Low-temperature liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system and semitrailer

Abstract

This invention provides an emergency shut-off system for a cryogenic liquid storage tank and a semi-trailer. The emergency shut-off system includes a storage tank, a tail pipeline, and a middle pipeline. The tail pipeline is arranged corresponding to the end cap. The tail pipeline includes a tail unloading pipeline. The middle pipeline is arranged corresponding to the tank body. The middle pipeline includes a middle unloading pipeline and a control valve assembly. The control valve assembly includes a built-in valve and a control valve. The middle unloading pipeline is connected to the tail unloading pipeline. A built-in valve is provided on the middle unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is used to control the opening and closing of the middle unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is located inside the tank body. The control valve is used to control the opening and closing of the built-in valve. When the built-in valve is open, the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank through the middle unloading pipeline. By arranging the built-in valve inside the storage tank, this application can effectively shut off the cryogenic medium stored inside the storage tank, preventing leakage of the cryogenic medium through damaged pipelines, and improving the safety of the semi-trailer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of dangerous goods transport semi-trailers, and particularly to an emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks and a semi-trailer. Background Technology

[0002] Cryogenic liquid transport semi-trailers in related technologies include storage tanks, central piping, rear piping, and valve boxes. Operators can use the valves in the valve box to complete the filling and unloading of cryogenic liquids through the central or rear piping. However, if a traffic accident occurs during transport, the central or rear piping is easily damaged, leading to leakage of the hazardous cryogenic medium inside the tank. This often requires sealing off the site for specialized handling, making the accident response process very difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of how to effectively prevent the leakage of hazardous media inside the tank when the middle or tail pipeline is damaged by impact.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] An emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks, comprising: A storage tank for storing cryogenic media, the storage tank comprising a tank body and end caps disposed at both ends of the tank body; The tail pipeline corresponds to the end cap arrangement at the rear end of the storage tank. The tail pipeline includes a tail unloading pipeline, through which the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank. The central pipeline, arranged corresponding to the tank body, includes a central unloading pipeline and a control pipeline. The control pipeline includes a built-in valve and a control valve assembly. The central unloading pipeline is connected to the tail unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is installed on the central unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is used to control the opening and closing of the central unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is located inside the tank body. The control valve assembly is used to control the opening and closing of the built-in valve. The built-in valve is opened to allow the cryogenic medium to flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank through the central unloading pipeline.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, the built-in valve includes a first built-in valve and a second built-in valve, the central unloading pipeline includes a central liquid phase pipe and a central pressurization pipe, the central liquid phase pipe is provided with a first built-in valve, and the central pressurization pipe is provided with a second built-in valve; The control pipeline includes a control air path, which connects the first built-in valve and the second built-in valve in parallel. The control valve group is located on the control air path and can control the opening and closing of the first built-in valve and the second built-in valve.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, the control valve assembly includes a shut-off valve and an exhaust valve, wherein the exhaust valve is closed and the shut-off valve is open to close the built-in valve; the exhaust valve is open and the built-in valve is open.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments, two shut-off valves are provided, and the two shut-off valves are connected in parallel.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, the central pipeline includes an emergency shut-off valve, a first mechanical control valve, and a main mechanical control valve. The central unloading pipeline also includes a central vapor phase pipe. The central vapor phase pipe, the central liquid phase pipe, and the central pressurization pipe are respectively equipped with the emergency shut-off valve and the first mechanical control valve. Each emergency shut-off valve is connected in series with one of the first mechanical control valves. The first mechanical control valves can control the opening and closing of the emergency shut-off valves. The main mechanical control valve is connected to each of the first mechanical control valves through a pipeline.

[0010] In some exemplary embodiments, the central pipeline includes a plurality of second mechanical control valves connected in series with each other. The second mechanical control valves are connected to the main mechanical control valve. When any one of the second mechanical control valves is closed, each of the emergency shut-off valves is closed.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the central pipeline includes a pipeline safety valve, and the central liquid phase pipeline includes a central inlet / outlet pipe and a central inlet pipe, with a pipeline safety valve respectively provided on the central inlet / outlet pipe and the central inlet pipe.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments, the tail unloading pipeline includes a tail inlet / outlet pipe and a tail inlet pipe, the tail inlet / outlet pipe and the tail inlet pipe being disposed outside the storage tank, the middle inlet / outlet pipe extending toward the end cap at the rear end of the storage tank and connecting to the tail inlet / outlet pipe, one end of the middle inlet pipe extending toward the end cap at the rear end of the storage tank and connecting to the tail inlet pipe, and the other end of the middle inlet pipe being disposed inside the storage tank and extending toward the top of the storage tank; The central pipeline includes a pressure regulating valve, which, when opened, connects the central inlet / outlet pipe and the central inlet pipe.

[0013] In some exemplary embodiments, the storage tank includes an inner tank, an outer tank, and a gas chamber. A vacuum interlayer is provided between the inner tank and the outer tank. The gas chamber protrudes from the middle of the outer tank, and the interior of the gas chamber is connected to the vacuum interlayer. At least a portion of the central pipeline is arranged inside the gas chamber.

