Cryogenic Fluid Storage Tank

Abstract

The present invention provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank that stores a cryogenic fluid and includes an inner tank including a first modular tank and a second modular tank, a center pipe that is arranged to penetrate the first modular tank and the second modular tank and has a hole that interconnects the first modular tank and the second modular tank, and an outer tank that houses the inner tank and the center pipe.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cryogenic fluid storage tank. [Background technology]

[0002] As the seriousness of the energy problems associated with the use of fossil fuels becomes apparent, research into alternative fuels is actively progressing.

[0003] Among these, the technological concept of using hydrogen as fuel is environmentally friendly yet highly efficient, and is attracting attention as an alternative fuel.

[0004] Its use is expanding not only in hydrogen vehicles, which use hydrogen as fuel instead of gasoline or diesel, but also in transportation such as ships and airplanes, and industrial machinery. Generally, hydrogen used in automobiles and industrial machinery is stored in storage tanks in liquid or gaseous form. Since gas has a larger volume than liquid for the same mass, hydrogen stored in storage tanks must be liquefied before storage to increase storage efficiency.

[0005] Hydrogen can be liquefied and vaporized at extremely low temperatures of around minus 250 degrees Celsius, so persistent research is being conducted into methods to improve its insulation and pressure resistance, as well as methods to suppress sloshing inside storage tanks. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a cryogenic fluid storage tank having improved insulation performance and pressure resistance performance when storing a cryogenic fluid, and an improved holding time for storing and maintaining the cryogenic fluid.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank including an inner tank for storing a cryogenic fluid and including a first modular tank and a second modular tank, a center pipe disposed to penetrate the first modular tank and the second modular tank and having a hole formed therein for interconnecting the first modular tank and the second modular tank, and an outer tank that houses the inner tank and the center pipe.

[0009] In addition, the hole formed in the center pipe includes an ullage hole located inside the first modular tank and a fluid supply hole located inside the second modular tank, and the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to the inside of the first modular tank through the ullage hole is smaller than the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to the inside of the second modular tank through the fluid supply hole.

[0010] The center pipe also provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank including a fluid supply section, to which a cryogenic fluid is supplied and in which an ullage hole and a fluid supply hole are formed, and a support section disposed on one side of the fluid supply section, the interior of the fluid supply section and the interior of the support section being separated from each other and hollow, and the interior of the support section being vacuum.

[0011] In addition, a space consisting of a vacuum is formed between the inner tank and the outer tank, and a support part through-hole is formed in the support part, and a cryogenic fluid storage tank is provided in which the inside of the support part and the space between the inner tank and the outer tank are connected via the support part through-hole.

[0012] The center pipe further includes a manifold portion disposed on the other side of the fluid supply portion, the inside of which is hollow and separated from the inside of the fluid supply portion, and the inside of the manifold portion is vacuum.

[0013] The inner tank further includes a supporter that is supported by the center pipe and disposed on one side of the inner tank, and the supporter provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank that is in contact with the inner surface of the outer tank.

[0014] The cryogenic fluid storage tank further includes a spacer that is supported by the center pipe and disposed on the other side of the inner tank, and the spacer is disposed spaced apart from the inner surface of the outer tank.

[0015] In addition, the center pipe includes a fluid supply section in which ullage holes and fluid supply holes are formed, a support section located on one side of the fluid supply section, and a manifold section located on the other side of the fluid supply section, but the fluid supply section, support section, and manifold section are separated internally, and a supporter is located on the support section, and a spacer is located on the manifold section, providing a cryogenic fluid storage tank.

[0016] The present invention also provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank that further includes a third modular tank that is penetrated and supported by a center pipe and provides a space for storing cryogenic fluid, and a supporter that is penetrated and supported by the center pipe and contacts the inner surface of the outer tank, but the second modular tank is positioned between the first modular tank and the third modular tank, and the supporter is positioned between the second modular tank and the third modular tank.

[0017] Also, the size of the ullage hole is provided within a range of 1 / 2 to 1 / 300 of the size of the fluid supply hole.

[0018] The first modular tank also provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank including a first module member having a curved surface portion including a curvature and a recess extending from the curved surface portion, a second module member coupled to the first module member to form a storage space inside, a module support portion coupled to the first module member outside the storage space and penetrated by a center pipe, and a filler material filling the space between the module support portion and the recess of the first module member.

[0019] The center pipe also includes a fluid supply section having a plurality of holes formed therein, a support section disposed on one side of the fluid supply section and having a vacuum inside, and a manifold section disposed on the other side of the fluid supply section and including a fluid supply pipe, and the interiors of the fluid supply section, the support section, and the manifold section are separated, and a cryogenic fluid storage tank is provided in which the cryogenic fluid is supplied to the interiors of the first modular tank and the second modular tank through the plurality of holes.

[0020] The present invention also provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank that further includes a first supply line configured to supply a cryogenic fluid to a second modular tank, a discharge line configured to discharge gas evaporated from the cryogenic fluid stored in the second modular tank, and a second supply line configured to supply gas recovered from the discharge line to the first modular tank, and that supplies gas to the first modular tank through the second supply line, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank and indirectly transferring heat to the second modular tank, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank, thereby discharging gas at a preset pressure through the discharge line.

[0021] The present invention also provides a cryogenic fluid storage tank that further includes a housing portion covering one side of the outer tank and a heat exchanger provided inside the housing portion, and the heat exchanger uses a fluid flowing in from the outside to transfer heat to the outer surface of the outer tank corresponding to the position of the first modular tank, thereby recovering cold energy and increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank.

[0022] In addition, the second modular tank stores liquid hydrogen as a cryogenic fluid, and the discharge line discharges gaseous hydrogen vaporized from the liquid hydrogen stored in the second modular tank and supplies it to the fuel cell. If the gaseous hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell does not meet the predetermined standards, it is resupplied to the first modular tank via the second supply line, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank, and heat is transferred to the second modular tank to increase the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank, thereby providing a cryogenic fluid storage tank that supplies gaseous hydrogen that meets the predetermined standards to the fuel cell via the discharge line. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to the embodiment of the present invention can have improved insulation performance and pressure resistance when storing cryogenic fluid, and can also have an improved holding time for storing and maintaining the cryogenic fluid.

[0024] In addition, the cryogenic fluid storage tank of this embodiment includes a first modular tank which is an ullage tank and a second modular tank in which a cryogenic fluid is stored, and if the pressure of the gas evaporated and discharged in the second modular tank is lower than a pre-set pressure, gas is supplied to the first modular tank to increase the internal temperature and pressure of the first modular tank, thereby indirectly transferring heat to the second modular tank which is in close contact with the first modular tank, thereby safely increasing the internal temperature and pressure of the second modular tank, and thereby discharging gas from the second modular tank to meet the pre-set pressure.

[0025] In addition, by providing a heat exchange unit around the first modular tank and heating the first modular tank, which is an ullage tank, through the heat exchange unit, heat can be indirectly transferred to the second modular tank through this as well, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank.

[0026] The effects obtained by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a view showing a first module tank and a second module tank of an inner tank according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the first modular tank and the second modular tank in FIG. 1 and their surroundings. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a center pipe and an inner tank according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram comparing the sizes of the fluid supply holes and the ullage holes according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the support portion in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the manifold portion and its periphery in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to another embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a center pipe and an inner tank according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the periphery of a first modular tank and a second modular tank according to still another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a view showing a first supply line, a discharge line, and a second supply line of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a view showing a heat exchanger and a discharge line in a fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to describe exemplary embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the invention may be practiced.

[0030] In the drawings, parts that are not relevant to the description may be omitted in order to clearly explain the present invention, and the same reference numerals may be used throughout the specification for the same or similar components.

[0031] In the embodiments of the present invention, the terms "or", "at least one", etc. may refer to one of the words listed together or to a combination of two or more.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to one embodiment.

[0034] In the following embodiments and drawings, the first direction DR1 may refer to the direction in which the center pipe 300 extends. The second direction DR2 may be a direction different from the first direction DR1 and may intersect with the first direction DR1. For example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may indicate directions that intersect perpendicularly with each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0035] However, the directions mentioned in the embodiments should be understood as referring to relative directions, and the embodiments are not limited to the directions mentioned.

