects and certifies the system as a whole, and the on-site installation is directly integrated, which greatly shortens the installation cycle, reduces the installation difficulty and cost, and can make the most of the space, making it more suitable for the compact layout of inland waterway vessels. (2) The system is complete and safe: It integrates multiple interfaces and sensors to realize the safe storage, stable supply and efficient utilization of methanol fuel; each link is closely connected, including pressure regulation, leakage detection and handling, to ensure the stable operation of the system, avoid safety hazards and reduce the occurrence of accidents; (3) Functional integration and optimization: Combine enclosures to integrate components and functions to achieve safety protection, functional integration and space optimization; leverage the versatility of shared equipment to reduce redundant configuration, reduce overall cost and space occupation, and improve the overall performance of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is the electrical connection diagram of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is the electrical connection diagram for the methanol tank module.

[0027] Figure 3 This is the electrical connection diagram of the methanol supply module.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the principle of the method of the present invention.

[0029] In the diagram: 1. Methanol tank module; 11. Vent port; 12. Liquid phase port; 13. Gas return port; 14. Oxygen concentration sensor; 15. Pressure sensor; 16. Temperature sensor; 17. Ventilation outlet; 18. Purge interface; 19. Supply interface; 2. Methanol supply module; 21. Liquid outlet ESD valve; 22. Coarse filter; 23. Methanol pump; 24. Heat exchanger; 25. Fine filter; 26. Flow meter; 27. Methanol supply ESD valve; 28. Methanol return valve; 29. ​​Nitrogen purging valve. Detailed Implementation

[0030] 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, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. 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.

[0031] Example 1 like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, this embodiment provides an integrated methanol fuel storage, supply, and utilization system for inland waterway vessels, including an integrated methanol tank module 1 and a methanol supply module 2, wherein: Methanol tank module 1 includes a methanol tank body, and an interface unit and a sensor unit integrated on the methanol tank body; the interface unit is located on the top of the methanol tank body and includes a vent 11, a liquid phase port 12, and a return gas port 13; the sensor unit includes an oxygen concentration sensor 14, a pressure sensor 15, and a temperature sensor 16, wherein: Vent 11 is connected to an external safety handling device via a vent pipeline and is used to release excess methanol gas from the chamber. Liquid phase port 12 is connected to the supporting refueling station via a liquid phase pipeline and is used to refuel methanol fuel into the tank for storage. The return air port 13 is connected to the outside air through the return air pipeline to balance the air pressure inside and outside the methanol tank. Oxygen concentration sensor 14 is used to monitor the oxygen concentration in the methanol tank in real time. Pressure sensor 15 is used to measure the pressure value inside the methanol tank in real time; Temperature sensor 16 is used to continuously monitor the temperature of methanol in the methanol tank; The methanol supply module 2 includes a methanol supply pipeline connected to the methanol tank body, and a methanol return pipeline and a nitrogen purging pipeline connected to the methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline includes, in sequence, an outlet ESD valve 21, a coarse filter 22, a methanol pump 23, a heat exchanger 24, a fine filter 25, a flow meter 26, and a methanol supply ESD valve 27. The outlet ESD valve 21 is connected to the outlet of the methanol tank body, and the methanol supply ESD valve 27 is connected to the inlet of the methanol tank body. The methanol return pipeline is connected to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve 27 to control the supply and return of methanol. The nitrogen purging pipeline is connected to the outlet ESD valve 21, the heat exchanger 24, and the methanol supply ESD valve 27.

[0032] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, this technical solution integrates the methanol tank module 1 and methanol supply module 2 into a single design, with factory manufacturing, integrated inspection and certification, enabling direct on-site installation, maximizing space utilization, integrating multiple interfaces and sensors, and optimizing the methanol supply pipeline structure. This achieves safe storage, stable supply and efficient utilization of methanol fuel, thus better meeting the needs of inland waterway vessels. Specifically, through integrated design, the interface unit of methanol tank module 1 enables methanol fuel filling, excess gas emission and pressure balance inside and outside the tank, while the sensor unit provides real-time feedback on oxygen concentration, pressure and temperature data inside the tank. Methanol supply module 2 relies on the outlet ESD valve 21 for delivery, and after coarse filtration, pumping, heat exchange, fine filtration and metering, it is output by the methanol supply ESD valve 27. The return pipeline controls the reflux, and the nitrogen purging pipeline cleans the pipeline, ensuring tight connection between all links.