[0014] A semi-trailer includes a vehicle body and an emergency shut-off system for a cryogenic liquid storage tank as described above, wherein the emergency shut-off system for the cryogenic liquid storage tank is mounted on the vehicle body.

[0015] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the present invention has at least the following advantages and positive effects: The present invention relates to an emergency switching system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks, comprising a storage tank, a tail pipeline, and a central pipeline. The central pipeline includes a central unloading pipeline and a control pipeline. The control pipeline includes a built-in valve and a control valve assembly. The built-in valve is located on the central unloading pipeline and is used to control the opening and closing of the central unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is arranged inside the storage tank, thereby forming a protective layer for the built-in valve within the storage tank. Even if a severe traffic accident occurs to the cryogenic liquid transport semi-trailer, causing damage to the exposed central or tail pipeline outside the storage tank, the built-in valve can still operate effectively. By controlling the control valve assembly, the built-in valve can be closed, thereby cutting off the cryogenic medium stored inside the storage tank and preventing leakage of the cryogenic medium through the damaged pipeline. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a semi-trailer with some structures removed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an emergency shut-off system for a cryogenic liquid storage tank in one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the valve box, part of the middle pipeline, and part of the tail pipeline in the emergency shut-off system of a cryogenic liquid storage tank.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram from another perspective.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the intermediate storage tank and the pipelines arranged inside the tank.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 7A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which some of the pipes are arranged in the cold insulation box in one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A sectional view.

[0026] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A cross-sectional view.

[0027] The reference numerals in the attached drawings are explained as follows: 1. Vehicle body; 2. Storage tank; 20. Tank body; 21. End cap; 22. Inner tank; 23. Outer tank; 24. Vacuum jacket; 25. Gas manifold; 251. Cold storage space; 252. Cylinder; 253. Sealing head; 3. Middle valve box; 4. Rear valve box; 5. Middle pipeline; 50. Middle unloading pipeline; 501. Middle unloading interface; 502. Middle liquid phase pipe; 5021. Middle inlet / outlet pipe; 5022. Middle inlet pipe; 5023. Middle inlet / outlet valve; 5024. Check valve; 503. Middle gas... Phase pipe; 5031, Central gas exhaust valve; 5032, Central gas phase interface; 504, Central booster pipe; 51, Emergency shut-off valve; 511, Liquid phase emergency shut-off valve; 512, Gas phase emergency shut-off valve; 513, Booster emergency shut-off valve; 52, First mechanical control valve; 53, Main mechanical control valve; 54, Second mechanical control valve; 55, Filter pressure reducing valve; 56, Control pipeline; 561, Built-in valve; 5611, First built-in valve; 5612, Second built-in valve; 562, Control valve assembly; 5621, Shut-off valve; 5622. 563. Exhaust valve; 57. Control gas circuit; 58. Pipeline safety valve; 59. Pressure regulating valve; 60. Full-lift safety valve; 61. Tail-end pipeline; 60. Tail-end unloading pipeline; 601. Tail-end unloading interface; 602. Tail-end liquid phase pipeline; 6021. Tail-end inlet / outlet pipeline; 6022. Tail-end inlet pipeline; 6023. Tail-end inlet valve; 6024. Tail-end inlet / outlet valve; 603. Tail-end gas phase pipeline; 6031. Tail-end gas exhaust valve; 6032. Tail-end gas phase interface; 604. Tail-end pressurization pipeline; 6041. Pressurization interface; 6042. 61. Overpressure relief valve; 62. Drain valve; 63. Overflow line; 631. Overflow valve; 64. Level gauge line; 641. Level gauge gas phase valve; 642. Level gauge balancing valve; 643. Level gauge liquid phase valve; 644. Pressure gauge; 645. Level gauge; 65. Vacuum pumping device; 66. High vacuum valve; 67. Vacuum isolation valve; 68. Vacuum measuring device; 69. Residual liquid discharge valve; 7. Walking mechanism; 81. Gas source; 82. Gas cylinder; 9. Cold insulation box; 90. Box body; 91. Support plate; 92. Insulation board. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Typical embodiments embodying the features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description. It should be understood that the present invention can have various variations in different embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention, and the descriptions and illustrations herein are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the present invention.

[0029] In the description of this application, it should be understood that, in the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, the indications of direction or positional relationships (such as up, down, left, right, front, and back, etc.) are 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. These descriptions are appropriate when these elements are in the positions shown in the accompanying drawings. If the description of the positions of these elements changes, these directional indications also change accordingly.

[0030] 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 the stated features. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0031] For ease of description, unless otherwise specified, the directions of up, down, left, right, front, and rear in this article are based on the state of the semi-trailer while it is in motion. The direction of travel of the semi-trailer is taken as the front end, and the rear end of the semi-trailer is taken as the rear end, and the directions of top, bottom, left, and right are determined accordingly.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a semi-trailer, including a vehicle body 1 and a cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system. The cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system is installed on the vehicle body 1.

