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 herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 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 can be used in such applications. Additionally, storage of high-pressure gases or fuel gases, such as hydrogen, can be used to store energy. Feedthroughs that allow gas or liquid flow and electrical communication with the contents of the pressure vessel are important. However, providing feedthroughs that provide sufficient access and sealing characteristics is challenging.

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

[0005] According to embodiments, a feedthrough that can be used in a pressure vessel is presented. The feedthrough according to some embodiments includes 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; the insulator is threaded 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, wherein 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, wherein both the insulator and the body 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 communicating with the fill through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and communicating with the fill through hole in the insulator, the first pipe including a barrier; inserting a plug into the first pipe through the barrier 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 fill 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 being 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 explanation 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 that 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 shows a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 shows a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2 shows a conventional feedthrough that may be used with a pressure vessel such as that shown in FIG. 1.

[0013] [Figure 3A] 1A-1C illustrate a body portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B] 1A-1C illustrate a body portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0014] [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 4C] 4A and 4B in combination with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. [Figure 4D] 4A and 4B in combination with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG.

[0016] [Figure 5A] 10A-10C illustrate another embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] 10A-10C illustrate another embodiment of an insulator portion of a feedthrough according to some embodiments.

[0017] [Figure 5C] 5A and 5B in combination with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. [Figure 5D] 5A and 5B in combination with the body portion of FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG.

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

[0019] [Figure 7A] 10A-10C illustrate another embodiment of an insulator portion having a body portion for forming a feedthrough according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B] 10A-10C illustrate 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 INVENTION

[0021] In the following description, specific details are set forth to illustrate certain aspects of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that certain 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 not specifically described herein that 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, which should not be understood as limiting, and the claims define the invention to be 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 otherwise requires, throughout this specification and claims, the term “comprises” and variations thereof, such as “comprises” and “comprising,” should 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 for individually referring to each separate value within that range, inclusive of the values ​​defining the range, and each separate value is incorporated herein as if individually set forth herein. Furthermore, individual values ​​provided for particular components are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. Specific dimensional values ​​for various components provide specific examples only, 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, a reference to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means 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, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but in some cases may. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0025] In the figures, relative sizes of components are not meaningful and should not be considered limiting unless otherwise noted. Components are sized in the figures to better illustrate various features and structures, without regard for the size they appear to have relative to other components. Additionally, while specific dimensions are shown to illustrate one example of a feedthrough, those specific dimensions are provided by way of example only and are not limiting. Feedthroughs according to aspects of the disclosure below can be formed with any dimensions, using components with any relative dimensions. Actual dimensions depend on the particular application of the feedthrough 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 so that the feedthrough provides access to the interior 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, allowing for an improved seal with the threads. In some embodiments, the bottom threads of the insulator portion are tapered, further improving the 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 interior 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 interior of the pressure vessel. In some embodiments, the additional through-hole accommodates an additional conductor to provide electrical access to the interior 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 can be any pressure vessel and can contain a gas, a liquid, or a combination of gas and liquid materials. The pressure vessel 102 can be, for example, a hydrogen-metal battery. The feedthrough 104 can be a feedthrough according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as described below. In the example shown 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 can be, for example, an electrode stack of a battery. The component 106 can be, for example, a conductive rod, such as a terminal for a battery. However, the component 106 can be any cylindrical component extending from inside the pressure vessel 102 to outside the pressure vessel 102.

[0028] 2A through 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, so that it can be welded to the metal 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 thread is triangular in shape. Figure 2C shows a cross-sectional view of the body barrel 208 described above.

[0029] As further shown, insulator portion 204 includes a top portion 222 and an insulator barrel 224. A through-hole 220 passes through insulator 204. The exterior of insulator barrel 224 includes threads 226 that mate with threads 212 on body 202, thus similarly forming a triangular pipe thread. Insulator 204 may be formed from any insulating material, such as a plastic material, capable of deforming to form a seal that insulates component 106 from body portion 104 and, therefore, from pressure vessel 102. FIG. 2B shows a cross-sectional view of top portion 222. Top portion 222 is configured to facilitate insertion of insulator 204 into 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-bore 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, the conventional configuration shown in Figures 2A-2C has several drawbacks. One such drawback is that the seal formed by conventional threads 212 and 216 is not strong enough 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 rounded or squared threads that 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 interior 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. Feedthrough body 300 includes a throughbore 316 that extends through the center of barrel portion 304 and base 302. Barrel portion 304 includes internal threads 318 formed on the wall of throughbore 316 in a portion of throughbore 316. The inside diameter of throughbore 316 is a diameter W B 2, with threads 318 extending from the sides of the through-hole portion 316.