[0036] 1, a cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 according to one embodiment can store or preserve a substance in a cryogenic state. The cryogenic substance stored in the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be transferred by transferring the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10. For example, the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can store or preserve a fluid in a cryogenic state.

[0037] The cryogenic fluid may be a liquefied gas obtained by liquefying a predetermined gas. Hereinafter, the present specification will be described using the case where the cryogenic fluid is liquid hydrogen as an example, but the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, the cryogenic fluid may be a liquefied gas (or liquid gas) obtained by liquefying various types of gases, such as liquid nitrogen or liquid helium.

[0038] The cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may include an outer tank 100 , an inner tank 200 , a center pipe 300 , a water level sensor 400 , a support member 500 , and an insulating member 700 .

[0039] The outer tank 100, the inner tank 200, the center pipe 300, and the support member 500 may each be made of a metal material. For example, the metal material may include any one selected from stainless steel, Invar steel, nickel steel, high manganese steel, and aluminum, or a combination thereof. However, without being limited thereto, the outer tank 100, the inner tank 200, the center pipe 300, and the support member 500 may each be made of a material other than a metal material that has a certain strength or more and is capable of storing a cryogenic fluid.

[0040] The outer tank 100 may provide a space therein for accommodating the inner tank 200, the center pipe 300, the water level sensor 400, and the support member 500. The outer tank 100 may include a main body 110, a first cover 120, and a second cover 130. The main body 110, the first cover 120, and the second cover 130 may seal the interior of the outer tank 100.

[0041] The body 110 may be hollow and have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1, but is not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the body 110 in a cross section intersecting with the first direction DR1 may be not only a circle but also a polygon such as a triangle, a rectangle, or a pentagon, or may be an ellipse.

[0042] The first cover 120 and the second cover 130 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the main body 110 in the first direction DR1, respectively. The first cover 120 and the second cover 130 may cover one side and the other side of the cylindrical main body 110 and may seal the interior of the main body 110. Furthermore, the interior of the outer tank 100 may be sealed. At least one of the first cover 120 and the second cover 130 may have a concave shape.

[0043] The first cover 120 is disposed on one side of the main body 110 in the first direction DR1 and may be coupled to the main body 110. The first cover 120 may correspond to the shape of the main body 110. For example, if the main body 110 has a cylindrical shape on a plane intersecting the first direction DR1, the first cover 120 may have a circular shape on a plane intersecting the first direction DR1.

[0044] The first cover 120 may have a concave shape. Specifically, the first cover 120 may be coupled to one side end of the body 110 in the first direction DR1. The first cover 120 may be rounded from the one side end of the body 110 in the first direction DR1 toward the inside of the body 110.

[0045] The second cover 130 is disposed on the other side of the main body 110 in the first direction DR1 and can be coupled to the main body 110. The second cover 130 can correspond to the shape of the main body 110. For example, if the main body 110 has a cylindrical shape on a plane intersecting the first direction DR1, the second cover 130 can have a circular shape on a plane intersecting the first direction DR1.

[0046] The second cover 130 may have a concave shape. Specifically, the second cover 130 may be coupled to the other end of the body 110 in the first direction DR1. The second cover 130 may be rounded from the other end of the body 110 in the first direction DR1 toward the inside of the body 110.

[0047] At least one of the first cover 120 and the second cover 130 has a concave shape, which improves the pressure resistance of the inner tank 200. Specifically, as cryogenic fluid is supplied, stored, and discharged from the inner tank 200, the inner tank 200 may contract and expand due to changes in temperature or internal pressure. The first cover 120 and the second cover 130 are formed to have a rounded shape on the inside of the main body 110, which allows the inner tank 200 to be more smoothly supported even when the inner tank 200 expands. This improves the pressure resistance of the inner tank 200, which improves the safety of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10. Furthermore, the holding time of the cryogenic fluid in the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may be improved.

[0048] In addition, since at least one of the first cover 120 and the second cover 130 has a concave shape, there is no part protruding from the main body 110, which may improve space utilization. That is, it may be easier to install the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 on a vehicle, a ship, etc.

[0049] The inner tank 200 can store a cryogenic fluid therein. For example, the inner tank 200 can store liquid hydrogen and gaseous hydrogen vaporized from the liquid hydrogen therein. The inner tank 200 can be modular. Specifically, the inner tank 200 can include first to seventh modular tanks 210 to 270. Each of the first to seventh modular tanks 210 to 270 can provide a storage space for a cryogenic fluid. Although seven modular tanks 210 to 270 are shown in the drawings, the number of modular tanks is not limited thereto.

[0050] Because the inner tank 200 is modular, it is easier to adjust the capacity of the inner tank 200. In other words, the capacity of the cryogenic fluid that can be stored in the inner tank 200 can be controlled by adjusting the number of modular inner tanks without any additional design changes. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the time and cost consumed in design changes due to capacity changes.

[0051] Furthermore, since the inner tank 200 is modular, sloshing inside the inner tank 200 can be suppressed or prevented.

[0052] Sloshing is a liquid flow phenomenon in which liquid cargo stored inside a tank sways and flows. This liquid flow phenomenon can cause the liquid cargo to vaporize or hit the inner wall of the tank, causing damage to the tank. If impacts caused by sloshing are repeated, the evaporation rate of the liquid cargo stored inside the tank can increase. Furthermore, fatigue cracks can occur inside the tank, which can lead to tank destruction. As the volume of fluid stored inside the tank increases, sloshing can occur more easily, which can also lead to tank destruction.

[0053] Because the inner tank 200 is modular, the cryogenic fluid is stored in each of the modular tanks 210-270, and the volume of the cryogenic fluid stored in each of the modular tanks 210-270 is smaller than the total volume. Even if the total volume of the cryogenic fluid that can be stored in the inner tank 200 is the same, the cryogenic fluid is stored dispersedly in each of the modular tanks 210-270, thereby suppressing or preventing the occurrence of sloshing, and improving the safety of the inner tank 200. In addition, by reducing the movement of the internal fluid, which is the effect of external dynamic energy on the inside, the evaporation rate of the cryogenic liquid stored inside the tank can be reduced. Furthermore, the holding time of the cryogenic fluid in the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be improved.

[0054] The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be disposed independently of one another. In other words, the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be disposed outside one another. The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be arranged in a row along the extension direction of the center pipe 300. The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be disposed consecutively along the first direction DR1.

[0055] The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 can abut against adjacent modular tanks. The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 can support each other, which can improve the pressure resistance of each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270.

[0056] Specifically, each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may contract and expand due to temperature changes or internal pressure changes caused by the cryogenic fluid. As a result, even if the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 expand, they can be mutually supported by the adjacent modular tanks 210-270. For example, even if the third modular tank 230 expands, it can be supported by the adjacent second modular tank 220 and fourth modular tank 240. As a result, the pressure resistance of each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 can be improved, and the safety of the inner tank 200 can be improved. Furthermore, the cryogenic fluid holding time of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be improved.

[0057] At least one of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may have a different shape from the rest. Among the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 arranged along the first direction DR1, the first modular tank 210 and the seventh modular tank 270 arranged at one end and the other end of the first direction DR1 may have a different shape from the second through sixth modular tanks 220-260.

[0058] The first modular tank 210 and the seventh modular tank 270 may have shapes that are symmetrical to each other, and the second through sixth modular tanks 220-260 may have shapes that are substantially identical to each other.

[0059] For a more detailed explanation of this, further reference is made to FIG.

[0060] 2 is a diagram illustrating a first modular tank and a second modular tank of an inner tank according to an embodiment. The description of the first modular tank 210 may be substantially equally applied to the seventh modular tank 270, and the description of the second modular tank 220 may be substantially equally applied to the third through sixth modular tanks 230-260.

[0061] 1 and 2, the first modular tank 210 may include a first modular member 211 and a second modular member 212. The second modular tank 220 may include a third modular member 221 and a fourth modular member 222.

[0062] The first module member 211 may include a first curved portion 211a, a first peripheral portion 211b, a recess 211c, and a first central hole 211d.