[0033] Specifically, the cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system includes a storage tank 2. The storage tank 2 can be placed horizontally on the vehicle body 1. The storage tank 2 includes a tank body 20 and end caps 21. End caps 21 are respectively provided at the front and rear ends of the tank body 20.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the emergency shut-off system for the cryogenic liquid storage tank includes a central valve box 3 and a rear valve box 4. The central valve box 3 can be located in the middle of the tank. The rear valve box 4 can be located at the end cap 21 at the rear of the storage tank 2.

[0035] It should be noted that the intermediate valve box 3 can be located in the middle of the tank body 20. Alternatively, the intermediate valve box 3 can be located near the middle of the tank body 20.

[0036] like Figure 2As shown, the emergency shut-off system for the cryogenic liquid storage tank includes a central pipeline 5 and a rear pipeline 6. The central pipeline 5 can be arranged corresponding to the tank body 20. The rear pipeline 6 can be arranged corresponding to the end cap 21 at the rear end of the storage tank 2.

[0037] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the central pipeline 5 includes a central unloading pipeline 50. The central unloading pipeline 50 is equipped with a central unloading port 501. Thus, the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank 2 through the central unloading port 501. That is, the cryogenic medium can be filled into the storage tank 2 through the central unloading pipeline 50, achieving filling; the cryogenic medium inside the storage tank 2 can also flow to the outside of the storage tank 2 through the central unloading pipeline 50, achieving unloading.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the tail pipeline 6 includes a tail discharge pipeline 60. The tail discharge pipeline 60 is connected to the middle discharge pipeline 50, and the tail discharge pipeline 60 is provided with a tail discharge port 601. Thus, the cryogenic medium can also flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank 2 through the tail discharge port 601. For example, the cryogenic medium inside the storage tank 2 can flow sequentially through the middle discharge pipeline 50 and the tail discharge pipeline 60 to be discharged at the tail discharge port 601.

[0039] It should be noted that the cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system of this application can be adapted to various filling and unloading scenarios. Operators can adaptively select the middle unloading pipeline 50 or the tail unloading pipeline 60 for filling and unloading operations according to the site conditions.

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, the middle unloading pipeline 50 includes a middle liquid phase pipe 502, a middle gas phase pipe 503, and a middle pressurization pipe 504. The tail unloading pipeline 60 includes a tail liquid phase pipe 602, a tail gas phase pipe 603, and a tail pressurization pipe 604. The middle liquid phase pipe 502, the middle gas phase pipe 503, and the middle pressurization pipe 504 can respectively pass through the middle valve box 3 and extend towards the rear valve box 4 to correspondingly connect to the tail liquid phase pipe 602, the tail gas phase pipe 603, and the tail pressurization pipe 604. In other words, the tail liquid phase pipe 602 is connected to the middle liquid phase pipe 502, the tail gas phase pipe 603 is connected to the middle gas phase pipe 503, and the tail pressurization pipe 604 is connected to the middle pressurization pipe 504.

[0041] The central liquid phase pipe 502 and the tail liquid phase pipe 602 can be used to transport cryogenic media. The central vapor phase pipe 503 and the tail vapor phase pipe 603 can handle the vapor phase media inside the storage tank 2 to balance the pressure inside and outside the storage tank 2. The central booster pipe 504 and the tail booster pipe 604 can be connected to an external booster or utilize the booster device of the storage tank 2 itself to introduce gas (external gas or vapor phase media inside the storage tank 2) into the tank truck, increasing the pressure inside the tank and allowing the cryogenic media to be smoothly unloaded under the action of pressure difference. The liquid phase pipe, vapor phase pipe, and booster pipe work together to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the cryogenic liquid transport semi-trailer during transportation, filling, and unloading.

[0042] It should be noted that, as Figure 2 As shown, the tail-end pressurization pipe 604 is equipped with a pressurization port 6041 and a pressurizer liquid phase valve 6042. During unloading, if self-pressurization by the liquid inside the tank is required, i.e., increasing the pressure by utilizing the liquid inside the storage tank 2 through its own vaporization, a pressurizer connected to the pressurization port 6041 is also needed. Utilizing the characteristic of low-temperature liquids being easily evaporable, the liquid is heated and vaporized, increasing the pressure inside the tank and thus pushing the liquid to the lower-pressure external environment to achieve the unloading operation.

[0043] like Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, exemplarily, the central liquid phase pipe 502 may include a central inlet / outlet pipe 5021 and a central inlet pipe 5022. One end of the central inlet / outlet pipe 5021 is located at the bottom of the storage tank 2, and can be used for liquid inlet and outlet. One end of the central inlet pipe 5022 extends towards the top of the storage tank 2, and can be used for liquid inlet. When liquid is inlet using the central inlet pipe 5022, the liquid can flow along the extension direction of the central inlet pipe 5022 towards the top of the storage tank 2 until the liquid flows out of the central inlet pipe 5022 and then flows downwards inside the storage tank 2.

[0044] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, a check valve 5024 can be installed on the middle liquid inlet pipe 5022 to prevent liquid backflow.

[0045] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the central unloading interface 501 can be arranged on the central inlet / outlet pipe 5021. A central inlet / outlet valve 5023 can be installed on the central inlet / outlet pipe 5021. A central gas discharge valve 5031 and a central gas interface 5032 can be installed on the central gas phase pipe 503.

