Feedthrough for a pressure vessel and method for operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel - Patents.com

Abstract

A feedthrough for use with a pressure vessel is presented. In some embodiments, the feedthrough is formed with an insulator portion having insulator threads that mate with threads on the body portion. In some embodiments, the threads can be round or square threads. In some embodiments, the insulator portion includes a through hole and a filling structure. The filling structure can include a filling tube that can be used to communicate with the pressure vessel to which the body portion is attached. In some embodiments, the insulator portion can include an additional through hole for receiving one or more conductors.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 17 / 703,629, filed March 24, 2022, entitled "Feedthrough for a Pressure Vessel," which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0002] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE An embodiment of the present invention relates to a feedthrough for use in a pressure vessel. [Background technology]

[0003] Pressure vessels are used in a variety of applications, including metal hydrogen batteries, hydrogen storage vessels, and other applications. For renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, to be competitive with traditional fossil fuels, large-scale energy storage systems are required to reduce their inherent intermittency. Metal hydrogen batteries may be used in such applications. In addition, storage of high pressure gas or fuel gas, such as hydrogen, may be used to store energy. Feedthroughs that allow gas or liquid flow as well as electrical communication with the contents of the pressure vessel are important. However, it is difficult to provide feedthroughs that provide sufficient access and sealing properties.

[0004] Consequently, there is a need for better feedthroughs for pressure vessel applications. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to embodiments, a feedthrough that may be used in a pressure vessel is presented. The feedthrough according to some embodiments comprises a body having a base portion configured to be attached to a pressure vessel, a barrel portion coupled to the base portion, a through hole formed through the base portion and the barrel portion, and a thread formed on the inner portion of the through hole, the thread having a rounded or square thread; and an insulator having a top portion, a barrel portion coupled to the top portion, a through hole formed through the top portion and the barrel portion, and a thread formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion; the insulator is screwed into the body to form the feedthrough.

[0006] In some embodiments, a method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel comprises threading an insulator into a body, the body attached to the pressure vessel, where the insulator and the body both have round or square threads to form a seal between the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator; inserting a component through a through hole in the insulator; compressing the body to form a seal between the component and the through hole in the insulator, and between the threads of the insulator and the body; and removing the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0007] In some embodiments, a method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel comprises threading an insulator into a body, the body attached to the pressure vessel, where the insulator and the body both have threads; inserting the component through a through hole in the insulator such that an interference seal is formed between the component and the insulator; using a filling structure formed in the insulator, the filling structure including a first pipe extending from the insulator and in communication with a filled through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and in communication with the filled through hole in the insulator, where the first pipe includes a barrier; inserting a plug through the barrier in the first pipe and into the filled through hole; compressing the body to form seals between the component and the through hole in the insulator, between the plug and the filled through hole in the insulator, and between the threads of the insulator and the body; and removing the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0008] In some embodiments, a feedthrough comprises a body having a base portion configured to be attached to a pressure vessel, a barrel portion coupled to the base portion, a through hole formed through the base portion and the barrel portion, and threads formed on the inner portion of the through hole; and an insulator having a top portion, a barrel portion coupled to the top portion, a through hole formed through the top portion and the barrel portion, threads formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion, a bottom thread of the threads is tapered, and one or more additional through holes formed in the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator; the insulator is threaded into the body to form the feedthrough.

[0009] These and other embodiments are discussed below with respect to the following figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] An understanding of the features and advantages of the techniques described in this disclosure will be gained by reference to the following detailed description, which sets forth illustrative embodiments with reference to the following figures.

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a pressure vessel having a feedthrough according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 illustrates a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 illustrates a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2 illustrates a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG.

[0013] [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 illustrates a body portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 illustrates a body portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0014] [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B shows an assembled feedthrough having the insulator portion of FIGS. 4A and 4B combined with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4B shows an assembled feedthrough having the insulator portion of FIGS. 4A and 4B combined with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0016] [Figure 5A] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0017] [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B shows an assembled feedthrough having the insulator portion of FIGS. 5A and 5B combined with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5B shows an assembled feedthrough having the insulator portion of FIGS. 5A and 5B combined with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0018] [Figure 6A] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6B] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6C] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6D] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6E] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6F] FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D. [Figure 6G]FIG. 5B illustrates the use of a feedthrough consistent with the body shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B in combination with the insulator shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D.

[0019] [Figure 7A] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an insulator portion having a body portion for forming a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an insulator portion having a body portion for forming a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0020] These figures are discussed further below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] In the following description, specific details are described to illustrate some aspects of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that some embodiments can be practiced without some or all of these specific details. The specific embodiments disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Those skilled in the art may recognize other elements that are not specifically described herein but are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Such modifications may include the substitution of known equivalents for any aspect of the present disclosure to achieve the same result in substantially the same way.