[0034] 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. The through-hole 316 in section 306 may not include threads 318. Section 308 is a flat portion extending from the base 302 which may have an outer diameter W of the barrel 304. B 4 to W B 5, each of which is a transition section that 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 length LB4 to length LB3 measured from the bottom of base 302. 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, which is compressed and plastically deformed to form a seal in the final step of forming the feedthrough, as further described below. Section 314 represents the portion of the through hole 316 that changes over a distance from W to 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.

[0035] Embodiments of body 300 may have conventional threads as described above. However, some embodiments of body 300 may have threads 318 formed in a manner that promotes a better seal at threads 318 when an insulator is threaded into body 304. In these embodiments, instead of the conventional threads discussed above, threads 318 have teeth 320 that are square or rounded in shape to form a better seal with similarly shaped threads in the insulator. For example, threads 318 may be "knuckle threads," which are unusually rounded thread forms with large spaces between the rounded crests and roots. 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, threads 318 may be formed according to the thread designation Th B may have:

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include conventional threads or may include the "round threads" described above. Additionally, in some embodiments, the threads 318 may be tapered at their bottom threads 322 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 = 36.0 mm; and Th B = DIN405 RD 28x1 / 8 thread. These dimensions are provided as specific examples only and should not be considered limiting. The specific dimensions of body 300 may be dictated by any particular application of the invention.

[0038] 4A and 4B illustrate one embodiment of an insulator 400 that is compatible with 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 L 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 the 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 L I The 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 extending from the top of the top section 410 to the length L of the insulator 400 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.

[0039] During operation, the insulator 400 is threaded onto the body 300. Consequently, 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, the teeth 418 of the threads 414 are likewise rounded or squared to match, e.g., the threads 414 are designated with a thread designation Th that matches the threads 318. I In some embodiments, the bottom thread 416 of the thread 414 may be a round thread having an angle Θ I 1, which allows for more pressure between threads 414 and threads 318, further enhancing 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 insulating material, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) plastic. This particular example is provided by way of 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 can be used to provide access to the inside of a pressure vessel and can be used as the feedthrough 104 described above with respect to FIG. 1. During operation, the through-hole 412 is sized to receive a 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 feedthrough 420 shown in FIG. 4C. FIG. 4D further shows threads 414 of insulator 400 engaged with threads 318 of body 300. As shown, tooth 416 of thread 414, one of the lower teeth, functions to apply pressure onto tapered portion 322 of thread 318, allowing for a better seal in addition to the seal formed by the thread itself. As further shown, pressure P can be applied to compress and plastically deform barrel portion 304, thereby further compressing and deforming insulator barrel portion 404 and establishing a seal between barrel portion 404 and component 422.

[0043] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate another embodiment of an insulator, namely, insulator 500, which is compatible with 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 insulator 500. Through-hole 512 may be centered or off-center within insulator 500. Insulator 500 also includes a fill tube structure 540 formed by pipes 522 and 532 that are connected to fill through-hole 524, as discussed further below.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 5A, the insulator 500 is I 5A, the bottom section 506 may have a length of 1.5 and includes a top portion 502 and a barrel portion 504. The barrel portion 504 includes a bottom section 506, a center section 508, and a top section 510. Threads 514 are formed on the outer surface of the center section 508. As shown in FIG. 5A, the bottom section 506 may extend along the barrel 504. I The center section 508 extends from the bottom section 506 by a distance 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. Top portion 502 extends from the top of top section 510 to the length L of insulator 500. 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.sub.2 and is centered within the barrel portion 404. In some embodiments, the through-holes 512 may be offset in the center 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 . Consequently, 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 square, the teeth 518 of the threads 514 are similarly rounded or square 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 514 .

[0046] 5A and 5B, insulator 500 includes structure 540, which allows additional access to the inside of the pressure vessel in addition to through-hole 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 the 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 L. IThe 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 inner diameter D I 4 and outer diameter D I 3, forming a through hole 526. The pipe 522 is angled at an angle Θ from the surface of the top portion 502. I 3 and positioned such that through-hole 526 connects with through-hole 524. Additionally, pipe 522 may be formed above top portion 502.

[0048] Through-hole 530 may include a barrier 528 positioned to block through-hole 530 but allow access to through-hole 524 by through-hole 526 of pipe 522. In operation, once the pressure vessel is filled through pipe 522, a plug may be inserted through through-hole 530 (breaking through obstruction 528) and into through-hole 524. As shown in FIG. 5A, barrier 528 has a thickness L I 10 thin layers. When the body 300 into which the insulator 500 is incorporated is compressed and plastically deformed, a seal is formed between the plug and the through-hole 524, and 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 specific example of 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. Insulator 500 may be formed from an insulating material, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) plastic. This specific example is provided by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting. Insulator 500 may have any dimensions consistent with integration with body 300.