[0046] like Figure 2As shown, the tail liquid phase pipe 602 may include a tail inlet / outlet pipe 6021 and a tail inlet pipe 6022. The middle inlet / outlet pipe 6021 extends toward the end cap 21 at the rear end of the storage tank 2 and connects to the tail inlet / outlet pipe 6021. One end of the middle inlet pipe 6022 extends toward the end cap 21 at the rear end of the storage tank 2 and connects to the tail inlet pipe 6022. The ends of the tail inlet / outlet pipe 6021 and the tail inlet pipe 6022 may be respectively arranged in the rear valve box 4.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, a tail inlet / outlet valve 6024 can be installed on the tail inlet / outlet pipe 6021. A tail inlet valve 6023 can be installed on the tail inlet pipe 6022. The tail inlet / outlet pipes 6021 and 6022 can share a tail discharge port 601. When the tail inlet / outlet pipe 6021 is used for filling or discharging, the tail inlet valve 6023 is closed and the tail inlet / outlet valve 6024 is open. When the tail inlet pipe 6022 is used for filling or discharging, the tail inlet valve 6023 is open and the tail inlet / outlet valve 6024 is closed.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, a tail gas discharge valve 6031 and a tail gas interface 6032 can be installed on the end of the tail gas phase pipe 603 that extends into the rear valve box 4.

[0049] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 may include an emergency shut-off valve 51. Emergency shut-off valves 51 may be respectively provided on the central liquid phase pipeline 502, the central gas phase pipeline 503, and the central booster pipeline 504, namely, a liquid phase emergency shut-off valve 511, a gas phase emergency shut-off valve 512, and a booster emergency shut-off valve 513. The opening and closing of the emergency shut-off valves 51 are controlled to control the flow of the cryogenic medium.

[0050] Specifically, depending on the actual filling or unloading conditions, when the middle unloading pipeline 50 is required for filling or unloading, the middle unloading port 501 and the emergency shut-off valve 51 are opened, the tail unloading port 601 is closed, and the middle unloading port 501 is connected to the external pipeline, so that the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank 2 through the middle liquid phase pipe 502 and the external pipeline.

[0051] When it is necessary to use the tail unloading pipeline 60 for filling and unloading, open the emergency shut-off valve 51 and the tail unloading port 601, close the middle unloading port 501, and use an external pipeline to connect the tail unloading port 601 so that the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank 2 through the middle liquid phase pipe 502, the tail liquid phase pipe 602 and the external pipeline.

[0052] It should be noted that semi-trailer accidents are often rear-end collisions. Therefore, this application addresses this by placing the central liquid phase pipe 502 and the emergency shut-off valve 51 in the middle of the storage tank 2. In the event of a rear-end collision or other incident causing damage to the rear pipeline 6, the emergency shut-off valve 51 can be closed to prevent leakage of the medium from the tank. The vehicle can then be moved to a safe area, and the emergency shut-off valve 51 can be opened to unload the liquid using the central unloading pipeline 50.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 may include a first mechanical control valve 52 and a main mechanical control valve 53. The central liquid phase pipeline 502, the central gas phase pipeline 503, and the central booster pipeline 504 are each equipped with a first mechanical control valve 52. The first mechanical control valves 52 and the main mechanical control valve 53 may be respectively arranged inside the central valve box 3. Each emergency shut-off valve 51 is connected in series with a first mechanical control valve 52. The first mechanical control valve 52 can control the opening and closing of the emergency shut-off valve 51. The main mechanical control valve 53 is connected to each of the first mechanical control valves 52 through pipelines. The operator can close each of the first mechanical control valves 52 to correspondingly close the corresponding pipeline. Alternatively, the operator can also close each of the first mechanical control valves 52 at once by closing the main mechanical control valve 53.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 may include a second mechanical control valve 54. The second mechanical control valve 54 is located outside the central valve box 3. The second mechanical control valve 54 is connected to the main mechanical control valve 53, and when the second mechanical control valve 54 is closed, the emergency shut-off valve 51 is closed.

[0055] The second mechanical control valve 54 is located on the outside of the central valve box 3, which can further improve vehicle safety. In the event of an accident, the operator can save time opening the central valve box 3 and quickly close the emergency shut-off valve 51 by closing the second mechanical control valve 54 outside the central valve box 3.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the cryogenic liquid transport semi-trailer may include a traveling mechanism 7 and a tractor unit. A second mechanical control valve 54 may be located at the front end of the traveling mechanism 7, i.e., at the end of the traveling mechanism 7 closest to the tractor unit.

[0057] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, multiple second mechanical control valves 54 may be provided. These multiple second mechanical control valves 54 are connected in series. Exemplarily, two second mechanical control valves 54 may be provided. The two second mechanical control valves 54 may be respectively arranged on opposite sides of the vehicle body 1. When any one of the second mechanical control valves 54 is closed, the three emergency shut-off valves 51 are closed respectively. Thus, when the vehicle rolls over, whether it rolls to the left or right, the second mechanical control valves 54 can be operated to close the emergency shut-off valves 51, cutting off the channel for the medium inside the tank to be transported outwards, thereby minimizing leakage of the medium inside the tank.

