A fluid control system and method for preventing the loss of fluid modes of a high-density fluid

Abstract

A pumped energy storage system 200 using high-density fluid (HDF) comprises upper and lower fluid storage tanks 202A, 202B and an interconnecting penstock line conduit 204 configured to communicate re

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a fluid control system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a fluid control system for controlling the loss of fluid modes of high-density fluid (HDF) retained in hydro storage system. The present invention also relates to a fluid control method for the controlling the loss of fluid modes of a HDF. BACKGROUND Turbines are a reliable and effective way to generate electricity and are used extensively in hydro-electric project or systems, with the turbine unit or units forming one part of the overall system. In a hydro-electricity generating system a fluid such as water flows under gravity from one part of the system to another and then into a turbine unit. The fluid flow over the blades of the turbine in the turbine unit causes the turbine to rotate, thereby spinning the turbine. The spinning of the turbine produces power. However, in hydroelectric energy storage systems, efficient control of fluid movement and environmental conditions is critical to ensure system performance and longevity. Particularly in closed-loop systems, where fluids are circulated between holding tanks (also known as reservoirs), maintaining system stability during pressure fluctuations and controlling environmental factors like humidity are a challenge. Subsequently, sudden changes in the pressure, referred to as transient events, can lead to fluid losses, system inefficiencies, or even damage to critical infrastructure. Additionally, in systems that rely on fluids with complex compositions, the evaporation of water and subsequent changes in fluid characteristics due to humidity loss pose significant operational hurdles. Existing solutions for efficient control of fluid movement and environmental conditions often rely on using conventional methods such as pressure relief valves, surge chambers, and vacuum breakers to handle pressure fluctuations in penstock systems. These components mitigate overpressure by allowing fluid to spill into surge chambers or into the environment, while under-pressure conditions are managed by allowing air to enter the system to balance the pressure. However, in high-density fluid systems, the loss of fluid through these mechanisms is costly and undesirable due to the complexity of the fluid. Furthermore, these existing solutions require costly infrastructure and considerable space, adding both financial and spatial burdens to energy storage facilities. Despite the advancements in the hydroelectric energy storage systems, the aforementioned existing solutions are inadequate in controlling the humidity level in the system. The existing solutions vent humid air generated by fluid evaporation, releasing it into the atmosphere, which leads to water loss. To maintain operational efficiency, this water must be replaced, usually through external sources, which introduces contaminants such as dissolved solids. Overtime, the dissolved solids alter the composition of the high-density fluid, diminishing system efficiency and requiring more frequent maintenance. High-density fluids for use with these types of system are usually made by suspending a finely-ground mineral in a liquid, such as for example Bentonite, lllemnite, Barite or Hematite. In order to produce a fluid where the solid will remain in suspension for extended periods, the quantity and particle size distribution of the mineral are carefully chosen, along with the amount of other additions to the fluid, such as for example viscosity modifiers and similar. In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a fluid control system for controlling the loss of a fluid modes of a high-density fluid (HDF) retained in a hydro storage system, which goes some way to overcoming the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public or industry with a useful choice. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a fluid control method for controlling the loss of a fluid modes of a HDF retained in a hydro storage system, which goes some way to overcoming the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public or industry with a useful choice. The term “comprising” as used in this specification and indicative independent claims means “consisting at least in part of’. When interpreting each statement in this specification and indicative independent claims that includes the term “comprising”, features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner. As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both. As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun. Accordingly, in a first aspect the present invention may broadly be said to consist in a fluid control system for controlling the loss of a fluid modes of a high-density fluid (HDF) retained in a hydro storage system, comprising an upper fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of HDF, a lower fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of HDF and an interconnecting penstock line conduit configured to communicate a retained HDF from the upper fluid storage tank to the lower fluid storage tank; wherein the penstock line conduit is attached at a first end to an outlet arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end attached to an inlet within the lower fluid storage tank; the fluid control system further comprises a vent line conduit comprising an elongate body with a first end attached to an inlet arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end attached to an outlet arranged in the lower fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, an inner area of the vent line conduit allows a communication of water vapour between the lower fluid storage tank and upper fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a valve device that provides an operable connection from an inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit. In an embodiment, the penstock line conduit further comprises a pressure sensor operably connected to a controlling means for operating the valve device. In an embodiment, the first end attachment of the vent line conduit is above the retained HDF level within the upper fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the second end attachment of the vent line conduit is above the retained HDF level within the lower fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the upper fluid storage tank is a closed tank. In an embodiment, the upper fluid storage tank is hermetically sealed. In an embodiment, the lower fluid storage tank is a closed tank. In an embodiment, the lower fluid tank is hermetically sealed. In an embodiment, the vent line conduit comprises a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the penstock line conduit. In an embodiment, the first end of the vent line conduit is hermetically sealed to the inlet of the upper fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the second end of the vent line conduit is hermetically sealed to the outlet of the lower fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, a vent line conduit for use in a fluid control system. In a second aspect of the present invention may broadly be said to consist in a fluid control method for controlling the loss of a fluid modes of a high-density fluid (HDF) retained in a hydro storage system, comprising an upper fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of HDF, a lower fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of HDF and an interconnecting penstock line conduit configured to communicate a retained HDF from the upper fluid storage tank to the lower fluid storage tank; wherein the penstock line conduit is attached at a first end to an outlet arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end attached to an inlet within the lower fluid storage tank; a vent line conduit comprising a first end attached to an inlet arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end attached to an outlet arranged in the lower fluid storage tank; the method comprising the steps of: communicating a water vapour through the vent line conduit from the lower fluid storage tank to the upper fluid storage tank; condensing the water vapour on a portion of the inner wall within the vent line conduit; and returning the captured condensed water, whereby the water flows along the inner wall within the vent line conduit to the lower fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the fluid control method further comprises the steps of: i. determining a fluid pressure increase from a pressure sensor device arranged on the penstock line conduit; ii. activating a valve device that provides an operable connection from the inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit; iii. diverting the HDF fluid within the penstock line conduit into the vent line conduit, via the valve device; iv. communicating the diverted HDF within the vent line to the lower fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the fluid control method further comprises the steps of: i. determining a fluid pressure decrease from a pressure sensor device arranged on the penstock line conduit (104, 204); II. activating a valve device (216) that provides an operable connection from the inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit (110, 210); ill. diverting a gas within the vent line conduit into the penstock line conduit, via the valve device. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise", "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings which show an embodiment of the device by way of example, and in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a fluid control system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system comprising an upper fluid storage tank, a lower fluid storage tank, an interconnecting penstock line conduit and a interconnecting vent line conduit. Figure 2 shows a schematic illustration of a fluid control system according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, which comprises all the features of Figure 1. This system further comprises two valve devices for connecting the inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit. Furthermore, the system also comprises two pressures sensors arranged within the inner area of the penstock line. Figure 3 shows a flow chart depicting steps of a fluid control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present invention are also possible. General Overview A schematic illustration of a fluid control system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in figure 1. The system 100 comprises an upper fluid storage tank 102A, a lower fluid storage tank 102B, an interconnecting penstock line conduit 104 configured to communicate a retained high density fluid (HDF) from the upper fluid storage tank 102Ato the lower fluid storage tank 102B. The interconnecting penstock line conduit 104 is attached at a first end 104Ato an outlet 106 arranged in the upper fluid storage tank 102Aand a second end 104B attached to an inlet 108 within the lower fluid storage tank 102B. Furthermore, the system comprises a vent line conduit 110 which further comprises an elongated body with a first end 110A attached to an inlet 112 arranged in the upper fluid storage tank 102A and a second end 110B attached to an outlet 114 arranged in the lower fluid storage tank 102B. These parts and their inter-relationship are briefly described below. Upper Fluid Storage Tank The upper fluid storage tank 102A comprises an enclosed fluid storage container or tank 102A that is configured to, in use, hold / contain / store a high-density fluid. In the embodiment, the upper fluid storage tank 102A is a closed tank that is fully enclosed to prevent leaking of the fluid into the environment, and to prevent the fluid becoming contaminated - e.g. by absorbing rainwater or similar. Moreover, the closed tank is designed to prevent the loss of the store contents such as the HDF and to maintain controlled conditions inside the upper fluid storage tank 102A, such as pressure, temperature or fluid integrity. It will be appreciated that the closed tank in the hydro storage system helps ensure that the HDF remains properly contained without evaporation. A technical effect of a closed upper fluid storage tank 102A is to prevent humid air above the retained HDF from escaping the upper storage tank. Thereby, controlling the loss of water from the retained HDF through evaporation. In the embodiment, the upper fluid storage tank 102A is hermetically sealed to ensure that the tank is completely isolated from external environmental influences. Notably, the purpose of hermetically sealing the upper fluid storage tank 102A is to ensure the complete containment of the HDF. Typically, the said sealing is achieved through mechanical means like gaskets, welded joints, and the like special materials designed for airtight sealing. A technical effect of having a hermetically sealed upper fluid storage tank 102A is to provide an air-tight upper fluid storage tank 102A that does not allow retained water vapour to escape through evaporation or leakages. The upper fluid storage tank 102A has a fluid outlet 106. In the embodiment shown in figure 1, the fluid outlet 106 is in the wall of the upper fluid storage tank 102A close to the base. In variation, the outlet 106 may also be arranged in the base or floor of the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The outlet 106 is a discharge or an exit point in the upper fluid storage tank 102A through which the HDF flows out and enters the penstock line conduit 104 for further transfer to the lower fluid storage tank. Notably, the outlet 106 serves as the controlled release point of the HDF from the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The outlet 106 ensures that the HDF can flow into the penstock line conduit 104 in a regulated manner, controlling loss or uncontrolled discharge. As shown in figure 1, the upper fluid storage tank 102A is located above, and space apart from the lower storage tank 102B under gravity. Lower Fluid Storage tank The lower fluid storage tank 102B acts to receive and store fluid that enters the lower fluid storage tank 102B from the elongated body of the penstock line conduit 104. The lower fluid storage tank 102B is configured to retain a volume of the HDF at a lower elevation in the hydro storage system. The lower fluid storage tank 102B collects the fluid released from the upper fluid storage tank 102A or pumped back up to the upper fluid storage tank 102A for further cycles of energy generation and release. The difference in elevation between the two tanks allows the high-density fluid to generate energy as it flows downward, with the lower tank receiving the fluid after this energy transfer is completed. The lower fluid storage tank 102B is a closed tank. The lower fluid storage tank 102B is constructed to be completely closed using a roof, preventing any external air, fluid, or contaminants from entering or leaving the lower fluid storage tank. The closed tank ensures that the lower fluid