[0022] Consequently, this description illustrates aspects and embodiments of the invention that should not be understood as limiting, and defines the invention for which the claims are protected. Various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this description and the claims. In some instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown or described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0023] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout this specification and the claims, the term "comprises" and variations thereof, such as "comprises" and "comprising" are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, i.e., "including but not limited to." Throughout this specification, the recitation of numerical ranges of values ​​is intended to serve as a shorthand notation for individually referring to each separate value within that range, including the values ​​defining the range, and each separate value is incorporated herein as if it were individually set forth herein. Furthermore, the individual values ​​provided for specific components are for illustration only and should not be considered limiting. The specific dimensional values ​​of various components are provided only as specific examples, and one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided using any dimensions. Additionally, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0024] Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but may in some cases. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0025] In the figures, the relative sizes of components are not meaningful and should not be considered limiting unless otherwise stated. Components are sized in the figures to better illustrate various features and structures without regard for the size they will be displayed with respect to other components. Additionally, while specific dimensions are shown to illustrate one example of a feedthrough, those specific dimensions are provided as an example only and are not limiting. Feedthroughs according to aspects of the disclosure below may be formed with any dimensions, using components having any relative dimensions. The actual dimensions depend on the particular application of the feedthroughs according to some embodiments.

[0026] A feedthrough according to some embodiments of the present disclosure includes a body portion and an insulator portion. The body portion is formed from a material that can be attached to the pressure vessel. For example, the body portion can be formed from stainless steel and welded to the wall of the pressure vessel such that the feedthrough provides access to the inside of the pressure vessel. In some embodiments of the feedthrough according to some embodiments, the threads formed in the through hole of the body portion that mate with the threads formed on the insulator portion have a rounded or squared shape to allow for an improved seal with the threads. In some embodiments, the bottom threads of the insulator portion are tapered to provide an even improved seal when the threads engage. Generally, the insulator includes a through hole that receives a component, such as a feedthrough terminal, that provides access to the inside of the pressure vessel. In some further embodiments, the insulator further includes an additional through hole in addition to the through hole that receives the terminal. In some embodiments, the additional through hole forms a filling structure that provides access for exchanging gases and liquids with the inside of the pressure vessel. In some embodiments, the additional through hole receives an additional conductor to provide electrical access to the inside of the pressure vessel.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 having a feedthrough 104 attached to a pressure vessel 102. The pressure vessel 102 may be any pressure vessel and may contain a gas, a liquid, or a combination of gas and liquid materials. The pressure vessel 102 may be, for example, a hydrogen-metal battery. The feedthrough 104 may be a feedthrough according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described below. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, a component 106 engages the feedthrough 104 and communicates with a structure 108 mounted inside the pressure vessel 102. The structure 108 may be, for example, an electrode stack of a battery. The component 106 may be, for example, a conductive rod such as a terminal for a battery. However, the component 106 may be any cylindrical component that extends from inside the pressure vessel 102 to outside the pressure vessel 102.

[0028] 2A-2C show a conventional example of a feedthrough 104. The feedthrough 104 shown in FIG. 2A is commonly referred to as a "Ziegler Feedthrough." As shown in FIG. 2A, the feedthrough 104 includes a body portion 202 and an insulator portion 204. The body portion 202 includes a base 206 and a barrel 208 formed from a single piece of material. The body portion 202 is formed from a material that can be attached to the pressure vessel 102. For example, the body portion 202 can be metal, such as stainless steel, such that it can be welded to the metallic pressure vessel 102. The body portion 202 has a throughbore 210 that passes through both the barrel 208 and the base 206 of the body portion 202. As further shown, the body portion 202 has internal threads 212 formed inside the throughbore 210. The threads 212 are typically pipe threads or "Whitworth threads" where each of the threads is triangular in shape. Figure 2C shows a cross-sectional view of the body barrel 208 described above.

[0029] As further shown, the insulator portion 204 includes a top portion 222 and an insulator barrel 224. A through hole 220 passes through the insulator 204. The exterior of the insulator barrel 224 includes threads 226 that mate with the threads 212 of the body 202, thus similarly being triangular in shape and reminiscent of pipe threads. The insulator 204 may be formed from any insulating material, e.g., a plastic material, capable of deforming to form a seal that insulates the component 106 from the body portion 104, and thus from the pressure vessel 102. FIG. 2B shows a cross-sectional view of the top portion 222. The top portion 222 is configured to facilitate insertion of the insulator 204 into the body 202 to form a conventional feedthrough 104.