[0058] It should be noted that the emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks may include a gas source 81. The emergency shut-off valve 51 can be a gas-opening valve, meaning it opens when gas is available and closes when gas supply is interrupted. Therefore, the gas source 81 can supply gas to the emergency shut-off valve 51 to maintain its open state. The gas source 81 can originate from other devices on the vehicle; for example, the gas source 81 can be compressed air from an air reservoir located at the travel mechanism 7.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first mechanical control valve 52 and the main mechanical control valve 53 can each be a three-way mechanical valve. The second mechanical control valve 54 can be normally open, closing only in an emergency to block gas flow and promptly close the emergency shut-off valve 51. During routine filling and unloading processes, the main mechanical control valve 53 is open. At this time, the emergency shut-off valves 51 can be controlled by adjusting each of the first mechanical control valves 52, or the main mechanical control valve 53 can be closed to directly close each emergency shut-off valve 51.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, a filter pressure reducing valve 55 can be arranged between the second mechanical control valve 54 and the main mechanical control valve 53. On the one hand, the gas output from the gas source 81 may contain impurities such as dust. The filter pressure reducing valve 55 can remove these impurities to protect the main mechanical control valve 53, the first mechanical control valve 52, and the emergency shut-off valve 51. On the other hand, the pressure of the gas source 81 may be unstable. The filter pressure reducing valve 55 can reduce the pressure of the input gas to the set pressure and stably maintain the output pressure to avoid inaccurate valve action or response delay due to pressure fluctuations.

[0061] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 includes a control pipeline 56. The control pipeline 56 includes a built-in valve 561 and a control valve assembly 562. The built-in valve 561 controls the opening and closing of the central unloading pipeline 50. The built-in valve 561 is located inside the tank body 20. The control valve assembly 562 controls the opening and closing of the built-in valve 561. Specifically, the control valve assembly 562 can control the built-in valve 561 to open, allowing the cryogenic medium to flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank 2 through the central unloading pipeline 50. Conversely, when the control valve assembly 562 opens, the built-in valve 561 closes, thus blocking the flow of the cryogenic medium in the central unloading pipeline 50.

[0062] It should be noted that the emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks in this application further enhances safety by arranging the built-in valve 561 inside the storage tank 2. The control valve assembly 562 within the storage tank 2 forms a protective layer for the built-in valve 561, making it less susceptible to damage from external influences. Even if a serious traffic accident occurs involving the cryogenic liquid transport semi-trailer, causing damage to the exposed central pipeline 5 and rear pipeline 6 outside the storage tank 2, the built-in valve 561 can still operate effectively. By controlling the control valve assembly 562, the built-in valve 561 can be closed, thereby preventing the cryogenic medium stored inside the storage tank 2 from leaking through the damaged central pipeline 5 and rear pipeline 6.

[0063] Therefore, the semi-trailer in this application has a high level of safety. Even if a rear-end collision occurs during transport, causing damage to the rear pipeline 6 and leakage of liquid from the tank, the leakage can be prevented by closing the emergency shut-off valve 51 in the middle of the tank 20. In the event of a serious traffic accident that damages the pipeline in the middle of the tank 20, the internal valve 561 can be closed by controlling the valve assembly 562 to prevent liquid leakage.

[0064] like Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the built-in valve 561 includes a first built-in valve 5611 and a second built-in valve 5612. The first built-in valve 5611 is provided on the central liquid phase pipe 502, and the second built-in valve 5612 is provided on the central pressurization pipe 504. Exemplarily, the first built-in valve 5611 may be arranged on the central inlet / outlet liquid pipe 5021.

[0065] like Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the control line 56 includes a control air line 563. The control air line 563 is connected in parallel to a first built-in valve 5611 and a second built-in valve 5612. A control valve assembly 562 is disposed on the control air line 563. The control valve assembly 562 is capable of closing the first built-in valve 5611 and the second built-in valve 5612.

[0066] The first built-in valve 5611 and the second built-in valve 5612 are normally in the open state to facilitate the filling and unloading of cryogenic media. When it is necessary to close the built-in valve 561, the control valve group 562 is operated to simultaneously close the first built-in valve 5611 and the second built-in valve 5612, thereby blocking the flow of media in the storage tank 2.

[0067] It should be noted that, as Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system may include a gas cylinder 82. The gas cylinder 82 may be housed within the central valve box 3. The gas cylinder 82 provides a power source for the opening and closing of the built-in valve 561.

[0068] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the control valve assembly 562 may include a shut-off valve 5621 and a vent valve 5622. The built-in valve 561 can be a gas-to-close valve, meaning it closes when gas is supplied and opens when gas is not supplied. When the vent valve 5622 closes and the shut-off valve 5621 opens, the control gas path 563 is opened, allowing gas from the gas cylinder 82 to flow to the built-in valve 561 and close it. When the vent valve 5622 opens to release the gas from the control gas path 563, the built-in valve 561 opens, enabling the filling and unloading of the cryogenic medium.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, two shut-off valves 5621 can be provided. The two shut-off valves 5621 are connected in parallel and are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the vehicle body 1. In this way, when the vehicle rolls over, whether it rolls to the left or the right, one of the shut-off valves 5621 can be opened, allowing the gas in the gas cylinder 82 to flow to the built-in valve 561, thereby closing the first built-in valve 5611 and the second built-in valve 5612, thus cutting off the channel for the medium in the tank to be transported outward.

