Optimized filling of cryogenic tanks

Abstract

Method for filling a receiving tank with cryogenic liquid, the method using a mobile source tank and a tractor vehicle, the method being implemented at a distribution site comprising a first area for parking the source tanks and the tractor vehicle, and a second area, separate from the first area, for filling the receiving tank, the first area comprising a depressurization zone and a waiting area separate from the depressurization zone, the method comprising the steps of moving the source tank, transferring a quantity of cryogenic liquid from the source tank to the receiving tank and, preferably, simultaneously transferring a quantity of vaporized gas present in the receiving tank to the source tank, moving the source tank to the first area, and verifying at least one parking condition of the source tank. Abstract figure: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Optimized filling of cryogenic tanks

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for filling cryogenic tanks. A cryogenic liquid is produced at a production site, optionally transported to storage sites, and then distributed to users at distribution sites. Most frequently, the production site includes storage tanks for the produced cryogenic liquid, from which mobile tanks are filled for distribution. Sometimes the cryogenic liquid is transported to storage sites, where the mobile tanks for distribution are filled.

[0002] At distribution sites, a receiving tank is filled with cryogenic liquid from a mobile tank originating at the production or storage site. The storage site can therefore also be considered a distribution site. Hereafter, a source tank is defined as any mobile cryogenic liquid tank from which a receiving tank is filled; a receiving tank is defined as any cryogenic liquid tank, fixed or mobile, that is filled with cryogenic liquid drawn from a source tank.

[0003] In some cases, the consumption of cryogenic liquid is so high that numerous source and receiving tanks must be managed at distribution sites. This is particularly true for cryogenic liquids used as fuels. Distribution sites must then be able to manage multiple source and receiving tanks, while optimizing filling procedures and ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel. When the cryogenic liquid is used as a fuel, the issue of eliminating, or at least limiting, greenhouse gas emissions also arises, particularly those caused by venting the evaporation gases contained in the tanks.

[0004] Examples of distribution sites include vehicle fuel tank filling sites, such as land vehicle fuel filling stations, railway stations and airports, and boat and ship fuel tank filling sites.

[0005] The desire to use liquid hydrogen as a fuel, in order to address the challenges of climate change, leads to specific constraints related to its characteristics and its use. The main problems that arise These challenges are related to the cryogenic nature of liquid hydrogen and the retention time of cryogenic liquid tanks, particularly mobile ones. Due to heat input to the tanks, some of the cryogenic liquid evaporates, generating boil-off gas (BOG). Over time, the generation of this boil-off gas leads to a decrease in the cryogenic liquid level within the tank, as well as a rise in the pressure and temperature of the cryogenic liquid. This can pose a problem for ensuring that receiving tanks are filled under optimal conditions, that is, under thermodynamic conditions that allow for the exploitation and use of the maximum quantity of cryogenic liquid, ideally all of it.

[0006] In the specific case of vehicle refueling sites, and particularly airports, it is likely impossible, for safety reasons, to depressurize the receiving tank (e.g., of an aircraft, car, truck, or train) or the source tank at the same location where refueling operations are carried out (e.g., on the airport tarmac, in the car or truck parking area, or at a train station). It is known that a dedicated area for depressurization operations can be provided to avoid this problem.

[0007] It is also known to use, instead of source tanks, a network of distribution lines to distribute the cryogenic liquid and recover the evaporation gases. An example is described in G.D. Brewer's study, "LH2 Airport Requirements Study," published by NASA in 1976. These systems are expensive to build and offer little flexibility in their operation.

[0008] It is also known, for vehicle fuel tanks, to replace an empty tank with a full one. These solutions require the use of a larger number of tanks and the establishment of dedicated tank exchange sites, which are more complicated to manage than filling sites.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to propose a method and a system for filling cryogenic liquid tanks which overcomes all or part of the disadvantages mentioned above.

[0010] The invention relates in particular to a method for filling a receiving tank with cryogenic liquid, specifically a liquid cryogenic fuel tank of a receiving vehicle, the cryogenic liquid being, in particular, liquid hydrogen. The method uses a mobile source tank and a tractor vehicle. The method is implemented at a distribution site comprising a first area for parking the source tanks and the tractor vehicle, and a second area, separate from the first area, for filling the receiving tank.

