A methanol filling method for an inland river methanol-powered ship

Abstract

This application pertains to the field of methanol bunkering for ships, and provides a method for bunkering methanol on inland waterway methanol-powered vessels. Applied to a methanol bunkering station located at a dock, the method includes: connecting the methanol bunkering station to a methanol filling station on the methanol-powered vessel via a bunkering pipe, establishing a data communication link between the bunkering station and the vessel; achieving safe and efficient bunkering through a three-stage control strategy of initial low-speed verification, adaptive speed regulation during main bunkering, and fine-tuning at the end, while employing a multi-level safety response mechanism for anomaly warning during bunkering; after bunkering, purging with inert gas to recover residual liquid in the bunkering pipe and disconnecting the pipe, recording the data of the bunkering process, and then disconnecting the data communication link, thus completing the methanol bunkering operation. This application addresses the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety, and a lack of site planning and construction schemes in existing inland waterway methanol bunkering methods, providing a standardized solution for inland waterway methanol bunkering.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of methanol refueling technology for ships, and more specifically, relates to a method for refueling methanol-powered inland waterway ships. Background Technology

[0002] Methanol, as a low-carbon fuel that is convenient to store and transport and relatively inexpensive, has broad application prospects in inland waterway shipping. Currently, the research and demonstration of methanol-powered inland waterway vessels has progressed steadily, but the supporting bunkering technology system lags significantly behind, becoming a key bottleneck restricting the large-scale promotion of this vessel type. At present, the bunkering methods for methanol-powered inland waterway vessels mainly draw on the experience of bunkering traditional fuel oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG), which has the following significant technical defects and adaptability problems.

[0003] 1. The lack of infrastructure and high investment costs are exorbitant.

[0004] The construction approval process for fixed shore-based methanol refueling stations is complex, land acquisition costs are high, and investment payback periods are long, making it difficult to rapidly popularize them in inland river ports, especially small and medium-sized wharves. The resulting "ships without stations" dilemma severely restricts the route planning and operational flexibility of methanol vessels.

[0005] 2. There is a conflict between refueling efficiency and the time the ship spends in port.

[0006] Inland waterway shipping is highly sensitive to economic efficiency, and the time a vessel spends in port directly impacts its operational effectiveness. Existing refueling methods mostly employ simple pipeline connections, lack systematic optimization of the refueling process, tend to be conservative in refueling rates, and lack intelligent flow rate control mechanisms, resulting in long refueling times per operation and failing to meet the high-efficiency, fast-paced operational needs of inland waterway vessels.

[0007] 3. Insufficient safety control measures.

[0008] Methanol is toxic, flammable, and its flame is difficult to detect, posing extremely high requirements for safety monitoring during the refueling process. Existing methods mainly rely on manual inspections and simple gas detection alarms, lacking a real-time, accurate, and traceable end-to-end safety monitoring and emergency response mechanism for the sealing status of refueling connections, abnormal fluctuations in pipeline pressure / flow, and spatial distribution of methanol vapor concentration, resulting in significant safety hazards.

[0009] 4. It has poor adaptability to the complex environment of inland river ports.

[0010] Inland river ports are characterized by narrow waterways and heavy maritime traffic, making it difficult to flexibly implement the traditional "ship-to-shore" fixed refueling model. Furthermore, the lack of standardized and modular refueling interfaces and procedures for inland river vessels of different tonnages and cabin structures results in low versatility and efficiency in refueling operations.

[0011] Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a low-cost, efficient, safe, and flexible methanol refueling method that can adapt to the characteristics of inland waterway shipping, in order to overcome the above-mentioned technical bottlenecks and provide key technical support for the commercial operation of methanol-powered inland waterway vessels. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In view of the deficiencies or improvement needs of the existing technology, this application provides a methanol refueling method for inland waterway methanol-powered ships, which solves the problems of low efficiency and insufficient safety of existing methanol refueling methods for ships.

[0013] The above-mentioned technical objectives of this application are mainly achieved through the following technical solutions.

