Device to retain at least one component element on pillar for loading and / or unloading of tank on vessel for storing liquid gas

Abstract

To facilitate attachment and / or detachment work for a pillar for unloading and / or loading and a component element fixed on it.SOLUTION: A retaining device (9) for retaining at least one component element to a pillar for loading and / or unloading of a tank of a vessel for storing liquid gas includes at least one ring (91) for passing the component element, at least one first portion (924) for supporting the ring, and at least one arm (92) including one second portion (925) for supporting a fixed junction (923) for fixing the retaining device to the loading and / or unloading pillar. The first portion and the second portion are composed to be deviated from each other in at least two directions on the same plane (400).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of storage and / or transportation of cargoes of liquefied gases, such as liquefied natural gas, ethane, ammonia, and also liquefied petroleum gas.

[0002] The invention more particularly relates to a loading and / or unloading assembly comprising a loading and / or unloading strut for a sealed, insulated tank of a ship intended to contain this liquefied gas. [Background technology]

[0003] Liquefied natural gas, commonly known by the acronym "LNG", is a primary energy source consisting of about 95% methane. More specifically, LNG is stored in liquid state in insulated tanks at a temperature close to -160 °C, then LNG occupies 1 / 600 of the volume it occupies in gaseous state, thus allowing it to be easily transported from a first location to a second location.

[0004] Thus, LNG can be transported by sea from one location to another using vessels called methane tankers, where the LNG is then stored in sealed, insulated tanks.

[0005] LNG can also be used as a fuel for ships, such as cargo carriers, such as container ships. For environmental and economic reasons, the use of LNG as a fuel offers advantages over conventional fuels, particularly those derived from petroleum.

[0006] Conventionally, LNG storage tanks are equipped with loading and / or unloading masts suspended from a cover that allows the tank to be closed. The loading and / or unloading masts of the tank may comprise a tripod-type structure, i.e. three vertical masts connected to each other by cross members forming a lattice structure.

[0007] The loading and / or unloading column may comprise several pumps intended for various applications such as unloading and / or loading LNG from or to a tank. In certain types of configurations, it is known practice to separate the drive motor and the suction element of the pump, in particular to facilitate maintenance operations and / or interventions in case of a malfunction of the drive motor.

[0008] In such a case, the drive motor can be located outside the storage tank, for example on the cover, while the suction element remains immersed in this same tank, and such a configuration is included in the term "deep well pump". The drive motor and the suction element of the same pump are thus located at opposite positions of the tank, separated by a distance substantially equal to its height, preferably about 10 to 30 meters.

[0009] The drive motor is mechanically coupled to the suction element via a drive shaft housed within a tube of the pump, the rotational motion of the drive motor being thus transmitted to the suction element, the tube directing the liquefied gas to drive the extraction of the liquefied gas from the tank.

[0010] It is essential to securely fasten the various components of the pump on the loading and / or unloading mast. For this purpose, the mast is provided with a number of supports that securely fasten the various components of the pump on the mast. Nevertheless, the installation of such supports can result in lengthy and complicated operations, in particular as it requires precise alignment of the different pump components on the mast, which results in significant operational overhead, in particular over the course of the vessel's downtime.

[0011] The present invention falls within this context and has the object of facilitating the operations of loading and / or unloading and / or mounting and / or dismantling of loading masts and the components fixed thereon. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The invention proposes a holding device for holding at least one component on a loading and / or unloading column of a ship's tank for containing liquefied gas, characterized in that the holding device comprises at least one ring through which the component passes and at least one arm, the arm comprising at least one first part supporting the ring and one second part supporting a fixing joint for fixing the holding device on the loading and / or unloading column, the first part and the second part being configured to be displaced relative to each other in at least two directions lying in the same plane.

[0013] Preferably, the component is an element distinct from the loading and / or unloading pillar and therefore does not belong to the loading and / or unloading pillar.

[0014] Through the structure of the retaining device which allows adjustment of the position of the ring and thus of the first part supporting the component relative to the second part fixed to the support, the use of said retaining device contributes to simplifying the installation of the unloading and / or loading support in the tank, as well as the components attached thereto.

[0015] According to a feature of the invention, the plane is parallel to the first and / or second portion of the arm, or alternatively, the plane can extend transversely to the first and / or second portion.

[0016] The arm comprises a first part, a second part and a fixed joint, the first part and the second part being flat pieces, for example made of steel sheet, with a thickness of at least 5 mm to ensure the strength of the arm.

[0017] The ring has a cylindrical configuration centered on the extension axis of the retention device and allows the component to pass therethrough, in other words, the ring engages the component and at least partially surrounds it.

[0018] The first and second parts of the holding device are first separated from each other, the first part supporting the ring and the second part supporting the fixing joint, in this way the first part and the ring can be installed on the pump component while the second part and the joint are placed on the support, and then the positions of the first and second parts relative to each other are adjusted before performing their fixing.

[0019] Alternatively, the first and second parts can be assembled during a first step and during a subsequent step the component can be secured to a ring supported by the first part.

[0020] Optionally, the fixed joint may comprise at least one adjustment means for adjusting the position of the holding device on the loading and / or unloading column. The adjustment means may consist of at least one oblong opening or one circular opening comprised in the fixed joint, which is configured to cooperate with the loading and / or unloading column, for example configured to cooperate with at least one circular opening or one oblong opening of the column.

[0021] The retention device according to the present invention is therefore easily installed and the separable arms and adjustable positioning of the first and second parts make it possible to address precision constraints associated with mounting the pump to a support column.

[0022] According to a feature of the invention, the ring is centred on an extension axis of the holding device, the extension axis running parallel to a plane in which the first part and the second part can be displaced relative to one another.

[0023] According to a feature of the invention, the ring is centred on an extension axis of the retaining device, the extension axis extending perpendicular to a plane in which the first part and the second part can be displaced relative to one another, preferably the extension axis extending perpendicular to said plane.

[0024] According to a feature of the invention, the ring is composed of at least one first half-shell and one second half-shell, the first half-shell and / or the second half-shell being supported by the first part.

[0025] Each half-shell may, for example, take the form of a complementary half-cylinder which, when assembled, reconstitutes the ring together. Advantageously, the first and second half-shells may have a substantially identical structure, thus reducing the manufacturing costs of the retaining device.