[0011] The first zone comprises a depressurization zone and a waiting zone separate from the depressurization zone.

[0012] The method comprises the following steps.

[0013] Moving the source tank from the first zone to the second zone using the tractor vehicle.

[0014] Transfer of a quantity of cryogenic liquid from the source reservoir to the receiving reservoir and, preferably, simultaneous transfer of a quantity of evaporation gas present in the receiving reservoir to the source reservoir.

[0015] Moving the source tank from the second zone to the first zone using the tractor vehicle.

[0016] Verification of at least one parking condition of the source tank. If at least one parking condition is met, the source tank is parked in the depressurization zone. If at least one parking condition is not met, the source tank is parked in the waiting zone.

[0017] The invention can advantageously be applied to the filling of fixed or mobile receiving tanks, in particular semi-trailers for transporting liquefied gases, or onboard cryogenic fuel tanks. The fluids concerned are, for example, helium, hydrogen, methane, natural gas, or any other fluid or mixture of fluids at cryogenic temperatures.

[0018] According to other aspects, embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method includes, when the source tank is stationed in the depressurization zone, a step of recovering the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid contained in the source tank and, preferably, a step of transferring the recovered vapor phase to at least one of: a gas distribution network, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a vehicle filling station, a liquefaction or reliquefaction facility, a vent.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method includes a step of estimating the depressurization time required to recover the vapor phase.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least one parking condition is chosen from: the liquid level in the source tank is below a predetermined liquid level threshold, the pressure in the source tank is above a predetermined pressure threshold, the temperature in the source tank is above a predetermined temperature threshold, the waiting time before a next need to fill a receiving vehicle is above a predetermined waiting time threshold.

[0022] In one embodiment, the verification step comprises, in order, the following substeps.

[0023] Verification that the liquid level in the source tank is below a predetermined liquid level threshold.

[0024] Verification that the pressure in the source tank is above the predetermined pressure threshold, and / or that the temperature of the cryogenic liquid in the source tank is above the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0025] Verification that the waiting time before the next need to fill a receiving tank is greater than a predetermined waiting time threshold.

[0026] If at least one of these conditions is met, the source tank is stationed in the depressurization zone.

[0027] In one embodiment, the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the predetermined temperature threshold are defined or calculated from predetermined tables and / or a model so as to allow optimal filling of the receiving tank, in particular as a function of the thermodynamic limits tolerated in the receiving tank.

[0028] In one embodiment, if the liquid level in the source tank is below the predetermined liquid level threshold, the vapor phase is recovered until the pressure in the source tank is below a determined acceptance threshold.

[0029] In one embodiment, if the liquid level in the source tank is greater than or equal to the predetermined liquid level threshold, and if the pressure in the source tank is greater than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature of the cryogenic liquid in the source tank is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, the vapor phase is recovered until the pressure in the source tank is less than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source tank is less than the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method is implemented within the perimeter of an airport and / or the receiving tank is a cryogenic liquid tank of an aircraft.

[0031] The invention also relates to a system for filling a cryogenic liquid receiving tank, in particular a liquid cryogenic fuel tank of a receiving vehicle, the cryogenic liquid being in particular liquid hydrogen, the system comprising a plurality of mobile source tanks configured to contain a liquid phase and a vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid, at least one tractor vehicle configured to move one of the mobile source tanks, a first area for parking the source tanks and the tractor vehicle(s), a second area located near and separate from the first area, for the transfer of a quantity of cryogenic liquid contained in one of the source tanks to the receiving tank.

[0032] The first zone includes a vapor phase recovery device for the cryogenic liquid and a set of pipes configured to establish a fluidic connection between the recovery device and at least one of the source tanks.

[0033] The recovery unit is preferably configured to be able to be fluidly connected to at least one of the following: a gas distribution network, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a vehicle filling station, a liquefaction or reliquefaction installation, a vent.

[0034] According to other aspects, embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

[0035] In one embodiment, the piping assembly includes at least a first pressure and / or flow control device configured to be opened when the pressure in the source tank is above a determined acceptance threshold, for example based on production conditions of the liquid cryogenic fuel, in order to allow the recovery of the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid by the recovery device.