[0051] 5C and 5D show a feedthrough 546 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The feedthrough 546 can 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 the insulator 500 incorporating the body 300. FIG. 5C shows a component 542 extending through a through-hole 512 in the insulator 500. Additionally, FIG. 5C shows the structure 540 including the 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, a 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, such as a metal rod, and is appropriately sized to seal within the through-hole 524. The threads 318 of the body 300 engage the threads 514 of the insulator 500. As shown, the bottom threads 516 are tapered, as indicated 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 through 6G illustrate a method 600 of assembling and using the feedthrough 546 described above with respect to FIGS. 5C and 5D above. 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, and 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 514, and an interference seal is formed between component 542 and insulator 500 within 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, if needed, gas, such as hydrogen or an inert gas, can be added to the pressure vessel.

[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, as shown in FIG. 6E , press 550 is used to compress and plastically deform barrel 304 of body 300, 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, creating a seal that is strong against any pressure exerted within the pressure vessel to which feedthrough 546 is attached. Method 600 then proceeds to step 612.

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

[0058] As discussed above, body 300 can be mated with an insulator that can take multiple shapes and provide multiple access through-holes. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the insulator can include a fill tube structure in addition to through-holes for receiving components such as feed-through terminals. In some embodiments, the insulator can 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 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 FIGS. 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 a 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 structure, 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 connected 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 portion, the threads having rounded or square threads; and an insulator having a top portion, a barrel portion connected 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; wherein the insulator is threaded 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 upward.

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

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

[0067] Aspect 7: A feedthrough as described in 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 filling through-hole portion.

[0069] Aspect 9: The feedthrough of any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the insulator has one or more through holes for accommodating conductors.

[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, wherein the insulator and the body both have round or square threads for forming 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 described in Aspect 10, wherein each of the threads of the body and the threads of the insulator are DIN 405 rounded threads.

[0072] Aspect 12: A method described in 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 upward.

[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, wherein both the insulator and the body 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 communicating with the filled through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and communicating with the filled through hole in the insulator, the first pipe including a barrier; inserting a plug into the filled through hole through the barrier in the first pipe; 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] Aspect 15: The method of aspect 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] Embodiment 16: The method of any one of embodiments 14 to 15, wherein using the filling structure comprises pressurizing the pressure vessel.

[0077] Aspect 17: A method described in 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: A method described in 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 described in 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 upward.

[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 being tapered, and one or more additional through holes formed in the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator; wherein the insulator is threaded into the body to form the feedthrough.

[0082] Aspect 22: A feedthrough as described in 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: A feedthrough as described in aspects 21 to 23, wherein the bottom thread of the insulator is tapered by being angled upward.

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

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

[0087] Aspect 27: A feedthrough as described in 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 so 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 fill 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, It is the main body, a base portion configured to be attached to the pressure vessel; a barrel portion connected to said base portion; a through hole formed through the base portion and the barrel portion for receiving a terminal; and a thread formed on an inner portion of the through-hole, the thread having a rounded or square thread; the body having It is an insulator, top part, a barrel portion connected to said top portion; a throughbore formed through said top portion and said barrel portion; threads formed on an outer portion of said barrel portion; and a filling structure formed through the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator the insulator having Equipped with the insulator is threaded into the body to form the feedthrough; The filling structure formed within the insulator comprises: a fill through hole formed through the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator; a first pipe having an inner diameter aligned with the fill through hole, the first pipe including a barrier blocking access to the fill through hole; 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 fill through hole below the barrier in the first pipe; Including, the feedthrough further comprises a plug designed to be forced through the barrier in the first pipe into the fill through-hole to seal the fill structure when the body is compressed; Feedthrough.

2. 1. A method of operating a feedthrough attached to a pressure vessel, comprising: threading an insulator into a body, the body being attached to the pressure vessel, wherein the insulator and the body both have round or square threads to form a seal between the body and the insulator; 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 within the insulator, the filling structure including a first pipe extending from the insulator and in communication with a fill through hole in the insulator, and a second pipe extending at an angle from the insulator and in communication with the fill through hole in the insulator, the first pipe including a barrier that blocks the first pipe from the fill through hole while allowing the second pipe access to the fill through hole; 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 holes in the insulator, between the plug and the filled through holes in the insulator, and between the insulator and the threads of the body; A method comprising:

3. using the filling structure drawing a vacuum on the pressure vessel; adding an electrolyte to the pressure vessel; draining excess electrolyte from the pressure vessel; adding a gas to the pressure vessel; 3. The method of claim 2, comprising:

4. 10. The feedthrough of claim 1, wherein the threads of the body are tapered or the bottom threads of the threads of the insulator are tapered by being angled upward.

5. The feedthrough of claim 1 or 4, wherein the through hole in the insulator accommodates a terminal.

6. A feedthrough as described in claim 1 or 4, wherein the insulator has one or more additional through hole portions formed within the top portion and the barrel portion of the insulator, and the one or more additional through hole portions accommodate one or more conductors.

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