storage tank 102B remains closed during the operation and prevents any unintended fluid transfer or loss due to evaporation of the fluid. A technical effect of a closed lower fluid storage tank is to prevent humid air above the retained HDF from escaping the lower storage tank. Thereby preventing the loss of water from the retained HDF through evaporation, thus optimizing the amount of usable fluid available for energy generation. The lower fluid tank 102B is hermetically sealed. The lower fluid storage tank 102B is designed to be completely airtight, preventing any exchange of air or contaminants with the external environment. It indicates that the lower fluid storage tank 102B is constructed to eliminate any potential pathways for air, vapour, or liquid to enter or escape. The sealing process may involve techniques such as vacuum sealing or the use of inert gases during the construction phase to displace air within the lower fluid storage tank 102B. A technical effect of a hermetically sealed lower fluid storage tank 102B is to provide an airtight lower upper lower fluid storage tank that does not allow retained water vapour to escape through evaporation or leakages. Therefore, reducing the risk of hazardous situations that might arise from the escape of fluids or the ingress of contaminants, thereby enhancing the safety of the overall system. Conduit / Penstock The penstock line conduit 104 comprises a tube or series of tubes or similar with a first end / ends that is / are fluidically connected to the fluid outlet 106 of the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The elongated body or the main body of the penstock line conduit 104 extends downwards from the upper fluid storage tank 102A so that when in use, the fluid from the upper fluid storage tank 102A is channeled along the penstock line conduit 104 under gravity. The penstock line conduit 104 may be constructed from durable materials such as steel, reinforced plastic, concrete and the like to ensure structural integrity and minimize leakage. Herein, the term interconnecting indicates importance of the penstock line conduit 104 as a connecting channel that facilitates efficient fluid communication between the upper fluid storage tank 102A and the lower fluid storage tank 102B. The penstock line conduit 104 is designed to withstand high pressure and potential turbulence associated with the fluid movement. It will be appreciated that the penstock line conduit 104 ensures efficient fluid flow for maintaining energy supply and demand balance during peak electricity demand periods. The first end 104A refers to an end of the penstock line conduit 104 that is attached to the outlet 106 of the upper fluid storage tank 102A. Notably, the first end 104A is the point from which the HDF begins its journey from the upper fluid storage tank 102A through the penstock line conduit 104. Moreover, specifying the first end 104A ensures that the flow begins from the correct location (upper fluid storage tank) and is channelled towards the lower fluid storage tank 102B. The inlet 108 is an entry point in the lower fluid storage tank 102B that allows the HDF to flow into the lower fluid storage tank 102B from the penstock line conduit 104. Notably, the inlet 108 is essential for ensuring the HDF enters the lower fluid storage tank 102B in a regulated and directed manner. The inlet 108 facilitates maintaining the pressure balance and preventing the escape of the HDF from the hydro storage system. The second end 104B of the penstock line conduit 104 is a terminating end of the penstock line conduit 104 that is attached to the inlet 108 within the lower fluid storage tank 102B.The penstock line conduit 104 is sealed at both the outlet 106 in the upper fluid storage tank 102A and the inlet 108 in the lower fluid storage tank 102B to prevent leaks and control fluid flows. Vent Line Conduit The vent line conduit 110 is a second conduit in the fluid control system 100 that is designed to allow the passage of water vapours of the HDF between the lower fluid storage tank 102B and the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The vent line conduit 110 serves a crucial role in maintaining pressure equilibrium and managing vapour within the hydro storage system. The vent line conduit 110 forms an essential component of the fluid control system 100 designed to manage the transfer of water vapour between the upper fluid storage tank 102A and the lower fluid storage tank 102B. The vent line conduit 110 facilitates humidity control within the fluid control system 100 and removes the need for the compensation of the lost HDF due to evaporation in the fluid storage tanks. A technical effect of using the vent line conduit 110 in the fluid control system 100 is to prevent the loss of the fluid modes (such as gas or vapour phases of the fluid) and to maintain pressure equilibrium between both the fluid storage tanks. The inner area of the vent line conduit 110 provides a controlled pathway for the water vapours, the vent line conduit 110 contributes to the proper functioning of the fluid control system 100 