[0036] In one embodiment, the piping assembly includes at least one second pressure control device configured to be open when the pressure in the source tank is above the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source tank is above the predetermined temperature threshold, the predetermined pressure threshold and the predetermined temperature threshold being determined, for example, according to the filling conditions of the receiving vehicle's tank, in order to allow the recovery of the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid by the recovery device.

[0037] In one embodiment, the tractor vehicle includes circuitry configured to establish a fluidic connection between one of the source tanks and the receiving tank, in order to transfer the quantity of cryogenic liquid.

[0038] The invention also relates to an airport comprising a filling system according to one of the embodiments described.

[0039] The invention may also relate to any alternative device or method comprising any combination of the above or below features, particularly within the scope of the claims.

[0040] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the following description, made with reference to the figures.

[0041] Figure 1 schematically and partially represents a first example of a filling method according to the invention,

[0042] Figure 2 schematically and partially represents a second example of a filling method according to the invention.

[0043] Figure 3 represents a schematic and partial view illustrating a first example of a filling system according to the invention,

[0044] Figure 4 is a schematic and partial view illustrating a second example of a filling system according to the invention,

[0045] Fig. 5 represents a schematic and partial view, illustrating an example of a possible embodiment of the parking area according to the invention.

[0046] The filling method shown schematically in [Fig. 1] allows a receiving tank 11, 12, 13, 14 to be filled with cryogenic liquid and uses a mobile source tank 21, 22, 23 and a tractor vehicle 30. The source tanks and the receiving tanks are typically configured to contain a liquid phase and a vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid.

[0047] The method can be implemented, for example, as shown in [Fig.3], [Fig.4] and / or [Fig.5], in a distribution site comprising a first zone 1 for parking the source tanks 21, 22, 23 and the tractor vehicle 30 and a second zone 2, separate from the first zone 1, for filling the receiving tank 11, 12, 13. The first zone 1 includes a depressurization zone 110 and a waiting zone 120 separate from the depressurization zone 110.

[0048] The first zone 1 is specifically designed to accommodate full source tanks from a production or storage site 3, which may be located more than 100 km from the distribution site. This distance will depend on the characteristics of the cryogenic liquid to be distributed. In the case of liquid hydrogen, it is typically around 200 km.

[0049] The first zone 1 is also intended to accommodate empty or partially empty source tanks following the filling operations of the receiving tanks.

[0050] The second zone 2 is intended to house the receiving tanks, and it is here that the filling operations of the receiving tank take place. Within the distribution site, the second zone 2 is separated from the first zone 1. For example, users or owners of the receiving tanks have access only to the second zone 2 and not to the first zone 1.

[0051] The source tank can be one of a plurality of source tanks 21, 22, 23 used to transport the cryogenic liquid from the production or storage site 3 to the distribution site. The source tank is a mobile tank and preferably mounted on a semi-trailer towed by a motor vehicle 40. The source tank can also be installed directly on a motor vehicle.

[0052] The tractor vehicle 30 can be the same motorized vehicle 40 used to tow one of the source tanks 21, 22, 23 from the production or storage site 3 to the site distribution. The tractor vehicle 30 can also be a dedicated motorized vehicle 30, which is permanently stationed at the distribution site. Within the first zone 1, the tractor vehicle 30 can be coupled to a source tank, or it can be uncoupled and parked separately from the source tanks.

[0053] The method includes a distribution step 200.

[0054] More specifically, the method includes a step of moving the source tank 21, 22, 23 from the first zone 1 to the second zone 2 using the tractor vehicle 30.

[0055] The method includes a transfer step 202 of a quantity of cryogenic liquid from the source reservoir 21, 22, 23 to the receiving reservoir 11, 12, 13, 14. During the transfer step 202, preferably, a quantity of evaporation gas present in the receiving reservoir 11, 12, 13, 14 is simultaneously transferred to the source reservoir 21, 22, 23.

[0056] The method includes a step of moving the source tank 21, 22, 23 from the second zone 2 to the first zone 1 using the tractor vehicle 30.