[0070] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the gas cylinder 82 may include a pressure regulating valve, a pressure gauge and an operating valve to ensure that the gas cylinder 82 can output stable gas normally, so as to ensure stable power to drive the built-in valve 561 to close in different environments.

[0071] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 may include a pipeline safety valve 57. Pipeline safety valves 57 may be respectively installed on the central inlet / outlet pipeline 5021 and the central pressurization pipeline 504. During filling and unloading using the central unloading pipeline 50 or the tail unloading pipeline 60, the pressure inside the pipeline may fluctuate due to factors such as liquid flow and temperature changes. At this time, the pipeline safety valve 57 can be opened and closed in a timely manner to help maintain the pressure inside the pipeline within a safe range, avoiding the impact of excessively high or low pressure on transportation operations and liquid quality.

[0072] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the central pipeline 5 may include a pressure regulating valve 58. The pressure regulating valve 58 may be located inside the central valve box 3. When the pressure regulating valve 58 is opened, the central inlet / outlet pipe 5021 and the central inlet pipe 5022 are connected.

[0073] Because a portion of the middle unloading pipeline 50 passes through the middle valve box 3 and extends towards the rear valve box 4 to connect with the tail unloading pipeline 60, this portion of the pipeline is relatively long. Therefore, after filling and unloading using the tail unloading pipeline 60, a significant amount of liquid remains in this portion of the pipeline. Even with a residual liquid discharge valve 69, some liquid may still remain in the tail unloading pipeline 60 and vaporize due to temperature changes, forming evaporation gas, which increases the pressure within the pipeline. By arranging a pressure regulating valve 58, once the pressure in the pipeline reaches the set pressure of the pressure regulating valve 58, the valve opens to connect the middle inlet / outlet pipe 5021 and the middle inlet pipe 5022, allowing the evaporation gas to return to the interior of the storage tank 2 through the middle inlet pipe 5022, thereby reducing waste. This also reduces the likelihood of the safety valve 57 frequently opening due to increased pressure caused by the accumulation of evaporation gas in the tail unloading pipeline 60.

[0074] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, a full-opening safety valve 59 can be arranged on the central gas phase pipe 503 so that when the pressure in the central gas phase pipe 503 exceeds the preset pressure due to temperature rise, liquid evaporation or other reasons, the full-opening safety valve 59 opens rapidly to release the overpressurized gas to the atmosphere or a safe area with a large discharge capacity, so that the pressure in the pipeline and tank 20 is reduced rapidly, preventing safety accidents such as tank 20 rupture, leakage or explosion caused by excessive pressure.

[0075] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, an overpressure relief valve 61 may also be arranged on the tail gas phase pipe 603. The overpressure relief valve 61 can serve as a supplementary protection device, opening to relieve pressure when the full-opening safety valve 59 fails or when additional pressure relief is required.

[0076] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, a drain valve 62 may be installed on the tail gas phase pipe 603. The drain valve 62 is arranged inside the rear valve box 4. The top of the storage tank 2 is a gas phase space, which may contain air. During use, moisture in the air condenses and accumulates in the tail gas phase pipe 603. Therefore, by installing the drain valve 62, the condensate can be discharged to ensure unobstructed venting of the tail gas phase pipe 603.

[0077] like Figure 2 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the tail pipe 6 may include an overflow pipe 63 and a level gauge pipe 64.

[0078] like Figure 2 As shown, an overflow valve 631 may be provided on the overflow pipe 63. During the filling process, when the liquid in the tank reaches the preset maximum liquid level, the overflow valve 631 opens to discharge the excess liquid, preventing the tank 20 from being overfilled and avoiding excessive pressure or damage to the tank 20 due to liquid expansion.

[0079] The level gauge pipeline 64 can be equipped with a level gauge gas phase valve 641, a level gauge balancing valve 642, a level gauge liquid phase valve 643, a pressure gauge 644, and a level gauge 645. The level gauge gas phase valve 641 connects the level gauge 645 to the gas phase space of the tank 20, enabling the level gauge 645 to sense the gas phase pressure inside the tank during level measurement, thus assisting the level gauge 645 in accurately measuring the liquid level. The level gauge liquid phase valve 643 connects the level gauge 645 to the liquid phase space of the tank, allowing the level gauge 645 to directly measure the liquid level height inside the tank. The level gauge balancing valve 642 balances the pressure in the gas phase channel and liquid phase channel of the level gauge 645 during measurement, ensuring the accuracy of the measurement results and preventing level display deviations due to pressure differences. Pressure gauge 644 is used to display the pressure of the gas inside the tank, monitor changes in the pressure inside the tank, detect pressure abnormalities in a timely manner, and prevent the tank 20 from being damaged due to excessively high or low pressure.