[0030] In operation, after body portion 206 is attached to pressure vessel 102, insulator portion 204 may be threaded into body 202. Threads 212 and 226 of body 202 may be Whitworth threads such that a seal is formed between threads 212 and 216. Through hole 220 in insulator 204 receives component 106 as shown in FIG. 1 . Once assembled and component 106 is in place, barrel 208 of body portion 202 may be compressed and plastically deformed to complete the seal between component 106 and insulator 204.

[0031] However, there are several drawbacks to the conventional configuration shown in Figures 2A-2C. One such drawback is that the seal formed by the conventional threads 212 and 216 is not sufficient to maintain the pressure in the pressure vessel 102 itself. A second drawback is that the feedthrough 104 shown in Figures 2A-2C can only accommodate a single component 106. A need exists for a feedthrough that can accommodate multiple components, such as fill tubes or other conductors.

[0032] Some embodiments of the feedthrough 104 according to the present disclosure include threads that are rounded or squared to allow for improved sealing. Some embodiments may accommodate multiple components. Such multiple components may include one or more combinations of fill tubes, conductors, such as control wires or terminals, and other devices that facilitate access to the inside of the pressure vessel 102.

[0033] 3A and 3B show one example of a feedthrough body 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, the feedthrough body 300 includes a base portion 302 and a barrel portion 304. As shown, the base portion 302 has a W B 1. Outer diameter and length L B 5. The feedthrough body 300 includes a throughbore 316 that extends through the center of the barrel portion 304 and the base 302. The barrel portion 304 includes internal threads 318 formed on a wall of the throughbore 316 at a portion of the throughbore 316. The inside diameter of the throughbore 316 is a diameter W B 2, with threads 318 extending from the side of the through hole portion 316.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3A, barrel portion 304 can be separated into sections 306, 308, 310, 312, and 314. Section 306 has an outer diameter W B 4 and length L B 3. Section 306 is a flat portion extending from base 302 which may have an outer diameter W of 1. Section 308 is a flat portion extending from base 302 which may have an outer diameter W of 1. Section 306 may not include threads 318. B 4 to W B 5, each of which varies over a distance from length LB4 to length LB3, measured from the bottom of base 302. Section 312 similarly varies over a distance from the outside diameter of barrel 304 W B 5 to W B 4, each having a length L measured from the bottom of the base 302 B 2 to length L BSection 310 represents the crushing portion that is compressed and plastically deformed to form a seal in the final step of forming the feedthrough, as described further below. Section 314 represents the transition section where through hole 316 changes over a distance from W B Depth L at the top with an inside diameter of 3 B 3B shows a cross-sectional view from the top of the body 300. FIG.

[0035] Embodiments of the body 300 may have conventional threads as described above. However, some embodiments of the body 300 may have threads 318 formed in a manner that promotes a better seal at the threads 318 when the insulator is threaded into the body 304. In these embodiments, instead of the conventional threads discussed above, the threads 318 have teeth 320 that are squared or rounded in shape to form a better seal with similarly shaped threads in the insulator. For example, the threads 318 may be a "knuckle thread," which is an unusually rounded thread shape that has large spaces between the rounded crests and valleys. One standard for "knuckle threads" is the DIN 405 standard, which refers to a round thread with a flat 30° flank thread angle. For example, the threads 318 may be threads with the thread designation Th B may have:

[0036] The embodiments of the present disclosure may include conventional threads or may include "round threads" as described above. Additionally, in some embodiments, the threads 318 may be tapered at a bottom thread 322 of the threads 318 by gradually reducing the pitch diameter toward the bottom of the body 300.

[0037] For example, a particular example of a body 300 that may be used in a metal-hydrogen battery may have particular dimensions: B 1=46.0mm;L B 2=40.0mm;L B 3=12.0mm;L B 4=6.0mm;LB 5=4.0mm;L B 6=7.0mm;L B 7=1.0mm;W B 1=48.0mm;W B 2=28.4mm;W B 3=28.4mm;W B 4=34.0mm;W B 5=36.0mm; and Th B =DIN405 RD 28x1 / 8 thread. These dimensions are provided only as specific examples and should not be considered limiting. The specific dimensions of the body 300 may be dictated by any particular application of the present invention.