[0057] The method includes a step of checking at least one parking condition 210 of the source tank 21, 22, 23: if at least one parking condition 210 is met, the source tank is parked in the depressurization zone 110; if at least one parking condition 210 is not met, the source tank 21, 22, 23 is parked in the waiting zone 120.

[0058] Thus, when a source reservoir 21, 22, 23 arrives in the first zone 1, its state is evaluated and the source reservoir is positioned so as to optimize both the evolution of its state and the future fillings of receiving reservoirs 11, 12, 13, 14.

[0059] In one embodiment, when the source tank is stationed in the depressurization zone 110, the method includes a step 220 of the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid contained in the source tank 21, 22, 23. The method also preferably includes a step of transferring the recovered vapor phase to at least one processing means among: a gas distribution network, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a vehicle filling station, a liquefaction or reliquefaction plant, a vent.

[0060] Preferably, the vent is used only when no other means of treating the vapor phase are available. In all other cases, the method allows for the recovery and valorization of the vapor phase. The release into the atmosphere of potentially hazardous or greenhouse gases is also avoided.

[0061] In one embodiment, the method includes a step for estimating the depressurization time required to recover the vapor phase. This allows, where appropriate, a decision to be made as to whether the tractor vehicle 30 should remain coupled to the source tank 21, 22, 23. For example, if the estimated depressurization time is long, the The tractor vehicle 30 will be uncoupled and can be used in conjunction with another source tank 21, 22, or 23. This may be the case, in particular, when the estimated depressurization time is greater than the waiting time between two successive refills or uses of the tractor vehicle 30. Depending on the circumstances, this average waiting time can vary between thirty minutes and six hours; typically, the waiting time is around one hour. The management of the distribution site and the various refills can thus be optimized. The number of tractor vehicles required can be reduced.

[0062] In one embodiment, at least one parking condition 210 is chosen from the following.

[0063] The liquid level 211 in the source reservoir is below a predetermined liquid level threshold.

[0064] The pressure 212 in the source reservoir is greater than a predetermined pressure threshold.

[0065] The temperature 212 in the source reservoir is above a predetermined temperature threshold.

[0066] The waiting time 213 before a next need to fill a receiving vehicle 11, 12, 13, 14 is greater than a predetermined waiting time threshold.

[0067] The predetermined liquid level threshold 211 may, for example, correspond to a minimum quantity of liquid required to completely fill a receiving tank. If the liquid level in the source tank 21, 22, 23 is below this threshold, the tank can be identified as destined to return to the production or storage site 3 for refilling. If necessary, source tanks 21, 22, 23 with a liquid level below the threshold can be parked in a dedicated area. This optimizes the management of the distribution site and reduces waiting times for refilling a receiving tank.

[0068] In the case of an airport, for example, it may be desirable for an aircraft's receiving tank to be filled from only one source tank. This reduces the aircraft's time spent on the ground.

[0069] The predetermined pressure or temperature thresholds 212 may, for example, correspond to limit or safety values. If the pressure or temperature in the source tank exceeds these thresholds, the cryogenic liquid is no longer in thermodynamic conditions favorable to its use and / or storage in the receiving tank. This ensures that the cryogenic liquid will be delivered under acceptable thermodynamic conditions.

[0070] It is also possible that safety risks may arise when these thresholds are exceeded. The method thus makes it possible to detect potential dangerous situations and to react to them.

[0071] The predetermined pressure and / or temperature thresholds 212 may depend on the construction of the source and / or receiving tank. For example, these thresholds may vary according to the shape, dimensions, and / or materials of the tank. The predetermined pressure threshold may, for example, be between 2 bar and 6 bar. The predetermined temperature threshold may, for example, be between 22 K and 28 K.

[0072] The predetermined waiting time threshold 213 can for example be defined according to the characteristics of the source reservoir and the estimation of the evolution of the thermodynamic conditions of the cryogenic liquid within the source reservoir.

[0073] If the waiting time 213 is short, the source tank can, for example, remain coupled to the tractor vehicle and be parked in a dedicated waiting area 120. This may be the case, in particular, when the estimated waiting time is less than the time required for the cryogenic liquid in the tank to reach, and / or exceed, the predetermined temperature and / or pressure threshold. A short waiting time is, for example, less than four hours, preferably less than one hour. In this way, the management of the distribution site is optimized and the time required to fill a receiving tank can be reduced.

