End face sealing structure of high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of hydrogen storage sealing, in particular to a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure which comprises a first pipeline, a second pipeline, a lining ring and a sealing sleeve, flange plates are arranged on the first pipeline and the second pipeline, and the flange plates on the first pipeline and the second pipeline are oppositely installed. The flange plates on the first pipeline and the second pipeline are connected through a plurality of fixing bolts; and a sealing sleeve is clamped between the flange plates of the first pipeline and the second pipeline. The lining ring is installed on the inner side of the sealing sleeve, high-strength sealing is formed on the inner side and the outer side of the first pipeline and the inner side and the outer side of the second pipeline through the synergistic effect of the sealing sleeve and the lining ring, meanwhile, the sealing sleeve and the lining ring are both made of high-strength alloy materials, traditional rubber materials are replaced, and sealing is achieved. The end face sealing requirements of hydrogen storage equipment under severe conditions such as high altitude and large-amplitude temperature difference are met.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrogen storage sealing technology, specifically a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure. Background Technology

[0002] In high-pressure hydrogen energy storage systems, hydrogen storage pressures typically reach tens of megapascals or even higher. As a gas with a small molecular weight and extremely high permeability, hydrogen places extremely stringent requirements on the sealing performance of storage containers and connections. Traditional hydrogen energy storage tank end-face sealing structures often employ a single sealing ring or a simple flange connection. Under long-term high-pressure conditions, these are prone to sealing failure due to aging of the seals, uneven stress on the flange surface, or hydrogen permeation. Specifically, ordinary rubber sealing rings are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement under high-pressure hydrogen environments, leading to decreased elasticity, weakened sealing performance, and even cracking. Furthermore, a single sealing structure is insufficient to effectively prevent hydrogen permeation through the minute gaps in the flange connection, especially under temperature variations or vibration conditions. This further challenges the sealing performance of the flange connection, potentially causing hydrogen leakage, resulting not only in energy loss but also serious safety hazards. Therefore, developing an end-face sealing structure that can withstand high pressure, resist hydrogen permeation, and possess long-term stable sealing performance has become one of the key technologies for the safe operation of high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tanks.

[0003] The existing technology still has the following drawbacks in its use: Existing hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structures are prone to aging and failure in harsh environments such as high altitudes and large temperature differences. They cannot form a high-strength, stable, and reliable seal on the inside and outside of the pipeline, making it difficult to meet the long-term use requirements of end face sealing for hydrogen storage equipment. Existing seals are prone to problems such as loose fit and increased gaps between sealing surfaces when subjected to radial tension. They cannot enhance the sealing effect through their own deformation, resulting in insufficient sealing reliability under complex operating conditions and a risk of leakage.

[0004] The existing hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure.

[0005] In view of this, we propose a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure to solve the existing problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure, including a first pipe, a second pipe, an inner liner ring and a sealing sleeve, wherein flanges are provided on the first pipe and the second pipe, and the flanges on the first pipe and the second pipe are installed opposite to each other, and the flanges on the first pipe and the second pipe are connected by a number of fixing bolts. A sealing sleeve is clamped and installed between the flanges of the first and second pipes. An inner liner ring is fixedly installed on the inner side of the sealing sleeve, and the inner liner ring is in close contact with the inner walls of the first pipe and the second pipe respectively.

[0008] Preferably, the sealing sleeve is provided with a metal sealing ring, and the metal sealing ring has a plurality of protrusions on the side facing the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0009] Preferably, the metal sealing ring has at least two sets of acute-angle protrusions among its several protrusions, and the protrusions on the metal sealing ring engage with the flanges on the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0010] Preferably, the sealing sleeve is a T-shaped cross-section ring, and two sets of comb-shaped sealing rings are clamped and installed between the sealing sleeve and the flanges of the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0011] Preferably, the inner and outer walls of the comb-shaped sealing ring are provided with several sets of protrusions, and the several sets of protrusions on the comb-shaped sealing ring are respectively engaged and connected with the sealing sleeve, the flange on the first pipe and the flange on the second pipe.

[0012] Preferably, the inner liner ring has two curled sides and is made of metal. The curled part of the inner liner ring has a C-shaped opening. A pad is clamped between the inner liner ring and the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0013] Preferably, the pad is made of special rubber material and has a wedge-shaped structure. Anti-slip textures are provided at the contact points between the pad and the inner wall of the first pipe, the inner wall of the second pipe, and the inner lining ring.