[0014] This application provides a method for refueling methanol-powered vessels on inland waterways, applicable to methanol refueling stations located at wharves for refueling methanol-powered vessels. The method includes: A refueling pipe is used to connect the methanol refueling station to the methanol filling station on the methanol-powered vessel, and a data communication link is established between the methanol refueling station and the methanol-powered vessel. The data communication link is used to obtain the tank capacity curve and attitude of the methanol-powered ship and generate a dynamic refueling flow rate curve accordingly. The dynamic refueling flow rate curve adopts a three-stage control strategy including an initial low-speed verification stage, a main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage, and a final fine refueling stage to realize methanol refueling. During the methanol refueling process, the parameter information during the refueling process is monitored in real time and a multi-level safety response mechanism is set based on the abnormal state of the parameter information. After refueling is completed, the residual liquid in the refueling pipe is recovered by purging with inert gas, the refueling pipe is disconnected, the data of the refueling process is recorded, and the data communication link is disconnected, thereby completing the methanol refueling operation.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the dynamic injection flow rate curve specifically includes: In the initial low-speed verification phase, methanol injection is started at a preset initial injection flow rate, and the connection sealing and parameter information stability of the injection pipe are monitored. During the main refueling adaptive speed regulation phase, the initial refueling flow rate of methanol is increased to the dynamically optimized flow rate. The dynamically optimized flow rate is confirmed based on the real-time monitoring of the liquid level rise rate and gas pressure in the fuel tank of the methanol-powered ship. The dynamically optimized flow rate is adjusted in real time according to the changes in the monitored parameter information to ensure that it is close to but does not exceed the safety threshold. In the final fine replenishment stage, the dynamically optimized flow rate of methanol is switched to a low-flow replenishment flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank reaches a preset position and then replenishment is stopped.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of this application, when the oxygen content of the return gas in the filling pipe is less than or equal to 8%, there is no leakage in the filling pipe, and the liquid level in the fuel tank is 0.5m-1.0m and does not submerge the filling pipe opening, methanol filling begins and the initial low-speed verification stage is entered. During the initial low-speed verification phase, the initial injection flow rate of methanol liquid in the injection pipe is 0.3m / s-0.8m / s, and the flow rate is 15%-20% of the rated maximum flow rate. When the liquid level in the fuel tank submerges the injection pipe orifice and the pressure fluctuation in the fuel tank is less than or equal to ±0.05bar, the system switches to the main injection adaptive speed regulation phase. During the main refueling adaptive speed regulation phase, the dynamic optimized flow rate of methanol liquid in the refueling pipe is 3m / s-5m / s and the flow rate is 70%-80% of the rated maximum flow rate. When the liquid level in the fuel tank is monitored to rise to 90%-95% of the rated capacity, the system switches to the final fine refueling phase. During the final fine replenishment stage, the methanol liquid in the filling pipe is replenished at a small flow rate of 0.2m / s-0.5m / s and a flow rate of 10%-15% of the rated maximum flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank reaches the preset position, thus completing the filling.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of this application, during the entire methanol refueling process, the liquid level and gas pressure in the fuel tank of the methanol-powered ship, the methanol vapor concentration at the connection joints at both ends of the refueling pipe, the oxygen content of the return gas in the refueling pipe, and the ambient temperature are monitored in real time. The multi-level security response mechanism includes: Level 1 Yellow Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the first parameter, the methanol refueling station will issue a yellow audible and visual alarm and reduce the methanol refueling flow rate; Level 2 Orange Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the methanol refueling station will issue an orange audible and visual alarm and reduce the methanol refueling flow rate; Level 3 Red Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the methanol refueling station stops methanol refueling, activates the fire extinguishing system at the connection joint, and issues a red audible and visual alarm.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the abnormal range of the first parameter is: the liquid level in the fuel tank is greater than or equal to 90% and less than 95% of the rated capacity; the gas pressure in the fuel tank is greater than or equal to 0.12 bar and less than 0.15 bar (gauge pressure); the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 10% LEL and less than 20% LEL; the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 6% and less than or equal to 8%; and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 5°C. The abnormal range of the second parameter is: the liquid level in the fuel tank is greater than or equal to 95% and less than 98% of the rated capacity; the gas pressure in the fuel tank is greater than or equal to 0.15 bar and less than 0.18 bar; the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 20% LEL and less than 50% LEL; the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 8% and less than or equal to 10%; and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 10°C. The abnormal range of the third parameter is defined as follows: the liquid level in the fuel tank is greater than or equal to 98% of the rated capacity, the gas pressure in the fuel tank is greater than 0.18 bar or less than or equal to -0.01 bar, the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 50% LEL, the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 10%, and the ambient temperature rises or falls sharply, deviating from the equipment safety threshold.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of this application, when the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the first parameter, the current methanol injection flow rate is reduced by 10%, and then restored to the normal flow rate after the on-site sealing and ventilation hazards are investigated and the parameters are normal. When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the current methanol injection flow rate is reduced by 30% or the injection flow rate is adjusted to less than or equal to 1m / s, and the flow rate is restored to normal after the failure of on-site sealing, gas return and inerting is checked and the parameters are normal. When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the filling pipe is cut off, a warning zone is demarcated, and methanol filling is restarted after the leakage, fire, and inerting failure hazards are investigated and rectified and accepted.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the working area, the restricted area, and the warning area are set out sequentially from the inside out, with the platform where the methanol refueling station is located as the center; Within the work area, power supply and gas supply equipment unrelated to refueling will be cut off or isolated, and access barriers will be set up. Within the restricted area, non-explosion-proof electrical equipment within the area shall be shut off during methanol refueling, and an electrostatic discharge device shall be installed at the entrance of the area; Within the restricted area, access to sources of ignition and non-explosion-proof electronic equipment is restricted, and a portable combustible gas detector is installed at the entrance to the area.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the operating area is a circular area with a radius of 25m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station is located; the restricted area is an annular area with an inner radius of 25m and an outer radius of 50m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station is located; and the warning area is an annular area with an inner radius of 50m and an outer radius of 80m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station is located.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of this application, a pontoon is provided at the dock, the methanol refueling station is located on the pontoon and connected to the methanol storage tank on the pontoon; the methanol-powered vessel is provided with a fuel tank connected to the methanol filling station, and the refueling pipe is connected between the methanol refueling station and the methanol filling station.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the filling pipe includes a methanol filling pipe and a methanol vapor return pipe. The methanol filling pipe is used to deliver liquid methanol to the methanol filling station, and the methanol vapor return pipe is used to deliver methanol vapor volatilized during the filling process to the methanol filling station.