[0074] If the waiting time 213 is long, there may, for example, be a risk of pressure buildup within the source tank 21, 22, 23 due to the evaporation of the cryogenic liquid. This can occur, in particular, when the estimated waiting time is longer than the time required for the cryogenic liquid in the tank to reach, and / or exceed, the predetermined temperature and / or pressure threshold. A long waiting time is, for example, more than four hours. The source tank can, for example, be decoupled from the tractor vehicle 30 and / or parked in a depressurization zone 110 equipped to manage the pressure within the source tank. In this way, the safety of the distribution site can be guaranteed, and it is easier to maintain, within the source tank, thermodynamic conditions favorable to the delivery of the cryogenic liquid.

[0075] In one embodiment, the verification step 210 comprises, in order, the following substeps.

[0076] A verification substep 211 that the liquid level in the source tank is below a predetermined liquid level threshold.

[0077] A verification substep 212 that the pressure in the source tank is above the predetermined pressure threshold, and / or that the temperature of the cryogenic liquid 212 in the source tank is above the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0078] A verification substep 213 that the waiting time before a next need to fill a receiving tank is greater than a predetermined waiting time threshold.

[0079] If at least one of these conditions is met, the source tank 21, 22, 23 is stationed in the depressurization zone 110.

[0080] The verification step 210 can stop at the first sub-step 211, 212, 213 for which the condition is met; in this case, the following sub-steps are not executed.

[0081] If none of the conditions are met, the source tank can, for example, be parked 230 in the waiting area 120. The tractor vehicle 30 can remain coupled to the source tank 21, 22, 23 and also be parked in the waiting area 120. Alternatively, the tractor vehicle 30 can be uncoupled from the source tank 21, 22, 23 and be parked in an area 130 dedicated to tractor vehicles.

[0082] In one embodiment, the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the predetermined temperature threshold are defined or calculated from predetermined tables and / or a model so as to allow optimal filling of the receiving tank, in particular as a function of the thermodynamic limits tolerated in the receiving tank.

[0083] For example, the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the predetermined temperature threshold can be defined with respect to the expected liquid level and / or pressure and / or temperature in the receiving tank when it arrives at the distribution site for filling. In particular, in the case of filling aircraft fuel tanks, the thermodynamic conditions in the aircraft's fuel tank when it arrives at the airport can be taken into account.

[0084] Alternatively, and in particular in the case where the receiving tank is a fixed tank, the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the predetermined temperature threshold can be defined with respect to the expected liquid level and / or pressure and / or temperature in the receiving tank when the source tank arrives in the second zone 2 to fill the receiving tank.

[0085] The optimal filling of the receiving tank can be defined with respect to the state of the receiving tank at the end of the filling procedure. Optimal filling is understood to mean filling such that the thermodynamic state of the receiving tank at the end of the filling procedure complies with permissible limits; for example, the pressure and / or temperature in the filled receiving tank do not exceed defined maximum values, for example, based on the tank's construction and / or applicable standards.

[0086] The optimal filling of the receiving tank can also be defined with respect to the state of the receiving tank at the time a user withdraws cryogenic liquid. Optimal filling is then understood to mean a filling such that, during the first withdrawal of cryogenic liquid by a user following the filling procedure, the thermodynamic state of the receiving tank complies with permissible limits; for example, the pressure and / or temperature in the receiving tank do not exceed defined minimum values, for example, based on the tank's construction, the vehicle's propulsion system, and / or the intended use of the cryogenic liquid.

[0087] In one embodiment, when the liquid level 211 in the source tank is below the predetermined liquid level threshold, the vapor phase 221 is recovered until the pressure in the source tank is below a determined acceptance threshold. This acceptance threshold may depend on the production conditions of the cryogenic liquid, or on the thermodynamic parameters of the liquefaction process, particularly to ensure that the vapor phase can be recycled back into the liquefier, or even on applicable road traffic regulations. The acceptance threshold may, for example, be set at a pressure value between 2 bar and 6 bar.