[0063] The first curved surface portion 211a may have a shape in which the diameter increases from the periphery of the recess 211c toward the other side in the first direction DR1. The first peripheral portion 211b may include an outer periphery portion on the other side of the first curved surface portion 211a in the first direction DR1. The recess 211c may have a concave shape from one side to the other side in the first direction DR1. The first central hole 211d may be defined in a central portion of the recess 211c of the first module member 211. The size of the first central hole 211d may be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the center pipe 300, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] Because the first modular member 211 includes the recess 211c, the first modular tank 210 can ensure high pressure resistance even if a separate modular tank is not disposed on one side in the first direction DR1 of the first modular tank 210. Specifically, because the first modular member 211 includes the recess 211c, one side of the first modular tank 210 in the first direction DR1 may have a curvature. Therefore, even if the pressure resistance of the first modular tank 210 increases, the pressure toward one side in the first direction DR1 can be dispersed, thereby improving the pressure resistance.

[0065] The second module member 212 may include a first flat portion 212a, a second central hole 212b, an inner protrusion 221c, a second curved portion 212d, a second peripheral portion 212e, and a joggling portion 212f.

[0066] The first flat portion 212a may have a circular planar shape. The second central hole 212b may be defined at the center of the first flat portion 212a. The second central hole 212b may have a size that allows the center pipe 300 to be inserted and coupled thereto.

[0067] The outer protrusion 212c may have a shape that protrudes outward from the first modular tank 210. The outer protrusion 212c may have a shape that protrudes to the other side in the first direction DR1 along the periphery of the second central hole 212b. The outer diameter of the outer protrusion 212c may be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the inner protrusion 221c of the third modular member 221. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the outer protrusion 212c may be press-fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the inner protrusion 221c of the third modular member 221, thereby coupling the first modular tank 210 and the second modular tank 220, which are positioned adjacent to each other. In this case, the first flat surface 212a of the second modular member 212 and the second flat surface 221a of the third modular member 221 may be in surface contact with each other.

[0068] The second curved portion 212d may have a shape in which the diameter increases from the periphery of the first flat portion 212a toward one side in the first direction DR1. The second periphery 212e is the portion of the second curved portion 212d with the largest diameter and may refer to the periphery of the rearmost portion. The second periphery 212e of the second module member 212 may be joined to the first periphery 211b of the first module member 211 by welding or the like. In this way, the first module member 211 and the second module member 212 may be joined to each other, and a space in which a cryogenic fluid can be stored may be provided inside.

[0069] The jog ring portion 212f may have a shape that protrudes from the second peripheral portion 212e toward one side in the first direction DR1. The diameter of the jog ring portion 212f may be smaller than the diameter of the second peripheral portion 212e. The outer periphery of the jog ring portion 212f may be coupled to the inside of the first peripheral portion 211b to fix the first module member 211 and the second module member 212. In this case, the welding operation of the first module member 211 and the second module member 212 can be performed more accurately and easily.

[0070] The third module member 221 may include a second flat portion 221a, a third central hole 221b, an inner protrusion 221c, a third curved portion 221d, and a third peripheral portion 221e.

[0071] The second flat portion 221a may have a circular planar shape. The third central hole 221b may be defined at the center of the second flat portion 221a of the third module member 221. The third central hole 221b may be large enough to allow the center pipe 300 to be inserted therein. The inward protrusion 221c may have a shape that protrudes toward the inside of the second modular tank 220. The inward protrusion 221c has a shape that protrudes toward the other side in the first direction DR1 along the periphery of the third central hole 221b. The third curved portion 221d may have a shape whose diameter increases from the periphery of the second flat portion 221a toward the other side in the first direction DR1. The third peripheral portion 221e is the portion of the third curved portion 221d with the largest diameter and may refer to the periphery of the portion on the other side in the first direction DR1.

[0072] The fourth module member 222 may be substantially the same as the second module member 212. The fourth module member 222 may be joined to the third module member 221 by welding or the like, and the second modular tank 220 may have a space therein for storing a cryogenic fluid. A detailed description of the fourth module member 222 will be omitted.

[0073] 1 again, the center pipe 300 may extend along a first direction DR1. The center pipe 300 may be disposed to penetrate the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270. The center pipe 300 may be disposed inside the outer-tank 100 to penetrate the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270, and at least a portion of the center pipe 300 may penetrate at least one of the first cover 120 and the second cover 130 to protrude to the outside of the outer-tank 100. Through this, a cryogenic fluid may be supplied from the outside or a cryogenic fluid stored inside may be discharged to the outside.

[0074] The center pipe 300 may be disposed to penetrate the first to seventh modular tanks 210 to 270, so that the first to seventh modular tanks 210 to 270 may be supported by the center pipe 300. In this case, physical contact between the inner tank 200 and the outer tank 100 may be minimized, thereby improving the thermal insulation performance of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10. Furthermore, the cryogenic fluid holding time of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may be improved.

[0075] Cryogenic fluid may be supplied to each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 through the center pipe 300. The center pipe 300 may be hollow and may have a plurality of holes defined therein. The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be in communication with the hollow interior of the center pipe 300 through the plurality of holes in the center pipe 300. The first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be in communication with each other through the plurality of holes in the center pipe 300, and each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 may be supplied with cryogenic fluid.

[0076] At least one of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 (ullage tank) may not be filled to a certain level even when the remaining modular tanks (storage tanks) are full. At least one of the first through seventh modular tanks 210-270 (ullage tank) may have a smaller supply of cryogenic fluid than the remaining modular tanks (storage tanks). This can suppress or prevent damage to the inner tank 200 even if the internal pressure increases due to evaporation of the cryogenic fluid stored inside the inner tank 200.

[0077] The plurality of holes defined by the center pipe 300 may be disposed inside each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210 through 270. The plurality of holes defined by the center pipe 300 may have different sizes. The center pipe 300 can control the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210 through 270 through the plurality of holes having different sizes.

[0078] For a more detailed explanation, please refer to FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0079] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the first modular tank and the second modular tank in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a center pipe and an inner tank according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is a view comparing the sizes of a fluid supply hole and an ullage hole according to an embodiment.

[0080] For ease of explanation, in FIG. 4, the center pipe 300 is represented by a solid line, and the inner tank 200 is represented by a dotted line.

[0081] 1 and 3 to 5, a center pipe 300 according to one embodiment may include a fluid supply portion 310, a support portion 320, and a manifold portion 330.

[0082] The fluid supply unit 310 may be hollow. The fluid supply unit 310 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1. However, the fluid supply unit 310 is not limited thereto, and may have a polygonal columnar shape. The fluid supply unit 310 may be located inside the inner tank 200.

[0083] The fluid supply unit 310 may define a plurality of holes. The hollow interior of the fluid supply unit 310 may be in communication with the outside through the plurality of holes. The plurality of holes may be arranged along the extension direction (first direction DR1) of the center pipe 300. The plurality of holes may be arranged in a spiral shape along the first direction DR1, but is not limited thereto. Each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210 to 270 may include at least one of the plurality of holes therein.

[0084] The fluid supply unit 310 may receive a supply of cryogenic fluid through a fluid supply pipe (not shown) included in the manifold unit 330. The cryogenic fluid supplied to the fluid supply unit 310 may be supplied to each of the first through seventh modular tanks 210 through 270 through a plurality of holes. The flow rate of the cryogenic fluid flowing into at least one of the first through seventh modular tanks 210 through 270 may be less than the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid flowing into the remaining modular tanks.

[0085] The plurality of holes may include fluid supply holes LH and ullage holes UH having different sizes. The flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied through the ullage holes UH may be smaller than the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied through the fluid supply holes LH. The size of the ullage holes UH may be smaller than the size of the fluid supply holes LH. The size of the ullage holes UH may be within a range of 1 / 2 to 1 / 300 of the size of the fluid supply holes LH, or within a range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 150 of the size of the fluid supply holes LH. Here, the sizes of the ullage holes UH and the fluid supply holes LH may refer to their respective planar areas.

[0086] The fluid supply holes LH and the ullage holes UH may have a circular shape in plan view. In this case, the diameter DL of the fluid supply holes LH may be in the range of 15 mm to 100 mm, or in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm. The diameter DU of the ullage holes UH may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 20 mm, or in the range of 1 mm to 15 mm.

[0087] If the diameter of the fluid supply hole LH and the diameter of the ullage hole UH are larger or smaller than the above ranges, it may be difficult to control the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid.

[0088] However, this is not limited to this, and the size of the fluid supply hole LH and the size of the ullage hole UH may vary depending on the storage capacity of the inner tank 200, the capacity of each modular tank 210-270, the number of fluid supply holes LH and the number of ullage holes UH, etc.