[0024] In summary, compared with the prior art, the technical solutions conceived in this application have the following main technical advantages: 1. The methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application aims to solve the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety, and lack of site planning and construction schemes in existing inland methanol refueling methods. Overall, this method is based on a fixed-site refueling facility and innovatively integrates fixed-point refueling, intelligent control and active safety, forming a traceable digital refueling report, and providing a standardized solution for inland methanol fuel refueling.

[0025] 2. The methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application adopts a three-stage control strategy to achieve methanol refueling. The dynamic refueling flow rate curve includes an initial low-speed verification stage, a main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage, and a final fine refueling stage. During the refueling process, the flow rate and volume of methanol are controlled in segments to achieve safe and efficient refueling.

[0026] 3. The methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application employs a multi-level safety response mechanism throughout the methanol refueling process. When abnormal parameters are detected in real time, the entire refueling platform will trigger active protection measures such as flow rate adjustment and emergency pump shutdown in stages, thereby responding promptly to any abnormal situations that may occur during the refueling process and avoiding safety accidents caused by refueling abnormalities.

[0027] 4. The methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application sets up operating areas, restricted areas, and warning areas sequentially from the inside out, with the platform where the methanol refueling station is located as the center. Electrical equipment in each area is required to be shut down and isolated. Access standards and protective measures are set up in each area to ensure the safety of operators during the refueling operation. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application; Figure 2 This is a top view of the methanol-powered vessel described in this application when it is docked at a pier for methanol refueling. Figure 3 This is a side view of the methanol-powered vessel described in this application when it is docked at a pier for methanol refueling.

[0029] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements or structures, wherein: 10. Dock; 11. Barge; 12. Jumping board; 13. Methanol storage tank; 14. Methanol refueling station; 15. Methanol-powered ship; 16. Fuel tank; 17. Methanol filling station; 18. Methanol refueling pipe; 19. Methanol vapor reflux pipe; A. Work area; B. Restricted area; C. Warning area. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0031] This application provides a method for refueling methanol onto inland methanol-powered vessels, applicable to methanol refueling stations 14 located at wharves 10 for refueling methanol onto methanol-powered vessels 15. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the method for refueling methanol-powered inland waterway vessels includes the following steps: Step S10: Connect the methanol refueling station 14 to the methanol filling station 17 on the methanol-powered vessel 15 using a refueling pipe, and establish a data communication link between the methanol refueling station 14 and the methanol-powered vessel 15.

[0032] Step S20: Use the data communication link to acquire the tank capacity curve and attitude of the methanol-powered ship 15 and generate a dynamic refueling flow rate curve accordingly. The dynamic refueling flow rate curve adopts a three-stage control strategy including an initial low-speed verification stage, a main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage, and a final fine refueling stage to realize methanol refueling. During the methanol refueling process, the parameter information during the refueling process is monitored in real time, and a multi-level safety response mechanism is set based on the abnormal state of the parameter information.

[0033] Step S30: After the filling is completed, the residual liquid in the filling pipe is recovered by purging with inert gas, the filling pipe is disconnected, the data of the filling process is recorded, and the data communication link is disconnected to complete the methanol filling operation.

[0034] The methanol refueling method for inland methanol-powered vessels described in this application aims to solve the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety, and lack of site planning and construction schemes in existing inland methanol refueling methods. Based on a fixed-site refueling facility, this method innovatively integrates fixed-point refueling, intelligent control, and active safety, forming a traceable digital refueling report and providing a standardized solution for inland methanol fuel refueling.

[0035] The methanol refueling method described in this application is applied to the methanol refueling station 14 located at the wharf 10 to realize the methanol refueling of the methanol-powered ship 15. Therefore, the structure of the fixed-site refueling facility at the wharf 10 and the methanol-powered ship 15 will be described first.

