Fluid control system and fluid control method for recirculating high-density fluid

Abstract

A fluid control system 100 for recirculating high-density fluid (HDF) to maintain homogeneity in the high density fluid comprises a fluid storage tank 102 to retain a volume of HDF, the fluid storage

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The description relates to a fluid control system. More particularly, the present invention relates to fluid control system for recycling a high-density fluid (HDF). The present invention also relates to a fluid control method for controlling the build-up in a fluid control system. BACKGROUND Advancement in the field of fluid management systems, particularly the ones related to high-density fluids for large-scale energy storage, has gained popularity over the years due to its potential applications in various industries such as oil and gas drilling, renewable energy, and environmental management. The fluid management systems play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of various processes such as handling, transport, and storage of the high-density fluids. The fluid management systems are designed to address challenges related to fluid stratification, circulation, stability, and longevity. However, in the fluid management systems, several problems have been identified, particularly in relation to the stratification of fluids during periods of non-circulation of the high-density fluids or maintenance shutdowns. The stratification occurs when heavier particles in the fluid settle at the bottom of the reservoir, creating a vertical gradient in fluid properties of the high-density fluids, which leads to uneven performance, reduced efficiency, and potential system failures. The present solution of fluid mixing and circulation in the fluid management systems have proven to be inefficient and energy-intensive, especially when dealing with large volumes of the high-density fluid. Additionally, the use of high-density fluids, such as those employed in pumped hydro energy storage systems, presents unique challenges in terms of maintaining the fluid's physical and chemical properties over long periods and large volumes. 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 recirculating a high-density fluid (HDF), 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 build-up in a fluid control 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 recirculating a high-density fluid (HDF), comprising: a fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of HDF, the fluid storage tank having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet located at substantially the lowest point of the fluid storage tank; characterised in that the fluid control system further comprises a sludge line conduit attached at a first end to the tank outlet, wherein the fluid storage tank has a tank inlet at or towards the top of the fluid storage tank and the sludge line conduit is attached at a second end to the tank inlet; a circulatory device is operably attached to the sludge line conduit for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet to the tank inlet. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a sample outlet arranged at a first position on the wall of the fluid storage tank and a sample line conduit attached at a first end to the sample outlet. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a dosing line conduit attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir containing a dosing fluid and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit before to the inlet of the circulatory device. In an embodiment, the interconnection of the dosing line conduit to the sludge line conduit provides a mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit for combining a HDF with the dosing fluid. In an embodiment, the sample line conduit further comprises a sensor device for generating data indicative of a property of the retained HDF extracted from the sample outlet of the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit further comprises a dispensing device for dispensing the dosing fluid provided by the dosing line conduit In an embodiment, the sludge line conduit comprises a first valve device arranged between the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank and the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. In an embodiment, the sludge line conduit comprises a second valve device arranged between the mixing chamber and the circulatory device. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a controlling means for processing the data indicative of a property of the retained HDF and controlling the communication of a dose substance to the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. In an embodiment, the property indicated in the data is one of: pH, specific gravity (SG), viscosity, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, and the like of the retained HDF. In an embodiment, the wall of the fluid storage tank further comprises a second sample outlet arranged at a second position. In an embodiment, the circulatory device is a bi-directional device which in a first rotational movement circulates a retained HDF within the sludge line conduit from the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank, and in a second rotational movement circulates a retained HDF within the sludge line conduit from the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the circulatory device is a progressive cavity pump device. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a spray bar arranged within the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the spray bar extends across a width portion of the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the spray bar comprises an array of orifices that are sized to provide a consistent pressure drop across the spray bar. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises an array of spray bars, wherein each spray bar in the array of spray bars is spaced along a length portion of the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the fluid control system further comprises a valve arranged between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank. In a second aspect of the present invention may broadly be said to consist in a fluid control method for controlling build-up in a fluid control system that comprises a fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of High-Density-Fluid (HDF), the fluid storage tank having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet, a sludge line conduit attached at a first end to the tank outlet; the fluid storage tank further comprises a tank inlet and the second end of the sludge line is attached to the tank inlet, a circulatory device is operably attached to the sludge line conduit for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet to the tank inlet, the method comprising: operating the circulatory device intermittently for a predetermined time and HDF flowrate for every hour in which the fluid control system is in use; operating the circulatory device to circulate the retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one day in the event of a fluid failure; selecting a frequency and duration of operating the circulatory device to circulate the volume of retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one week; and operating the fluid control system independently from a primary control system in which the fluid control system is a secondary component thereof. In an embodiment, the fluid control method further comprises the step of: withdrawing a sample of retained HDF from the fluid storage tank via a sample line conduit attached at a first end to a sample outlet arranged at a first position on the wall of the fluid storage tank. In an embodiment, the fluid control method further comprises the step of: dispensing a dosing fluid from a dosing line conduit attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit. In an embodiment, the fluid control method further comprises the step of: generating data indicative of a level of HDF fluid within the fluid storage tank; activating a first valve to allow the flow of HDF through a first spray bar at a first position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a maximum level within the fluid storage tank; and activating a second valve to allow the flow of HDF through a second spray bar at a second position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a minimum level within the fluid storage tank. 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 is a schematic illustration of a fluid control system for recirculating a high-density fluid (HDF), in accordance with an embodiment of the description. Figure 2 is an illustration of a block diagram of a transition between modes of a fluid control system, in accordance with an embodiment of the description. Figures 3A and 3B are illustrations of block diagrams of a hierarchy of operations in a fluid control system in different implementations, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the description. Figure 4 is an illustration of a flow chart depicting the steps of a fluid control method for controlling build-up in a fluid control system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the description 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 for recirculating a high-density fluid (HDF) according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in figure 1. The system 100 comprises a fluid storage tank 102 configured to retain a volume of HDF. the fluid storage tank 102 having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet 104 located at substantially the lowest point of the fluid storage tank 102. Moreover, the fluid control system 100 comprises a sludge line conduit 106 attached at a first end to the tank outlet 104, wherein the fluid storage tank 102 has a tank inlet 108 at or towards the top of the fluid storage tank 102 and the sludge line conduit 106 is attached at a second end to the tank inlet 108. Furthermore, the fluid control system 100 a circulatory device 110 is operably attached to the sludge line conduit 106 for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet 104 to the tank inlet 108, characterised in that the wall of the fluid storage tank 102 further comprises a sample outlet 112 arranged at a first position and a sample line conduit 114 attached at a first end to the sample outlet 112. The sample line conduit 114 may further comprise a sensor device 116 for generating data indicative of a property of the retained HDF extracted from the sample outlet 112 of the fluid storage tank 102. The second end of the sample line conduit 114 is attached to a sample fluid holding reservoir. The fluid control system 100 may further comprise a dosing line conduit 118 attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir 120 containing a dosing fluid and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit 106 before to the inlet of the circulatory device 110. The sludge line conduit 106 may comprise a first valve device 122 arranged between the tank outlet 104 of the fluid storage tank 102 and a mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit 102. The sludge line conduit may further comprise a second valve device 124 arranged between the mixing chamber and the circulatory device 110. The wall of the fluid storage tank 102 may further comprise a second sample outlet 126 arranged at a second position. The described fluid control system can prevent and remove stratification in the High-Density Fluid (HDF). The fluid control system effectively ensures fluid stability even during extended periods of inactivity. Moreover, the sloped base in the fluid storage tank enables to recirculate the HDF in an optimized manner, effectively re-agitating settled particles in the HDF with minimal energy consumption. Furthermore, the components of the fluid control system work synergistically to maintain homogeneity of the HDF and prevent sludge build-up in the HDF. The described system provides a fluid control method that can prevent and remove stratification in the High-Density Fluid (HDF). The fluid control method effectively ensures fluid stability even during extended periods of inactivity. Moreover, the sloped base in the fluid storage tank enables to recirculate the HDF in an optimized manner, effectively reagitating settled particles in the HDF with minimal energy consumption. Furthermore, the fluid control method works synergistically to maintain homogeneity of the HDF and prevent sludge build-up in the HDF. Although some modes of carrying out the description have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the description are also possible. The system elements and their inter-relationship are described below. The fluid storage tank Throughout the description, the term "high-density fluid (HDF)" refers to the specific fluid used in the high-density hydro energy storage applications and is subject to stratification when not circulated for extended periods. The HDF, which consists of a suspension of fine solid mineral particles in water with a solid fraction close to 80%, is stored in large volumes