[0033] In addition, the integrated methanol fuel storage, supply and utilization system and method for inland waterway vessels proposed in the present invention also has the following additional technical features: According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a combined enclosure and a fuel connector. The combined enclosure extends from the top of the methanol tank module 1 to the side of the methanol supply module 2, and after wrapping the methanol supply module 2, it is closed to the bottom of the methanol tank module 1, combining the functions of the fuel connector location and the fuel preparation room. The coarse filter 22 and the pressure regulating valve are integrated into one enclosure to form a methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline enclosure is made of the same material as the methanol tank, and a sludge collection tray integrating a sewage trap and a methanol skid is set at the bottom.

[0034] This technical solution integrates related components and functions through a combined enclosure to achieve safety protection, functional integration, and space optimization for the methanol fuel storage and supply system. Specifically, the combined enclosure connects and encloses the methanol tank module 1 and the methanol supply module 2, forming a relatively independent and safe closed space. The enclosure utilizes the same material as the methanol tank to ensure corrosion resistance and airtightness, preventing methanol leakage and diffusion. Combining the fuel connection point with the fuel preparation room optimizes the spatial and functional layout and reduces redundant construction. Integrating the coarse filter 22 and pressure regulating valve within the enclosure is based on a compact piping system design, shortening pipe connection distances and reducing fluid resistance and energy loss. A wastewater trap integrated with a sludge collection tray at the bottom uses gravity to collect any potentially leaked methanol liquid for centralized treatment.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol tank body, fuel connector and fuel preparation room share a set of hoisting equipment and ventilation and maintenance equipment.

[0036] This technical solution uses a single set of hoisting and ventilation maintenance equipment to connect the methanol tank body, fuel connectors, and fuel preparation room. It achieves this by deeply analyzing and integrating the functions of the relevant equipment, thus exploring the versatility of the equipment in different scenarios. The hoisting equipment can meet the hoisting needs of different components during installation and maintenance, while the ventilation maintenance equipment can ensure air circulation and environmental safety in multiple areas, maximizing the utilization of equipment resources, reducing redundant configurations, and lowering overall costs and space occupation.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol tank body is configured according to the ship layout or the irregular shape of the compartment structure, and the overall structure maximizes the use of the ship's compartment layout; the methanol tank body is a type B membrane tank, a type C storage tank or a square storage tank, and the main material is stainless steel, and the specifications and models are selected according to the design requirements.

[0038] This technical solution features a uniquely shaped methanol tank body that perfectly fits the cabin; the Type B membrane tank is structurally more flexible and can adapt to irregular shapes, while the stainless steel material provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term safe storage of methanol; specifications and models can be selected as needed to meet the installation requirements of different ships and enhance the versatility of the methanol storage system.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply module 2 further includes a pressure regulating valve disposed on the methanol supply pipeline, the pressure regulating valve being used to regulate the pressure in the methanol supply pipeline.

[0040] In this technical solution, excessive pressure will damage pipelines and related equipment, causing safety hazards such as methanol leakage; excessive pressure will prevent a stable delivery of methanol to the equipment. By adding a pressure regulating valve to the methanol supply pipeline, dynamic adjustment of the pipeline pressure can be achieved, thereby ensuring a more stable and safer delivery of methanol.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply pipeline is provided with a ventilation outlet 17, the ventilation outlet 17 of the connection joint is provided with a gas-tight door for the ventilation outlet 17 to facilitate access for maintenance.

[0042] In this technical solution, the ventilation outlet 17 of the access joint connects the pipeline to the external ventilation system to ensure that the gas can be effectively discharged; the airtight door of the ventilation outlet 17 is set to achieve relative sealing of the pipeline while ensuring the ventilation function, which not only prevents external interference, but also facilitates the entry and exit of maintenance personnel to carry out maintenance work.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the methanol supply pipeline is provided with an external nitrogen interface, a methanol supply interface, a return interface, a hot water inlet / outlet, and a waste methanol recovery port; at the same time, the methanol supply pipeline is equipped with a GT203 methanol leak detector and an LS204 wastewater trap level sensor to detect methanol leaks in the premises.