[0089] The ullage holes UH may be disposed inside the first modular tank 210. A plurality of fluid supply holes (LH: LH1, LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, LH6) may be provided, each disposed inside each of the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270. Each of the fluid supply holes (LH: LH1, LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, LH6) may consist of a pair. In this case, the number of fluid supply holes LH disposed inside each of the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 may be greater than the number of ullage holes UH disposed inside the first modular tank 210.

[0090] For example, the fluid supply holes LH may include first to sixth fluid supply holes LH1, LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, and LH6. The first fluid supply hole LH1 may be disposed in the second modular tank 220, the second fluid supply hole LH2 may be disposed in the third modular tank 230, the third fluid supply hole LH3 may be disposed in the fourth modular tank 240, the fourth fluid supply hole LH4 may be disposed in the fifth modular tank 250, the fifth fluid supply hole LH5 may be disposed in the sixth modular tank 260, and the sixth fluid supply hole LH6 may be disposed in the seventh modular tank 270.

[0091] Although not limited thereto, the fluid supply holes (LH: LH1, LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, and LH6) may be arranged to face each other across the internal space of the fluid supply unit 310 in a direction intersecting the first direction DR1. For example, the first fluid supply hole LH1 may be formed in a pair facing each other in the second direction DR2. The second through sixth fluid supply holes LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, and LH6 may also be formed in a pair facing each other in a direction intersecting the first direction DR1. In this case, it may be easier to fill the second through seventh modular tanks 220 to 270.

[0092] The flow rates of the cryogenic fluid supplied to each of the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 through the fluid supply holes LH may be substantially the same. The flow rates of the cryogenic fluid supplied to each of the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 through the fluid supply holes LH may be greater than the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to the first modular tank 210 through the ullage holes UH.

[0093] Among the multiple modular tanks, a modular tank including an ullage hole UH may be referred to as an ullage tank, and a modular tank including a fluid supply hole LH may be referred to as a storage tank. For example, the first modular tank 210 may serve as an ullage tank by storing a portion of the cryogenic fluid, and each of the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 may serve as a storage tank for storing the cryogenic fluid. The cryogenic fluid storage capacity of the ullage tank may be smaller than the cryogenic fluid storage capacity of the storage tank.

[0094] When cryogenic fluid is supplied through the center pipe 300, the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 may be filled before the first modular tank 210 (or ullage tank). If the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 (or storage tank) are completely filled, the internal pressure may rise suddenly. This can be detected and the supply of cryogenic fluid can be stopped. In this case, even if the second through seventh modular tanks 220-270 are filled, the first modular tank 210 can maintain a certain amount of internal space that will not be filled with cryogenic fluid (liquid).

[0095] By providing the internal space, a space can be provided in which gas generated by vaporization of the cryogenic liquid can be compressed, thereby suppressing or preventing damage to the inner tank 200 even if the cryogenic liquid inside the inner tank vaporizes and the internal pressure increases.

[0096] If the size of the ullage holes UH relative to the size of the fluid supply holes LH is larger than the above-mentioned range, it may be difficult to provide a sufficient internal space inside the first modular tank 210 including the ullage holes UH. If the size of the ullage holes UH relative to the size of the fluid supply holes LH is smaller than the above-mentioned range, the amount of cryogenic fluid stored inside the first modular tank 210 including the ullage holes UH may decrease, and the storage efficiency of the cryogenic fluid stored inside the inner tank 200 may decrease.

[0097] When at least one of the multiple modular tanks 210-270 serves as an ullage tank, the ullage tank (first modular tank 210) is disposed outside the storage tanks (second through seventh modular tanks 220-270), making assembly of the cryogenic fluid storage tank easier. In other words, processes such as welding may be easier when the ullage tank is disposed outside the storage tank than when the ullage tank is disposed inside the storage tank. Therefore, the efficiency of the entire process may be improved, and the costs required for the process may be reduced.

[0098] The inside of the support unit 320 and the manifold unit 330 may be in a vacuum state, thereby suppressing and preventing external heat from being transferred to the inner tank 200. For a detailed description of the support unit 320 and the manifold unit 330, please refer to FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0099] Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the support portion in Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the manifold portion in Fig. 1.

[0100] 1, 6, and 7, the support part 320 may be disposed on the other side of the fluid supply part 310 in the first direction DR1 and may be coupled to the fluid supply part 310. The support part 320 may be coupled to a supporter 520, through which the center pipe 300 may be supported.

[0101] At least a portion of the support unit 320 may be disposed outside the inner tank 200. The interior of the support unit 320 may be hollow. The interior of the support unit 320 may be separated from the interior of the fluid supply unit 310. Even if the cryogenic fluid is supplied to the fluid supply unit 310, the cryogenic fluid may not be supplied to the interior of the support unit 320. This may facilitate insulation against the cryogenic fluid supplied through the fluid supply unit 310.

[0102] The support 320 may define at least one support through-hole TH3. The support through-hole TH3 may be disposed outside the inner tank 200. The interior of the support 320 may be connected to the interspace 600 via the support through-hole TH3. This allows the interior of the support 320 to be in a vacuum state.

[0103] The position where the support portion through-hole TH3 is arranged is not limited, and the support portion through-hole TH3 may be located at a portion where the support portion 320 is exposed to the space 600 therebetween.

[0104] For example, the support through-hole TH3 may be defined on the other side of the support 320 in the first direction DR1. Here, the other side of the support 320 in the first direction DR1 refers to the side facing the second cover 130. In this case, the size of the support through-hole TH3 may be substantially the same as the size of the other side in the first direction DR1. That is, the support 320 may have a cylindrical shape with the other side in the first direction DR1 open. When the inside of the support 320 is in a vacuum state, insulation of the cryogenic fluid provided inside the fluid supply unit 310 may be improved. Furthermore, the cryogenic fluid holding time of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may be improved.

[0105] The manifold unit 330 is disposed on one side of the fluid supply unit 310 in the first direction DR1 and may be coupled to the fluid supply unit 310. The interior of the manifold unit 330 may be separated from the interior of the fluid supply unit 310. The manifold unit 330 may protrude to the outside by penetrating the first cover 120. The manifold unit 330 may be coupled to a spacer 510.

[0106] The manifold section 330 may include an outer pipe 321 , an inner pipe 322 , a manifold insulation layer 323 , a fluid supply pipe 324 , a gas exhaust pipe 325 , and a coupling 326 .

[0107] One end of the outer pipe 321 on the other side in the first direction DR1 may be coupled to the fluid supply unit 310. The outer pipe 321 may have a pipe-shaped structure. The interior of the outer pipe 321 may be separated from the interior of the fluid supply unit 310. The outer pipe 321 may provide a space therein for accommodating the inner pipe 322 and the manifold insulation layer 323.

[0108] A fluid supply pipe 324 and a gas exhaust pipe 325 may pass through the inside of the external pipe 321. Even if the inside of the external pipe 321 is separated from the inside of the fluid supply unit 310, the other side of the external pipe 321 in the first direction DR1 may have at least one through hole, and the fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas exhaust pipe 325 may pass through the through hole.

[0109] At least a portion of the inner pipe 322 may be located inside the outer pipe 321. The inner pipe 322 may extend from the inside of the outer surface in one side in the first direction DR1 and protrude to the outside of the outer-tube tank 100 through the first cover 120 and the support ring 530. One side of the inner pipe 322 may be coupled to the outer pipe 321 and the other side may be coupled to the coupling member 326.

[0110] The other side of the inner pipe 322 in the first direction DR1 may have at least one through hole, through which the fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas exhaust pipe 325 may pass.

[0111] The inner pipe 322 may define at least one manifold through-hole TH4. The manifold through-hole TH4 may be disposed outside the inner bath tank 200. The location of the manifold through-hole TH4 is not limited, and the manifold through-hole TH4 may be located at a portion of the inner pipe 322 exposed to the interspace 600. The interior of the manifold unit 330 may be connected to the interspace 600 via the manifold through-hole TH4. This allows the interior of the manifold unit 330 to be in a vacuum state.

[0112] Manifold through-hole TH4 may be disposed outside heat insulating member 700. Spacer 510 may define a stepped portion 511 on a surface facing heat insulating member 700, the stepped portion 511 forming a recessed step toward the inside of spacer 510 (one side in the first direction DR1). Even if manifold through-hole TH4 is disposed outside heat insulating member 700, manifold through-hole TH4 may be exposed to space 600 therebetween by means of stepped portion 511 of spacer 510.