[0038] 4A and 4B show one embodiment of an insulator 400 that can fit into the body 300 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the exemplary insulator 400 accommodates a single component that passes through a through hole 412. The insulator 400 has a L I 4A, the bottom section 406 may have a length of 1.0 mm and includes a top portion 402 and a barrel portion 404. The barrel portion 404 includes a bottom section 406, a center section 408, and a top section 410. Threads 414 are formed on an outer surface of the center section 408. As shown in FIG. I The center section 408 extends from the bottom section 406 by a distance of L. I The top section 410 extends from the end of the center section 408 (measured from the bottom of the bottom section 406) to a length of L3. I 2. Barrel portion 404 has an outer diameter W I 1, on which threads 414 are formed. The top section 402 has a W I 2 and having a length L of the insulator 400 from the top of the top section 410 I4A and 4B, the through hole 412 is centered on the insulator 400, although in some embodiments the through hole 412 may be offset within the central section 408, and in the example shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the through hole 412 is centered on the insulator 400.

[0039] During operation, the insulator 400 is threaded into the body 300. As a result, the threads 414 of the insulator 400 engage with the threads 318 of the body 300. Thus, in some embodiments where the teeth 320 of the threads 318 are rounded or squared, then the teeth 418 of the threads 414 are similarly rounded or squared to match, e.g., the threads 414 are designated with a thread designation Th that matches the threads 318. I 1. In some embodiments, the bottom thread 416 of the thread 414 has an angle Θ I 1, which allows for more pressure between threads 414 and threads 318 to further enhance the seal between threads 318, particularly bottom threads 322 and threads 414.

[0040] In a particular example of an insulator 400 according to some embodiments, the insulator 400 may have the following dimensions: L I 1=42.0mm;L I 2=40.0mm;L I 3=38.0mm;L I 4=2.0mm;W I 1=24.4mm;W I 2=34.0mm;D I 1=10.1mm;Θ I 1=118°; and Th I 1=D IN405 RD 28x1 / 8. Insulator 400 is formed from an insulator, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) plastic. This particular example is provided as an example only and is not intended to be limiting. Insulator 400 may have any dimensions consistent with integration with body 300.

[0041] 4C-4D show a feedthrough 420 formed from integrating the insulator 400 with the body 300. The feedthrough 420 may be used to provide access to the inside of a pressure vessel and may be used as the feedthrough 104 described above with respect to FIG. 1. In operation, the through hole 412 is sized to receive the component 422. FIG. 4C shows the insulator 400 integrated with the body 300. The component 422 passes through the through hole 412 in the insulator 400, extends through the top portion 402 and through the bottom of the feedthrough 420.

[0042] 4D shows a cross-sectional view along the length of the feedthrough 420 shown in FIG. 4C. FIG. 4D further shows the threads 414 of the insulator 400 engaged with the threads 318 of the body 300. As shown, one of the lower teeth of the threads 414, a tooth 416 of the threads 414, functions to apply pressure onto the tapered or lower portion 322 of the threads 318 to allow for a better seal in addition to the seal formed by the threads themselves. As further shown, pressure P may be applied to compress and plastically deform the barrel portion 304, which further results in compressing and deforming the barrel portion 404 of the insulator to establish a seal between the barrel portion 404 and the component 422.

[0043] Figures 5A and 5B show another embodiment of an insulator, namely, an insulator 500 that is compatible with the body 300 shown in Figures 3A and 3B. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the exemplary insulator 500 is compatible with a component that passes through a through hole 512 in the insulator 500. The through hole 512 may be centered or off-center within the insulator 500. The insulator 500 also includes a fill tube structure 540 formed by pipes 522 and 532 that are connected to a fill through hole 524, as discussed further below.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 5A, the insulator 500 has a length of L I 5A and includes a top portion 502 and a barrel portion 504. Barrel portion 504 includes a bottom section 506, a center section 508, and a top section 510. Threads 514 are formed on an outer surface of center section 508. As shown in FIG. 5A, bottom section 506 may have a length of 1.5 mm along barrel 504. I The center section 508 is spaced from the bottom section 506 by a length of L. I The top section 510 extends from the end of the center section 508 (measured from the bottom of the bottom section 506) to a length of L I 6. Barrel portion 504 has an outer diameter W I 3 on which threads 514 are formed. The top portion 502 extends from the top of the top section 510 to the length L I 5. FIG. 5B shows a view from the bottom section 506 further illustrating the through hole 512 formed in the center section 508 of the insulator 500. As shown in FIG. 5B, the through hole 512 is I 5B, the top section 510 of the barrel portion 504 has a diameter of W.2 and is centered within the barrel portion 404. In some embodiments, the through holes 512 may be offset in the central section 508. Additionally, as shown in FIG. I It has a diameter of 4.