[0080] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the storage tank 2 may include an inner tank 22 and an outer tank 23. A sandwich structure exists between the inner tank 22 and the outer tank 23.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the tail pipe 6 may include a vacuum pumping device 65, a high-vacuum valve 66, a vacuum isolation valve 67, and a vacuum measuring device 68. The vacuum pumping device 65 is used to evacuate the interlayer, forming a vacuum interlayer 24. This reduces heat transfer, helps maintain the temperature stability of the cryogenic liquid inside the tank, and lowers the liquid evaporation rate. After the vacuuming operation is completed, the high-vacuum valve 66 is closed to isolate the vacuum pumping device 65 from the vacuum interlayer 24, preventing vacuum leakage and ensuring the long-term effectiveness of the vacuum insulation layer. The vacuum measuring device 68 is used to measure the vacuum degree of the tank interlayer and monitor the performance of the vacuum insulation layer. The vacuum isolation valve 67 isolates the vacuum interlayer 24 of the storage tank 2 from the vacuum measuring device 68. When it is necessary to test or maintain the interlayer vacuum degree, the vacuum isolation valve 67 is closed to allow the vacuum measuring device 68 to smoothly measure the interlayer vacuum degree.

[0082] like Figure 2 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the storage tank 2 may include a gas reservoir 25. The gas reservoir 25 is located on the outer wall of the middle part of the outer tank 23. The gas reservoir 25 has an internal cold-insulating space 251 connected to the vacuum jacket 24, thus the interior of the cold-insulating space 251 is also in a vacuum state. At least a portion of the middle pipeline 5 is housed within the cold-insulating space 251, thereby effectively reducing the contact between the pipeline components and the external environment and ambient air, keeping more pipelines in a vacuum-insulated state, effectively isolating external heat, and preventing premature vaporization of the low-temperature medium due to external heat.

[0083] For example, at least a portion of the central inlet / outlet pipe 5021, at least a portion of the central inlet pipe 5022, at least a portion of the central gas phase pipe 503, at least a portion of the central pressurization pipe 504, and at least a portion of the control gas path 563 are housed within the gas reservoir 25.

[0084] In some embodiments, the air tank 25 can be positioned close to the vehicle body 1. That is, along the height direction of the semi-trailer, the air tank 25 can be positioned at the bottom of the outer tank 23. This facilitates operation by the operator and also helps to lower the center of gravity of the semi-trailer, improving its anti-tipping ability.

[0085] In some embodiments, the air chamber 25 may be located in the middle of the outer tank 23 along the axial direction of the storage tank 2. For example, the air chamber 25 may be arranged between the tractor and the traveling mechanism 7, thereby making full use of the underside space of the semi-trailer and helping to improve the space utilization rate of the semi-trailer.

[0086] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the gas reservoir 25 may include a cylinder 252 and a sealing head 253. One end of the cylinder 252 is connected to the outer tank 23. The sealing head 253 is disposed outside the outer tank 23 and on the other end of the cylinder 252, such that the sealing head 253 and the cylinder 252 enclose a cold-insulating space 251. Some of the piping in the piping assembly is arranged within the cold-insulating space 251.

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the cylinder 252 can be a cylindrical structure. A cylindrical cylinder 252 can accommodate more pipes, ensuring that more pipes are under vacuum insulation. Simultaneously, the cylindrical cylinder 252 can reduce stress concentration, which is beneficial for improving the overall stress and pressure resistance of the air chamber 25.

[0088] In some embodiments, the longitudinal section of the sealing head 253 may be arc-shaped. For example, the sealing head 253 may be an elliptical head, a hemispherical head, etc. The arc-shaped longitudinal section of the sealing head 253 facilitates uniform stress distribution, improves the overall external pressure resistance of the air tank 25, and helps protect the pipelines arranged inside the air tank 25.

[0089] like Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the cryogenic liquid storage tank emergency shut-off system may include a cold insulation box 9. The cold insulation box 9 may be arranged below the storage tank 2. The cold insulation box 9 may extend toward the rear valve box 4. A section of the central unloading pipeline 50 extending out of the central valve box 3 and toward the rear valve box 4 may be housed in the cold insulation box 9 to reduce heat loss during filling and unloading. For example, sections of the central inlet / outlet pipes 5021, central inlet pipe 5022, central inlet / outlet valves 5023, central vapor phase pipe 503, and central pressurization pipe 504 arranged outside the storage tank 2 and located between the central valve box 3 and the rear valve box 4 in the central unloading pipeline 50 may be housed in the cold insulation box 9.

[0090] For example, the interior of the cold insulation box 9 can be foamed to insulate external heat and achieve cold insulation of the pipeline.