[0113] The manifold insulation layer 323 may be located between the outer pipe 321 and the inner pipe 322. The manifold insulation layer 323 may be disposed to surround the inner pipe 322. The manifold insulation layer 323 may include multiple layers including materials with excellent thermal insulation performance. The manifold insulation layer 323 may include a multi-layer insulation (MLI). The manifold insulation layer 323 may include an aluminum thin film and an air gap.

[0114] The manifold insulating layer 323 can minimize heat transfer that may occur between the outer pipe 321 and the inner pipe 322. This can improve the insulating performance of the inner tank 200.

[0115] The fluid supply pipe 324 can supply cryogenic fluid to the fluid supply unit 310 of the center pipe 300. The fluid supply pipe 324 extends from the outside and penetrates into the fluid supply unit 310.

[0116] The gas exhaust pipe 325 can exhaust gas from inside the inner tank 200 to the outside. The gas exhaust pipe 325 extends from the outside and penetrates into the first modular tank 210.

[0117] Each of the fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas discharge pipe 325 may be twisted by 360° inside the inner pipe 322, forming a twisted shape. The fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas discharge pipe 325 may be twisted and intertwined with each other. This allows the length of each of the fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas discharge pipe 325 to be increased, thereby reducing heat loss. Furthermore, the thermal insulation performance of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may be improved.

[0118] Although only the fluid supply pipe 324 and the gas exhaust pipe 325 are shown in the drawings, various other pipes may be disposed as needed. The connector 326 may be coupled to one side of the inner pipe 322 in the first direction DR1. The connector 326 may include a through-hole through which the fluid supply pipe 324 passes and a through-hole through which the gas exhaust pipe 325 passes.

[0119] The cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may further include a support ring 530. The support ring 530 may be disposed on the inner pipe 322. The support ring 530 may be penetrated by the inner pipe 322. The support ring 530 may protrude from the inside of the outer tank 100 to the outside of the outer tank 100 through the first cover 120.

[0120] The support ring 530 may be fixed by, but is not limited to, bonding or welding onto the inner pipe 322. The support ring 530 is disposed on the outside of the spacer 510 and can support the spacer 510. This can improve the pressure resistance of the inner tank 200.

[0121] When the ullage tank (first modular tank 210) including the ullage hole UH is disposed at one end in the first direction DR1 where the manifold unit 330 is located, direct contact of external heat that may be transferred through the manifold unit 330 with the cryogenic fluid stored inside the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be minimized, thereby improving the thermal insulation performance of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10. Furthermore, the holding time of the cryogenic fluid in the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be improved.

[0122] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 5, the water level sensor 400 may be disposed inside the inner tank 200. The water level sensor 400 may sense the level of the cryogenic fluid stored inside the inner tank 200. The water level sensor 400 may extend in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The second direction DR2 may be substantially the same as the direction of gravity. Although the water level sensor 400 is illustrated as being disposed inside the second modular tank 220, the water level sensor 400 may be disposed inside at least one of the first to seventh modular tanks 210 to 270.

[0123] The fluid supply unit 310 of the center pipe 300 may further define a first through hole TH1 and a second through hole TH2. The interior and exterior of the fluid supply unit 310 may be in communication with each other via the first through hole TH1 and the second through hole TH2. The first through hole TH1 and the second through hole TH2 may be disposed inside the second modular tank 220. The first through hole TH1 and the second through hole TH2 may be disposed across the hollow interior of the fluid supply unit 310.

[0124] The water level sensor 400 may be disposed to pass through the first through-hole TH1 and the second through-hole TH2. The size and planar shape of the first through-hole TH1 and the second through-hole TH2 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter and planar shape of the water level sensor 400.

[0125] The cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 may further include a cable (not shown) electrically connected to the water level sensor 400. The cable (not shown) passes through the fluid supply hole LH, the ullage hole UH, and the manifold unit 330 and is connected to an external water level display device (not shown) to transmit the water level of the cryogenic fluid inside.

[0126] The support member 500 may support the center pipe 300 and the inner tank 200. The support member 500 may include a spacer 510 and a supporter 520. The spacer 510 and the supporter 520 may be disposed outside the inner tank 200 or between the modular tanks 210 to 270. The number and positions of the spacers 510 and the supporters 520 may vary depending on the capacity of the inner tank 200, the number and shape of the modular tanks, etc.

[0127] The spacer 510 may be disposed between the first modular tank 210 and the first cover 120. The spacer 510 includes a hole in the center portion, through which the center pipe 300 can pass. The spacer 510 may be disposed on the manifold portion 330. The spacer 510 may be disposed on the inner pipe 322 (see FIG. 7) of the manifold portion 330.

[0128] The spacer 510 may space the inner tank 200 and the insulating member 700 covering the inner tank 200 from the outer tank 100. The spacer 510 may be disposed between the insulating member 700 and the first cover 120 and may have a constant thickness in the first direction DR1. The spacer 510 may define a step portion 511.

[0129] The spacer 510 may include a thermally insulating material, such as, but not limited to, a material containing fiberglass and epoxy resin (G-10 material).

[0130] The spacer 510 may be disposed to provide a gap between the inner tank 200 and the first cover 120. When the heat insulating member 700 is disposed, the spacer 510 may provide a gap between the heat insulating member 700 and the first cover 120. Furthermore, the heat insulating performance may be improved by minimizing external heat transferred from the outer tank 100.

[0131] This minimizes direct contact between the outer tank 100 and the insulating member 700, or between the outer tank 100 and the inner tank 200, and minimizes the transfer of external heat from the outer tank 100 to the inner tank 200. Furthermore, the insulating performance of the inner tank 200 can be improved.

[0132] The spacer 510 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the main body 110. Even if the spacer 510 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the main body 110, the center pipe 300 may be fixed by passing through the first cover 120. Through this, the inner tank 200 may be fixed and supported inside the outer tank 100.

[0133] A support ring 530 (see FIG. 7) may be further disposed on the outside of the spacer 510, and the spacer 510 may be supported more smoothly via this.

[0134] The supporter 520 may be disposed between the seventh modular tank 270 and the second cover 130. The supporter 520 includes a hole in the center portion through which the center pipe 300 can pass. The supporter 520 may be disposed on the support portion 320.

[0135] The supporter 520 may be in at least partial contact with the inner surface of the main body 110. Through this, the supporter 520 may be fixed to the inside of the outer tank 100, and the center pipe 300 passing through the supporter 520 may be fixed to the inside of the outer tank 100, thereby fixing the inner tank 200.

[0136] By fixing the center pipe 300 via the supporter 520, the center pipe 300 can minimize external heat transfer, improving the thermal insulation performance of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10. Furthermore, the cryogenic fluid holding time of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10 can be improved.

[0137] An interspace 600 may be defined between the outer tank 100 and the inner tank 200. That is, the interspace 600 may refer to the space located between the outer tank 100 and the inner tank 200. The interspace 600 may be a vacuum. This may minimize the transfer of external heat supplied from outside the outer tank 100 to the inner tank 200, thereby improving the thermal insulation performance of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10.

[0138] The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed in the space 600. The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed between the outer-tank tank 100 and the inner-tank tank 200. The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed to surround the inner-tank tank 200. The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed between the support member 500 and the inner-tank tank 200 based on the first direction DR1. The heat insulating member 700 may be penetrated by the center pipe 300.

[0139] The heat insulating member 700 may include multiple layers containing materials with excellent heat insulating properties. The heat insulating member 700 may include a multi-layer insulation (MLI). The heat insulating member 700 may include an aluminum thin film and an air layer, and may be stacked in 30 to 50 layers. However, without being limited thereto, the heat insulating member 700 may include aerogel made up of multiple layers, glass wool made up of multiple layers, etc.

[0140] By disposing the heat insulating member 700, the transfer of radiant heat that may occur inside the outer tank 100 can be minimized, and the heat insulating performance of the inner tank 200 can be improved.

[0141] Other embodiments will be described below. In the following embodiments, the same configurations as those already described will be omitted or simplified, and differences will be mainly described.

[0142] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to another embodiment, and Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a center pipe and an inner tank according to another embodiment.

[0143] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the inner tank 200 of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of modular tanks 210, 220_1, but differs from the embodiment of Figure 1 in that the storage tank (second modular tank 220_1) is integrally formed and that a second supporter 521_1 is further arranged between the plurality of modular tanks 210, 220_1.