[0026] Preferably, the inner wall of the ring is provided with at least one skid allowing displacement of the component of the retaining device relative to the ring.

[0027] According to a feature of the invention, the retention device comprises a first part, a ring and / or a second part, and at least one stiffener secured to the fixing joint.

[0028] The stiffeners can for example take the form of brackets extending at right angles to the first and / or second part. In particular, the holding device can comprise a number of stiffeners, for example regularly arranged between the outer wall of one of the half shells of the ring and the first part, in order to strengthen its fixation.

[0029] Indeed, cargoes of liquefied gas undergo a "sloshing" phenomenon when transported, which results in considerable mechanical strains being applied to the loading and / or unloading strut and the pump or pumps it contains. Such strains can result in changes in the position of the pump components relative to the strut, but also in deformation of the pump components. It is therefore crucial that the retention device has a structure strong enough to withstand such strains.

[0030] The purpose of such a retaining device is to ensure optimal retention of components on the supports, such as suction elements, which are likely to be subjected to such distortions due to their location around the bottom wall of the tank.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second parts each comprise two wings extending away from each other, the separation between the wings of the first part being different from the separation between the wings of the second part so as to allow an overlap between each wing of the first part and the wing of the second part located opposite it. The use of several wings allows to increase the number of fixing points on the strut and promotes resistance to mechanical distortion.

[0032] According to a feature of the invention, the separation between the wings of the first portion is greater than the separation between the wings of the second portion.

[0033] According to a feature of the invention, the wings of the first and second parts each comprise an inner surface arranged such that the inner surface of one wing of the parts is positioned opposite the inner surface of the other wing of the parts, and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, each inner surface of the wing of the first part preferably being positioned opposite an outer surface of the wing of the second part.

[0034] In accordance with a feature of the invention, at least one linking assembly is disposed between an inner surface of a wing of one portion and an oppositely disposed outer surface of a wing of the other portion.

[0035] The presence of the coupling assembly increases the possibility of positioning the first and second parts relative to one another.

[0036] According to a feature of the invention, the first part and the second part are secured to one another by assembly means, said assembly means being preferably removable.

[0037] According to a feature of the invention, the assembly means comprises at least one fixing member for fixing the first part on the second part, the first part and / or the second part comprising at least one slot for receiving the fixing member. By way of example, the fixing member may be a screw-nut mechanism.

[0038] In an embodiment in which the first part supports an outer wall of one of the half shells, the first part may include a cutout portion having a shape complementary to the outer wall of this half shell to facilitate its installation. In such a configuration, the first part may include a pair of slots, the slots being arranged on either side of the cutout. In particular, at least the slots may extend parallel to one of two adjustment directions lying in a plane in which the first part and the second part may be displaced relative to one another.

[0039] According to a feature of the invention, the first and second parts each have at least one slot arranged at least partially opposite each other, the slot of one part extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of extension of the slot of the other part.

[0040] The invention also relates to a loading and / or unloading assembly for a tank of a ship for containing liquefied gas, comprising a loading and / or unloading post provided with at least one mast for extending into the tank, at least one unloading device and at least one holding device as mentioned above for holding at least a part of the unloading device on the loading and / or unloading post, the holding device preferably holding at least a part of the unloading device on the mast.

[0041] Preferably, the unloading device is a separate element and does not belong to the loading and / or unloading mast.

[0042] The loading and / or unloading column consists of at least one mast extending over all or part of the height of the tank, i.e. between the top and bottom walls of the tank, the mast being fixed relative to the tank. Advantageously, the loading and / or unloading column may comprise two or three masts. Furthermore, said loading and / or unloading assembly may comprise a cover for closing the opening in the top wall so as to seal and insulate the tank, the cover holding the loading and / or unloading column suspended in the tank, the cover being fixed to at least the mast.

[0043] More specifically, multiple retention devices can securely attach the same component to the post, in other words the same component passes through each ring of the multiple retention devices.

[0044] According to a feature of the invention, the unloading device comprises at least one suction element arranged inside the tank and a drive assembly for driving the suction element arranged outside the tank, the suction element and the drive assembly being connected to each other by a unloading duct, and the ring of the holding device at least partially surrounding the unloading duct.

[0045] Preferably, the unloading device also includes a drive shaft mechanically connecting the suction element and the drive assembly for transmitting rotational motion of the drive assembly to the suction element, and a tube extending at least partially into the tank and housing the drive shaft.

[0046] Preferably, the unloading device is a pump.

[0047] The invention also proposes a ship's tank for containing liquefied gas, comprising a loading and / or unloading assembly as previously described.

[0048] The invention also proposes a method for mounting a loading and / or unloading pole using at least one retention device as described above, comprising a step of fastening the second part to the loading and / or unloading pole via a fastening joint, said method comprising the steps of: a first step of fixing the first part and the second half-shell supported by the first part on the second part in a first, so-called adjusted position, in which the first part is positioned as close as possible to the loading and / or unloading pillar; a second step of final positioning of at least one element of the unloading device within the tank; a third step of displacing the first part and the second half-shell to a second, so-called final position in which the second half-shell is positioned as close as possible to an element of the unloading device; a fourth step of assembling and fixing the first half shell on the second half shell so as to enclose said element of the unloading device between the first half shell and the second half shell; Includes.

[0049] According to a feature of the invention, the element of the unloading device is an unloading duct.

[0050] The invention also proposes a vessel for transporting cryogenic liquid products, the vessel comprising a double hull and a tank as described above arranged within the double hull.

[0051] Alternatively, the invention may relate to a land-based structure comprising at least one tank as previously described.

[0052] The invention also proposes a cryogenic liquid product transfer system, comprising a vessel as described above, an insulated pipeline arranged to connect a tank installed in the double hull of the vessel to a floating or onshore storage facility, and a pump for conveying the fluid from the floating or onshore storage facility to the vessel's tank or from the vessel's tank to the floating or onshore storage facility via the insulated pipeline.

[0053] The invention also proposes a method for loading or unloading a ship as previously described, in which the fluid is transported from a floating or on-shore storage facility to the ship's tanks or from the ship's tanks to the floating or on-shore storage facility via an insulated pipeline.