[0045] During operation, the insulator 500 is threaded into the body 300 to form the feedthrough 546 shown in FIG. 5C. As a result, the threads 514 of the insulator 500 engage with the threads 318 of the body 300. Thus, in some embodiments where the teeth 320 of the threads 318 are rounded or squared, then the teeth 518 of the threads 514 are similarly rounded or squared to match. In some embodiments, the bottom threads 322 of the body 300 are tapered. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bottom threads 516 of the threads 514 are tapered at an angle Θ as shown in FIG. 5A. I 2 may be angled upwardly, which allows for more pressure between threads 514 and threads 318 , further enhancing the seal between threads 318 and threads 514 .

[0046] 5A and 5B, insulator 500 includes structure 540 that allows additional access to the inside of the pressure vessel in addition to through holes 512. The example structure 540 shown in Figures 5A and 5B facilitates a filling structure for the addition and / or removal of gases and / or liquids to / from the pressure vessel to which body 300 is attached. For example, in a hydrogen-metal battery, electrolyte and gases such as hydrogen gas may be added to the pressure vessel or the pressure vessel may be evacuated through structure 540.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 5A, separate through holes 524 are formed through the insulator 500 and attached to a first pipe 532 and a second pipe 522 extending from the top portion 502. The first pipe 532 and the second pipe 522 are integrally formed as part of the insulator 500. The first pipe 532 has a through hole 530 and the second pipe 522 has a through hole 526 which meet at a through hole 524. As shown in FIG. 5A, the pipe 532 has an inner diameter DI6 and an outer diameter DI5, forming the through hole 530 and a through hole L. IThe pipe 522 has a length of 9. The pipe 532 extends vertically from the top portion 502 such that the through hole 530 is aligned with the through hole 524. The pipe 522 has an inside diameter D I 4 and the outer diameter D I 3, forming a through hole 526. The pipe 522 is angled at an angle Θ I 3 and positioned such that through hole 526 communicates with through hole 524. Additionally, pipe 522 may be formed above top portion 502.

[0048] Through hole 530 may include a barrier 528 in a position that blocks through hole 530 but allows access to through hole 524 by through hole 526 of pipe 522. In operation, when the pressure vessel is filled through pipe 522, a plug may be inserted through through hole 530 (breaking obstruction 528) and into through hole 524. As shown in FIG. 5A, barrier 528 may have a thickness L I 10 thin layers. When the body 300 into which the insulator 500 is assembled is compressed and plastically deformed, a seal is formed between the plug and the through hole 524, and a seal is formed between the walls of the through hole 512 and the component inserted through the through hole 512.

[0049] 5B shows a top view of insulator 500, showing structure 540 with pipe 522 and pipe 532. Additionally, threads 514, top portion 502, and through hole portion 512 are shown.

[0050] A particular example of the insulator 500 may have the following dimensions: LI5=42.0 mm; LI6=40.0 mm; LI7=38.0 mm; LI8=2.0 mm; LI9=16.0 mm; LI10=0.5 mm; WI3=24.4 mm; WI4=34.0 mm; DI2=10.1 mm; DI3=6.0 mm; DI4=4.0 mm; DI5=6.0 mm; DI6=4.0 mm; ΘI2=118°; ΘI3=60°; and ThI2=DIN405 RD 28x1 / 8. The insulator 500 may be formed from an insulating material, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) plastic. This particular example is provided as an example only and is not intended to be limiting. The insulator 500 may have any dimensions consistent with integration with the body 300.

[0051] 5C and 5D show a feedthrough 546 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The feedthrough 546 may be used as the feedthrough 104 in FIG. 1. FIG. 5D shows a cross-sectional view of the feedthrough 546 shown in FIG. 5C. FIG. 5C shows the feedthrough 546 including an insulator 500 incorporating a body 300. FIG. 5C shows a component 542 extending through a through hole 512 in the insulator 500. Additionally, FIG. 5C shows a structure 540 including pipes 522 and 532. As discussed above, the body 300 is attached to the pressure vessel wall at the base 302.

[0052] 5D shows a cross-sectional view of the feedthrough 546. As shown in FIG. 5D, the plug 544 can be positioned to be inserted through the pipe 532 into the through hole 524. The plug 544 can be formed from a rigid rod, e.g., a metallic rod, and is appropriately sized to seal within the through hole 524. The threads 318 of the body 300 engage with the threads 514 of the insulator 500. As shown, the bottom threads 516 are tapered as shown above to help form a seal between the threads 318 of the body 300 and the threads 514 of the insulator 500. In some embodiments, the through hole 512 can be sized such that a tight fit can be formed with the component 542 to form an interference fit that forms a weak seal. Additionally, FIG. 5D illustrates the placement of a press 550 that can apply pressure to compress and plastically deform the barrel 304 of the body 300 to complete the seal between the threads 318 of the body 300 and the threads 514 of the insulator 500, as well as the seal between the insulator 500 and the plug 544 and component 542.