[0044] Example 2 Based on Example 1, such as Figure 4 As shown in the figure, this embodiment provides a method for the storage, supply, and utilization of integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels, including the following steps: S1. Through the liquid phase port 12 of the interface unit in the methanol tank module 1, and using the supporting refueling station, methanol fuel is added to the methanol tank body via the liquid phase pipeline for storage. S2. The sensor unit works continuously. The oxygen concentration sensor 14 monitors the oxygen concentration in the methanol tank in real time, the pressure sensor 15 measures the pressure value in the methanol tank in real time, and the temperature sensor 16 continuously monitors the temperature of methanol in the methanol tank. S3. Open the liquid outlet ESD valve 21. The methanol fuel in the methanol tank body passes through the liquid outlet ESD valve 21, coarse filter 22, methanol pump 23, heat exchanger 24, fine filter 25, flow meter 26 in sequence, and is finally output to the equipment in use through the methanol supply ESD valve 27. S4. During the methanol supply process, when the gas pressure inside the methanol tank is not in balance with the external gas pressure, the gas pressure inside and outside the methanol tank is balanced by connecting to the external air through the return gas port 13 of the interface unit and the return gas pipeline. S5. By connecting the methanol return pipeline to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve 27, the methanol return flow is controlled. When the equipment is stopped or the methanol supply needs to be adjusted, some methanol is returned to the methanol tank body. S6. When methanol supply module 2 is stopped, open the nitrogen purging pipeline and use nitrogen to purge the pipeline to remove residual methanol.

[0045] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, this technical solution achieves safe and stable storage and efficient utilization of methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels by constructing a complete process for methanol fuel storage, monitoring, supply, adjustment, and cleaning, thus meeting the operational needs of ships. Specifically, the methanol tank module 1 interface unit completes the filling and storage through the liquid phase port 12. The sensor unit monitors the environmental parameters inside the tank in real time, opens components such as the liquid outlet ESD valve 21, and ensures that methanol is delivered to the equipment in sequence to achieve a stable supply. When the gas pressure is unbalanced, the gas pressure is balanced using the return gas port 13 to maintain stability inside the tank. The return flow is controlled through the methanol return pipeline to flexibly adjust the supply. Finally, the pipeline is purged with nitrogen to remove residual methanol and eliminate safety hazards.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in step S4, when there is excess methanol gas in the methanol tank, it is discharged to an external safety treatment device through the vent 11 of the interface unit and the vent pipeline for treatment to prevent the methanol gas from accumulating.

[0047] In this technical solution, methanol gas is discharged to an external safety treatment device to avoid direct discharge into the environment and causing pollution; excess methanol gas is discharged in a timely manner to prevent excessive pressure inside the tank, avoid damage to the methanol tank structure and explosion, and ensure the safety of the ship and personnel.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S4, the GT203 methanol leak detector on the methanol supply pipeline detects the methanol leak in the premises in real time, and the LS204 sewage trap level sensor monitors the liquid level in the sewage trap; if a methanol leak is detected, the leaked methanol is recovered through the waste methanol recovery port, and ventilation is carried out through the ventilation outlet 17.

[0049] This technical solution includes a GT203 methanol leak detector, which utilizes the chemical properties of methanol to react with the detection element and achieve real-time monitoring of the leak; and an LS204 wastewater trap level sensor, which monitors the liquid level in the wastewater trap based on the pressure change generated by the liquid on the sensor probe; when methanol leaks, the waste methanol recovery port collects the leaked methanol using gravity or negative pressure, and the ventilation outlet 17 carries away the leaked methanol vapor through airflow, reducing its concentration to a safe range.