[0036] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a pontoon 11 is located at dock 10. This is a floating pontoon that berths at dock 10. It is non-powered and is often referred to as a floating dock. It is used to carry personnel and facilities such as methanol storage tank 13 and methanol refueling station 14. A gangway 12 is provided between dock 10 and pontoon 11. The gangway 12 is a structure connecting pontoon 11 and the dock 10 area and serves as a passage for operators and transmission pipelines. The pontoon 11 is equipped with a methanol storage tank 13, which is a stainless steel tank used for temporary storage of liquid methanol and recovery of methanol vapor. It can also receive methanol transported from the dock 10 tanker trucks. The pontoon 11 is also equipped with a methanol refueling station 14 connected to the methanol storage tank 13. It is an integrated system including a control system, transmission system, monitoring system, gas detection system, fire extinguishing system (fixed foam fire extinguishing / portable dry powder fire extinguishing), and audible and visual alarms. The methanol refueling station 14 can be connected to other equipment through pipelines to store external methanol into the methanol storage tank 13 or to output the methanol stored in the methanol storage tank 13.

[0037] The methanol-powered vessel 15 is the receiving vessel, equipped with a methanol fuel generator or engine, and also features a fuel tank 16 and a methanol filling station 17. The fuel tank 16 is installed on the stern deck of the vessel for storing methanol fuel, and the methanol filling station 17 is installed on the stern deck of the vessel for transferring and receiving methanol. The methanol filling station 17 can be connected to the methanol filling station 14 on the barge 11 via a filling pipe, thereby transferring the liquid methanol in the methanol storage tank 13 to the fuel tank 16.

[0038] The following section will provide a detailed description of each step in the methanol refueling method described in this application.

[0039] In step S10, preparations and safety checks are performed before refueling.

[0040] Specifically, after the methanol-powered vessel 15 sails and moors alongside the pontoon 11, and is anchored to the pontoon 11 using cables, a refueling pipe with a quick-connect coupling is used to connect the methanol refueling station 14 on the pontoon 11 to the methanol filling station 17 on the methanol-powered vessel 15, establishing a physical connection between the two. The refueling pipe includes a methanol refueling pipe 18 and a methanol vapor return pipe 19. The methanol refueling pipe 18 is used to supply liquid methanol to the methanol filling station 17, and the methanol vapor return pipe 19 is used to supply methanol vapor volatilized during the refueling process to the methanol refueling station 14. At the same time, a data communication link is established between the methanol refueling station 14 and the methanol-powered vessel 15 via wired or wireless communication. The data communication link is used to exchange data such as the liquid level, temperature, and pressure of the fuel tank 16, as well as the vessel's tilt information.

[0041] After the pipeline and communication connections are completed, a safety system self-check and interlock are performed. The methanol leak detector and flame detector on the methanol refueling platform and the methanol-powered vessel 15 are activated to perform a system self-check. After confirming that all safety equipment is normal, a "safety interlock" is formed. In the subsequent methanol refueling process, any safety alarm on any party will immediately trigger the corresponding response measures.

[0042] In step S20, an intelligent refueling process is used to control methanol refueling, while the entire process is monitored for safety and an emergency response mechanism is set up.

[0043] First, the tank capacity curve and attitude of the methanol-powered vessel 15 are acquired using a data communication link, and a dynamic refueling flow rate curve is generated accordingly. The attitude of the methanol-powered vessel 15 is used to correct the tank capacity curve to obtain the actual tank capacity curve of the fuel tank 16. The dynamic refueling flow rate curve includes an initial low-speed verification stage, a main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage, and a final fine refueling stage, which adopts a three-stage control strategy to achieve methanol refueling.

[0044] Specifically, in the initial low-speed verification phase, methanol refueling begins at a preset initial refueling flow rate, and the connection sealing of the refueling pipe and the stability of parameter information are monitored. In the main refueling adaptive speed regulation phase, the initial methanol refueling flow rate is increased to the dynamically optimized flow rate. The dynamically optimized flow rate is confirmed based on the real-time monitoring of the liquid level rise rate and gas pressure in the fuel tank 16 of the methanol-powered ship 15. The dynamically optimized flow rate is adjusted in real time according to the changes in the monitored parameter information to ensure that it is close to but does not exceed the safety threshold. In the final fine refueling phase, the dynamically optimized methanol flow rate is switched to a small flow refueling flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank 16 reaches the preset position and refueling stops.

[0045] In this embodiment, the process of methanol injection using a dynamic injection flow rate curve is as follows.