[0054] The present invention will be better understood and other objects, details, features and advantages will become more clearly apparent from the following description of some particular embodiments of the invention, given entirely in an illustrative and non-limiting manner, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0055] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a ship equipped with a liquefied gas storage tank incorporating a loading and / or unloading assembly according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a base of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2. [Figure 4a] 3 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 from a different orientation. [Figure 4b] 3 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 from a different orientation. [Diagram 5] 3 is a perspective view of a holding device according to the invention belonging to the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2, manufactured according to a first embodiment; [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the holding device shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 3 is a perspective view of a holding device according to the invention, manufactured according to a second embodiment; FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the holding device shown in FIG. [Figure 9a] 3A-3D represent different steps of attaching a retention device to be performed on elements of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9b] 3A-3D represent different steps of attaching a retention device to be performed on elements of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9c] 3A-3D represent different steps of attaching a retention device to be performed on elements of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9d] 3A-3D represent different steps of attaching a retention device to be performed on elements of the loading and / or unloading assembly of FIG. 2 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a schematic cutaway view of a ship equipped with liquefied natural gas storage tanks and a terminal for loading / unloading said tanks. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0056] The features, variants and various embodiments of the invention can be associated with one another according to various combinations, unless they are mutually inconsistent or exclusive. It is also particularly possible to devise variants of the invention that include only a selection of the features described below in a manner that is separate from the other features described.

[0057] Figure 1 represents a ship 1 for transporting liquefied gas. The ship comprises at least one tank 2 for storing gas in liquid state, in particular liquefied natural gas ("LNG"), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or any other liquefied gas such as ammonia. Preferably, the gas to be transported is liquid at cryogenic temperatures.

[0058] The ship 1 comprises a support structure 3 for receiving the walls of the tanks 2. The support structure 3 is in particular formed by the double hull of the ship 1. The support structure 3 has an approximately polyhedral form. The support structure 3 comprises forward and aft transverse walls 31, called cofferdam walls of the ship, which extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the ship 1. The support structure 3 also comprises a top wall 32 and a bottom wall 33 which extend in the longitudinal direction of the ship and connect the forward and aft transverse walls 31.

[0059] The top wall 32, the bottom wall 33 and the transverse wall 31 thus form the support walls of the support structure. These support walls have a surface area that defines an interior space in which the tank 2 is accommodated. The tank 2 comprises a number of tank walls, each fixed on a respective support wall of the support structure 3. Conventionally, the aft transverse wall is oriented towards the bridge of the ship, whilst the forward transverse wall is oriented towards the bow.

[0060] Preferably, the tank 2 is a tank with a membrane having a multi-layer structure, which comprises, in the thickness direction from the outside to the inside of the tank, a secondary insulating barrier, a secondary sealing membrane resting on the secondary insulating barrier, a primary insulating barrier resting on the secondary sealing membrane and a primary sealing membrane resting on the primary insulating barrier and intended to be in contact with the liquefied gas contained in the tank 2. The tank is thus sealed and insulated in order to keep the gas in a liquid state.

[0061] The tank 2 is equipped with a loading and / or unloading assembly 4 according to the invention, which makes it possible, depending on the desired mode of use, not only to extract liquefied gas from the tank but also to supply liquefied gas to the tank.

[0062] The loading and / or unloading assembly 4 comprises at least one loading and / or unloading pillar 5, an unloading device 6 and a cover 7 for closing the storage volume of the tank 2. In the following description, for simplicity, the loading and / or unloading pillar will be referred to as pillar.

[0063] More specifically, the tank 2 comprises an opening 21 formed in a top wall 23 of the tank, intended in particular to allow the passage of the struts 5 into the chamber of the tank 2, for example when installed. The opening 21 extends parallel to the top wall 23 of the tank 2 when the struts 5 are installed in the tank, and is configured to cooperate with a cover 7 of the loading and / or unloading assembly 4, which closes the opening 21 to seal and insulate the tank.

[0064] The cover 7 consists of a flat plate secured to the top wall 23 of the tank by welding and / or by fasteners such as a screw / nut mechanism. The cover 7 is made up of a set of metal parts that provide mechanical strength and may also provide insulation. The cover 7 is configured to keep the columns 5 suspended within the tank.

[0065] As can be seen in FIG. 2, the support 5 and the unloading device 6 pass at least partially through the cover 7 .

[0066] The column 5 comprises a structure 51, extending in a main direction of extension P in a vertical direction V, comprising at least three masts 52. More specifically, the structure 51 of the column 5 also includes a lattice structure 53 for connecting the various masts 52 of the column 5 to one another in order to stiffen the masts 52. The lattice structure 53 is made up of a number of intersecting cylindrical girders extending between at least two masts 52 of the column over all or part of its height.

[0067] Preferably, each of the three masts 52 passes through the cover 7 of the tank. The forward mast 52a and the two aft masts 52b are thus defined in the direction of travel A of the vessel, seen in Fig. 1, in normal sailing conditions, the forward mast 52a being the foremost mast of the structure 51 in the tank 2. The aft mast 52b is therefore located close to the aft transverse wall of the support structure 3, while the forward mast 52a is oriented towards the forward transverse wall. In other words, in the longitudinal direction of the vessel, the aft mast 52b is interposed between the aft transverse wall of the support structure 3 and the forward mast 52a.

[0068] 2, in a projected view, the structure 51 has a substantially triangular form, with each of its masts 52 forming one of the vertices of this triangle. The triangle formed by the structure 51 therefore includes at least one base defined by a straight line passing through the two aft masts 52b, and an apex defined by the forward mast 52a, otherwise called the forward apex.

[0069] The support 5 therefore comprises a number of masts 52 which extend along the opening 21 from the cover 7 to the bottom wall 22 of the tank 2 .

[0070] Each mast 52 of the support 5 consists of a hollow rod of circular cross section and may be made, for example, of stainless steel. The mast 52 is made up of a number of cylindrical sections welded together. A first end of the mast extends around the top wall 23 of the tank and a second end, opposite the first end of the mast, extends around the bottom wall 22 of the tank. The masts 52 therefore define ducts, each of which may for example accommodate at least one pump element.