[0050] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited thereto. Various equivalent modifications or substitutions can be made to the embodiments of the invention by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and essence of the invention, and such modifications or substitutions should all be within the scope of the invention. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the invention should also be covered within the protection scope of the invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels, comprising an integrated methanol fuel storage, supply, and utilization system for inland waterway vessels, wherein the integrated methanol fuel storage, supply, and utilization system for inland waterway vessels is characterized in that... The system includes an integrated methanol tank module (1) and a methanol supply module (2), wherein: the methanol tank module (1) includes a methanol tank body, and an interface unit and a sensor unit integrated on the methanol tank body; the interface unit is located on the top of the methanol tank body and includes a vent (11), a liquid phase port (12) and a return gas port (13); the sensor unit includes an oxygen concentration sensor (14), a pressure sensor (15) and a temperature sensor (16), wherein: the vent (11) is connected to an external safety handling device through a vent pipeline and is used to discharge excess methanol gas in the tank. The methanol tank consists of a liquid phase inlet (12), connected to a refueling station via a liquid phase pipeline, for refueling methanol fuel into the tank for storage; a return gas inlet (13), connected to external air via a return gas pipeline, for balancing the air pressure inside and outside the methanol tank; an oxygen concentration sensor (14), for real-time monitoring of the oxygen concentration inside the methanol tank; a pressure sensor (15), for real-time measurement of the pressure value inside the methanol tank; a temperature sensor (16), for continuous monitoring of the temperature of methanol inside the methanol tank; and a methanol supply module (2), including a methanol supply pipeline connected to the methanol tank body and a methanol supply pipeline connected to the methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline consists of a methanol return pipeline and a nitrogen purging pipeline connected in sequence; the methanol supply pipeline includes an outlet ESD valve (21), a coarse filter (22), a methanol pump (23), a heat exchanger (24), a fine filter (25), a flow meter (26), and a methanol supply ESD valve (27), wherein the outlet ESD valve (21) is connected to the outlet of the methanol tank body, and the methanol supply ESD valve (27) is connected to the equipment in use; the methanol return pipeline is connected to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve (27) through pipelines to control the supply and return of methanol; the nitrogen purging pipeline is connected to the outlet ESD valve (21) and the nitrogen supply ESD valve (27) through pipelines. The system also includes a combined enclosure and a fuel connector. The combined enclosure extends from the top of the methanol tank module (1) to the side methanol supply module (2), and closes to the bottom of the methanol tank module (1) after wrapping the methanol supply module (2). The fuel connector location and the fuel preparation room function are combined. The coarse filter (22) and the pressure regulating valve are integrated in one enclosure to form a methanol supply pipeline. The methanol supply pipeline enclosure is made of the same material as the methanol tank, and a sewage trap integrated with the methanol skid is set at the bottom. The system includes the following steps: S1. Through the liquid phase port (12) of the interface unit in the methanol tank module (1), methanol fuel is injected into the methanol tank body through the liquid phase pipeline for storage using the supporting refueling station. S2. The sensor unit works continuously. The oxygen concentration sensor (14) monitors the oxygen concentration in the methanol tank in real time, the pressure sensor (15) measures the pressure value in the methanol tank in real time, and the temperature sensor (16) continuously monitors the temperature of methanol in the methanol tank. S3. Open the liquid outlet ESD valve (21). The methanol fuel in the methanol tank passes through the liquid outlet ESD valve (21), coarse filter (22), methanol pump (23), heat exchanger (24), fine filter (25), flow meter (26) in sequence, and is finally output to the equipment in use through the methanol supply ESD valve (27). S4. During the methanol supply process, when the gas pressure inside the methanol tank is not in balance with the external gas pressure, the gas pressure inside and outside the methanol tank is balanced by connecting the return gas port (13) of the interface unit to the external air through the return gas pipeline. S5. Connect the methanol return pipeline to both sides of the methanol supply ESD valve (27) to control the methanol return flow. When the equipment is stopped or the methanol supply needs to be adjusted, some methanol will return to the methanol tank body. S6. After the methanol supply module (2) is stopped, open the nitrogen purging pipeline and use nitrogen to purge the pipeline to remove the residual methanol in the pipeline.

2. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In step S4, when there is excess methanol gas in the methanol tank, it is discharged to an external safety treatment device through the vent (11) of the interface unit and the vent pipeline for treatment to prevent the accumulation of methanol gas.

3. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In step S4, the methanol leak detector on the methanol supply pipeline detects the methanol leak in the premises in real time, and the sewage trap level sensor monitors the liquid level in the sewage trap. If a methanol leak is detected, the leaked methanol is recovered through the waste methanol recovery port, and ventilation is carried out through the ventilation outlet (17).

4. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The methanol tank body, fuel connector, and fuel preparation room share a set of hoisting equipment and ventilation and maintenance equipment.

5. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The methanol tank body is designed according to the ship's layout or cabin structure, and the overall structure maximizes the use of the ship's cabin layout; the methanol tank body is a type B membrane tank, a type C storage tank, or a square storage tank, and the main material is stainless steel.

6. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The methanol supply module (2) also includes a pressure regulating valve installed on the methanol supply pipeline, which is used to regulate the pressure in the methanol supply pipeline.

7. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The methanol supply pipeline is provided with a ventilation outlet (17), and an airtight door for the ventilation outlet (17) is provided for easy access and maintenance.

8. The method for storing, supplying, and utilizing integrated methanol fuel for inland waterway vessels as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The methanol supply pipeline is reserved with external nitrogen interface, methanol supply interface, return interface, hot water inlet and outlet and waste methanol recovery port; at the same time, the methanol supply pipeline is equipped with methanol leak detector and wastewater trap level sensor to detect methanol leaks in the premises.

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