[0014] Preferably, the side of the pad that contacts the inner wall of the first pipe and the inner wall of the second pipe is a flat surface, and the side of the pad that contacts the inner lining ring is an inclined surface. The side of the inner lining ring that contacts the pad is also an inclined surface, and the inner lining ring and the pad are kept in close contact.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: This invention installs an inner liner ring inside the sealing sleeve, and through the synergistic effect of the sealing sleeve and the inner liner ring, forms a high-strength seal on the inner and outer sides of the first and second pipelines, respectively. At the same time, both the sealing sleeve and the inner liner ring are made of high-strength alloy materials, replacing traditional rubber materials to achieve the seal, so as to meet the end face sealing requirements of hydrogen storage equipment under harsh conditions such as high altitude and large temperature difference.

[0016] This invention installs a pad inside the inner liner ring. Based on the mutual pulling effect between the inner liner ring and the sealing sleeve, when the inner liner ring is subjected to a radial force along the first and second pipes, its curled portion will be flattened and further tightly fitted with the first and second pipes. At the same time, the curled portion deforms due to the force, applying a stronger thrust to the pad, making the pad fit more tightly with the first pipe, the second pipe, and the inner liner ring, thereby enhancing the sealing effect. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the front cross-sectional structure of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the side cross-sectional structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the external side structure of the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle.

[0018] In the diagram: 1. First pipe; 2. Second pipe; 3. Inner liner ring; 301. Gasket; 4. Sealing sleeve; 401. Comb-shaped sealing ring; 402. Metal sealing ring; 5. Fixing bolt. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0020] like Figure 1 - Figure 5 As shown, the present invention proposes a high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure, including a first pipe 1, a second pipe 2, an inner lining ring 3 and a sealing sleeve 4. Flanges are provided on the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2, and the flanges on the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 are installed opposite to each other. The flanges on the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 are connected by a number of fixing bolts 5. This device effectively achieves precise axial positioning between the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 through the rigid connection between the high-strength flange and the fixing bolt 5. It not only provides a stable and reliable installation foundation for the sealing components to be installed later, but also ensures a more balanced stress distribution on the entire flange connection surface by adopting a layout of multiple bolts evenly distributed. This effectively avoids the sealing failure problem that may be caused by local stress concentration, thereby significantly improving the safety and durability of the entire pipeline system. A sealing sleeve 4 is clamped and installed between the flanges of the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2; The sealing sleeve 4 is firmly clamped and installed by a high-strength flange, forming the first sealing barrier of the system. Its annular structure can effectively block the outward penetration of high-pressure hydrogen inside the pipeline, while providing uniform radial support for the inner lining ring 3, ensuring that the entire sealing assembly maintains precise coaxiality with the inner wall of the pipeline. This not only enhances the sealing performance of the system, but also improves the stability and reliability of the device. An inner liner ring 3 is fixedly installed on the inner side of the sealing sleeve 4, and the inner liner ring 3 is in close contact with the inner wall of the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 respectively. The inner lining ring 3 is tightly fitted to the inner walls of the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2, which can effectively compensate for the dimensional deviations that may exist in the pipe during processing and manufacturing, as well as the installation errors that occur during actual assembly. Its metal material has excellent rigid support characteristics, which can significantly suppress the radial expansion deformation of the pipe caused by internal pressure in high-pressure working environment, thereby avoiding the problem of sealing gap expansion caused by deformation. At the same time, the inner lining ring 3 and the outer sealing sleeve 4 cooperate with each other to form a double sealing mechanism, further improving the reliability and stability of the overall sealing structure.

[0021] Furthermore, a metal sealing ring 402 is provided on the sealing sleeve 4, and several protrusions are provided on the side of the metal sealing ring 402 facing the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. The raised portion of the metal sealing ring 402 can undergo localized plastic deformation under the action of bolt preload, effectively filling the microscopic uneven areas between the flange connection surfaces, thereby significantly improving the fit and contact quality of the sealing interface. Its double-sided raised shape not only enhances the adaptability of the structure, but also enables bidirectional reliable sealing, that is, forming an effective sealing barrier in both directions, effectively blocking the leakage path that high-pressure hydrogen may generate along the flange assembly gap, and improving the integrity and safety of the sealing system under harsh working conditions.

[0022] Furthermore, the metal sealing ring 402 has at least two sets of acute-angle protrusions on several protrusions, and the protrusions on the metal sealing ring 402 engage with the flanges on the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. The engagement design of the acute-angle protrusions with the flange significantly enhances the pressure distribution at the contact interface through the stress concentration effect generated by the acute angle tip. During system operation, when the medium pressure fluctuates or rises instantaneously, the acute-angle structure can generate a self-tightening effect with its special geometry. That is, as the system pressure increases, the sealing specific pressure increases accordingly, thereby effectively compensating for possible changes in the sealing gap. In addition, multiple sets of acute-angle protrusions are arranged in an array to form a multi-level sealing barrier, which not only significantly improves the redundancy and fault tolerance of the sealing interface, but also further reduces the risk of leakage, ensuring the long-term sealing stability and reliability of the system under complex operating conditions.