[0071] The masts 52 of the struts 5 are held secured around their respective second ends by a base stiffener 54 passing at least partially through the bottom wall 22 of the tank 2. More specifically, the base stiffener 54 comprises at least one platform 541 secured to each of the masts 52 of the strut 5 structures 51 and feet 542 extending from the platform 541 and secured to the bottom wall 22 of the support structure 3 by passing through the bottom wall 33 of the tank 2.

[0072] In the example shown in Figures 2 and 3, one of the rear masts 52b of the columns 5 is equipped with an unloading pump 55 housed at least partly in a hollow rod of the mast 52b. The other rear mast 52b and the front mast 52a are structural masts supporting the columns and the unloading device 6.

[0073] These structural masts may also serve to support liquefied gas loading ducts, not shown, whose function is to make it possible to fill the tanks with liquefied gas, but also the supply pumps for supplying liquefied gas to the vessel's engines, not shown.

[0074] As seen in Fig. 2, the unloading device 6, different from the unloading pump 55 housed in one of the rear masts 52b of the support 5, comprises a unloading duct 61, a suction element 64 arranged at a first end 61a of the unloading duct 61 and a drive assembly 62 arranged at a second end 61b of the unloading duct 61. The cover 7 is arranged between the suction element 64 and the drive assembly 62, seen in Figs. 4a and 4b. More specifically, the suction element 64 is arranged in the storage volume of the tank 2, while the drive assembly 62 is arranged outside the storage volume of the tank 2 and is preferably supported by the outer surface of the cover 7. At least one drive shaft 63, seen partially in Figs. 3 and 4b and represented by a dotted line, connects the suction element 64 to the drive assembly 62. More specifically, the drive shaft 63 extends in the internal volume of the unloading duct 61 and allows the suction element 64 to be operated under the action of the drive element 62 in order to allow the liquefied gas to be pumped and extracted from the tank.

[0075] 2 and 3, the unloading duct 61 is a separate component from the loading and / or unloading mast 5. In other words, the unloading duct 61 is a separate component from the structure 51.

[0076] According to a preferred embodiment, the discharge duct 61 is located in front of the foremast 52a in the longitudinal direction L of the tank 2. The discharge duct 61 is therefore not included in the triangular form defined by each of the masts 52. In the example shown, the discharge duct 61 runs parallel to the foremast 52a which supports it. The discharge duct 61 and the foremast 52a therefore run in a vertical direction V.

[0077] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the unloading device 6 also comprises at least one, preferably two rods 611 used to control the check valve of said device. The rods 611 are independent of the unloading duct 61 and extend along it.

[0078] The different elements making up the unloading device 6 extend along a main direction of extension P in a vertical direction V, at right angles to the bottom wall 22 of the tank 2 .

[0079] The drive assembly 62 may in particular be a gear motor assembly comprising a motor and a device for slowing down the speed of the suction element 64 .

[0080] In order to improve the suction of the liquefied gas when it is unloaded from the tank 2, in particular when maintenance operations are planned, the bottom wall 22 of the tank is provided with a sump 8, which can be seen in figures 2 to 4. The sump 8 corresponds to a volume which extends into the bottom wall 22 of the tank 2 and which is here defined by a cylindrical sump wall 81 centred on the axis of rotation X. The sump 8 makes it possible to reduce the volume for facilitating the collection of the liquefied gas by the suction element 64 of the unloading device 6, in particular by concentrating said liquefied gas in this volume, which is reduced compared to the storage volume of the tank 2. It is thus understood that the suction element 64 of the unloading device 6 extends at least partially into the volume of the sump 8.

[0081] As can be seen in Figures 4a and 4b, the sump 8 is formed in the bottom wall 22 of the tank 2 in such a way that its centre, which in the figures lies on its axis of rotation X, is at a distance D of at least more than 2 m from the centre F of the foot 542 of the base reinforcement 54. It is understood that this distance is taken along a straight line perpendicular to the axis of rotation X, between said axis of rotation X and the centre F of the foot 542 of the base reinforcement 54 taken on its central axis F.

[0082] The suction elements 64 of the discharge devices 6 are therefore different from the masts 52 of the columns 5. The discharge devices 6 are located outside the triangle defined by each of the masts 52.

[0083] According to the invention, at least one retention device 9 extends between the unloading duct 61 and one of the masts 52 of the structure 51. The retention device 9 makes it possible to retain the unloading duct 61 in the vertical direction V and ensures that it is retained, in particular when loading the tanks 2 or when transporting liquefied gas. According to an example of the invention, a number of retention devices 9 extend between one of the masts 52 of the structure 51 and the unloading duct 61, along the unloading duct 61, i.e. between its first end 61a and the cover 7. According to the example shown, at least one retention device 9 extends between the unloading duct 61 and the forward mast 52a of the structure 51, i.e. the mast 52 forms the forward apex of the triangle that defines the structure 51.

[0084] The holding device 9 therefore makes it possible to form a connection between the unloading device 6 and the support 5, both of which are distinct from the bottom wall 22 of the tank. The holding device 9 is therefore located away from the bottom wall 22 of the tank.

[0085] Such a retaining device 9 can be manufactured according to different embodiments described below and can be formed at different positions on the support post 5 .

[0086] 2, the retention device 9 according to the invention is fixed on the forward mast 52a at a fixing point which fixes the lattice structure 53 on the forward mast 52a. More specifically, the retention device 9 is fixed at the intersection of several cylindrical girders which form the lattice structure 53 on the forward mast 52a. The retention device 9 is therefore positioned at the point where the stiffness of the column 5 is at its maximum.

[0087] In addition, the retention device 9 can also be positioned at the bottom end of the forward mast 52a, to which the platform 541 of the base stiffener 54 is also fixed.

[0088] The holding device 9 is provided with at least one ring 91 through which the unloading duct 61 of the unloading device 6 passes and at least one arm 92 with a fixing joint 923 for fixing the holding device 9 on the forward mast 52a.

[0089] From this point, a first embodiment of a holding device 9, which can be seen in figures 5 and 6, will be described.