within the fluid storage tank. Moreover, the solid mineral particles may be in the form of Barium Sulphate (also known as Barite) particles. Throughout the description, the term "fluidstorage tank" refers to a container or vessel designed to hold and store the HDF used in the high-density hydro energy storage applications. Notably, the volume of the HDF retained by the fluid storage tank refers to the amount of space occupied by the fluid within the storage tank, typically measured in cubic units. Throughout the description, the term "walls" refers to the vertical structures that enclose the fluid storage tank and provide support for containment of the HDF within the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "floor" refers to the horizontal surface at the bottom of the reservoir on which the HDF rests. Throughout the description, the term "sloped base" refers to a gradually inclined surface that facilitates the flow of the HDF towards the tank outlet. Moreover, the sloped base of the fluid storage tank facilitates the natural movement of the heaviest particles of the HDF towards the lowest point where the tank outlet is located in the fluid storage tank, ensuring efficient collection and recirculation of the HDF. Throughout the description, the term "tank outlet" refers to the opening or passage through which the HDF is discharged from the fluid storage tank. Notably, the tank outlet is located at substantially the lowest point in the fluid storage tank as the HDF settles and accumulates due to its higher density at the lowest point in the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "tank inlet" refers to the opening in the fluid storage tank through which the HDF enters the fluid storage tank. Notably, the tank inlet being at or towards the top of the fluid storage tank ensures that the HDF is recirculated back into fluid storage tank from the top to remove separate the unstratified HDF at the top of the fluid storage tank from the stratified HDF accumulated at the lowest point of the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "stratified" refers to dense, heavy or settled fluid. Throughout the description, the term "second end" refers to the opposite or far end of the sludge line conduit, which is used for the circulation or transfer of the HDF within the fluid control system. The sludge line conduit is attached at the second end to the tank inlet which ensures that the HDF is evenly distributed throughout the fluid storage tank, preventing localized buildup of heavy particles in the HDF. The use of a tank inlet at or towards the top of the fluid storage tank, along with the attachment to second end the sludge line conduit, enables thorough mixing of the HDF and prevents stratification. Throughout the description, the term "sample outlet" refers to a specific opening or hole through which a small portion of the HDF within the fluid storage tank is extracted as a sample for analysis or testing purposes. Sludge Line conduit Throughout the description, the term "sludge line conduit" refers to a conduit or pipe that is specifically designed and positioned to remove or extract the heavier particles or sludge in the HDF settled at the lowest point of the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "first end" refers to one of the two ends of the sludge line conduit, with the first end being the end that is attached to the tank outlet. The sludge line conduit draws the HDF from the tank outlet, where the heaviest particles in the HDF have settled, and pumps it to the opposite end of the fluid storage tank, i.e., towards the tank inlet. The sludge line conduit is designed to recirculate the HDF to maintain the homogeneity and prevent stratification in the HDF. It will be appreciated that attaching the sludge line conduit to the tank outlet ensures that the HDF is drawn from the lowest point of the fluid storage tank. The sludge line conduit may comprise a first valve device arranged between the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank and the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. In this regard, the term "first valve device" refers to a mechanical component that controls the flow of the HDF from the tank outlet to the mixing chamber. Notably, the first valve device controls an amount of the HDF that flows from the fluid storage tank to the mixing chamber and prevents any undesired backflow or leakage of the HDF. A technical effect of the sludge line conduit comprising the first valve device enables to control and regulate the flow of the HDF in the sludge line conduit to ensure effective circulation of the HDF in the sludge line conduit. The sludge line conduit may comprise a second valve device arranged between the mixing chamber and the circulatory device. In this regard, the term "second valve device" refers to a mechanical component or apparatus that is designed to control the flow of the HDF from the mixing chamber to the circulatory device. The presence of the second valve device in the sludge line conduit enables to optimize the recirculation process and prevent stratification of the HDF. Notably, controlling the flow between the mixing chamber and the circulatory device ensures thorough mixing of the HDF and even distribution of heavier particles in the HDF. A technical effect is that the second valve device ensures effective recirculation of the HDF and prevents stratification in the HDF to meet the desired specifications. The sludge line conduit may comprise one or more sensors for sensing the pressure within the sludge line conduit. The sensors are preferably one or more pressure transducers that are suitable for sensing a pressure increase within the sludge line conduit, which is caused by a build-up of HDF within the sludge line conduit. Circulatory device Throughout the description, the term "circulatory device" refers to a mechanical apparatus or unit that is designed to facilitate the movement or circulation of the HDF. The circulatory device being operably attached to the sludge line conduit implies that the circulatory device and the sludge line conduit are connected or linked in a manner that allows them to function together or interact with each other. The circulation of the flow of the retained HDF may be continuous or periodic from the tank outlet to the tank inlet. The term "retained HDF' refers to the HDF that is held or kept within the fluid storage tank. Moreover, the circulatory device may be configured as a bi-directional device which in a first rotational movement circulates the retained HDF within the sludge line