and ensures efficient fluid handling. Furthermore, the vent line conduit 110 may be retrospectively supplied and fitted to a hydro storage system. Therefore, the vent line conduit 110 may be available as a spare part or accessory to an existing hydro storage system. The water vapour is a gaseous state of the water present in the HDF fluid retained in the upper fluid storage tank 102 A. The water vapour is formed when the liquid water present in the HDF evaporates due to temperature changes or pressure differences. Due to the change in the level of the HDF due to the movement of the HDF between the upper fluid storage tank 102A and the lower fluid storage tank 102B, the space generated by the movement of the HDF is filled with the water vapour. The communication is a process of transferring or conveying the water vapour or air through the vent line conduit 110 from the lower fluid storage tank 102B to the upper fluid storage tank 102A in the hydro storage system. In this regard, the vent line conduit serves as a medium through which the water vapour can be moved or transported. Moreover, the water present in the HDF will stop evaporating once the air has become saturated. By keeping the saturated air within both the upper and lower reservoirs will prevent further evaporation of the of the water from the HDF. Therefore, technical effect of preventing the loss of saturated air controls the loss of water from the HDF retained within the system. As temperature and or atmospheric pressure changes, water might come out of the air and condense in the vent line conduit 110. This water then flows back down into the lower fluid storage tank 102B without affecting the HDF volumes. A technical effect of communicating the water vapour is to prevent pressure imbalances and potential HDF loss in the hydro storage system. The diameter of the vent line conduit 110 is smaller than the penstock line conduit 104. The comparison of the vent line conduit 110 to the penstock line conduit 104 suggests that the vent line conduit 110 has a narrower internal width than the penstock line conduit 104, which is responsible for transporting HDF. The vent line conduit is designed with smaller diameter to communicate the water vapour and for air management rather than fluid transportation between the lower and the upper fluid storage tank. The size of the vent line conduit 110 is optimized for the lower flow rates and lower pressure associated with water vapour communication, while the penstock line conduit's 104 larger diameter accommodates the significant flow and pressure required to transfer large volumes of the HDF between fluid storage tanks. A technical effect is that the penstock line conduit 104 and the vent line conduit 110 allow the fluid control system 100 to efficiently and safely manage both the HDF and water vapour phases in the hydro storage system, respectively. The smaller diameter vent line conduit ensures controlled vapour communication without disrupting the flow of the HDF. The elongated body of the vent line conduit 110 is the extended part between the upper fluid storage tank 102A and the lower fluid storage tank 102B in the hydro storage system. Notably, the elongated body facilitates the movement of vapour or gas therebetween. It will be appreciated that the elongation ensures that the vent line conduit can effectively connect the upper and the lower fluid storage tanks over a potentially considerable vertical or horizontal distance, depending on the design and placement of the fluid storage tanks. The first end 110A of the vent line conduit 110 is connected to the upper fluid storage tank through which the water vapours enters in the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The inlet 112 of the upper fluid storage tank 102A is an entry point through which the water vapour enters in the upper fluid storage tank 102A. The first end of the elongated body of the vent line conduit is connected to the inlet 112 arranged in the upper fluid storage tank 102A to communicate the water vapour from the lower fluid storage tank 102B. The connection between the first end 110A of the vent line conduit 110 and the inlet 112 of the upper fluid storage tank 102A is airtight. The first end 110A of the elongate body is hermetically sealed to the inlet 112 of the upper fluid storage tank 102A, so that no fluid or the water vapour can escape or enter the hydro storage system at the aforementioned connection. Moreover, the hermetic seal ensures that the fluid control system 100 is fully contained, preventing any external contaminants, air, or moisture from entering the upper fluid storage tank. It will be appreciated that the said hermetically sealed connection is critical in controlling the pressure, vapour, and fluid flow within the hydro storage system, especially when dealing with the HDF and ensuring that the system remains pressurized correctly. Moreover, attachment of the first end 110A of the elongated body of the vent line conduit 110 above the level of the retained HDF in the upper fluid storage tank 102A signifies that the vent line conduit's inlet 