[0046] When the oxygen content of the return gas in the filling pipe (methanol vapor return pipe 19) is less than or equal to 8%, there are no leaks in the filling pipe, and the liquid level in the fuel tank 16 is 0.5m-1.0m and does not submerge the injection port (the injection port is the liquid inlet set on the fuel tank 16), the methanol filling station 14 begins methanol filling and enters the initial low-speed verification stage. When starting methanol filling, the power pump in the methanol filling station 14 needs to be opened smoothly, and the valves on the pipeline should not be opened suddenly to ensure a smooth start-up of the equipment.

[0047] During the initial low-speed verification phase, the initial injection velocity of methanol liquid in the methanol injection pipe 18 is 0.3m / s-0.8m / s, and the flow rate is 15%-20% of the rated maximum flow rate. The relatively low flow rate and flow rate prevent the accumulation of static electricity caused by high flow rates, prevent the liquid flow from impacting the walls of the fuel tank 16, and at the same time, the low flow rate preheats the pipeline and stabilizes the gas phase environment in the fuel tank 16.

[0048] When the monitoring shows that the liquid level in the fuel tank 16 submerges the injection pipe opening and the pressure fluctuation in the fuel tank 16 is less than or equal to ±0.05 bar, the methanol refueling station 14 switches to the main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage.

[0049] During the main refueling adaptive speed regulation phase, the dynamically optimized flow rate of methanol liquid in the methanol refueling pipe 18 is 3m / s-5m / s, and the flow rate is 70%-80% of the rated maximum flow rate. The dynamically optimized flow rate is confirmed based on the real-time monitoring of the liquid level rise rate and gas pressure in the fuel tank 16 of the methanol-powered ship 15. The flow rate is adjusted in real-time according to changes in the monitored parameters. When the liquid level rise rate and gas pressure rise rate are too high, the current refueling flow rate is appropriately reduced; when they are too low, the current refueling flow rate is appropriately increased, but it is necessary to ensure that the refueling flow rate and flow rate are within the aforementioned threshold range. During this phase, a relatively high flow rate and flow rate ensure refueling efficiency while balancing the pressure and return gas rate in the fuel tank 16 to maintain stable refueling operations.

[0050] When the liquid level in fuel tank 16 is monitored to rise to 90%-95% of the rated capacity, methanol refueling station 14 switches to the final fine refueling stage.

[0051] During the final fine-refilling stage, the methanol liquid in the methanol filling pipe 18 is replenished at a low flow rate of 0.2m / s-0.5m / s and a flow rate of 10%-15% of the rated maximum flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank 16 reaches the preset position, thus completing the filling. During this stage, replenishment is carried out at a low flow rate and speed to prevent overfilling, ensure filling accuracy, and avoid the risk of a full tank.

[0052] As described above, a three-stage control strategy is adopted to achieve methanol refueling, which controls the methanol flow rate and volume in stages, thereby achieving safe and efficient refueling.

[0053] Secondly, throughout the methanol refueling process, parameter information is monitored in real time, and a multi-level safety response mechanism is set up based on abnormal parameter information.

[0054] Specifically, during the methanol refueling process, the liquid level and gas pressure in the fuel tank 16 of the methanol-powered vessel 15, the methanol vapor concentration at both ends of the refueling pipe (methanol vapor return pipe 19), the oxygen content of the returned gas in the methanol vapor return pipe 19, and the ambient temperature are monitored in real time. A multi-level safety response mechanism includes a level 1 yellow alert, a level 2 orange alert, and a level 3 red alert. When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the first parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 issues a yellow audible and visual alarm and reduces the methanol refueling flow rate. When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 issues an orange audible and visual alarm and reduces the methanol refueling flow rate. When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 stops methanol refueling, activates the fire extinguishing system at the connection joint, and issues a red audible and visual alarm.

[0055] The first parameter abnormal range is defined as follows: the liquid level in fuel tank 16 is greater than or equal to 90% and less than 95% of the rated capacity; the gas pressure in fuel tank 16 is greater than or equal to 0.12 bar and less than 0.15 bar; the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 10% LEL (lower explosive limit, which is the lowest volume concentration of methanol vapor in air that can explode) and less than 20% LEL; the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 6% and less than or equal to 8%; and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 5°C.

[0056] When the detected parameter information is within the abnormal range of the first parameter mentioned above, the methanol refueling station 14 automatically triggers an audible alarm and a yellow light alarm. After the operator confirms the abnormal parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 automatically reduces the current methanol refueling flow rate by 10%. At the same time, the operator conducts a pipeline sealing and ventilation hazard inspection at the refueling site until the parameter returns to normal and the flow rate is restored to normal. The methanol refueling station 14 automatically records the relevant information of this abnormality.

[0057] The procedure for handling a Level 1 Yellow Alert is as follows: Alert confirmation → Verification of abnormal parameters → Reduction of refueling flow rate → On-site inspection of locations → Real-time tracking of parameter changes → Parameter reset → Resumption of normal refueling → Recording in the logbook.