[0053] 6A-6G illustrate a method 600 of assembly and use of the feedthrough 546 described above with respect to FIGS. 5C and 5D above. The method 600 begins at step 602 where the insulator 500 is threaded into the body 300. As discussed above, the body 300 is attached to the wall of the pressure vessel by the base 302. As discussed above, the tapered threads 322 of the body 300 and the threads 516 of the insulator 500, as well as the threads 318 of the body 300 and the threads 514 of the insulator 500 form a seal as shown in FIG. 6B which shows the threads 514 engaged with the threads 318.

[0054] In step 604, component 542 is inserted through through hole 512. Figure 6B illustrates the performance of steps 602 and 604. As discussed above, an interference fit is formed between component 542 and insulator 500 within through hole 512. Additionally, tapered threads 322 in combination with angled threads 516 help create a seal between insulator 500 and body 300 at threads 318 and 514, as discussed above.

[0055] Once a seal is formed between threads 318 and threads 514 and an interference seal is formed between component 542 and insulator 500 in through hole 512 in steps 602 and 604, method 600 proceeds to step 606 where structure 540 is used as needed according to the use of the pressure vessel to which feedthrough 546 is attached. As discussed, pipe 522 can be used to add or remove liquid or gas while pipe 532 is sealed by barrier 528. Consequently, as shown in FIG. 6C, 522 can be used to pressurize the pressure vessel or to draw a vacuum on the pressure vessel. In an example where the pressure vessel is a hydrogen-metal battery, pipe 522 can be used to first draw a vacuum on the pressure vessel, then add electrolyte to the pressure vessel, and then drain any excess electrolyte from the pressure vessel. Additionally, gas, such as hydrogen or an inert gas, can be added to the pressure vessel if needed.

[0056] Once the appropriate conditions (i.e., adding liquid and / or gas or applying a vacuum) have been achieved using pipe 522, method 600 then proceeds to step 608. In step 608, plug 544 is forced through obstruction 528 and into through bore 524, as shown in FIG. 6D. In step 610, press 550 is used to compress and plastically deform barrel 304 of body 300, as shown in FIG. 6E, such that threads 318 are compressed and plastically deformed against threads 514, through bore 512 is compressed and plastically deformed against component 542, and through bore 524 is compressed and plastically deformed against plug 544 to create a seal that is strong against any pressures in the pressure vessel to which feedthrough 546 is attached. Method 600 then proceeds to step 612.

[0057] In step 612, the pipes 522 and 532 of the structure 540 may be removed from the insulator 500, as shown in Figures 6F and 6G. As shown in Figures 6F and 6G, the plug 544 may be positioned to align with the top surface of the upper section 502 of the insulator 500 and extends through most of the through hole 524. The structure 540 may then be cut flush with the top surface of the top section 502 of the insulator 500.

[0058] As discussed above, the body 300 may be mated with an insulator that may take multiple shapes and provide multiple access through holes. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the insulator may include a fill tube structure in addition to the through holes for receiving components such as feedthrough terminals. In some embodiments, the insulator may provide through holes for receiving one or more electrical conductors in addition to the above components and in combination with a fill structure as described with respect to the insulator 500 in some further embodiments.

[0059] 7A and 7B show another example of a feedthrough 700 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7A, the body 300 described above is integrated with an insulator 702 to form the feedthrough 700. As shown in FIG. 7A and 7B, the insulator 702, which may have similar features as those shown above for the insulators 400 and 500 described above, includes a through hole that accommodates the conductor 706. As with other embodiments, when the body 300 is compressed and plastically deformed, a seal is then formed around the conductor 706 and the component 704. Thus, the insulator 702 may be formed substantially as described above with respect to the insulators 400 and 500, with the addition of an additional through hole to accommodate additional structures such as the conductor 706.

[0060] Embodiments of the present disclosure may exhibit one or more of the following aspects:

[0061] Aspect 1: A feedthrough comprising: a body having a base portion configured to be attached to a pressure vessel, a barrel portion coupled to the base portion, a through hole formed through the base portion and the barrel portion, and threads formed on the inner portion of the through hole, the threads having rounded or square threads; and an insulator having a top portion, a barrel portion coupled to the top portion, a through hole formed through the top portion and the barrel portion, and threads formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion; and the insulator is screwed into the body to form the feedthrough.

[0062] Aspect 2: The feedthrough of aspect 1, wherein each of the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

[0063] Aspect 3: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 2, wherein the bottom thread of the body is tapered.

[0064] Aspect 4: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is angled upwardly.

[0065] Aspect 5: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the through hole of the insulator accommodates a terminal.