[0144] Specifically, the inner tank 200 according to this embodiment may include a first modular tank 210 and a second modular tank 220_1. The first modular tank 210 and the second modular tank 220_1 may be disposed independently of each other. That is, the first modular tank 210 and the second modular tank 220_1 may be disposed outside each other.

[0145] The second modular tank 220_1 may have a shape in which a third modular member 221 (see FIG. 2) is disposed at one end in the first direction DR1, a member having a shape symmetrical to the first modular member 211 (see FIG. 2) is disposed at the other end in the first direction DR1, and a member having a cylindrical shape is disposed therebetween, so that the two members are connected to each other.

[0146] An ullage hole UH is disposed inside the first modular tank 210, and the first modular tank 210 can function as an ullage tank. At least one fluid supply hole LH is disposed inside the second modular tank 220_1, and the second modular tank 220_1 can function as a storage tank.

[0147] The capacity of the second modular tank 220_1 may be larger than that of the first modular tank 210. The length of the second modular tank 220_1 extending in the first direction DR1 may be longer than that of the first modular tank 210.

[0148] The number of fluid supply holes LH arranged inside the second modular tank 220_1 may be equal to or greater than the number of ullage holes UH arranged inside the first modular tank 210. The number of fluid supply holes LH arranged inside the second modular tank 220_1 may be at least twice the number of ullage holes UH arranged inside the first modular tank 210. This allows the time required to fill the second modular tank 220_1 to be shortened even if the size of the second modular tank 220_1 is increased.

[0149] Although the second modular tank 220_1 is shown in the drawings as having the first fluid supply hole LH1 and the second fluid supply hole LH2 disposed therein, the number of fluid supply holes LH is not limited thereto and may vary depending on the capacity of the second modular tank 220_1.

[0150] The flow rate of the cryogenic fluid flowing into the second modular tank 220_1 may be greater than the flow rate of the cryogenic fluid flowing into the first modular tank 210. The second modular tank 220_1 is first completely filled, and the first modular tank 210 can have a certain amount of internal space that is not filled with the cryogenic fluid (liquid).

[0151] The support member 500 of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_1 according to this embodiment may further include a second supporter 521_1 disposed between the plurality of modular tanks 210, 220_1. For the sake of distinction, the supporter 520 in FIG. 1 is referred to as the first supporter 520. The second supporter 521_1 may have a thinner thickness than the first supporter 520. The second supporter 521_1 may be disposed between the ullage tank and the storage tank.

[0152] The second supporter 521_1 is penetrated by the center pipe 300 and can be in contact with at least a portion of the inner surface of the main body 110 of the outer tank 100. This allows the second supporter 521_1 to support the center pipe 300.

[0153] However, depending on the capacity of the inner tank 200, the second supporter 521_1 may be omitted.

[0154] When the second supporter 521_1 is disposed, the heat insulating member 700 may be disposed along the outer surface of the modular tank 210, 220_1 near the second supporter 521_1. The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed so as to have a rounded curvature near the second supporter 521_1. This allows radiant heat to be minimized even when the second supporter 521_1 is disposed.

[0155] In this case, even if the cryogenic liquid inside the inner tank 200 vaporizes and the internal pressure increases, damage to the inner tank 200 can be suppressed or prevented. By integrally forming the storage tank (second modular tank 220_1), the time and cost required for the manufacturing and assembly processes can be reduced, and the storage capacity of the storage tank can be increased.

[0156] The additional second supporter 521_1 can more smoothly support the center pipe 300. In this case, even if the capacity of the inner tank 200 increases, the center pipe 300 can be more smoothly supported.

[0157] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment.

[0158] Referring to Figure 10, the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_2 according to this embodiment differs from the embodiment of Figure 1 in that a supporter 510_2 (second supporter) is arranged instead of the spacer 510 (see Figure 1), and a third supporter 521_2 is further arranged between the multiple modular tanks 210-270.

[0159] Specifically, the support member 500 of the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_2 according to this embodiment further includes a second supporter 510_2 and a third supporter 521_2, and the spacer 510 (see FIG. 1) may be omitted.

[0160] The second supporter 510_2 may be disposed outside the inner tank 200 and on one side of the inner tank 200 in the first direction DR1. The second supporter 510_2 may be disposed between the heat insulating member 700 and the first cover 120.

[0161] The third supporter 521_2 may be disposed between the modular tanks serving as storage tanks. For example, the third supporter 521_2 may be disposed between the third modular tank 230 and the fourth modular tank 240, but the location thereof is not limited thereto.

[0162] The second supporter 510_2 and the third supporter 521_2 do not need to be disposed together, and only one of the second supporter 510_2 and the third supporter 521_2 may be disposed.

[0163] When the third supporter 521_2 is disposed, the heat insulating member 700 may be disposed along the outer surface of the modular tank 230, 240 near the third supporter 521_2. The heat insulating member 700 may be disposed so as to have a rounded curvature near the third supporter 521_2. This makes it possible to minimize radiant heat even when the third supporter 521_2 is disposed.

[0164] In this case, even if the cryogenic liquid inside the inner tank 200 vaporizes and the internal pressure increases, damage to the inner tank 200 can be suppressed or prevented. In addition, the inclusion of the second supporter 510_2 and the third supporter 521_2 can more smoothly support the center pipe 300. In this case, even if the capacity of the inner tank 200 increases, the center pipe 300 can be more smoothly supported.

[0165] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the periphery of a first modular tank and a second modular tank according to still another embodiment.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 11, the first modular tank 210_3 according to this embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 3 in that it may further include a module support 213 and a filler 214.

[0167] Specifically, the first modular tank 210_3 according to this embodiment may further include a module support 213 and a filler 214 in addition to the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) and the second module member 212 (see FIG. 2).

[0168] However, without being limited thereto, the seventh modular tank 270 (see FIG. 1) may also further include substantially the same components as the module support portion 213 and the filler 214. In other words, of the modular tanks 210 to 270 (see FIG. 1) arranged in the first direction DR1, at least one of the modular tanks arranged at one end and the other end may further include substantially the same components as the module support portion 213 and the filler 214.

[0169] The module support 213 and the filler 214 may be disposed inside the space surrounded by the heat insulating member 700 (see FIG. 1). In other words, the module support 213 and the filler 214 may be disposed between the heat insulating member 700 (see FIG. 1) and the first module member 211.

[0170] The module support part 213 may be disposed to cover the recess 211c (see FIG. 2) of the first modular tank 210_3. The module support part 213 may be coupled to the manifold part 330. The module support part 213 may be coupled to the first module member 211. The module support part 213 may be coupled to the outermost part of the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) protruding toward one side in the first direction DR1. The module support part 213 may be coupled to the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) and the manifold part 330 by welding, but is not limited thereto.

[0171] The module support portion 213 can support the combined body of the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) and the second module member 212 (see FIG. 2), thereby improving the pressure resistance performance of the first modular tank 210_3.

[0172] The filler 214 can fill the space between the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) and the module support portion 213. The filler 214 can fill the space between the recess 211c (see FIG. 2) of the first module member 211 (see FIG. 2) and the module support portion 213.

[0173] The filler 214 may include a heat insulating material. For example, the heat insulating material may be, but is not limited to, a material containing glass fiber and epoxy resin (G-10 material). The placement of the filler 214 can suppress or prevent external heat from being transferred to the inside of the first modular tank 210_3.

[0174] When the first modular tank 210_3 includes the module support portion 213 and the filler 214, even if the curvature of the first curved surface portion 211a (see FIG. 2) and the recess 211c (see FIG. 2) of the first modular member 211 (see FIG. 2) of the first modular tank 210_3 is reduced, it is possible to suppress or prevent a decrease in the pressure resistance of the first modular tank 210_3. In addition, when the curvature of the first curved surface portion 211a (see FIG. 2) and the recess 211c (see FIG. 2) is reduced, it may be easier to weld the first modular member 211 (see FIG. 2) of the first modular tank 210_3. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the time and cost required for the manufacturing process of the cryogenic fluid storage tank.

[0175] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment, FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first supply line, a discharge line, and a second supply line of a cryogenic fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a heat exchanger and a discharge line in a fluid storage tank according to yet another embodiment.