112 is located in a region of the upper fluid storage tank 102A where no HDF is present, only water vapour or air. It will be appreciated that the positioning of the first end 110A of the vent line conduit 110 above the fluid level ensures that only water vapour (or another gas) is drawn into the vent line conduit 110, preventing HDF from entering the vent line conduit 110. A technical effect of positioning the first end 110A attachment above the retained HDF level is to prevent the HDF from inadvertently entering the vent line conduit 110, which would lead to fluid loss and could reduce the fluid control system's 100 efficiency. The second end 110B of the vent line conduit 110 is attached to the outlet 114 of the lower fluid storage tank 102B in the hydro storage system. Moreover, the outlet 114 serves as an exit point in the lower fluid storage tank 102B through which the water vapour flows out and enters the vent line conduit for further transfer to the upper fluid storage tank. The outlet 114 serves as the controlled release point of the water vapour from the lower fluid storage tank 102B through the elongated body of the vent line conduit 110. Moreover, the connection between the second end 110B of the vent line conduit 110 and the outlet 114 of the lower fluid storage tank 102B is airtight. The second end 110B of the elongate body is hermetically sealed to the outlet 114 of the lower fluid storage tank 102B, so that no fluid or the water vapour can escape or enter the hydro storage system. A technical effect of using hermetic sealing is to ensure that no water vapour is lost through the vent line conduit’s connection to the lower fluid storage tank. Additionally, the hermetic seal ensures that no retained water vapour escapes through evaporation or leakages inro local environment around the outlet 114. The attachment of the second end 110B of the elongated body of the vent line conduit 110 above the level of the retained HDF in the lower fluid storage tank 102B signifies that the vent line conduit's 110 outlet is located in a region of the lower fluid storage tank 102B where no HDF is present, only water vapour or air. It will be appreciated that the positioning of the second end 110B of the vent line conduit 110 above the fluid level L2 ensures that only water vapour (or another gas) is communicated through the elongated body of the vent line conduit 110 and prevents the HDF from entering the vent line conduit 110 and potentially causing blockages or improper fluid transfer in the hydro storage system. A technical effect of positioning the second end 110B attachment above the retained HDF level L2 in the lower fluid storage tank 102B is to ensures that no HDF enters the vent line conduit through the outlet 114 of the lower fluid storage tank 102B, avoiding potential blockages or fluid mismanagement. As shown in figure 2, a valve device 216 controls the flow of the HDF and the water vapour between the connected penstock line conduit 204 and vent line conduit 210, which in use manages pressure surges during transient events within the hydro storage system. The valve device 216 can come in various forms such as gate valves, ball valves, check valves, globe valves, passive valves and the like valves based on the required flow control and operational characteristics. The first valve device 216A and the second valve device 216B are connected from the inner area of the penstock line conduit 204 to the inner area of the vent line conduit 210. The inner area refers to the inner surface of the vent line conduit 210 through which the water vapour travels between the fluid storage tanks. The operational connection is designed to handle different fluid pressures, volumes, and flow rates, and may incorporate the valve device to facilitate regulation and control. Notably, the operable connection provided by the valve device 216 ensures that operators can manage the interactions between the penstock line conduit 204 and vent line conduit 210, facilitating the control of vapour flow and pressure management within the system. It allows for maintenance and flexibility in the hydro storage system, enabling operators to isolate sections for inspection, repair, or adjustment without disrupting the entire system's operation. The valve device 216 can be opened or closed to either allow or restrict fluid flow, depending on the operational requirements. In this regard, the second valve device 216B is opened to release the excess pressure or prevent vacuum conditions, by directing the excess HDF into the penstock line conduit 204 and recirculating it back to the fluid storage tanks in the hydro storage system. Furthermore, when the first valve device 216A is opened, the valve enables water vapour from the vent line conduit 210 to be introduced into the penstock line 204, facilitating processes such as pressure equalization or condensation management. In the event of a vacuum break, humid air from the vent line conduit 210 is drawn into the penstock line conduit 204 and no water vapour needs to be vented to the atmosphere. A technical effect is that the valve