[0058] The abnormal range of the second parameter is as follows: the liquid level in fuel tank 16 is greater than or equal to 95% and less than 98% of the rated capacity; the gas pressure in fuel tank 16 is greater than or equal to 0.15 bar and less than 0.18 bar; the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 20% LEL and less than 50% LEL; the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 8% and less than or equal to 10%; and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 10°C.

[0059] When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 automatically triggers an audible alarm and an orange light alarm, reduces the current methanol refueling flow rate by 30% or adjusts the refueling flow rate to less than or equal to 1 m / s, activates explosion-proof ventilation, and simultaneously, operators wearing protective equipment conduct pipeline sealing, return gas, and inerting failure checks at the refueling site until the safety hazard is eliminated and the parameters are normal, and then restores the normal flow rate. The methanol refueling station 14 automatically records the relevant information of this abnormality.

[0060] The procedure for handling a Level 2 orange alert is as follows: confirm the alarm → force a switch to low-speed flow control → start explosion-proof ventilation → wear full protective gear → check for pipeline leaks, return gas blockages, and inerting abnormalities → rectify and eliminate defects → parameters stabilize and meet standards → resume operation → record the cause of the abnormality and the handling process in detail.

[0061] The abnormal range of the third parameter is: the liquid level in fuel tank 16 is greater than or equal to 98% of the rated capacity, the gas pressure in fuel tank 16 is greater than 0.18 bar or less than or equal to -0.01 bar (i.e., the pressure gauge shows negative pressure), the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 50% LEL, the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 10%, and the ambient temperature rises or falls sharply and deviates from the equipment safety threshold.

[0062] When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the methanol refueling station 14 automatically triggers an audible alarm and a red light alarm, closes the upstream and downstream isolation valves to cut off the refueling pipe, demarcates a warning zone and evacuates irrelevant personnel, and the operators conduct a leak, fire and inerting failure hazard investigation at the refueling site, and restart methanol refueling after the rectification and acceptance are qualified.

[0063] The procedure for handling a Level 3 red alert is as follows: confirm the alarm → cut off the power supply to the pump unit → close all related valves and isolate fuel tank 16 → establish on-site warning and evacuation → stop all refueling operations → investigate safety hazards (leakage, overpressure, excessive gas, inerting failure) → thoroughly rectify the hazards → system reset test → work can only resume after on-site command confirms.

[0064] As mentioned above, a multi-level safety response mechanism is activated during the methanol refueling process. When abnormal parameters are detected in real time, the entire refueling platform will trigger active protection measures such as flow rate adjustment and emergency pump shutdown in stages, thereby responding promptly to any abnormal situations that may occur during the refueling process and avoiding safety accidents caused by refueling abnormalities.

[0065] In step S30, post-application processing and data management are performed.

[0066] Specifically, after refueling, the methanol refueling pipe 18 and the methanol vapor return pipe 19 are purged with an inert gas (such as nitrogen) to recover any residual methanol in the pipes into the methanol storage tank 13 or a dedicated recovery tank, preventing methanol leakage during pipe disassembly. The pipe connections between the refueling pipe and the methanol refueling station 14 and the methanol filling station 17 are disconnected, and the refueling pipe is properly arranged as required. The methanol refueling station 14 automatically generates an electronic report for this refueling, including the refueling volume, refueling time, flow rate curve, and safety status record, and uploads the electronic report to the cloud management system for settlement and traceability. Then, the data communication link between the methanol refueling station 14 and the methanol-powered vessel 15 is disconnected. After disconnecting the methanol-powered vessel 15 from the methanol refueling station 14, the mooring lines between the methanol-powered vessel 15 and the pontoon 11 can be released, and the methanol-powered vessel 15 departs from the refueling dock 10.

[0067] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, in step S10, the working area A, the restricted area B, and the warning area C are set sequentially from the inside out, with the platform where the methanol refueling station 14 is located as the center.

[0068] Within work area A, power and gas supply equipment unrelated to refueling will be disconnected or isolated, and access barriers will be set up. In this embodiment, the area surrounding the center of the barge 11 within 25m is defined as work area A, that is, work area A is a circular area with a radius of 25m. Work area A has a clear boundary, and all operations other than methanol refueling are prohibited within the boundary. Except for on-site operators, other personnel are prohibited from entering work area A; and power and gas supply equipment unrelated to refueling operations within the boundary will be disconnected or isolated.