[0066] Example 6: The feedthrough of any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the insulator further comprises a filling structure.

[0067] Aspect 7: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the filling structure includes: a filling through hole portion formed through the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator; a first pipe having an inner diameter aligned with the filling through hole portion, the first pipe including a barrier; and a second pipe having an inner diameter, the second pipe angled from the first pipe such that the inner diameter of the second pipe intersects the filling through hole portion below the barrier.

[0068] Aspect 8: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 7, further comprising a plug designed to be pushed through the barrier in the first pipe and into the filled through hole portion.

[0069] Aspect 9: A feedthrough as described in any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the insulator has one or more through holes for accommodating a conductor.

[0070] Aspect 10: A method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel comprising: threading an insulator into a body, the body attached to the pressure vessel, where the insulator and the body both have rounded or square threads to form a seal between the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator; inserting a component through a through hole in the insulator; compressing the body to form a seal between the component and the through hole in the insulator, and between the threads of the insulator and the body; and removing the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0071] Aspect 11: The method of aspect 10, wherein each of the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

[0072] Aspect 12: The method of any one of aspects 10 to 11, wherein the threads of the body are tapered.

[0073] Aspect 13: The method of any one of aspects 10 to 12, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is angled upwardly.

[0074] Aspect 14: A method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel comprising: threading an insulator into a body, the body attached to the pressure vessel, where the insulator and the body both have threads; inserting the component through a through hole in the insulator such that an interference seal is formed between the component and the insulator; using a filling structure formed in the insulator, the filling structure including a first pipe extending from the insulator and in communication with the filled through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and in communication with the filled through hole in the insulator, where the first pipe includes a barrier; inserting a plug through the barrier in the first pipe and into the filled through hole; compressing the body to form seals between the component and the through hole in the insulator, between the plug and the filled through hole in the insulator, and between the threads of the insulator and the body; and removing the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0075] Example 15: The method of example 14, wherein using the filling structure comprises drawing a vacuum on the pressure vessel; adding electrolyte to the pressure vessel; draining excess electrolyte from the pressure vessel; and adding gas to the pressure vessel.

[0076] Example 16: The method of any one of Examples 14 to 15, wherein using the filling structure comprises pressurizing the pressure vessel.

[0077] Aspect 17: A method according to any one of aspects 14 to 16, wherein the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are rounded or squared so as to form a seal between the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator.

[0078] Aspect 18: The method of any one of aspects 14 to 17, wherein each of the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

[0079] Aspect 19: The method of aspects 14 to 18, wherein the threads of the body are tapered.

[0080] Aspect 20: The method of aspects 14 to 19, wherein the threads of the insulator are angled upwardly.

[0081] Aspect 21: A feedthrough comprising: a body having a base portion configured to be attached to a pressure vessel, a barrel portion coupled to the base portion, a through hole formed through the base portion and the barrel portion, and a thread formed on the inner portion of the through hole; and an insulator having a top portion, a barrel portion coupled to the top portion, a through hole formed through the top portion and the barrel portion, a thread formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion, a bottom thread of the thread is tapered, and one or more additional through holes formed in the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator; and the insulator is screwed into the body to form the feedthrough.

[0082] Aspect 22: The feedthrough of aspect 21, wherein each of the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

[0083] Aspect 23: The feedthrough of aspects 21 to 22, wherein the threads of the body are tapered.

[0084] Aspect 24: The feedthrough of aspects 21 to 23, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is tapered by being angled upwardly.

[0085] Aspect 25: A feedthrough as described in aspects 21 to 24, wherein the through hole portion of the insulator accommodates a terminal.

[0086] Example 26: The feedthrough of any one of Examples 21 to 25, wherein the one or more additional feedthroughs have a filling structure.

[0087] Aspect 27: The feedthrough of aspects 21 to 26, wherein the filling structure includes a filled through hole portion formed through the insulator; a first pipe having an inner diameter aligned with the filled through hole portion, the first pipe including a barrier; and a second pipe having an inner diameter, the second pipe angled from the first pipe such that the inner diameter of the second pipe intersects the filled through hole portion below the barrier.

[0088] Aspect 28: The feedthrough of aspects 21 to 27, further comprising a plug designed to be pushed through the barrier in the first pipe and into the filled through hole portion.

[0089] Aspect 29: A feedthrough as described in aspects 21 to 28, wherein the one or more additional through hole portions include one or more through hole portions for accommodating one or more conductors.