conduit from the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank, and in a second rotational movement circulates the retained HDF within the sludge line conduit from the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank. In this regard, the term "bi-directional device" refers to a component capable of facilitating movement of the HDF in two opposite directions. Throughout the description, the term "first rotational movement" refers to the circular movement of the HDF from the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank in a repetitive manner. Throughout the description, the term "second rotational movement" refers to the circular movement of the HDF from the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank in a repetitive manner. Notably, the first rotational movement and second rotational movement of the retained HDF in the sludge line conduit is bi-directional (i.e., in opposite directions) which ensures that the retained HDF in the sludge line conduit is thoroughly mixed for maintaining homogeneity in the retained HDF in the sludge line conduit. A technical effect is that the circulatory device being the bidirectional device enables to circulate the retained HDF in the sludge line conduit in the first rotational movement and the second rotational movement to effectively remove any stratification in the retained HDF. The circulatory device may be configured as a progressive cavity pump device. In this regard, the term "progressive cavity pump device" refers to a type of positive displacement pump that consists of a helical rotor and a stator, where the rotor rotates eccentrically within the stator to create a series of sealed cavities that progress from the suction side to the discharge side, thereby effectively pumping the HDF with a smooth and continuous flow. The progressive cavity pump device is designed to draw the HDF from the lowest point of the fluid storage tank, where the heaviest particles of the HDF have settled and pumps the HDF at the opposite end towards the top of the fluid storage tank. The circulatory device being the progressive cavity pump device provides a reliable and effective means to circulate the HDF in the sludge line conduit. Notably, the progressive cavity pump device can circulate the HDF bi-directionally in the first rotational movement and the second rotational movement, allowing for optimal fluid mixing of the HDF in the sludge line conduit. A technical effect of the circulatory device being the progressive cavity pump is the efficient handling of the HDF and reliable circulation of the HDF in the sludge line conduit. Notably, the circulatory device being operated intermittently implies that the circulatory device is operated in a non-continuous manner for the predetermined time for every hour in which the fluid control system is in use. The term "predetermined time" refers to a specific duration or period during which the circulatory device is intermittently operated for every in which the fluid control system is in use. The term "HDF flowrate" refers to the rate at which the HDF is circulated or moved through the fluid control system, typically measured in volume per unit of time. The circulatory device being operated intermittently for the predetermined time and the HDF flowrate for every hour in which the fluid control system is in use enables to save power and resources by not operating the circulatory device when the fluid control system is not in use. Throughout the description, the term "fluid failure" refers to a scenario in which the stratification of the HDF occurs. Notably, operating the circulatory device to circulate the retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one day in the event of the fluid failure enables to recirculate the HDF to remove the stratification of the HDF in the event of the fluid failure. Moreover, the selection of the frequency and duration of operating the circulatory device to circulate the volume of retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one week enables to determine that how many time and for how much duration the circulatory device is to be operated within one week. Throughout the description, the term "primary control system" refers to a control system in which the main function in not carried out by the fluid control system. Subsequently, the fluid control system being the secondary component of the primary control system implies that the fluid control system is operated independently to carry out a secondary operation in the primary control system. Sample line conduit Throughout the description, the term "sample line conduit" refers to a conduit or pipe that connects the sample outlet to a measuring or sampling device, allowing the extracted fluid sample to be transported for further examination. Throughout the description, the term "first position" refers to a specific position or orientation at which the sample outlet is arranged on the fluid storage tank. The sample outlet and the sample line conduit are designed to enable the extraction of sample HDF for monitoring of various fluid properties, such as pH, specific gravity, viscosity, dissolved oxygen, and total dissolved solids in the HDF. Notably, the sample HDF is extracted from different heights within the fluid storage tank to detect signs of stratification and provide valuable data for analysis of the HDF. The presence of the sample outlet and the sample line conduit allows for continuous monitoring of the HDF's properties at different levels within the fluid storage tank, which helps in identifying any stratification that may occur, ensuring the HDF remains homogeneous. The data gathered from the sampling line aids in maintaining fluid stability in the HDF and enables dose chemicals into the sludge line conduit if required effectively. The wall of the fluid storage tank may further comprise a second sample outlet arranged at a second position. In this regard, the term "second position" refers to a position within the fluid storage tank where the second sample outlet is placed. Throughout the description, the term "second sample outlet" refers to another opening or hole through which another small portion of the HDF within the fluid storage tank is extracted as the sample for analysis or testing purposes. The second sample outlet is strategically placed at the second position to extract another sample from the HDF at a different height within the fluid storage tank, allowing for the monitoring of various fluid properties such as the pH, the specific gravity, the viscosity, the dissolved oxygen, and the total