[0091] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the cold insulation box 9 may include a box body 90, a support plate 91, and an insulation plate 92. The box body 90 can be enclosed with the outer side wall of the outer tank 23 to form a sealed space. The support plate 91 is disposed inside the box body 90, and the support plate 91 has through holes for pipes to pass through. The insulation plate 92 can be arranged on one side of the support plate 91, and the insulation plate 92 can be arranged corresponding to the through holes on the support plate 91. The insulation plate 92 has through holes for pipes to pass through. The diameter of the through holes can be larger than the diameter of the through holes, thereby avoiding contact between the pipes and the support plate 91, and allowing the pipes to contact the insulation plate 92. The insulation plate 92 has a heat insulation function, thereby blocking the heat transfer path of external heat through the box body 90 and the support plate 91 to the pipes, which helps to improve the cold insulation effect of the pipes extending towards the rear valve box 4.

[0092] The above embodiments are merely illustrative examples of structures. The structures in each embodiment are not fixed combinations. In the absence of structural conflicts, the structures in multiple embodiments can be arbitrarily combined and used.

[0093] Although the invention has been described with reference to several typical embodiments, it should be understood that the terminology used is illustrative and exemplary, and not restrictive. Since the invention can be embodied in many forms without departing from the spirit or essence of the invention, it should be understood that the above embodiments are not limited to any of the foregoing details, but should be interpreted broadly within the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims. Therefore, all variations and modifications falling within the scope of the claims or their equivalents should be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A low temperature liquid tank emergency shutdown system, characterized by, include: A storage tank for storing cryogenic media, the storage tank comprising a tank body and end caps disposed at both ends of the tank body; The tail pipeline corresponds to the end cap arrangement at the rear end of the storage tank. The tail pipeline includes a tail unloading pipeline, through which the cryogenic medium can flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank. The central pipeline, arranged corresponding to the tank body, includes a central unloading pipeline and a control pipeline. The control pipeline includes a built-in valve and a control valve assembly. The central unloading pipeline is connected to the tail unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is installed on the central unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is used to control the opening and closing of the central unloading pipeline. The built-in valve is located inside the tank body. The control valve assembly is used to control the opening and closing of the built-in valve. The built-in valve is opened to allow the cryogenic medium to flow between the inside and outside of the storage tank through the central unloading pipeline.

2. The cryogenic liquid tank emergency shutdown system of claim 1, wherein, The built-in valve includes a first built-in valve and a second built-in valve. The middle unloading pipeline includes a middle liquid phase pipe and a middle pressurization pipe. The middle liquid phase pipe is equipped with a first built-in valve, and the middle pressurization pipe is equipped with a second built-in valve. The control pipeline includes a control air path, which connects the first built-in valve and the second built-in valve in parallel. The control valve group is located on the control air path and can control the opening and closing of the first built-in valve and the second built-in valve.

3. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control valve assembly includes a shut-off valve and an exhaust valve. The exhaust valve is closed and the shut-off valve is opened to close the built-in valve; the exhaust valve is opened and the built-in valve is opened.

4. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 3, characterized in that, The shut-off valve is provided in two parts, and the two shut-off valves are connected in parallel.

5. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 2, characterized in that, The central pipeline includes an emergency shut-off valve, a first mechanical control valve, and a main mechanical control valve. The central unloading pipeline also includes a central vapor phase pipe. The central vapor phase pipe, the central liquid phase pipe, and the central pressurization pipe are respectively equipped with the emergency shut-off valve and the first mechanical control valve. Each emergency shut-off valve is connected in series with one of the first mechanical control valves. The first mechanical control valve can control the opening and closing of the emergency shut-off valve. The main mechanical control valve is connected to each of the first mechanical control valves through a pipeline.

6. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 5, characterized in that, The central pipeline includes multiple second mechanical control valves connected in series. The second mechanical control valves are connected to the main mechanical control valve. When any one of the second mechanical control valves is closed, each of the emergency shut-off valves is closed.

7. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 5, characterized in that, The central pipeline includes a pipeline safety valve, and the central liquid phase pipeline includes a central inlet / outlet pipe and a central inlet pipe, with a pipeline safety valve respectively installed on the central inlet / outlet pipe and the central inlet pipe.

8. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 7, characterized in that, The tail unloading pipeline includes a tail inlet / outlet pipe and a tail inlet pipe. The tail inlet / outlet pipe and the tail inlet pipe are located outside the storage tank. The middle inlet / outlet pipe extends toward the end cap at the rear end of the storage tank and connects to the tail inlet / outlet pipe. One end of the middle inlet pipe extends toward the end cap at the rear end of the storage tank and connects to the tail inlet pipe. The other end of the middle inlet pipe is located inside the storage tank and extends toward the top of the storage tank. The central pipeline includes a pressure regulating valve, which, when opened, connects the central inlet / outlet pipe and the central inlet pipe.

9. The emergency shut-off system for cryogenic liquid storage tanks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The storage tank includes an inner tank, an outer tank, and a gas chamber. A vacuum interlayer is provided between the inner tank and the outer tank. The gas chamber protrudes from the middle of the outer tank, and the interior of the gas chamber is connected to the vacuum interlayer. At least a portion of the central pipeline is arranged inside the gas chamber.

10. A semi-trailer, characterized in that, The system includes a vehicle body and an emergency shut-off system for a cryogenic liquid storage tank as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the emergency shut-off system for the cryogenic liquid storage tank is mounted on the vehicle body.

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