[0088] As explained previously, in this case the source tank could be identified as needing to return to the production or storage site 3 to be refilled. The acceptance threshold is therefore a maximum pressure threshold that can be tolerated in the source tank when it leaves the distribution site to return to the production or storage site 3. For example, the acceptance threshold is defined based on the distance to be traveled and the thermodynamic limits imposed by the production or storage site 3 to allow the source tank to be refilled.

[0089] The method thus makes it possible to ensure that the source tanks can be filled at the production or storage site 3, to guarantee the safety of the tank and the driver during the journey to the production or storage site 3, while also allowing the recovery and possibly the valorization of the excess vaporization gas.

[0090] In one embodiment, when the level of liquid 211 in the source tank is greater than or equal to the predetermined liquid level threshold, and if the pressure 212 in the source tank is greater than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature of the cryogenic liquid 212 in the source tank is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, the vapor phase 222 is recovered until the pressure in the source tank is less than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source tank is less than the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0091] In this case, the source tank 21, 22, 23 still contains enough liquid to refill a receiving tank. Therefore, the pressure and / or temperature in the source tank must be maintained below predetermined pressure and temperature thresholds, which are defined according to the filling conditions of the receiving tanks 11, 12, 13, 14.

[0092] Thus, the method optimizes the use of the cryogenic liquid contained in the source tanks. The availability of the source tanks for refilling is also optimized since the waiting time before the next refill can advantageously be used, for example, to depressurize the source tank.

[0093] Optionally, the depressurization time required to reach the predetermined pressure and / or temperature threshold can be estimated. If the estimated depressurization time is short and the waiting time before the next need to fill a receiving tank is less than the predetermined waiting time threshold, the source tank can be parked, after the depressurization operation, in the waiting area 120.

[0094] In one embodiment, the method includes a receiving step in the first zone 1 of a source tank coming from a production and / or storage site 3, and a verification step 210 that the pressure in said source tank is greater than a predetermined pressure threshold.

[0095] If the pressure 212 is greater than the predetermined threshold, the source tank which has just arrived at the distribution site is stationed in the depressurization zone 110. If the pressure 212 is less than the predetermined threshold, the source tank which has just arrived at the distribution site is stationed in the waiting zone 120.

[0096] The source reservoir 21, 22, 23 coming from the production or storage site 3 can thus be treated in the same way as a source reservoir 21, 22, 23 returning from the second zone 2.

[0097] In one embodiment, the method is implemented within the perimeter of an airport, or the distribution site is an airport.

[0098] In one embodiment, the receiving tank is a cryogenic liquid tank of an aircraft, in particular a liquid hydrogen tank carried on the aircraft and intended to supply a fuel cell or a combustion reactor.

[0099] The invention also relates to a filling system. The filling system shown schematically in [Fig. 3], [Fig. 4], and [Fig. 5] allows a receiving tank 11, 12, 13, 14 to be filled with cryogenic liquid. This receiving tank may, in particular, be a liquid cryogenic fuel tank of a receiving vehicle.

[0100] The filling system according to the invention comprises a plurality of mobile source tanks 21, 22, 23 configured to contain a liquid phase and a vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid, at least one tractor vehicle 30 configured to move one of the mobile source tanks, a first zone 1 for parking the source tanks 21, 22, 23 and the tractor vehicle(s) 30, and a second zone 2 located near and separate from the first zone 1 for transferring a quantity of cryogenic liquid contained in one of the source tanks to the receiving tank. The first zone 1 and the second zone 2 thus form part of the same distribution site.

[0101] The first zone 1 includes a cryogenic liquid vapor phase recovery device 114 and a set of conduits 113 configured to establish a fluidic connection between the recovery device 114 and at least one of the source tanks 21, 22, 23.

[0102] The recovery unit 114 is preferably configured to be able to be fluidly connected to at least one of the following: a gas distribution network, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a vehicle filling station, a liquefaction or reliquefaction installation, a vent.

[0103] The vent may be provided, for example, for safety reasons. Preferably, more than half, and ideally all, of the vapor phases recovered by the recovery unit is directed to one of the other means listed above. This allows the recovered gas to be utilized and avoids the release of potentially greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

[0104] In one embodiment, the piping assembly 113 includes at least one first pressure and / or flow control device 111 configured to open when the pressure in the source tank exceeds a predetermined acceptance threshold. This acceptance threshold may be a function of the cryogenic liquid production conditions, the thermodynamic parameters of the liquefaction process, or applicable road traffic regulations. For example, the acceptance threshold may be chosen to be between 2 bar and 6 bar.