[0090] The ring 91 is composed of two half shells 911, referred to as a first half shell 9111 and a second half shell 9112, of substantially identical form. When they are assembled, the half shells 911 form a cylindrical ring 91 for surrounding the unloading duct 61. Alternatively, the ring 91 may comprise three or more parts of complementary form assembled to form the ring 91. According to another alternative, the ring 91 may comprise a single cylindrical part.

[0091] Each of the half shells 911 comprises two fins 912, the fins 912 of one half shell 911 being placed in contact with the fins 912 of the complementary half shell 911 and then secured together by bolting in order to assemble the ring 91. Note that in the illustrated example, the ring 91 is centered on an extension axis 900 of the holding device 9, which extends in the vertical direction V.

[0092] Furthermore, a shim 916 is placed between two fins 912 that are placed opposite each other and that are intended to be fixed to each other. The purpose of this shim 916 is more specifically to ensure the retention of the rods 611 on the unloading duct 61. Each rod 611 is held in a ring 91. Preferably, each rod 611 extends between two assembled fins 912. In the assembled position, each rod 611 therefore extends between the shim 916 and the unloading duct 61.

[0093] The inner wall 913 of the ring 91 is provided with a number of skids 914 that allow the displacement of the unloading duct 61 along the extension axis 900, in particular as a result of thermal expansion of the unloading duct 61. The skids 914 are made of a material such as PTFE (for polytetrafluoroethylene) or HDPE (for "high density polyethylene") and can extend over the height of the ring 91 measured along the extension axis 900 and parallel to this extension axis. Alternatively, the skids 914 can extend over only a part of the height of the ring 91.

[0094] The arm 92 of the holding device 9 comprises a first part 921, a second part 922 and a fixing joint 923. The first part 921 and the second part 922 are each in the form of a flat plate. For example, each part 921, 922 may consist of a piece of sheet metal having a thickness of at least 5 mm. The first part 921 and the second part 922 are initially separated from each other and are fixed together when they are attached to the support 5.

[0095] Preferably, the second portion 922 has a length greater than the diameter of the ring 91 .

[0096] The first part 921 is fixed to one of the half shells 911 of the ring 91. The first part 921 comprises a cut-out portion 9211 of a shape complementary to the outer wall 915 of the half shell 911, so that the first part 921 is in contact with the outer wall 915 of the ring 91 and at least partially surrounds the half shell 911 attached thereto. Thus, when the holding device 9 is assembled, the first part 921 supports the ring 91.

[0097] Similarly, the second portion 922 carries a fixing joint 923, which extends transversely, for example perpendicularly, to a plane in which said second portion 922 is primarily inscribed.

[0098] When the holding device 9 is assembled, the first part 921 and the second part 922 extend partially opposite each other. As shown, the first part 921 and the second part 922 extend parallel to a first plane 100 of the holding device 9 that is perpendicular to an extension axis 900 of the holding device 9 and / or a main axis 500 of at least one of the masts 52 of the support 5.

[0099] The first portion 921 and the second portion 922 each have assembly means 94 that allow these two elements to be secured together to form the arm 92 .

[0100] The first portion 921 and the second portion 922 are particularly configured to be displaced relative to each other in a first direction 200 and a second direction 300 contained in the first plane 100. Preferably, the first direction 200 and the second direction 300 are perpendicular to each other.

[0101] The assembly means 94 comprises a first pair of slots 941 formed in the first portion 921, only one of which is visible in Figures 5 and 6, each configured to receive at least one fixing member 945. The slots 941 extend parallel to one another, with the longest dimension of each of the slots 941 extending parallel to the first direction 200 and perpendicular to the extension axis 900 of the retainer. Each slot 941 preferably extends to a lateral end of the first portion 921.

[0102] The assembly means 94 also comprises at least one second pair of slots 942, e.g. two second pairs of slots 942, formed in the second part 922. Each slot 942 of the second part 922 extends at least partially opposite one of the slots 941 of the first part 921 when the retaining device 9 is assembled. In particular, the longest dimension of the slots 942 of the second part 922 extends parallel to the second direction 300 and thus substantially perpendicular to the first direction 200 of at least one of the slots 941 of the first part 921.

[0103] The slots 941, 942 of the first part 921 and the second part 922 also constitute adjustment means 943 allowing adjustment of the positioning of the different parts 921, 922 relative to one another. Thus, depending on the position of the fixing members in the slots of the first part 921 and the second part 922, respectively, it is possible to vary the position of the different parts 921, 922.

[0104] The fixing member 945 used to secure the first part 921 and the second part 922 may consist of a screw-nut mechanism or any other suitable means, and the fixing member 945 must be designed to provide for mutual displacement of the parts 921, 922 during installation or subsequent removal of the unloading apparatus 6.

[0105] Thus, the face of the first part 921 is fixed to the face of the second part 922. The first part 921 has a first face 9212 that rotates towards the cover 7 of the support 5 and a second face 9213 that rotates towards the bottom wall 22 of the tank, while the second part 922 has a first face 9221 that rotates towards the cover 7 and an opposite second face 9222 that rotates towards the bottom wall 22 of the tank. Note that in the illustrated holding device 9, the second face 9213 of the first part 921 is fixed to the first face 9221 of the second part 922. Thus, the first part 921, which supports the ring 91 and thus the unloading duct 61, is supported by the second part 922.

[0106] A fixed joint 923 makes it possible to fasten the holding device 9 on the column 5. Preferably, the fixed joint 923 is fixed on the front mast 52a of the column. Such a joint can make it possible to hold the unloading duct 61 on the column 5 at different points depending on its height, as shown, the unloading duct 61 running through the ring 91.

[0107] The fixed joint 923 has the form of a shell whose cross section is in the form of a circular arc. The fixed joint 923 is supported by the second part 922 and is adapted to be fixed on the column 5, for example by welding.

[0108] Quite obviously other forms of fixed joints can be envisaged.

[0109] The holding device 9 comprises a number of reinforcements 93 which strengthen the connection between the first part 921 and the half shell 911 to which the first part 921 is attached and between the second part 922 and the fixing joint 923. The reinforcements 93 thus extend between the first face 9212 of the first part 921 and the outer wall 915 of the ring 91 or between the first face 9221 of the second part 922 and the first side 9231 of the fixing joint 923. The reinforcements 93 can also extend between the second face 9222 of the second part 922 and the first side 9231 of the fixing joint 923.