[0023] Furthermore, the sealing sleeve 4 is a T-shaped cross-section ring, and two sets of comb-shaped sealing rings 401 are clamped and installed between the sealing sleeve 4 and the flanges of the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. The T-shaped cross-section sealing sleeve 4 can simultaneously and efficiently achieve dual axial and radial sealing functions. The flanges are fitted with comb-shaped sealing rings 401, forming a complex labyrinth-type sealing structure. This structure effectively extends the hydrogen permeation path and significantly reduces the hydrogen permeation rate by utilizing the continuous throttling effect of multiple sealing teeth, thereby significantly improving the overall sealing performance and the reliability of system operation.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner and outer walls of the comb-shaped sealing ring 401 are provided with several sets of protrusions, and the several sets of protrusions on the comb-shaped sealing ring 401 are respectively engaged and connected with the sealing sleeve 4, the flange on the first pipe 1, and the flange on the second pipe 2. The protruding engagement structure of the comb-shaped sealing ring 401 enables rapid and precise positioning during assembly, effectively preventing circumferential displacement or movement of the seal. At the same time, the mechanical interlocking action between the protruding part and the contact surface significantly enhances the anti-separation capability of the sealing interface, reliably resisting the severe erosion under high-pressure hydrogen environment, thereby avoiding sealing failure caused by media impact and greatly extending the service life of the sealing element.

[0025] Furthermore, the inner lining ring 3 has a rolled structure on both sides, and the inner lining ring 3 is made of metal material. The rolled part of the inner lining ring 3 is a C-shaped opening. A pad 301 is clamped and installed between the inner lining ring 3 and the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. The inner ring 3, with its coiled C-shaped structure, possesses significant elastic deformation capability due to its open C-shaped coiled structure. This effectively absorbs axial and radial displacements caused by thermal expansion and contraction of the pipeline system, thereby significantly improving the safety and stability of pipeline operation. Made of high-strength metal material, the inner ring 3, under high internal pressure, ensures that the structure remains within the elastic deformation range due to its excellent mechanical properties, effectively preventing irreversible plastic deformation or structural failure. The inner ring 3 and the pad 301 work closely together to form a composite structural system that combines the advantages of elastic deformation and rigid support. This not only optimizes the stress distribution of the pipeline but also significantly enhances the adaptability and durability of the entire pipeline system under complex working conditions.

[0026] Furthermore, the pad 301 is made of special rubber material and has a wedge-shaped structure. Anti-slip textures are provided at the contact points between the pad 301 and the inner wall of the first pipe 1, the inner wall of the second pipe 2, and the inner lining ring 3. The wedge-shaped structure of the special rubber pad 301 naturally generates a lateral preload during installation. This preload not only helps to improve the tightness of the fit between the inner liner ring 3 and the inner wall of the pipe, but also effectively compensates for minor gaps caused by temperature changes or mechanical vibrations. At the same time, the anti-slip texture on the surface of the pad 301 further enhances its anti-slip performance. Even under long-term pressure cycling or dynamic load conditions, it can significantly reduce the risk of relative displacement between the pad 301 and the contact surface, thereby ensuring that the entire sealing interface always maintains a high degree of stability and reliability, extending the service life of the sealing structure and improving the safety of system operation.

[0027] Furthermore, the side of the pad 301 that contacts the inner wall of the first pipe 1 and the inner wall of the second pipe 2 is a flat surface, and the side of the pad 301 that contacts the inner lining ring 3 is a slope, and the side of the inner lining ring 3 that contacts the pad 301 is also a slope, and the inner lining ring 3 and the pad 301 are kept in close contact. The inclined surface fitting design between the pad 301 and the inner liner ring 3 creates a stable wedge-shaped self-locking structure between them. As the internal pressure of the pipeline gradually increases, the radial component force generated by the inclined surface contact further strengthens the tightness of the sealing interface, thereby effectively achieving a pressure-reinforced sealing effect. At the same time, the planar contact part ensures a complete fit between the inner liner ring 3 and the inner wall of the pipeline, enhancing the overall sealing reliability and durability. This not only improves the sealing performance but also enables the pipeline to maintain a stable working state under high pressure.