[0105] Pipes fitted with first pressure control devices 111 are intended to be connected to the source tanks which have been identified to return to the production or storage site 3.

[0106] Preferably, the pipes equipped with the first pressure control devices 111 are grouped in a first dedicated sub-zone 210 within the depressurization zone 110.

[0107] In one embodiment, the piping assembly 113 includes at least one second pressure control device 112 configured to be open when the pressure in the source reservoir exceeds the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source reservoir is above the predetermined temperature threshold. The predetermined pressure threshold and the predetermined temperature threshold are determined, for example, as described above.

[0108] Pipes fitted with second pressure control devices 112 are intended to be connected to source tanks which can still be used on the distribution site for filling at least one receiving tank.

[0109] Preferably, the pipes equipped with the second pressure control devices 112 are grouped in a second dedicated sub-zone 220 within the depressurization zone 110 and separate from the first sub-zone 210.

[0110] The first 111 and second 112 pressure control devices allow the recovery of the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid by the recovery device 114 to be started, stopped, or controlled. The pressure control device may, for example, be a sensor-controlled valve that measures the pressure and / or temperature in the source tank, an automatic mechanical device whose opening depends on the pressure difference between the pressure in the source tank and the pressure in the recovery device, a relief valve, a pressure regulator, a flow controller, or any other suitable control device.

[0111] The first 111 and second 112 pressure control devices can allow the passage of the gas to be recovered by fully opening or closing the pipe on which they are mounted; this mode of operation is also called on / off. The opening of the first 111 and second 112 pressure control devices can also be controlled variably; for example, the opening ratio can be a function of the pressure in the source tank.

[0112] In one embodiment, the tractor vehicle 30 includes circuitry configured to establish a fluid connection between one of the source tanks 21, 22, 23 and the receiving tank, in order to transfer the quantity of cryogenic liquid. This circuitry may, for example, include pipes, valves or other control devices, a pumping device, and any other device or equipment necessary to ensure the transfer of the cryogenic liquid from the source tank to the receiving tank.

[0113] In one embodiment, the tractor vehicle 30 is configured to be mechanically coupled to the source tanks and tow them.

[0114] The invention also relates to an airport comprising a refueling system as described above. Indeed, the invention is particularly suited to optimizing the management of cryogenic fuel supply for aircraft within the perimeter of an airport.

[0115] The invention can also be used for managing the fuel supply of a filling site for liquid cryogenic fuel tanks of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, trains, ships.

[0116] The invention is particularly suitable for the distribution of liquid hydrogen and the filling of liquid hydrogen tanks.

Claims

Demands

1. Method for filling a receiving tank (11, 12, 13, 14) with cryogenic liquid, in particular a liquid cryogenic fuel tank of a receiving vehicle, the cryogenic liquid being in particular liquid hydrogen, the method using a mobile source tank (21, 22, 23) and a tractor vehicle (30), the method being implemented at a distribution site comprising a first zone (1) for parking the source tanks (21, 22, 23) and the tractor vehicle (30) and a second zone (2), separate from the first zone (1), for filling the receiving tank (11, 12, 13, 14), the first zone (1) comprising a depressurization zone (110) and a waiting zone (120) separate from the depressurization zone (110), the method comprising the following steps: - Moving (201) the source tank (21, 22, 23) from the first zone (1) to the second zone (2) using the tractor vehicle;- Transfer (202) of a quantity of cryogenic liquid from the source tank (21, 22, 23) to the receiving tank (11, 12, 13, 14) and, preferably, simultaneous transfer of a quantity of evaporation gas present in the receiving tank (11, 12, 13, 14) to the source tank (21, 22, 23); - Movement (203) of the source tank (21, 22, 23) from the second zone (2) to the first zone (1) using the tractor vehicle; - Verification of at least one parking condition (210) of the source tank (21, 22, 23); - If at least one parking condition (210) is met, parking of the source tank (21, 22, 23) in the depressurization zone (110); - If at least one parking condition (210) is not met, the source tank (21, 22, 23) will be parked in the waiting area (120).