[0110] In the example shown, no reinforcement is present between the second face 9213 of the first part 921 and the outer wall 915 of the ring 91, so as not to hinder the assembly of the different elements with respect to one another. However, according to variant embodiments, the presence of such reinforcement can be envisaged, in particular when re-dimensioning these different elements.

[0111] The second part 922 secured to the fixed joint 923 comprises a second cut-out 9223, which is in particular configured to facilitate mounting / removal of the holding device 9, for example by passing a flange which holds the unloading duct 61. Preferably, the second cut-out 9223 has a larger recess than the cut-out 9211 of the first part 921, so that the first part 921 at least partially covers the second cut-out 9223 when the holding device is assembled.

[0112] The retaining device 9 according to the invention ensures that the discharge device 6 is adequately retained in the tank and provides it with the necessary mechanical strength, in particular against sloshing which may occur with a cargo of liquefied gas in the tank. The use of the retaining device contributes to limiting the movement of the suction element 64, but also the risk of its distortion.

[0113] From this point, a second embodiment of a holding device 9 will be described, which can be seen in figures 7 and 8. Elements in common with the first embodiment bear the same reference numbers and will not be described again.

[0114] Thus, the holding device 9 according to the second embodiment, like the first embodiment, comprises an arm 92 with a first part 924 supporting a ring 91 through which the unloading duct 61 of the unloading device 6 passes, and a second part 925 supporting a fixing joint 923. This holding device 9 also comprises a coupling assembly 926 for securely fixing the first part 924 and the second part 925 relative to one another, as will be explained below. The coupling assembly 926 is more particularly composed of two plates 9261 and 9262 for interposing between the fixing areas of the first part 924 and the second part 925, each arranged opposite one another.

[0115] Preferably, the second portion 925 has a length that is less than the diameter of the ring 91 .

[0116] The plates 9261, 9262 of the linkage assembly 926 are preferably of identical configuration. Each plate 9261, 9262 includes an oval configuration and is provided with openings 9263. In the example shown, each plate 9261, 9262 includes three openings 9263 that are circular in configuration.

[0117] The first part 924 has two wings 9241 and 9242 extending away from each other and spaced apart in a first direction 600 extending perpendicular to the extension axis 900 of the holding device and / or the main axis 500 of at least one mast 52 of the support 5.

[0118] Preferably, the two wings 9241, 9242 extend parallel to each other and each extends in a plane parallel to a first plane 400 parallel to the extension axis 900 of the retention device 9 and / or to the main axis 500 of at least one mast 52 of the column 5. Each wing 9241, 9242 comprises an inner surface 9243 and an outer surface 9244. The inner surfaces 9243 face each other and are located opposite each other, while the outer surface 9244 is opposite the inner surfaces and is pivoted towards the wall of the tank.

[0119] Similarly, the second part 925 has two wings 9251 and 9252 extending away from each other and spaced apart in a first direction 600 extending perpendicular to the extension axis 900 of the holding device and / or the main axis 500 of at least one mast 52 of the support 5.

[0120] Preferably, the two wings 9251, 9252 extend parallel to each other and each extends in a plane parallel to a first plane 400 parallel to the extension axis 900 of the retention device 9 and / or to the main axis 500 of at least one mast 52 of the column 5. Each wing 9251, 9252 comprises an inner surface 9253 and an outer surface 9254. The inner surfaces 9253 face each other and are located opposite each other, while the outer surface 9254 is opposite the inner surfaces and is pivoted towards the wall of the tank.

[0121] As in the first embodiment, the retaining device 9 comprises a number of stiffeners 93 which strengthen the connection between the first part 924 and the half shell 911 to which it is attached, and between the second part 925 and the fixing joint 923. Thus, the stiffeners 93 extend between the outer surfaces 9244 of the wings 9241, 9242 of the first part 924 and the outer wall 915 of the ring 91. As shown, the stiffeners 93 can also extend between the outer surfaces 9254 of the wings 9251, 9252 of the second part 925 and the first side 9231 of the fixing joint 923.

[0122] In such an embodiment, the stiffeners 93 extend in a plane perpendicular to the first plane 400 .

[0123] The second portion 925 also includes at least one internal stiffener 95 for connecting each inner surface 9253 of each wing 9251, 9252 substantially midway therebetween.

[0124] In the illustrated example, the separation between the wings 9251, 9252 of the second portion 925 is less than the separation between the wings 9241, 9242 of the first portion 924, thereby enabling fastening of each wing of the first portion with an opposing wing of the second portion during assembly of the arm 92. More specifically, the separation is adapted to enable insertion of the plates 9261, 9262 of the linkage assembly 926, as described below.

[0125] The first portion 924 , the second portion 925 and the linking assembly 926 each have assembly means 94 that allow these three elements to be secured together to form the arm 92 .

[0126] The assembly means 94 of the coupling assembly 926 consists of openings 9263 in plates 9261,9262.

[0127] The assembly means 94 also comprises circular holes 9245 formed in each wing 9241, 9242 of the first part 924. The circular holes 9245 are regularly distributed on each free end of the wing 9241, 9242, the so-called free end being opposite the end fixed to the ring 91. For example, there can be three circular holes 9245 per wing 9241, 9242.

[0128] The assembly means 94 also comprises slots 9255 formed in each wing 9251, 9252 of the second part 925. The slots 9255 are regularly distributed on each free end of the wing 9251, 9252, the so-called free end being opposite the end fixed to the fixed joint 923. For example, there can be three slots 9255 per wing 9251, 9252.

[0129] The slots 9255 extend parallel to one another, with the longest dimension of each of the slots 9255 extending perpendicular to the first direction 600 and perpendicular to the extension axis 900 of the retention device.

[0130] The assembly means 94 further comprises a fastening member 945 , such as a screw and nut assembly, for connecting the circular hole of the coupling assembly 926 and the circular hole of the first portion 924 with the slot of the second portion 925 .