[0090] The embodiments of the present invention described herein are not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A feedthrough comprising: A main body, the main body comprising: a base portion configured to be attached to the pressure vessel; a barrel portion connected to the base portion; a throughbore formed through said base portion and said barrel portion; and a thread formed on the inner portion of the through hole, the thread having a rounded or squared thread; and an insulator, the insulator being top part, a barrel portion connected to said top portion; a throughbore formed through said top portion and said barrel portion; and Threads formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion having With The insulator is screwed into the body to form the feedthrough. Feed through.

2. 2. The feedthrough of claim 1, wherein each of the threads on the body and the threads on the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

3. The feedthrough of claim 1 , wherein the bottom threads of the body are tapered.

4. The feedthrough of claim 1 , wherein a bottom thread of the insulator is angled upwardly.

5. The feedthrough of claim 1 , wherein the through hole in the insulator receives a terminal.

6. The feedthrough of claim 1 , wherein the insulator further comprises a filling structure.

7. The filling structure is a fill through hole formed through said top portion and said barrel portion of said insulator; a first pipe having an inside diameter aligned with the fill through hole, the first pipe including a barrier; a second pipe having an inner diameter, the second pipe being angled from the first pipe such that the inner diameter of the second pipe intersects the fill through hole below the barrier; The feedthrough of claim 6 comprising:

8. 8. The feedthrough of claim 7, further comprising a plug designed to be forced through the barrier in the first pipe and into the fill through hole.

9. The feedthrough of claim 1 , wherein the insulator has one or more through holes for receiving a conductor.

10. 1. A method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel, comprising: threading an insulator into a body, said body being attached to said pressure vessel, wherein said insulator and said body both have round or square threads to form a seal between said threads of said body and said threads of said insulator; inserting a component through a through hole in the insulator; compressing the body to form a seal between the component and the through hole in the insulator and between the insulator and the threads of the body; and Removing the first pipe and the second pipe. A method comprising:

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein each of the threads on the body and the threads on the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

12. The method of claim 10 , wherein the threads on the body are tapered.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is angled upwardly.

14. 1. A method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel, comprising: threading an insulator into a body, said body being attached to said pressure vessel, wherein both said insulator and said body have threads; inserting the component through a through hole in the insulator such that a tight seal is formed between the component and the insulator; using a filling structure formed within the insulator, the filling structure including a first pipe extending from the insulator and in communication with a filling through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and in communication with the filling through hole in the insulator, the first pipe including a barrier; inserting a plug through the barrier in the first pipe and into the fill through hole; compressing the body to form seals between the component and the through hole in the insulator, between the plug and the filled through hole in the insulator, and between the insulator and the threads of the body; and Removing the first pipe and the second pipe. A method comprising:

15. using the filling structure, drawing a vacuum on the pressure vessel; adding electrolyte to the pressure vessel; draining excess electrolyte from the pressure vessel; and adding gas to said pressure vessel; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

16. The method of claim 14 , wherein using the filling structure comprises pressurizing the pressure vessel.

17. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are rounded or squared off to form a seal between the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator.

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein each of the threads on the body and the threads on the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

19. The method of claim 17 , wherein the threads on the body are tapered.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the threads of the insulator are angled upwardly.

21. A feedthrough comprising: A main body, the main body comprising: a base portion configured to be attached to the pressure vessel; a barrel portion connected to the base portion; a throughbore formed through said base portion and said barrel portion; and a thread formed on the inner portion of the through hole; and an insulator, the insulator being top part, a barrel portion connected to said top portion; a throughbore formed through said top portion and said barrel portion; a thread formed on the outer portion of the barrel portion, the bottom thread of the thread being tapered; and One or more additional through holes formed in the top and barrel portions of the insulator. having With The insulator is screwed into the body to form the feedthrough. Feed through.

22. 22. The feedthrough of claim 21, wherein each of the threads on the body and the threads on the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

23. The feedthrough of claim 21 , wherein the threads of the body are tapered.

24. 22. The feedthrough of claim 21, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is tapered by being angled upwardly.

25. 22. The feedthrough of claim 21, wherein the through hole in the insulator receives a terminal.

26. The feedthrough of claim 21 , wherein the one or more additional feedthroughs have a filling structure.

27. The filling structure is a filled through hole formed through the insulator; a first pipe having an inner diameter aligned with the filled through hole, the first pipe including a barrier; and a second pipe having an inner diameter, the second pipe being angled from the first pipe such that the inner diameter of the second pipe intersects the fill through hole below the barrier; 27. The feedthrough of claim 26, comprising:

28. 30. The feedthrough of claim 27, further comprising a plug designed to be forced through the barrier in the first pipe and into the fill through hole.

29. 22. The feedthrough of claim 21, wherein the one or more additional through holes include one or more through holes for accommodating one or more conductors.

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