[0176] 12 to 14, the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_3 according to this embodiment includes an inner tank 200 including a first modular tank 210 and a second modular tank 220_1, as in the embodiment of FIG. 8, but differs from the previous embodiment in that a first supply line 810, a discharge line 820, and a second supply line 830 are connected to the inner tank 200 instead of a fluid supply pipe 324 (see FIG. 7) and a gas discharge pipe 325 (see FIG. 7).

[0177] In this embodiment, a structure in which the first supply line 810, the discharge line 820, and the second supply line 830 are applied to the inner tank 200 including the first modular tank 210 and the second modular tank 220_1 is described, but it is obvious that the first supply line 810, the discharge line 820, and the second supply line 830 can also be similarly applied to the inner tank having the first modular tank and multiple second modular tanks described in the previous embodiment.

[0178] In addition, the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_3 of this embodiment may further include a housing part 910 covering one side of the outer tank 100 in the first direction DR1, and a heat exchanger 920 provided inside the housing part 910.

[0179] The inner tank 200 of this embodiment includes a first modular tank 210 and a second modular tank 220_1, where the first modular tank 210 is formed as an ullage tank, and the second modular tank 220_1 is formed with a larger capacity than the first modular tank 210 and may be formed as a storage tank filled with cryogenic fluid inside. The first supply line 810 can supply the cryogenic fluid to the interior of the second modular tank 220_1.

[0180] Specifically, one side of the first supply line 810 may be exposed to the outside of the outer tank 100, and the other side may pass through the first modular tank 210 via the center pipe 300, with the end being positioned inside the second modular tank 220_1.

[0181] Thus, the cryogenic fluid supplied to one side of the first supply line 810 may flow into the second modular tank 220_1 through the other side of the first supply line 810 and be stored therein.

[0182] The discharge line 820 may discharge gas from the second modular tank 220_1. For example, the discharged gas may be supplied to the fuel cell and used as fuel. That is, one side of the discharge line 820 may be exposed to the outside of the outer tank 100, and the other side may pass through the first modular tank 210 via the center pipe 300, with the end disposed inside the second modular tank 220_1.

[0183] In addition, a relief line 821 may be branched from the discharge line 820 , and an end of the branched relief line 821 may be exposed to the outside of the outer bath tank 100 .

[0184] Such a discharge line 820 can discharge the gas evaporated within the second modular tank 220_1, i.e., gaseous hydrogen, to the outside, and can discharge the gaseous hydrogen flowing in through the other side of the discharge line 820 arranged within the second modular tank 220_1 to the outside of the outer tank 100 through one side of the discharge line 820.

[0185] At this time, the relief line 821 branched off from the discharge line 820 can discharge the gas in the second modular tank 220_1 to the outside of the outer tank 100 for safety reasons if the pressure in the second modular tank 220_1 reaches the previously set pressure. The second supply line 830 can supply gas to increase the pressure inside the inner tank 200.

[0186] That is, one side of the second supply line 830 may be exposed to the outside of the outer tub tank 100, and the other side may be disposed extending through the center pipe 300 into the first modular tank 210, which is an ullage tank.

[0187] At the same time, a branch line 831 branches off from the other side of the second supply line 830, and the branch line 831 can extend into the second modular tank 220_1.

[0188] As an example, a cable connected to the water level sensor 400 (see FIG. 8) in the second modular tank 220_1 may be installed in the second supply line 830. In this case, the cable may be inserted into one side of the second supply line 830 exposed to the outer tank 100 and extend into the second modular tank 220_1 via the branch line 831, thereby being connected to the water level sensor 400 (see FIG. 8) in the second modular tank 220_1.

[0189] This second supply line 830 can increase the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210 by supplying gas, i.e., gaseous hydrogen, flowing from the outside into one side of the second supply line 830 to the inside of the first modular tank 210 through the other side of the second supply line 830.

[0190] At this time, if there is a cryogenic fluid inside the first modular tank 210, the room temperature gas supplied into the first modular tank 210 through the second supply line 830 can vaporize the cryogenic fluid, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210.

[0191] Here, the other side of the second supply line 830 arranged in the first modular tank 210 may extend to the upper space via the lower space in the first modular tank 210, so that the end supplying gaseous hydrogen may be arranged at the upper side in the first modular tank 210.

[0192] As a result, the room temperature gas flowing along the second supply line 830 can pass through the lower space within the first modular tank 210 and vaporize the cryogenic fluid that may be present in the lower space within the first modular tank 210, and then be discharged to the upper side of the first modular tank 210 through the end of the second supply line 830, thereby suppressing direct contact with the cryogenic fluid and preventing a sudden vaporization reaction.

[0193] In addition, by increasing the temperature inside the first modular tank 210, heat can be transferred to the second modular tank 220_1, which is arranged in close contact with the first modular tank 210, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1.

[0194] Furthermore, due to the pressure difference between the inside of the first modular tank 210 and the inside of the second modular tank 220_1, a portion of the gas in the first modular tank 210 can flow in through the ullage hole (not shown) of the center pipe 300 and be discharged into the second modular tank 220_1 through the fluid supply hole (not shown). This also allows a portion of the discharged room temperature gas to vaporize the cryogenic fluid inside the second modular tank 220_1, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1.

[0195] Here, if gas were to be supplied directly to the second modular tank 220_1, which serves as a storage tank for storing cryogenic fluid, the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1 would rise suddenly, which could pose a safety issue. Therefore, in this embodiment, gas is supplied to the first modular tank 210, which is an ullage tank, via the second supply line 830 to increase the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210, and heat is indirectly transferred to the second modular tank 220_1 via the first modular tank 210, whose temperature and pressure have increased, thereby making it possible to increase the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1 to a safe and desired level.

[0196] This allows the second modular tank 220_1 to discharge gas that meets the already set pressure through the discharge line 820.

[0197] As an example, when the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_3 according to this embodiment is applied to a vehicle or industrial machine including a fuel cell and a battery, the gas discharged from the second modular tank 220_1 through the discharge line 820, i.e., gaseous hydrogen, can be supplied at high pressure according to the specifications of the fuel cell (not shown).

[0198] A fuel cell (not shown) uses gaseous hydrogen to generate electrical energy that can be stored in a battery or used as a power source.

[0199] Here, the efficiency of the fuel cell can be increased only when the gaseous hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell (not shown) is supplied at a high temperature and pressure that meets the specifications of the fuel cell.

[0200] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the pressure of the gaseous hydrogen discharged through the discharge line 820 of the second modular tank 220_1 and supplied to the fuel cell (not shown) does not reach a pressure sufficient for the fuel cell (not shown), the gaseous hydrogen discharged through the discharge line 820 is recovered and supplied again to the inner tank 200 through the second supply line 830, thereby increasing the internal temperature and pressure of the second modular tank 220_1 in the inner tank 200, and the gaseous hydrogen with increased temperature and pressure from the second modular tank 220_1 can be supplied again to the fuel cell (not shown) through the discharge line 820.

[0201] For example, a transfer line (not shown) for transferring gaseous hydrogen to a fuel cell (not shown) may be connected to one side of the discharge line 820 exposed to the outer tank 100, and a recovery line (not shown) for supplying recovered gaseous hydrogen may be connected to the transfer line (not shown) to one side of the second supply line 830 exposed to the outer tank 100.

[0202] In addition, the transfer line (not shown) may be provided with a sensor unit (not shown) that measures the pressure of the gaseous hydrogen, and if the pressure of the gaseous hydrogen flowing into the transfer line (not shown) does not reach a pressure sufficient for the fuel cell (not shown), the gaseous hydrogen can be flowed into a recovery line (not shown) and supplied to the inner tank 200 via the second supply line 830.

[0203] At this time, as described above, the gaseous hydrogen supplied to the inner tank 200 flows into the first modular tank 210, which is an ullage tank, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210, and by indirectly transferring heat to the second modular tank 220_1, which is arranged in close contact with the first modular tank 210, the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1 can be increased.As a result, the gaseous hydrogen with increased pressure and temperature can be discharged from the second modular tank 210 through the discharge line 820.

[0204] This allows high-pressure gaseous hydrogen that satisfies the fuel cell (not shown) to be stably provided to the fuel cell (not shown) from the second modular tank 220_1 via the discharge line 820, thereby significantly increasing the efficiency of the fuel cell.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 14, the housing part 910 covers one side of the outer tank 100 in the first direction DR1, and one side ends of the first supply line 810, the discharge line 820, and the second supply line 830 may pass through the housing part 910 and protrude outward.