[0131] Thus, in the assembled position of the arm 92, an outer surface 9254 of each wing 9251, 9252 of the second part 925 is arranged opposite an inner surface 9243 of the wings 9241, 9242 of the first part 924. Interposed between the outer surface 9254 and the inner surface 9243 are plates 9261, 9262. These different parts are positioned such that their respective openings lie opposite one another to allow the passage of the fixing member 945.

[0132] The different holes or openings in the first and second parts 924, 925 and the linking assembly 926 also constitute adjustment means 943 that allow adjustment of the positioning of the different parts 924, 925 relative to one another. Thus, depending on the position of the fixing members in the holes or openings, the position of the different parts 924, 925 can be varied.

[0133] According to a variation not shown, the separation between the wings 9251, 9252 of the second part 925 may be greater than the separation between the wings 9241, 9242 of the first part 924. Similarly, the positioning of the slots and circular openings may be varied.

[0134] From this point on, the various mounting steps of the holding device 9 carried out according to the second embodiment and intended to fasten the front mast 52a and the dumping duct 61 of a nearby disposed dumping device 6 will be described in relation to figures 9a to 9d. For ease of understanding, the coupling assembly 926 is not represented in these figures.

[0135] During a preceding step not shown, a subassembly 96, hereinafter called the first subassembly, consisting of the fixed joint 923 and the second part 925, is secured to the forward mast 52a, preferably by welding.

[0136] During a first step shown in Fig. 9a, a subassembly 97 consisting of a first part 924 and a second half shell 9112, hereafter referred to as the second subassembly, is fixed to the first subassembly 96. During this first step, the first part 924, the second part 925 and the linking assembly 926 are secured via the fixing members 945 so as to define a first position. In this first position, the first subassembly 96 and the second subassembly 97 are oriented towards each other with maximum overlap, as indicated by the arrow 98. In this position, the second subassembly 97 is closest to the mast 52a.

[0137] During the second step shown in FIG. 9b, the discharge duct 61 of the discharger 6 is brought closer to the second subassembly 97. The discharge duct 61 is thus lowered along the mast 52a and extends alongside the second subassembly 97 while remaining at a distance therefrom. The position of the discharge duct 61 is defined by the different elements constituting the discharger 6, more particularly the suction element 64 and the drive assembly 62, which must be aligned with the discharge duct 61 to avoid twisting of the discharger 6. During the installation of the discharger 6, the suction element 64 is centered on the rotation axis X of the sump wall 81. As FIG. 9b shows, at the end of the second step, the discharge duct 61 is located at a distance from the inner wall 913 of the second half-shell 9112.

[0138] Upon reaching the final position of the unloading duct 61, the second subassembly 97 is displaced relative to the first subassembly 96. More specifically, the second subassembly 97 is displaced so as to allow coupling of the second subassembly 97, more specifically the inner wall 913 of the second half-shell 9112, with the unloading duct 61. This displacement, indicated by the arrow 99, corresponds to the third mounting step represented in FIG. 9c.

[0139] The positioning between the first subassembly 96 and the second subassembly 97 is performed using adjustment means 943 that allow the displacement of the first part 924 and the second part 925 in the first plane 400, more specifically in two directions in this same first plane 400. The fixing member 945 can then be repositioned to fix the new positions of the first subassembly 96 and the second subassembly 97.

[0140] Once the appropriate position is obtained, during the final step shown in FIG. 9 d , the first half-shell 9111 is brought close to the second half-shell 9112 and fixed thereto by the adhesion of their fins 912 .

[0141] These steps are repeated as many times as necessary depending on the number of holding devices 9 positioned along the support post 5.

[0142] The use of the holding device 9 according to the invention also offers the advantage of simplifying the disassembly of the support 5 during maintenance work involving the removal of elements. Indeed, the second part 925 and the fixed joint 923 can remain fixedly attached to the support 5 while the first part 924 is separated from the second part 925. Thus, access to the unloading device 6 is facilitated. Thus, in case of maintenance work, it is not necessary to completely remove the holding device 9 according to the invention in order to remove the unloading device 6 or one of its components. This also simplifies the reassembly of all these elements, since the fixed joint 923 and the second part 925 do not have to be repositioned and fixed.

[0143] The attachment methods described herein in relation to the second embodiment naturally also apply to the first embodiment.

[0144] However, the invention cannot be limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated herein, but extends to any equivalent means or configurations, and to any technical combinations operating such means. In particular, the type of fixing joints, the dimensions or configuration of the arms, and the assembly means used to secure the different parts of the arms can be modified without impairing the invention, so long as the adjustment device ultimately performs the same function as described herein.

[0145] Furthermore, the described holding device can also be applied for any other fixing purpose for a component intended to cooperate with one of the elements of the support post 5.

[0146] Referring to Figure 10, a cutaway view of a methane tanker ship 1 shows a generally prismatic, sealed, insulated tank 2 mounted within a double hull 11 of the vessel.

[0147] As is known per se, a loading / unloading pipeline 12 arranged on the upper deck of the vessel can be connected by suitable connection means to an offshore or port terminal to transfer a cargo of LNG to or from the tanks 2.

[0148] FIG. 10 also represents an example of a marine terminal comprising a loading and unloading station 13, a subsea duct 14 and an onshore facility 15. The loading and unloading station 13 is a fixed offshore facility comprising a movable arm 16 and a riser 17 supporting the movable arm 16. The movable arm 16 supports a bundle of flexible insulated pipes 18 that can be connected to the loading / unloading pipeline 12. The orientable movable arm 16 fits all methane tanker templates. Inside the riser 17 extends a connecting duct, not shown. The loading and unloading station 13 allows the loading and unloading of the methane tanker 1 from or to the onshore facility 15. The onshore facility 15 comprises a liquefied gas storage tank 19 and a connecting duct 24 connected to the loading or unloading station 13 by the subsea duct 14. The subsea duct 14 allows the liquefied gas to be transferred over long distances, for example 5 km, between the loading or unloading station 13 and the onshore facility 15, which makes it possible to keep the methane tanker ship 1 at a long distance from the shore during loading and unloading operations.

[0149] In order to generate the pressure required for the transfer of the liquefied gas, pumps installed on board the vessel 2 and / or pumps provided at the onshore installation 15 and / or pumps provided at the loading and unloading station 13 are implemented.

