LNG storage tank and pressure equalization bin
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202522676774.2
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-12-17
AI Technical Summary
[0005]然而,压力平衡仓通常采用全钢板密封的结构,会导致作业人员无法具体观察其内部的具体情况,影响LNG储罐在气压顶升期间的内外压力的平衡
[0017]本实用新型的LNG储罐的压力平衡仓利用仓体上设置的窗口,使得作业人员可以透过该窗口观察平衡仓内部平衡腔的情况,提高观察的准确程度,实现压力平衡仓的可视化,以便于气升顶期间观测平衡仓内部情况;窗口上密封有透明结构,可实现压力平衡仓的密封。
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Figure CN224904628U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to LNG storage tanks, and more particularly to an LNG storage tank and a pressure balancing chamber. Background Technology
[0002] Liquefied natural gas (LNG), as a clean and efficient energy source, plays an increasingly important role in the global energy structure transformation. As the core equipment for storing LNG, the safe and stable operation of LNG storage tanks directly affects the reliability of the entire energy supply chain.
[0003] The pneumatic jacking process is one of the key procedures in the construction of large LNG storage tanks, and it is mainly used for the installation of the tank dome or ceiling.
[0004] During the pressure jacking process of LNG storage tanks, the pressure balancing chamber is an important structure for balancing the pressure inside and outside the storage tank.
[0005] However, pressure balancing chambers typically employ a fully sealed steel plate structure, which prevents operators from observing the internal conditions and affects the balance of internal and external pressures during the gas pressure jacking process of the LNG storage tank. Utility Model Content
[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an LNG storage tank and pressure balancing chamber, which allows for observation of the internal conditions of the pressure balancing chamber.
[0007] One aspect of this utility model provides a pressure balancing chamber for an LNG storage tank, including a chamber body and a connecting structure; wherein, the connecting structure is fixed to the chamber body for connecting the LNG storage tank; the chamber body encloses to form a balancing cavity; the balancing cavity and the interior of the LNG storage tank are selectively connected; the chamber body has at least one window for observing the balancing cavity; the window is sealed with a transparent structure.
[0008] In one embodiment, the number of windows opened on the container is multiple.
[0009] In one embodiment, the chamber includes a frame, a first chamber door, and a second chamber door; the first and second chamber doors are openably and closably disposed opposite to the frame, and together with the frame, form the balance cavity.
[0010] In one embodiment, the first compartment door is provided with the window.
[0011] In one embodiment, the second compartment door is provided with the window.
[0012] In one embodiment, the frame includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and two opposing side walls; the top wall is provided with the window.
[0013] In one embodiment, the transparent structure covering the window is pressure-resistant glass capable of withstanding the internal pressure of the balancing chamber during airlift.
[0014] In one embodiment, the transparent structure is fixed to the window by a flange.
[0015] In one embodiment, the connection structure and the LNG storage tank are detachably connected.
[0016] Another aspect of this utility model provides an LNG storage tank, including a pressure balancing chamber as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0017] The pressure balancing chamber of this utility model utilizes a window on the chamber body, allowing operators to observe the internal balancing cavity through the window, improving the accuracy of observation and realizing visualization of the pressure balancing chamber, so as to observe the internal situation of the balancing chamber during gas lifting; the window is sealed with a transparent structure to achieve the sealing of the pressure balancing chamber. Attached Figure Description
[0018] The above and other features, properties and advantages of this utility model will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein:
[0019] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the pressure balancing chamber of an LNG storage tank according to the present invention;
[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the pressure balancing chamber. Detailed Implementation
[0021] Liquefied natural gas (LNG), as a clean and efficient energy source, plays an increasingly important role in the global energy structure transformation. LNG storage tanks, as the core equipment for storing LNG, are crucial to the reliability of the entire energy supply chain through their safe and stable operation.
[0022] The pneumatic jacking process is one of the key procedures in the construction of large LNG storage tanks, and it is mainly used for the installation of the tank dome or ceiling.
[0023] During the LNG storage tank pressure jacking process, the pressure balancing chamber, located at the small doorway, serves as a passage for personnel to enter and exit the tank and is a crucial component for balancing the pressure inside and outside the tank.
[0024] However, pressure balancing chambers are typically made entirely of steel plates and are fully sealed, which prevents operators from observing the specific conditions inside, affecting the balance of internal and external pressures during the gas pressure jacking of LNG storage tanks.
[0025] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided to explain the present invention and not to limit it. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover these modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0026] As used herein, the terms “first” and “second” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of the individual components.
[0027] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure of a pressure balancing chamber of an LNG storage tank according to this invention is shown.