[0069] Within restricted area B, all non-explosion-proof electrical equipment is shut off during methanol refueling, and an electrostatic discharge device is installed at the entrance of this area. In this embodiment, the area surrounding work area A within 25m is defined as restricted area B, i.e., restricted area B is a ring-shaped area with an inner radius of 25m and an outer radius of 50m. Restricted area B is used to control ignition sources, ensuring that in the event of an accidental methanol leak or a methanol-related emergency during refueling, only authorized personnel and activities are exposed to the flammable gas environment. For restricted area B, a clear boundary is established, and all spark-generating operations within the area are stopped. Non-explosion-proof electrical equipment and distribution boxes within the area are shut off, and an electrostatic discharge device is installed at the entrance of restricted area B. Personnel entering restricted area B must use the electrostatic discharge device to remove any static electricity they may be carrying before entering the area. Except for refueling operations and support personnel, other personnel are prohibited from entering restricted area B.

[0070] Within restricted area C, access to ignition sources and non-explosion-proof electronic equipment is restricted, and a portable combustible gas detector is installed at the entrance of this area. In this embodiment, the area surrounding restricted area B within 30 meters is designated as restricted area C, i.e., restricted area C is a ring-shaped area with an inner radius of 50 meters and an outer radius of 80 meters. Restricted area C is used to control external activities that may threaten the safety of the refueling operation. Unauthorized personnel, vehicles, and vessels are prohibited from entering this area, and all operations unrelated to methanol refueling are suspended within restricted area C. Restricted area C is cordoned off and marked with warning signs, and its entrances and exits are staffed by designated personnel. All personnel entering restricted area C must possess an access permit and are prohibited from carrying ignition sources and non-explosion-proof electronic equipment. Personnel working within restricted area C must carry a combustible gas detector to prevent accidents caused by methanol leaks.

[0071] As described above, this application requires the shutdown and isolation of electrical equipment in different areas, and sets access standards and protective measures in each area to ensure the safety of personnel during the refueling operation.

[0072] It should be understood that expressions such as "comprising" and "may include" as used in this application indicate the existence of the disclosed functions, operations, or constituent elements, and do not limit one or more additional functions, operations, and constituent elements. In this application, terms such as "comprising" and / or "having" may be interpreted as indicating a specific characteristic, number, operation, constituent element, component, or combination thereof, but should not be interpreted as excluding the existence or possibility of adding one or more other characteristics, numbers, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0073] It should be understood that the terms “center,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “inner,” “outer,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “axial,” “radial,” and “circumferential” indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0074] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0075] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method for refueling methanol into inland methanol-powered vessels, applied to a methanol refueling station (14) located at a wharf (10) for refueling methanol into methanol-powered vessels (15), characterized in that, The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels includes: A refueling pipe is used to connect the methanol refueling station (14) to the methanol filling station (17) on the methanol-powered ship (15), and a data communication link is established between the methanol refueling station (14) and the methanol-powered ship (15). The data communication link is used to obtain the tank capacity curve and attitude of the methanol-powered ship (15) and generate a dynamic refueling flow rate curve accordingly. The dynamic refueling flow rate curve adopts a three-stage control strategy including an initial low-speed verification stage, a main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage and a final fine refueling stage to realize methanol refueling. In the methanol refueling process, the parameter information during the refueling process is monitored in real time and a multi-level safety response mechanism is set based on the abnormal state of the parameter information. After refueling is completed, the residual liquid in the refueling pipe is recovered by purging with inert gas, the refueling pipe is disconnected, the data of the refueling process is recorded, and the data communication link is disconnected, thereby completing the methanol refueling operation.

2. The method for methanol refueling of inland waterway methanol-powered vessels according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dynamic injection flow rate curve specifically includes: In the initial low-speed verification phase, methanol injection is started at a preset initial injection flow rate, and the connection sealing and parameter information stability of the injection pipe are monitored. During the main refueling adaptive speed regulation phase, the initial refueling flow rate of methanol is increased to the dynamically optimized flow rate. The dynamically optimized flow rate is confirmed based on the real-time monitoring of the liquid level rise rate and gas pressure in the fuel tank (16) of the methanol-powered ship (15). The dynamically optimized flow rate is adjusted in real time according to the changes in the monitored parameter information to ensure that it is close to but does not exceed the safety threshold. During the final fine replenishment stage, the dynamic optimized flow rate of methanol is switched to a low flow rate replenishment flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) reaches the preset position and then the replenishment is stopped.

3. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the oxygen content of the return gas in the filling pipe is less than or equal to 8%, there is no leakage in the filling pipe, and the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is 0.5m-1.0m and does not submerge the filling pipe opening, methanol filling begins and the initial low-speed verification stage begins. In the initial low-speed verification stage, the initial injection flow rate of methanol liquid in the injection pipe is 0.3m / s-0.8m / s, and the flow rate is 15%-20% of the rated maximum flow rate. When the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is found to submerge the injection pipe opening and the pressure fluctuation in the fuel tank (16) is less than or equal to ±0.05bar, the system switches to the main injection adaptive speed regulation stage. During the main refueling adaptive speed regulation stage, the dynamic optimized flow rate of methanol liquid in the refueling pipe is 3m / s-5m / s and the flow rate is 70%-80% of the rated maximum flow rate. When the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is monitored to rise to 90%-95% of the rated capacity, the system switches to the final fine refueling stage. During the final fine replenishment stage, the methanol liquid in the filling pipe is replenished at a small flow rate of 0.2m / s-0.5m / s and a flow rate of 10%-15% of the rated maximum flow rate until the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) reaches the preset position to complete the filling.

4. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 1, characterized in that, Throughout the methanol refueling process, the liquid level and gas pressure in the fuel tank (16) of the methanol-powered ship (15), the methanol vapor concentration at the connection joints at both ends of the refueling pipe, the oxygen content of the return gas in the refueling pipe, and the ambient temperature are monitored in real time. The multi-level security response mechanism includes: Level 1 Yellow Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the first parameter, the methanol refueling station (14) will issue a yellow audible and visual alarm and reduce the methanol refueling flow rate; Level 2 Orange Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the methanol refueling station (14) will issue an orange audible and visual alarm and reduce the methanol refueling flow rate; Level 3 Red Alert: When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the methanol refueling station (14) stops methanol refueling, starts the fire extinguishing system at the connection joint and issues a red audible and visual alarm.

5. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first parameter abnormal range is: the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is greater than or equal to 90% and less than 95% of the rated capacity, the gas pressure in the fuel tank (16) is greater than or equal to 0.12 bar and less than 0.15 bar, the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 10% LEL and less than 20% LEL, the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 6% and less than or equal to 8%, and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 5°C. The abnormal range of the second parameter is: the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is greater than or equal to 95% and less than 98% of the rated capacity; the gas pressure in the fuel tank (16) is greater than or equal to 0.15 bar and less than 0.18 bar; the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 20% LEL and less than 50% LEL; the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 8% and less than or equal to 10%; and the deviation of the ambient temperature from the preset operating temperature reaches 10°C. The abnormal range of the third parameter is: the liquid level in the fuel tank (16) is greater than or equal to 98% of the rated capacity, the gas pressure in the fuel tank (16) is greater than 0.18 bar or less than or equal to -0.01 bar, the methanol vapor concentration is greater than or equal to 50% LEL, the oxygen content of the return gas is greater than 10%, and the ambient temperature rises or falls sharply and deviates from the equipment safety threshold.

6. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the first parameter, the current methanol injection flow rate is reduced by 10%, and then restored to the normal flow rate after the on-site sealing and ventilation hazards are investigated and the parameters are normal. When the parameter information is detected to be within the abnormal range of the second parameter, the current methanol injection flow rate is reduced by 30% or the injection flow rate is adjusted to less than or equal to 1m / s, and the flow rate is restored to normal after the failure of on-site sealing, gas return and inerting is checked and the parameters are normal. When the monitored parameter information is within the abnormal range of the third parameter, the filling pipe is cut off, a warning zone is demarcated, and methanol filling is restarted after the leakage, fire, and inerting failure hazards are investigated and rectified and accepted.

7. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 1, characterized in that, With the platform where the methanol refueling station (14) is located as the center, the working area (A), the restricted area (B) and the warning area (C) are set out from the inside out. Within the work area (A), power supply equipment and gas supply equipment unrelated to refueling will be cut off or isolated, and access barriers will be set up. Within the restricted area (B), non-explosion-proof electrical equipment within the area is shut off during methanol refueling, and an electrostatic discharge device is installed at the entrance of the area; Within the restricted area (C), access to ignition sources and non-explosion-proof electronic equipment is restricted, and a portable combustible gas detector is installed at the entrance to the area.

8. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating area (A) is a circular area with a radius of 25m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station (14) is located; the restricted area (B) is an annular area with an inner radius of 25m and an outer radius of 50m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station (14) is located; and the warning area (C) is an annular area with an inner radius of 50m and an outer radius of 80m centered on the platform where the methanol refueling station (14) is located.

9. The method for methanol refueling of inland waterway methanol-powered vessels according to claim 1, characterized in that, A pontoon (11) is provided at the wharf (10), and the methanol refueling station (14) is located on the pontoon (11) and connected to the methanol storage tank (13) on the pontoon (11); the methanol-powered ship (15) is provided with a fuel tank (16) connected to the methanol filling station (17), and the refueling pipe is connected between the methanol refueling station (14) and the methanol filling station (17).

10. The method for methanol refueling of inland methanol-powered vessels according to claim 9, characterized in that, The filling pipe includes a methanol filling pipe (18) and a methanol vapor return pipe (19). The methanol filling pipe (18) is used to deliver liquid methanol to the methanol filling station (17), and the methanol vapor return pipe (19) is used to deliver methanol vapor volatilized during the filling process to the methanol filling station (14).

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