dissolved solids at different heights in the fluid storage tank. A technical effect is that the presence of the second sample outlet at the second position enables the detection of any signs of stratification in the HDF at different heights in the fluid storage tank, which is crucial for maintaining fluid homogeneity and preventing the formation of layers with varying properties in the HDF. The sample line conduit may further comprise a sensor device for generating data indicative of a property of the retained HDF extracted from the sample outlet of the fluid storage tank. In this regard, the term "sensor device" refers to a device that detects and measures physical or chemical properties of the HDF and converts them into electrical signals. Throughout the description, the term "data" refers to information of the HDF that is collected, stored, and processed by the sensor device. Throughout the description, the term "property" refers to a characteristic or attribute of the retained HDF indicated in the data generated by the sensor device. Notably, the data generated by the sensor data being indicative of the property of the retained HDF provides insights into the properties of the retained HDF and enables effective monitoring of the HDF. A technical effect is that the stratification in the HDF is effectively detected by analysing and monitoring the data generated by the sensor device that is indicative of the property of the retained HDF. The property indicated in the data may be one of: pH, specific gravity (SG), viscosity, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, and the like of the retained HDF. In this regard, the term "pH" refers to the measure of acidity or alkalinity of the HDF, indicating the concentration of hydrogen ions present in the HDF. Throughout the description, the term "specific gravity (SG)" refers to the ratio of the density of the HDF to the density of a reference substance, typically water. Throughout the description term "viscosity" refers to the measure of the HDF's resistance to flow, indicating its internal friction. Throughout the description, the term "dissolved oxygen" refers to the amount of oxygen gas that is dissolved in the HDF. Throughout the description, the term "total dissolved solids" refers to the measure of all inorganic and organic substances that are dissolved in the HDF, typically expressed in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per litre (mg / L). A technical effect of the property indicated in the data being one of the aforementioned properties is that a wide range of characteristics associated with the HDF are indicated in the data for further analysis. Dosing line conduit The fluid control system may further comprise a dosing line conduit attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir containing a dosing fluid and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit before to the inlet of the circulatory device. In this regard, the term "dosing line conduit" refers to a channel or passage that is used to transport the dosing fluid from the dosing fluid reservoir to the sludge line conduit. Throughout the description, the term "dosing fluid reservoir" refers to a container or storage unit that holds the dosing fluid, which is used to counteract the stratification of the HDF. Throughout the description, the term "dosing fluid" refers to a specific fluid or solution that is added in controlled quantities to the HDF to adjust its properties, such as pH, and mitigate the effects of stratification. Throughout the description, the term "inlet" refers to a hole or opening towards the circulatory device. Notably, the second end of the dosing line conduit is first attached to the sludge line conduit and then to the inlet of the circulatory device, which ensures that the dosing fluid from the dosing fluid reservoir is properly mixed with the HDF in the sludge line conduit before being reintroduced into the circulatory device. A technical effect is that integrating the dosing line conduit with the sludge line conduit ensures that the dosing fluid is added to the HDF for correcting specific properties in the HDF containing heavier particles. The interconnection of the dosing line conduit to the sludge line conduit may provide a mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit for combining a HDF with the dosing fluid. In this regard, the term "interconnection" refers to the connection or linkage between the dosage line conduit and the sludge line conduit, facilitating the transfer of the dosing fluid from the dosing line conduit to the sludge line conduit. Subsequently, the interconnection of the dosing line conduit to the sludge line conduit creates the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. Throughout the description, the term "mixing chamber" refers to a specific area in the sludge line conduit where the HDF and the dosing fluid are combined and thoroughly mixed to achieve a homogeneous fluid composition in the HDF. The dosing line conduit uses data gathered from the sampling line to dose chemicals into the sludge line conduit, facilitating the combination of the HDF with the dosing fluid. Notably, combining the HDF with the dosing fluid in the mixing chamber ensures homogeneity and prevents the buildup of heavy particles in the HDF, which is crucial for maintaining fluid stability and optimizing the performance of the HDF in energy storage applications. A technical effect is that the stratification in the HDF is prevented by providing the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit via the interconnection of the dosing line conduit to the sludge line conduit. Controlling means The fluid control system may further comprise a controlling means for processing the data indicative of the property of the retained HDF and controlling the communication of a dose substance to the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. In this regard, the term "controlling means" refers to a device or apparatus having processing or computing capabilities. Notably, the processing of the data indicative of the property of the retained HDF enables to determine a real-time condition of the retained HDF. Throughout the description, the term "dose substance" refers to a substance that is administered or delivered in a measured quantity or dosage for a specific purpose or effect in the sludge lie conduit. Notably, the controlling means being configured to control the communication of the dose substance to the mixing chamber implies that the exchange of information between the mixing chamber and the dose substance