[0028] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 The pressure balancing chamber of the LNG storage tank of this utility model includes a chamber body 100 and a connecting structure 200. The connecting structure 200 is fixed to the chamber body 100 and is used to connect the LNG storage tank (not shown).
[0029] The silo body 100 encloses and forms a balance cavity 101, which can be understood as a passage for workers to enter and exit the interior of the storage tank.
[0030] The balance chamber 101 and the interior of the LNG storage tank are optionally connected.
[0031] Specifically, when the pressure balancing chamber is in the connected state, the balancing chamber 101 and the LNG storage tank are connected, and the pressure of the two is the same.
[0032] When the pressure balancing chamber is in a closed state, the balancing chamber 101 and the LNG storage tank are not connected.
[0033] The chamber 100 has at least one window 300 for observing the condition of the balance chamber 101.
[0034] To ensure the airtightness of the pressure balance chamber in a closed state, the window 300 is covered with a transparent structure, and the two are sealed together.
[0035] The transparent structure can be either plate-shaped or sheet-shaped, with good light transmittance.
[0036] The transparent structure has a certain thickness, which can withstand the pressure balance inside the LNG storage tank during the lifting of the roof.
[0037] The pressure balancing chamber of this utility model utilizes a window 300 on the chamber body 100 to allow operators to observe the condition of the internal balancing chamber 101 through the window 300, thereby improving the accuracy of observation and realizing the visualization of the pressure balancing chamber, so as to observe the internal condition of the balancing chamber during the gas lifting process.
[0038] The pressure balancing chamber of this invention has a transparent structure sealed on its window 300, which enables the pressure balancing chamber to be sealed.
[0039] Compared to the previously improved fully sealed balance chamber structure, the pressure balance chamber of this invention features a 300° window visualization design that enables non-destructive real-time monitoring. This eliminates the need for frequent disassembly of the chamber body's 100° sealing structure, significantly reducing the probability of aging and failure of the seals due to repeated disassembly and reassembly, and extending the service life of the overall sealing system of the pressure balance chamber.
[0040] Operators can check the internal condition of the cavity from 100 meters outside the warehouse, improving the efficiency of daily operation and maintenance and emergency troubleshooting.
[0041] In one embodiment, the storage body 100 includes a frame, a first storage door 120, and a second storage door 130.
[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the frame includes a top wall 111 and a bottom wall, as well as two side walls 112. The top wall 111, one of the side walls 112, the bottom wall, and the other side wall 112 are sequentially fixedly connected to form the frame.
[0043] The height of the frame is at least greater than the height of the operator, which improves the convenience for the operator to enter and exit the balance chamber 101.
[0044] The first compartment door 120 and the second compartment door 130 are openable and closable on the frame and are positioned opposite each other.
[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the first compartment door 120 and the second compartment door 130 together with the frame form a balance cavity 101.
[0046] It should be noted that, in Figure 2 In the perspective view, the side wall 112 opposite to the bottom wall and the second compartment door 130 are indicated by dashed lines.
[0047] When the first compartment door 120 is opened, workers can enter the balance chamber 101. When the second compartment door 130 is opened, workers can enter the LNG storage tank.
[0048] When both the first compartment door 120 and the second compartment door 130 are closed, a sealed structure is formed.
[0049] The first compartment door 120, the second compartment door 130, the top wall 111, the bottom wall, and the two opposite side walls 112 are all made of steel plates to ensure the structural stability and durability of the pressure balancing chamber.
[0050] In one embodiment, the number of windows 300 opened on the container body 100 is multiple, and they are respectively set on different doors or walls.
[0051] The shape and size of window 300 can be determined based on the actual size of the pressure balance chamber and the observation requirements.
[0052] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, there are three windows 300. The first door 120 is provided with windows 300. The windows 300 on the first door 120 are circular.
[0053] The window 300 is located directly in front of the chamber 100, and its height from the bottom wall of the chamber 100 is matched to the eye level of the operator when standing, so that the operator can directly observe the internal situation of the pressure balance chamber from the outside.
[0054] The shape of the window 300 on the first compartment door 120 can be circular.
[0055] Further reference Figure 2 The second compartment door 130 is equipped with a window 300 for observing the lifting of the roof inside the LNG storage tank. The window 300 on the second compartment door 130 is opposite to the window 300 on the first compartment door 120, and its height from the bottom wall is the same as that of the window 300 on the first compartment door 120.
[0056] The shape of the window 300 on the second compartment door 130 can also be circular.
[0057] In one embodiment, reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The top wall 111 is provided with a window 300, which allows the operator to observe the condition of the balance chamber 101 from above the pressure balance chamber.