device's 216 ability to regulate fluid dynamics helps mitigate potential safety hazards associated with pressure imbalances or fluid overflows and avoid the loss of the HDF in over-pressure situations. Moreover, the pressure sensor 218 measures the pressure of the HDF within the penstock line conduit 204. The pressure sensor 218 converts the physical pressure of the HDF into an electrical signal that can be processed and interpreted by a controlling system. Notably, the primary function of the pressure sensor is to monitor and determine an increase in the fluid pressure within the penstock line conduit 104, providing real-time data about the monitored pressure. The controlling means manages and regulates the operation of the valve device 216 based on the inputs received from the pressure sensor 218. Typically, the controlling means can take various forms, including electronic controllers, software algorithms, or mechanical systems that process sensor data to make decisions regarding the valve operation. Moreover, by being operably connected to the controlling means for the valve device 216, the pressure sensor 218 enables automated regulation of the fluid flow. For example, if the fluid (HDF) pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, the controlling means can activate the valve device 216B to open and divert the HDF within the penstock line conduit 204 into the vent line conduit 210 through the valve device 216B. Therefore, reducing the fluid pressure within the penstock line conduit 204 and thereby preventing potential damage or inefficiencies from occurring within the hydro storage system. The pressure sensor 218 provides valuable feedback for system analysis and optimization, enabling operators to make informed decisions about fluid management, the pressure sensor 218 continuously collects data regarding the fluid pressure within the vent line conduit. Subsequently, the data is transmitted to the controlling means, which analyses the pressure readings against predetermined thresholds. Based on the analysis, the controlling means decides how to operate the valve device 216 (e.g., opening) to regulate fluid flow and maintain desired pressure levels. A technical effect of using the pressure sensor 218A, 218B is that fluid control system can dynamically adjust the flow of HDF between the upper fluid storage tank 202A and lower fluid storage tank 202B, leading to potential energy savings. It will be appreciated that if the HDF pressure decreases from a predetermined threshold, the controlling means can activate the valve device 216A to open and divert the water vapour or the gas within the vent line conduit 210 to the penstock line conduit 204 through the valve device 216A to increase the fluid pressure in the fluid storage tank, preventing potential damage or inefficiencies in the hydro storage system. Additionally, the automated control mechanism reduces the likelihood of human error and enhances the reliability of the hydro storage system to manage the transient control. Moreover, the valves 216 may be in the form of passive valves, which controls the flow of HDF through the body of the valve without the requirement of being electrically or mechanically driven, at predetermined pressure and / or flow conditions. The vent line conduit 204 may be provided as a spare part component which can be retrofitted to new and / or existing fluid control systems 100,200. As shown in figure 3, at step 302, a water vapour is communicated through the vent line conduit from the lower fluid storage tank to the upper fluid storage tank. At step 304, the water vapour is condensed on a portion of the inner wall within the vent line conduit. At step 306, the captured condensed water is returned, whereby the water flows along the inner wall within the vent line conduit to the lower fluid storage tank. The present disclosure provides an aforementioned fluid control system and fluid control method that efficiently prevents loss of HDF and air, stored in a hydro storage system, during operation. Moreover, controlling the fluid loss maintains efficiency and economic viability of the system. The interconnecting penstock line conduit allows for controlled movement of the HDF between the upper and lower storage tanks. At the same time, the vent line conduit, which is connected to both tanks, prevents air from escaping the fluid control system. This closed-loop system design ensures that no fluid is lost due to evaporation or venting. By maintaining the integrity of the HDF within the closed system, this aspect not only reduces operating costs but also improves the reliability of the storage system. Furthermore, the vent line conduit also helps to manage pressure fluctuations within the hydro storage system. The vent line conduit helps equalize the air pressure between the upper and lower tanks, reducing the likelihood of adverse conditions such as risk of over-pressurization or vacuum conditions within the penstock line. This ensures smooth fluid flow, prevents damage to the system’s infrastructure and maintains stable operation even during transient events.