[0028] Working principle: During installation, the integrated inner liner ring 3 and sealing sleeve 4 are first inserted into the port of the first pipe 1 or the second pipe 2, so that the inner liner ring 3 initially fits against the inner wall of the pipe. At the same time, the inner step of the T-shaped section of the sealing sleeve 4 contacts the flange positioning surface on the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. The first pipe 1, the second pipe 2 and the sealing sleeve 4 are connected and tightened by fixing bolts 5. Then, comb-shaped sealing rings 401 are installed on both sides of the sealing sleeve 4. The inner and outer wall protrusions of the comb-shaped sealing rings 401 match the mating surfaces of the sealing sleeve 4 and the flange, respectively. Under pressure, the inner liner ring 3 forms an interference fit with the inner wall of the pipe, completing the assembly of the overall sealing structure. When hydrogen enters the pipeline system, the high-pressure hydrogen pushes the flange to make a slight displacement, causing the sharp-angled protrusions of the metal sealing ring 402 to engage more deeply with the flange surface. The protrusions undergo localized plastic deformation due to the force, filling the microscopic gaps in the flange surface and forming a rigid sealing interface between the metals. If hydrogen permeates through the tiny gaps in the metal sealing ring 402, it will enter the multiple annular chambers formed by the comb-shaped sealing ring 401. Each passage through a comb tooth generates a pressure drop, and the protruding engagement structure of the comb teeth prevents the sealing ring from shifting, ensuring the stability of the sealing structure. When the hydrogen pressure inside the pipeline increases, the inner lining ring 3 is subjected to radial thrust, and its coiled structure is... The pad 301 is spread open and pressed tightly. The wedge-shaped structure of the pad 301 converts the axial force into radial pressure, making its flat side fit tightly against the inner wall of the pipe. At the same time, the anti-slip texture prevents the pad 301 from slipping, forming an inner elastic sealing barrier. During hydrogen pressure fluctuations, the acute-angle protrusion of the metal sealing ring 402 automatically increases the sealing specific pressure as the pressure rises, achieving dynamic compensation. The rigid metal support of the inner lining ring 3 inhibits pipe expansion and avoids the sealing gap from widening. The multi-stage throttling of the comb-shaped sealing ring 401 continuously reduces the permeation rate. The three sealing mechanisms work together to ensure that hydrogen cannot leak through the flange connection surface during transportation, achieving a long-term stable sealing effect.

[0029] The above specific embodiments are merely several preferred embodiments of the present invention. Based on the technical solutions of the present invention and the relevant teachings of the above embodiments, those skilled in the art can make various alternative improvements and combinations to the above specific embodiments.

Claims

1. A high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure, characterized in that: It includes a first pipe (1), a second pipe (2), an inner lining ring (3) and a sealing sleeve (4). The first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2) are provided with flanges, and the flanges on the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2) are installed opposite to each other. The flanges on the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2) are connected by several fixing bolts (5). A sealing sleeve (4) is clamped between the flanges of the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2). The inner side of the sealing sleeve (4) is fixedly installed with an inner liner (3), and the inner liner (3) is in close contact with the inner walls of the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2).

2. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sealing sleeve (4) is provided with a metal sealing ring (402), and the metal sealing ring (402) has several protrusions on the side facing the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2).

3. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 2, characterized in that: The metal sealing ring (402) has at least two sets of acute-angle protrusions on several protrusions, and the protrusions on the metal sealing ring (402) are engaged with the flanges on the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2).

4. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sealing sleeve (4) is a T-shaped cross-section ring, and two sets of comb-shaped sealing rings (401) are clamped and installed between the sealing sleeve (4) and the flanges of the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2).

5. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 4, characterized in that: The inner and outer walls of the comb-shaped sealing ring (401) are provided with several sets of protrusions, and the several sets of protrusions on the comb-shaped sealing ring (401) are respectively engaged and connected with the flange on the sealing sleeve (4), the flange on the first pipe (1), and the flange on the second pipe (2).

6. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner lining ring (3) has a rolled structure on both sides and is made of metal. The rolled part of the inner lining ring (3) is a C-shaped opening. A pad (301) is clamped between the inner lining ring (3) and the first pipe (1) and the second pipe (2).

7. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pad (301) is made of special rubber material and has a wedge-shaped structure. Anti-slip textures are provided at the contact positions of the pad (301) with the inner wall of the first pipe (1), the inner wall of the second pipe (2) and the inner lining ring (3).

8. The high-pressure hydrogen energy storage tank end face sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The side of the pad (301) that contacts the inner wall of the first pipe (1) and the inner wall of the second pipe (2) is a plane, and the side of the pad (301) that contacts the inner lining ring (3) is an inclined surface. The side of the inner lining ring (3) that contacts the pad (301) is also an inclined surface, and the inner lining ring (3) and the pad (301) are kept in close contact.

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