[0058] In this embodiment, the window 300 on the top wall 111 is located at the center of the top wall 111.
[0059] Optionally, the shape of the window 300 on the top wall 111 can be selected as follows: Figure 1 and Figure 2 The area of the rectangle shown can be determined by a combination of factors, including the area of the top wall 111, the pressure in the balance chamber 101, and other factors. This utility model does not impose any restrictions on this area.
[0060] In one embodiment, the transparent structure sealed to the window 300 is pressure-resistant glass and is capable of withstanding the internal pressure of the balance chamber 101 during the air-lift process.
[0061] Among them, pressure-resistant glass is a special type of glass that can withstand high pressure levels. It mainly enhances mechanical strength through tempering processes, and its compressive and bending strength can reach 10-20 times that of ordinary glass.
[0062] In another embodiment, the transparent structure sealed to the window 300 is a PC endurance board, which can withstand the internal pressure of the balance chamber 101 during the air lifting process.
[0063] PC solid sheet, also known as polycarbonate solid sheet, PC bulletproof glass, PC solid sheet, or polycarbonate board, is a sheet structure made of high-performance engineering plastic polycarbonate (PC).
[0064] Optionally, the PC endurance sheet is 1 cm thick and can withstand a pressure of 2 kPa.
[0065] Of course, the transparent structure of this utility model can also be selected from other materials that can withstand a certain pressure and are transparent, such as acrylic sheets and ceramic transparent pressure-resistant materials. This utility model does not impose any restrictions.
[0066] Stress analysis showed that the transparent structure could withstand the internal pressure of the balance chamber during the air-lift process, allowing for easy observation of the internal conditions of the balance chamber during the air-lift process.
[0067] The stress analysis and calculation of the above-mentioned transparent structure can be performed using modeling software to ensure the accuracy of the pressure calculation.
[0068] Furthermore, the transparent structure is fixed to window 300 via a flange.
[0069] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the transparent structure is connected by flanges and windows 300 on all four sides, which can achieve full circumferential surface contact sealing. Compared with local point fixing, it can avoid stress concentration caused by uneven force on the transparent structure.
[0070] A 6mm thick flange ring can be used to secure the transparent structure.
[0071] The rigidity of the 6mm thick flange pressure ring can evenly transmit the preload of the fastener to the transparent sealing surface, ensuring that there are no gaps on the sealing surface under low temperature and high pressure conditions, preventing leakage of the medium in the balance chamber 101 or infiltration of outside air, and maintaining the pressure stability of the balance chamber 101.
[0072] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the connecting structure 200 is fixed to one end of the top wall 111, side wall 112 and bottom wall of the compartment 100, and does not interfere with the opening and closing of the second compartment door 130.
[0073] In this embodiment, the connection structure 200 and the LNG storage tank are detachably connected.
[0074] Optionally, the connecting structure 200 and the LNG storage tank are connected by a through-hole square iron (not shown), so that the balance chamber 101 communicates with the small doorway of the storage tank.
[0075] The LNG storage tank of this utility model includes a pressure balancing chamber as described in any of the above embodiments. The pressure balancing chamber is detachably connected to the LNG storage tank via a connecting structure 200.
[0076] The pressure balancing chamber of this utility model can be accurately observed through a 300-degree window, realizing the visualization of the pressure balancing chamber.
[0077] While the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make possible variations and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention shall fall within the protection scope defined by the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A pressure balancing chamber for an LNG storage tank, characterized in that, This includes the warehouse body and its connecting structures; among which, The connecting structure is fixed to the silo body and is used to connect the LNG storage tank; The compartments together form a balance cavity; The balance chamber and the interior of the LNG storage tank can be selectively connected; The chamber has at least one window for observing the balance chamber; The window is sealed with a transparent structure.
2. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The number of windows opened on the warehouse body is multiple.
3. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The compartment includes a frame, a first compartment door, and a second compartment door; The first and second compartment doors are openable and closable and are arranged opposite to each other on the frame, forming the balance cavity together with the frame.
4. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first compartment door is equipped with the aforementioned window.
5. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second compartment door is equipped with the aforementioned window.
6. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The frame includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and two opposing side walls; The window is provided on the top wall.
7. The pressure balancing chamber as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The transparent structure covering the window is pressure-resistant glass, capable of withstanding the internal pressure of the balancing chamber during the air-lift process.
8. The pressure balancing chamber as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The transparent structure is fixed to the window by a flange.
9. The pressure balancing chamber as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The connection structure and the LNG storage tank are detachably connected.
10. An LNG storage tank, characterized in that, Includes the pressure balancing chamber as described in any one of claims 1-9.