Claims

1. A fluid control system (100, 200) for preventing the loss of a fluid modes of a high-density fluid (HDF) retained in a hydro storage system, comprising:an upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A) configured to retain a volume of HDF;a lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B) configured to retain a volume of HDF;an interconnecting penstock line conduit (104, 204) configured to communicate a retained HDF from the upper fluid storage tank to the lower fluid storage tank; wherein the penstock line conduit is attached at a first end (104A, 204A) to an outlet (106, 206) arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end (104B, 204B) attached to an inlet (108, 208) within the lower fluid storage tank;characterised in thatthe fluid control system further comprises a vent line conduit (110, 210) comprising an elongate body with a first end (110A, 210A) attached to an inlet (112, 212) arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end (110B, 210B) attached to an outlet (114, 214) arranged in the lower fluid storage tank.

2. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in claim 1 wherein an inner area of the vent line conduit (110, 210) allows a communication of water vapour between the lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B) and upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A).

3. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a valve device (216) that provides an operable connection from an inner area of the penstock line conduit (104, 204) to the inner area of the vent line conduit (110,210).

4. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the penstock line conduit (104, 204) further comprises a pressure sensor (218) operably connected to a controlling means for operating the valve device (216).

5. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first end (110A, 210A) attachment of the vent line conduit (110, 210) is above the retained HDF level (L1) within the upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A).

6. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second end (110B, 210B) attachment of the vent line conduit (110, 210) is above the retained HDF level (L2) within the lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B).

7. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A) is a closed tank.

8. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A) is hermetically sealed.

9. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B) is a closed tank.

10. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lower fluid tank (102B, 202B) is hermetically sealed.

11. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 10, wherein the vent line conduit (110,210) comprises a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the penstock line conduit (104, 204).

12. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 11, wherein the first end (110A, 210A) of the vent line conduit (110, 210) is hermetically sealed to the inlet (112, 212) of the upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A).

13. A fluid control system (100, 200) as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the second end (110B, 210B) of the vent line conduit (110, 210) is hermetically sealed to the outlet (114, 214) of the lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B).

14. A vent line conduit (110, 210) as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 13 for use in a fluid control system (100, 200).

15. A fluid control method for controlling the loss of a fluid modes of a high-density fluid (HDF) retained in a hydro storage system, comprising an upper fluid storage tank (102A, 202A) configured to retain a volume of HDF, a lower fluid storage tank (102B, 202B) configured to retain a volume of HDF and an interconnecting penstock line conduit (104, 204) configured to communicate a retained HDF from the upper fluid storage tank to the lower fluid storage tank; wherein the penstock line conduit is attached at a first end (104A, 204A) to an outlet (106, 206) arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end (104B, 204B) attached to an inlet (108, 208) within the lower fluid storage tank; a vent line conduit (110,210) comprising a first end (110A, 210A) attached to an inlet (112,212) arranged in the upper fluid storage tank and a second end (110B, 210B) attached to an outlet (114, 214) arranged in the lower fluid storage tank;the method comprising the steps of:i. communicating a water vapour through the vent line conduit from the lower fluid storage tank to the upper fluid storage tank;II. condensing the water vapour on a portion of the inner wall within the vent line conduit;ill. returning the captured condensed water, whereby the water flows along the inner wall within the vent line conduit to the lower fluid storage tank.

16. A fluid control method as claimed in claim 15, further comprising the steps of:i. determining a fluid pressure increase from a pressure sensor device arranged on the penstock line conduit (104, 204);II. activating a valve device (216) that provides an operable connection from the inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit (110, 210);ill. diverting the HDF fluid within the penstock line conduit into the vent line conduit, via the valve device;iv. communicating the diverted HDF within the vent line to the lower fluid storage tank(102B, 202B).

17. A fluid control method as claimed in claim 16, further comprising the steps of:i. determining a fluid pressure decrease from a pressure sensor device arranged on the penstock line conduit (104, 204);II. activating a valve device (216) that provides an operable connection from the inner area of the penstock line conduit to the inner area of the vent line conduit (110, 210);ill. diverting a gas within the vent line conduit into the penstock line conduit, via the valve device.

Images