2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises, when the source tank is stationed in the depressurization zone (110), a step for recovering (220) the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid contained in the source tank (21, 22, 23) and, preferably, a step for transferring the recovered vapor phase to at least one of the following: a distribution network gas, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a vehicle filling station, a liquefaction or liquefaction facility, a vent.

3. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that it includes a step of estimating the depressurization time required to recover the vapor phase.

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one parking condition (210) is chosen from: the liquid level (211) in the source tank is below a predetermined liquid level threshold; the pressure (212) in the source tank is above a predetermined pressure threshold; the temperature (212) in the source tank is above a predetermined temperature threshold; the waiting time (213) before a next need to fill a receiving vehicle (11, 12, 13, 14) is above a predetermined waiting time threshold.

5. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the verification step (210) comprises, in order, the following substeps: - Verification (211) that the liquid level in the source tank is below the predetermined liquid level threshold; - Verification (212) that the pressure in the source tank is above the predetermined pressure threshold, and / or that the temperature of the cryogenic liquid (212) in the source tank is above the predetermined temperature threshold; - Verification (213) that the waiting time before the next need to fill a receiving tank is above the predetermined waiting time threshold; and in that if at least one of these conditions is met, the source tank (21, 22, 23) is stationed in the depressurization zone (110).

6. Method according to any one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the predetermined temperature threshold are defined or calculated from predetermined tables and / or a model so as to allow optimal filling of the receiving tank, in particular as a function of the thermodynamic limits tolerated in the receiving tank.

7. A method according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, if the liquid level (211) in the source reservoir is below the predetermined liquid level threshold, the vapor phase is recovered (221) until the pressure in the source reservoir is below a determined acceptance threshold.

8. Method according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, if the liquid level (211) in the source tank is greater than or equal to the predetermined liquid level threshold, and if the pressure (212) in the source tank is greater than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature of the cryogenic liquid (212) in the source tank is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, the vapor phase is recovered (222) until the pressure in the source tank is less than the predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source tank is less than the predetermined temperature threshold.

9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it is implemented within the perimeter of an airport and / or in that the receiving tank is a cryogenic liquid tank of an aircraft.

10. A system for filling a receiving tank (11, 12, 13, 14) with cryogenic liquid, in particular a liquid cryogenic fuel tank of a receiving vehicle, the cryogenic liquid being in particular liquid hydrogen, the system comprising: - a plurality of mobile source tanks (21, 22, 23) configured to contain a liquid phase and a vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid, - at least one tractor vehicle (30) configured to move one of the mobile source tanks, - a first area (1) for parking the source tanks (21, 22, 23) and the tractor vehicle(s) (30), - a second area (2) located near and separate from the first area (1) for transferring a quantity of cryogenic liquid contained in one of the source tanks to the receiving tank,characterized in that the first zone (1) comprises a device (114) for recovering the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid and a set of conduits (113) configured to establish a fluidic connection between the recovery device (114) and at least one of the source tanks (21, 22, 23), the recovery device (114) preferably being configured to be fluidically connected to at least one of: a gas distribution network, a fixed or mobile gas storage tank, a filling station, vehicles, a liquefaction or reliquefaction facility, a vent.

11. System according to claim 10, characterized in that the piping assembly (113) comprises - at least a first pressure and / or flow control device (111) configured to be opened when the pressure in the source tank is above a predetermined acceptance threshold, for example, based on the production conditions of the liquid cryogenic fuel, and / or - at least a second pressure control device (112) configured to be opened when the pressure in the source tank is above a predetermined pressure threshold and / or the temperature in the source tank is above a predetermined temperature threshold, the predetermined pressure threshold and the predetermined temperature threshold being determined, for example, based on the filling conditions of the receiving vehicle's tank, in order to allow the recovery of the vapor phase of the cryogenic liquid by the recovery device (114).

12. System according to any one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the tractor vehicle includes circuitry configured to establish a fluidic connection between one of the source tanks (21, 22, 23) and the receiving tank, in order to transfer the quantity of cryogenic liquid.

13. Airport comprising a filling system according to one of claims 10 or 11.

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