[0150] Although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific embodiments, it is by no means limited thereto, but it is extremely clear that the present invention encompasses all technical equivalents of the described means and combinations thereof, if they fall within the context of the present invention, as defined by the claims.

[0151] Use of the verb "comprise" or "include" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim.

[0152] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

Claims

1. A loading and / or unloading assembly (4) for a tank (2) of a ship (1) intended to contain liquefied gas, comprising: a loading and / or unloading column (5) provided with at least one mast (52) for extending into said tank (2); at least one unloading device (6) different from said loading and / or unloading column; and at least one holding device (9) for holding at least a part of said unloading device (6) on said loading and / or unloading column (5), preferably on said mast (52), A loading and / or unloading assembly (4), wherein the holding device (9) comprises at least one ring (91) through which at least a part of the unloading device (6) passes, and at least one arm (92), the arm (92) comprising at least one first part (921, 924) supporting the ring (91) and one second part (922, 925) supporting a fixing joint (923) for fixing the holding device (9) on the loading and / or unloading column (5), and the first part (921, 924) and the second part (922, 925) are configured to be displaced relative to each other in at least two directions within the same plane (100, 400).

2. 2. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1, wherein the plane (100, 400) is parallel to the first portion (921, 924) and / or the second portion (922, 925) of the arm (92).

3. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ring (91) is centered on an extension axis (900) of the holding device (9), the extension axis (900) extending parallel to the plane (400).

4. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ring (91) is centered on an extension axis (900) of the holding device (9), the extension axis (900) extending perpendicular to the plane (100), preferably the extension axis (900) extending perpendicular to the plane (100).

5. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ring (91) is composed of at least one first half shell (911, 9111) and one second half shell (911, 9112), and the first half shell (911, 9111) and / or the second half shell (911, 9112) are supported by the first part (921, 924).

6. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining device (9) comprises at least one stiffener (93) secured to the first part (921, 924), the ring (91) and / or the second part (922, 925), and the fixing joint (923).

7. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first part (924) and the second part (925) each comprise two wings (9241, 9242, 9251, 9252) extending away from each other, and the separation distance between the wings (9241, 9242) of the first part (924) is different from the separation distance between the wings (9251, 9252) of the second part (925) so as to allow overlap between each wing of the first part and a wing of the second part located opposite the each wing of the first part.

8. 8. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) of claim 7, wherein the separation distance between the wings (9241, 9242) of the first portion (924) is greater than the separation distance between the wings (9251, 9252) for the second portion (925).

9. 8. A loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 7, wherein the wing portions (9241, 9242, 9251, 9252) of the first and second portions (924, 925) each have an inner surface arranged such that the inner surface of the wing portion of one of the portions is positioned opposite the inner surface of the wing portion of the other of the portions, and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, and wherein each inner surface of the wing portion of the first portion (924) is preferably positioned opposite the outer surface of the wing portion of the second portion (925).

10. 10. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) of claim 9, wherein at least one linkage assembly (926) is disposed between an inner surface of a wing portion of one section and an outer surface of a wing portion of the other section disposed opposite thereto.

11. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first part (921, 924) and the second part (922, 925) are secured to one another by assembly means (94), which assembly means (94) is preferably removable.

12. 12. A loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 11, wherein the assembly means (94) comprises at least one fixing member (945) for fixing the first part (921, 924) on the second part (922, 925), and the first part (921, 924) and / or the second part (922, 925) comprises at least one slot (941, 942, 9255) for receiving the fixing member (945).

13. 13. A loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 12, wherein the first part (921) and the second part (922) each comprise at least one slot (941, 942) arranged at least partially opposite each other, the slot (941, 942) of one part extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of extension of the slot of the other part.

14. 3. The loading and / or unloading assembly (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the unloading device (6) comprises at least one suction element (64) arranged inside the tank (2) and a drive assembly (62) arranged outside the tank (2) for driving the suction element (64), the suction element (64) and the drive assembly (62) being connected to each other by a unloading duct (61), and the ring (91) of the holding device (9) at least partially surrounding the unloading duct (61).

15. A tank (2) of a ship (1) for containing liquefied gas, comprising a loading and / or unloading assembly according to claim 1 or 2.

16. 10. A method for installing a loading and / or unloading assembly (4) for a tank (2) of a ship (1) for containing liquefied gas according to claim 1 or 2 taken in combination with claim 5, said method comprising the step of fixing said second part (922, 925) onto said loading and / or unloading mast (5) via said fixing joint (923), said method comprising: a first step of fixing the first part (921, 924) and the second half-shell (911, 9112) supported by the first part on the second part (922, 925) in a first, so-called adjusted position, in which the first part is positioned as close as possible to the loading and / or unloading column (5); a second step of final positioning of at least one element of the unloading device (6) in the tank; a third step of displacing the first part (921, 924) and the second half-shell (911, 9112) to a second, so-called final position in which the second half-shell (911, 9112) is positioned as close as possible to an element of the unloading device (6); a fourth step of assembling and fixing the first half-shell (911, 9111) on the second half-shell (911, 9112) so as to enclose said element of the unloading device (6) between the first half-shell (911, 9111) and the second half-shell (911, 9112); A method comprising:

17. 17. A method for mounting an unloading device (6) according to claim 16, wherein said element of said unloading device (6) is an unloading duct (61).

18. A vessel (1) for transporting cryogenic liquid products, comprising a double hull (11) and a tank (2) according to claim 15 arranged within said double hull.

19. 20. A cryogenic liquid product transfer system comprising: a vessel (1) according to claim 18; an insulated pipeline (12, 13, 18, 24) arranged to connect the tank (2) installed in the double hull of the vessel to a floating or land-based storage facility (15); and a pump for conveying the fluid from the floating or land-based storage facility to the vessel's tank or from the vessel's tank to the floating or land-based storage facility via the insulated pipeline.

20. 19. A method for loading or unloading a vessel (1) according to claim 18, wherein fluids are transported from a floating or onshore storage facility (15) to the tanks of the vessel (2) or from the tanks of the vessel (2) to the floating or onshore storage facility (15) via an insulated pipeline (12, 13, 18, 24).

Images