[0206] The interior of the housing part 910 may be formed as a space separated into an upper part and a lower part, and the heat exchange part 920 may be installed in the inner lower space.

[0207] The heat exchanger 920 includes a heat exchange pipe 921, the inlet and outlet of which are arranged outside the housing 910, and the pipe portion may be arranged in the lower inner space of the housing 910 to exchange heat with one side of the outer tank 100, i.e., the first modular tank 210, which is an ullage tank.

[0208] In other words, the heat exchange unit 920 can use fluid flowing in from the outside to transfer heat to the outer surface of the outer tank 100 corresponding to the position of the first modular tank 210 and recover cold heat, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210.

[0209] Specifically, heated cooling water may be injected into the heat exchange pipe 921 through an inlet, and the heat exchange pipe 921 may exchange heat with the first modular tank 210 to increase the temperature and pressure of the first modular tank 210. Through this, the first modular tank 210 may indirectly transfer heat to the second modular tank 220_1 to increase the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1, thereby allowing the gaseous hydrogen with increased temperature and pressure to be discharged to the fuel cell (not shown) through the discharge line 820.

[0210] As an example, when the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_3 according to this embodiment is installed in a vehicle, coolant heated by engine heat can be injected into the heat exchange pipe 921, and the coolant discharged into the heat exchange pipe 921 can be used to cool the engine or devices within the vehicle.

[0211] In addition, the discharge line 820 connected to the second modular tank 210 is arranged in a zigzag or coil shape in the upper inner space of the housing part 910, and a heat exchange means (not shown) is provided around the discharge line 820 to utilize the cold heat of the discharge line 820.

[0212] As an example, the gas discharged from the second modular tank 210 may flow along a zigzag or coil-shaped discharge line 820 in the upper inner space of the housing part 910, and a heat exchange means (not shown) through which coolant heated by engine heat or the like flows may be provided around the discharge line 820, and the cooled coolant after heat exchange with the discharge line 820 may be supplied to an air conditioning device or the like in the vehicle.

[0213] Here, the heat exchange means (not shown) may be formed in a structure in which the exhaust line 820 and a piping line (not shown) for heat exchange are arranged inside the housing part 910 in a zigzag or coil form.

[0214] At this time, the gaseous hydrogen flowing along the discharge line 820 inside the housing part 910 may be heated by a heat exchange means (not shown) and supplied to the fuel cell (not shown) at an elevated temperature and pressure, thereby enabling the fuel cell (not shown) to be supplied with gaseous hydrogen at a high temperature and pressure that is satisfactory to the fuel cell (not shown).

[0215] As such, the cryogenic fluid storage tank 10_3 of this embodiment includes a first modular tank 210 which is an ullage tank and a second modular tank 220_1 in which a cryogenic fluid is stored, and if the pressure of the gas evaporated and discharged from the second modular tank 220_1 is lower than the pre-set pressure, gas is supplied to the first modular tank 210 to increase the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank 210, thereby indirectly transferring heat to the second modular tank 220_1 which is in close contact with the first modular tank 210, thereby safely increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1, and thereby discharging gas from the second modular tank 220_1 that satisfies the pre-set pressure.

[0216] In addition, a heat exchange unit 920 is provided around the first modular tank 210, and the first modular tank 210, which is an ullage tank, is heated through the heat exchange unit 920, which indirectly transfers heat to the second modular tank 220_1, thereby increasing the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank 220_1.

[0217] The embodiments of the present invention disclosed in this specification and the drawings are merely specific examples presented to easily explain the technical contents of the present invention and to aid in understanding the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0218] Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be interpreted as including all modifications and variations derived based on the technical concept of the present invention in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. an inner tank for storing a cryogenic fluid, the inner tank including a first modular tank and a second modular tank; a center pipe disposed to penetrate the first modular tank and the second modular tank, the center pipe having a hole formed therein for interconnecting the first modular tank and the second modular tank; A cryogenic fluid storage tank including the inner tank and an outer tank that houses the center pipe therein.

2. the holes formed in the center pipe include an ullage hole located inside the first modular tank and a fluid supply hole located inside the second modular tank; 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 1, wherein a flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to the interior of the first modular tank through the ullage hole is smaller than a flow rate of the cryogenic fluid supplied to the interior of the second modular tank through the fluid supply hole.

3. The center pipe is a fluid supply unit to which the cryogenic fluid is supplied and in which the ullage holes and the fluid supply holes are formed; a support portion disposed on one side of the fluid supply portion, 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 1, wherein the interior of the fluid supply section and the interior of the support section are separated from each other and are hollow, and the interior of the support section is under vacuum.

4. 4. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 3, wherein a vacuum space is formed between the inner tank and the outer tank, a support part through-hole is formed in the support part, and the inside of the support part and the space are in communication with each other via the support part through-hole.

5. The center pipe is a manifold portion disposed on the other side of the fluid supply portion, 4. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 3, wherein the interior of the manifold section is hollow and separated from the interior of the fluid supply section, and the interior of the manifold section is under vacuum.

6. The inner tank further includes a supporter that is supported by the center pipe and is disposed on one side of the inner tank. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 2 , wherein the supporter contacts an inner surface of the outer tank.

7. The inner tank further includes a spacer that is supported by the center pipe and is disposed on the other side of the inner tank. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 6 , wherein the spacer is disposed spaced apart from an inner surface of the outer tank.

8. The center pipe includes a fluid supply portion in which the ullage holes and the fluid supply holes are formed, a support portion located on one side of the fluid supply portion, and a manifold portion located on the other side of the fluid supply portion.

8. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 7, wherein the fluid supply section, the support section, and the manifold section are internally separated, the supporter is disposed on the support section, and the spacer is disposed on the manifold section.

9. a third modular tank that is supported by and penetrates the center pipe and provides a space for storing the cryogenic fluid; a supporter that is supported by the center pipe and that is in contact with the inner surface of the outer tank; 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 1, wherein the second modular tank is disposed between the first modular tank and the third modular tank, and the supporter is disposed between the second modular tank and the third modular tank.

10. 3. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 2, wherein the size of the ullage holes is within a range of 1 / 2 to 1 / 300 of the size of the fluid supply holes.

11. The first modular tank comprises: a first module member including a curved surface portion including a curvature and a recess extending from the curved surface portion; a second module member coupled to the first module member to define a storage space therein; a module support portion connected to the first module member outside the storage space and penetrated by the center pipe; 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 1, including a filler material filling between the module support and the recess in the first module member.

12. the center pipe includes a fluid supply part having a plurality of holes, a support part disposed on one side of the fluid supply part and having a vacuum inside, and a manifold part disposed on the other side of the fluid supply part and including a fluid supply pipe, 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank according to claim 1, wherein the interior of the fluid supply section, the interior of the support section, and the interior of the manifold section are separated, and the cryogenic fluid is supplied to the interiors of the first modular tank and the second modular tank through the plurality of holes.

13. a first supply line configured to supply the cryogenic fluid to the second modular tank; a discharge line configured to discharge vaporized gas from the cryogenic fluid stored in the second modular tank; a second supply line configured to supply the gas recovered from the discharge line to the first modular tank; 2. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 1, wherein gas is supplied to the first modular tank through the second supply line to increase the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank, thereby indirectly transferring heat to the second modular tank to increase the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank, thereby discharging gas at a preset pressure through the discharge line.

14. a housing portion covering one side of the outer tank; a heat exchanger provided inside the housing, The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 13, wherein the heat exchange unit uses a fluid flowing in from the outside to transfer heat to an outer surface of the outer tank corresponding to the position of the first modular tank, thereby recovering cold heat and increasing the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank.

15. the second modular tank stores liquid hydrogen in the cryogenic fluid; The discharge line discharges gaseous hydrogen vaporized from the liquid hydrogen stored in the second modular tank and supplies it to the fuel cell, 14. The cryogenic fluid storage tank of claim 13, wherein if the gaseous hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell does not satisfy the predetermined standard, it is re-supplied to the first modular tank through the second supply line to increase the temperature and pressure inside the first modular tank, thereby transferring heat to the second modular tank to increase the temperature and pressure inside the second modular tank, thereby supplying gaseous hydrogen that satisfies the predetermined standard to the fuel cell through the discharge line.

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