is controlled by the controlling means. The controlling means processes the data to determine the appropriate level of the dose substance required to correct specific properties of the retained HDF. Subsequently, the determined appropriate level is communicated to the dosage substance via the controlling means. A technical effect is that by processing the data and controlling the communication of the dose substance stratification in the HDF is effectively detected and the appropriate amount of the dosage substance is added to the mixing chamber. Mixing chamber The mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit may further comprise a dispensing device for dispensing the dosing fluid provided by the dosing line conduit. In this regard, the term "dispensing device" refers to a mechanism or apparatus designed to distribute or release the dosing fluid in a controlled manner, typically through a nozzle, outlet, or similar means in the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit. Notably, the presence of the dispensing device in the mixing chamber ensures that the dosing fluid is properly dispensed into the sludge line conduit to be mixed with the HDF. Subsequently, dispensing the dosing fluid directly into the mixing chamber, the dosing fluid is thoroughly blended with the HDF, enhancing the effectiveness of any chemical additives or corrections being made. A technical effect is that the presence of the dispensing device within the mixing chamber allows for precise and controlled dispensing of the dosing fluid and ensures that the dosing fluid is evenly distributed throughout the HDF in the sludge line conduit, promoting thorough mixing and preventing any localized buildup of heavy particles in the HDF. Spray bar The fluid control system may further comprise a spray bar arranged within the fluid storage tank. In this regard, the term "spray bar" refers to a device or mechanism that is used to distribute a liquid, such as the HDF in the fluid storage tank, in a controlled and uniform manner by spraying it over a specific area or surface in the fluid storage tank. The spray bar is equipped with orifices that are sized to ensure consistent pressure drop. Notably, the spray bar spans the width of the fluid storage tank and is placed at various locations along the length of the fluid storage tank. The spray bar is arranged within the fluid storage tank to distribute the HDF evenly throughout the tank, it ensures that settled particles in the HDF are effectively re-agitated with minimal energy consumption. The arrangement of the spray bar within the fluid storage tank, improves the fluid control system's ability to maintain fluid stability and prevent stratification. A technical effect is that the HDF is evenly redistributed into the fluid storage tank in a controlled manner to maintain the homogeneity of particles in the HDF after redistribution into the fluid storage tank. The spray bar may extend across a width portion of the fluid storage tank. In this regard, the term "width portion" refers to the horizontal extent or dimension of the fluid storage tank. The spray bar extending across the width portion of the fluid storage tank enables to evenly distribute the HDF across the width portion of the fluid storage tank. The placement of spray bar across the width of the fluid storage tank ensures consistent pressure and fluid distribution, preventing sludge build-up during recirculation in the sludge line conduit. A technical effect is that the even redistribution of the HDF into the fluid storage tank is ensured across the width portion of the fluid storage tank. The spray bar may comprise an array of orifices that are sized to provide a consistent pressure drop across the spray bar. Notably, the array of orifices implies that the orifices are arranged in a regular pattern or gridlike formation in the spray bar. In this regard, the term "orifices" refers to small openings or apertures that are intentionally created or arranged in the spray bar to allow the controlled flow or passage of the HDF. Throughout the description, the term "pressure drop" refers to the decrease in pressure that occurs in the HDF while passing through the spry bar. Notably, the consistent pressure drop across the spray bar provided by the array of orifices facilitates the even redistribution of the HDF by the spray bar into the fluid storage tank. The size of the orifices is selected such that to maintain the consistent pressure drop across the spray bar. A technical effect is that the presence of the array of orifices in the spray bar effectively provides the consistent pressure drop across the spray bar and facilitates the even redistribution of HDF by the spray bar into the fluid storage tank. The fluid control system may comprise an array of spray bars, wherein each spray bar in the array of spray bars is spaced along a length portion of the fluid storage tank. Notably, the array of spray bars implies that the spray bars are arranged in a regular pattern or grid-like formation along the length portion of the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "length portion" refers to the vertical extent or dimension of the fluid storage tank. Notably, each spray bar from amongst the plurality of spray bars comprises the array of orifices that are sized to provide the consistent pressure drop. The array of spray bars that are spaced along the length portion of the fluid storage tank, span across a whole width of the fluid storage tank. It will be appreciated that the array of spray bars being paced along the length portion of the fluid storage tank implies that each spray bar amongst the array of spray bars is arranged at a different position along the length portion of the fluid storage tank, such that whole of the length portion of the fluid storage tank is uniformly covered with the array of spray bars arranged thereon. A technical effect is that the even redistribution of the HDF into the fluid storage tank is further reinforced by presence of the array of spray bars in the fluid control system. The fluid control system may further comprise a valve arranged between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "valve" refers to a mechanical device that controls the flow of the HDF by opening, closing, or partially obstructing a passageway between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank, thereby regulating the rate, direction, and pressure of the HDF from the spray bar to the inlet of the fluid storage tank. The valve may be selected to be one of: a gate valve, a globe valve, a ball valve, a diaphragm valve, a solenoid valve, and the like. A technical effect of the valve arranged between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank is that the flow of the HDF between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank is effectively controlled and managed. As shown figure 2, a block diagram of a transition between modes of a fluid control system is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the description. As shown, controller modes of the fluid control system are a manual mode 200, an automatic mode 202, a fault mode 204, an emergency stop mode 206, and an off mode 208. The states in the automatic mode 204 are an empty state 210, a non-empty state 212, and a fluid flow 214 state. In the empty state 210, the operating modes in the fluid control system are a sludge mode 216 and a sampling water flush mode 218. Similarly, in the non-empty state 212, the operating modes in the fluid control system are a sampling mode 220, a dosing mode 222, the sludge mode 216 and the sampling water flush mode 218. Similarly, in the fluid flow state 214, the operating modes in the fluid control system are a turbine sampling mode 224, a pump sampling mode 226, and the sludge mode 216. As shown in figures 3A and 3B, block diagrams of a hierarchy of operations in a fluid control system are illustrated in different implementations, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the description. As shown in FIG. 3A, a fault mode 300 of the fluid control system comprises a failure mode 302 and an emergency stop mode 304. Moreover, the fluid control system comprises an automatic mode 306, a sleep mode 308, and a manual override mode 310. Furthermore, the automatic mode 306 comprises a pump / turbine sampling 312, and a fluid storage tank sampling 314, wherein the fluid storage tank sampling 314 comprises a pigging chamber residual fluid 316, a pump residual fluid 318, a turbine residual fluid 320, a sampling line conduit flush 322, a sludge line conduit operation 324, and a dosing 326. Furthermore, the manual override mode 310 comprises the pump / turbine sampling 312, and the fluid storage tank sampling 314, wherein the fluid storage tank sampling 314 comprises the pigging chamber residual fluid 316, the pump residual fluid 318, the turbine residual fluid 320, the sampling line conduit flush 322, the sludge line conduit operation 324, and the dosing 326. As shown in FIG. 3B, the fault mode 300 of the fluid control system comprises the failure mode 302 and the emergency stop mode 304. Moreover, the fluid control system comprises the automatic mode 306, the sleep mode 308, and the manual override mode 310. Furthermore, the automatic mode 306 comprises the pump / turbine sampling 312, the fluid storage tank sampling 314, the sludge line conduit operation 324, the dosing 326, and the sampling line conduit flush 322. Furthermore, the manual override mode 310 comprises the pump / turbine sampling 312, the fluid storage tank sampling 314, the sludge line conduit operation 324, the dosing 326, and the sampling line conduit flush 322. As shown in figure 4, a flowchart depicting steps of a fluid control method for controlling build-up in a fluid control system that comprises a fluid storage tank configured to retain a volume of high-density fluid (HDF) is illustrated. The fluid storage tank having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet, a sludge line conduit attached at a first end to the tank outlet; the fluid storage tank further comprises a tank inlet and the second end of the sludge line is attached to the tank inlet, a circulatory device is operably attached to the sludge line conduit for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet to the tank inlet, in accordance with an embodiment of the description. At step 400, the circulatory device is operated intermittently for a predetermined time and HDF flowrate for every hour in which the fluid control system is in use. At step 402, the circulatory device is operated to circulate the retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one day in the event of a fluid failure. At step 404, a frequency and duration of operating the circulatory device are selected to circulate the volume of retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one week. At step 406, the fluid control system is operated independently from a primary control system in which the fluid control system is a secondary component thereof. The description also relates to the fluid control method as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned fluid control system, apply mutatis mutandis to the fluid control method. Optionally, the method further comprises the following steps: generating data indicative of a level of HDF fluid within the fluid storage tank; activating a first valve to allow the flow of HDF through a first spray bar at a first position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a maximum level within the fluid storage tank; and activating a second valve to allow the flow of HDF through a second spray bar at a second position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a minimum level within the fluid storage tank. In this regard, the term "first valve" refers to a valve that controls and regulate the flow of the HDF through the first spray bar at the first position. Notably, the presence of the first spray bar at the first position enables the HDF to be redistributed in the fluid storage tank at that position where the retained HDF is at the maximum level within the fluid storage tank. Throughout the description, the term "second valve" refers to a valve that controls and regulate the flow of the HDF through the second spray bar at the second position. Notably, the presence of the second spray bar at the second position enables the HDF to be redistributed in the fluid storage tank at that position where the retained HDF is at the minimum level within the fluid storage tank. A technical effect of activating the first valve and the second valve is that the HDF is evenly redistributed in the fluid storage tank at those positions where the HDF is at the maximum level and the minimum level in the fluid storage tank. The aforementioned steps are only illustrative, and other alternatives can 5 also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein. Modifications to the embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the 10 present disclosure are defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also be present. Reference to the 15 singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims

1. A fluid control system (100) for recirculating a high-density fluid (HDF), comprising:a fluid storage tank (102) configured to retain a volume of HDF, the fluid storage tank having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet (104) located at substantially the lowest point of the fluid storage tank;Characterised in thatthe fluid control system further comprises a sludge line conduit (106) attached at a first end to the tank outlet, wherein the fluid storage tank has a tank inlet (108) at or towards the top of the fluid storage tank and the sludge line conduit is attached at a second end to the tank inlet;a circulatory device (110) is operably attached to the sludge line conduit for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet to the tank inlet.

2. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a sample outlet (112) arranged at a first position on the wall of the fluid storage tank and a sample line conduit (114) attached at a first end to the sample outlet.

3. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a dosing line conduit (118) attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir (120) containing a dosing fluid and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit (106) before to the inlet of the circulatory device (110).

4. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to claim 3, wherein the interconnection of the dosing line conduit (118) tothe sludge line conduit (106) provides a mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit for combining a HDF with the dosing fluid.

5. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sample line conduit (114) further comprises a sensor device (116) for generating data indicative of a property of the retained HDF extracted from the sample outlet (112) of the fluid storage tank (102).

6. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit (106) further comprises a dispensing device for dispensing the dosing fluid provided by the dosing line conduit (118).

7. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sludge line conduit (106) comprises a first valve device (122) arranged between the tank outlet (104) of the fluid storage tank (102) and the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit.

8. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sludge line conduit (106) comprises a second valve device (124) arranged between the mixing chamber and the circulatory device (HO).

9. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 5, further comprising a controlling means for processing the data indicative of a property of the retained HDF and controlling the communication of a dose substance to the mixing chamber within the sludge line conduit (106).

10. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the property indicated in the data is one of: pH, specific gravity (SG), viscosity, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, and the like of the retained HDF.

11. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one claim 1 to claim 10, wherein the wall of the fluid storage tank (102) further comprises a second sample outlet (126) arranged at a second position.

12. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the circulatory device (110) is a bi-directional device which in a first rotational movement circulates a retained HDF within the sludge line conduit (106) from the tank outlet (104) of the fluid storage tank (102) to the tank inlet (108) of the fluid storage tank, and in a second rotational movement circulates a retained HDF within the sludge line conduit from the tank inlet of the fluid storage tank to the tank outlet of the fluid storage tank.

13. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the circulatory device (110) is a progressive cavity pump device.

14. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 13, further comprising a spray bar arranged within the fluid storage tank (102).

15. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 14 wherein the spray bar extends across a width portion of the fluid storage tank (102).

16. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the spray bar comprises an array of orifices that are sized to provide a consistent pressure drop across the spray bar.

17. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in anyone of claims 14 to 16, further comprises an array of spray bars, wherein each spray bar in the array of spray bars is spaced along a length portion of the fluid storage tank (102).

18. A fluid control system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17, further comprises a valve arranged between the spray bar and the inlet of the fluid storage tank (102).

19. A fluid control method for controlling build-up in a fluid control system (100) that comprises a fluid storage tank (102) configured to retain a volume of high-density fluid (HDF), the fluid storage tank having walls and a floor, a sloped base, a tank outlet (104), a sludge line conduit (106) attached at a first end to the tank outlet; the fluid storage tank further comprises a tank inlet (108) and the second end of the sludge line is attached to the tank inlet, a circulatory device (110) is operably attached to the sludge line conduit for circulating a flow of retained HDF from the tank outlet to the tank inlet, the method comprising the following steps:operating the circulatory device intermittently for a predetermined time and HDF flowrate for every hour in which the fluid control system is in use;operating the circulatory device to circulate the retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one day in the event of a fluid failure;selecting a frequency and duration of operating the circulatory device to circulate the volume of retained HDF within the fluid storage tank within one week; andoperating the fluid control system independently from a primary control system in which the fluid control system is a secondary component thereof.

20. A fluid control method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising the step of:Withdrawing a sample of retained HDF from the fluid storage tank via a sample line conduit attached at a first end to a sample outlet arranged at a first position on the wall of the fluid storage tank.

21. A fluid control method as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20, further comprising the step of:dispensing a dosing fluid from a dosing line conduit attached at a first end to a dosing fluid reservoir and at a second end is attached to the sludge line conduit.

22. A fluid control method as claimed in anyone of claims 19 to 21, further comprises the steps of:generating data indicative of a level of HDF fluid within the fluid storage tank (102);activating a first valve to allow the flow of HDF through a first spray bar at a first position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a maximum level within the fluid storage tank; andactivating a second valve to allow the flow of HDF through a second spray bar at a second position within the fluid storage tank wherein the retained HDF is at a minimum level within the fluid storage tank.

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