Fuel processing system and ship comprising same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fuel processing system and a ship comprising same, the fuel processing system comprising: a fuel tank provided in the hull and storing toxic fuel; a fuel supply unit for supplying the fuel stored in the fuel tank to a demand destination; a fuel discharge unit for draining fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit or purging the fuel supply unit to discharge the fuel together with purging gas; and a cover unit provided to surround a specific portion where the fuel flows and at least two members are connected among the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit, wherein the cover unit semi-encloses the specific portion to delay diffusion of the fuel leaking from the specific portion.

Description

Fuel processing system and vessel including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a fuel processing system and a vessel including the same.

[0002] Air pollution is worsening worldwide, and climate change is being driven by it. Because pollutants emitted from ships significantly contribute to air pollution, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Union, the United States, and other countries are strengthening regulations on ship emissions to reduce air pollution.

[0003] As greenhouse gas emission regulations for ships are gradually strengthened at key milestones through 2050, it is expected that existing engines and fuels alone will be unable to comply with regulations on pollutants.

[0004] Therefore, with the implementation of strengthened greenhouse gas emission regulations for ships, the use of existing fossil fuels is expected to become difficult. Therefore, the development of alternative fuels that can meet the strengthened regulations is urgent. Non-fossil fuels such as ammonia (NH3), biofuels, solar energy, and wind energy are currently being considered as alternative fuels.

[0005] Among them, ammonia is a chemical substance that can be produced, stored, transported, and supplied, and an ammonia ship that uses ammonia as fuel is being developed.

[0006] Existing ammonia vessels store ammonia fuel as a liquid. Ammonia has a boiling point lower than room temperature (-33°C at atmospheric pressure). Therefore, storing ammonia in this liquid form requires ammonia storage tanks that meet certain specifications. Furthermore, maintaining a low temperature inside the tanks to maintain the liquid requires cooling, which consumes significant energy.

[0007] In addition, storage tanks for liquid ammonia may generate vapor gas inside the tank, which may increase the pressure inside the storage tank and cause the tank to explode. In addition, if liquid ammonia leaks outside the tank, an explosion may occur, and there is a risk of casualties due to the toxicity of ammonia.

[0008] In this way, existing ammonia ships have problems such as the need to improve facility costs and operating costs for storing liquid ammonia fuel and supplying ammonia fuel to the engine, and in particular, the need to ensure reliable safety.

[0009] The present invention was created to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and to provide a fuel treatment system and a ship including the same that can ensure safety by appropriately capturing fuel discharged from each component of the system and controlling the discharge of fuel in a safe space when a toxic substance such as ammonia is used as fuel.

[0010] A fuel treatment system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a fuel tank provided on a hull and storing toxic fuel; a fuel supply unit for supplying fuel stored in the fuel tank to a demander; a fuel discharge unit for draining fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit or purging the fuel supply unit and discharging the fuel together with a purging gas; and a cover unit provided to surround a specific portion of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit through which fuel flows and where at least two members are connected, wherein the cover unit semi-encloses the specific portion to delay diffusion of fuel leaking from the specific portion.

[0011] Specifically, the specific portion includes at least one of a valve, a fuel intake or exhaust end, and a flange, and the cover portion has a structure in which at least both ends are closed and a sheet covering the specific portion is provided, and the sheet may have an ammonia-resistant film.

[0012] Specifically, the cover part has a gas detector provided therein for detecting fuel leaking from the specific area, and the gas detector may include at least one of a gas sensor and a discoloring material.

[0013] Specifically, the cover part may further include a monitoring device that monitors the discoloration material provided in one or more of the cover parts, wherein at least a portion of the sheet is provided transparently or translucently so that the interior of the cover part can be visually confirmed, and the discoloration material is provided corresponding to a portion of the sheet that can be visually confirmed.

[0014] Specifically, the fuel supply unit may include a fuel supply line for delivering fuel from the fuel tank to the demander; a supply heat exchanger and a supply pump provided in the fuel supply line; and a fuel recovery line for recovering surplus fuel from the demander. The cover unit may include a small cover unit provided to cover each of a valve or a flange provided in the fuel supply unit; and a large cover unit provided to cover the supply heat exchanger and the supply pump at the same time.

[0015] Specifically, among the small cover portion and the large cover portion, at least the large cover portion may be provided with an exhaust fan that exhausts fuel leaking from the specific portion to the outside of the fuel processing area where the fuel supply portion and the fuel discharge portion are accommodated.

[0016] Specifically, it further includes a fuel neutralization unit that neutralizes toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit, and the discharge fan can deliver fuel leaking from the specific portion to the fuel neutralization unit.

[0017] Specifically, the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated in a fuel processing area, and the fuel supply unit further includes a fire retardant spray unit that locally sprays a fire retardant to the cover unit, and the sheet of the large cover unit can protect the supply heat exchanger and the supply pump from the fire retardant sprayed from the fire retardant spray unit.

[0018] Specifically, it includes a fuel neutralization unit that neutralizes toxic fuel; and a ventilation unit that supplies or exhausts air to an internal space of a fuel processing area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated, wherein the ventilation unit can be switched between a first mode in which it operates at a first load for internal air circulation of the fuel processing area and a second mode in which it operates at a second load for delivering air of the fuel processing area to the fuel neutralization unit.

[0019] Specifically, the ventilation unit includes an air supply unit that supplies outside air into the fuel processing zone; an exhaust unit that discharges air inside the fuel processing zone to the outside; and an overpressure prevention unit that includes a relief valve that opens when the pressure inside the fuel processing zone rises above a certain pressure. The exhaust unit includes an exhaust fan that is provided for circulating air, and the air supply unit may include an air supply duct that opens after the inside of the fuel processing zone is controlled to a negative pressure by the exhaust unit.

[0020] Specifically, the exhaust fan is provided as a variable controllable type and is switched between the first mode and the second mode, and can be operated at the first load for internal air circulation of the fuel processing zone, or at the second load that is relatively lower than the first load for transferring fuel leaking from the fuel processing zone to the fuel neutralization unit.

[0021] Specifically, it includes a fuel neutralization unit that neutralizes toxic fuel; a tray unit that collects fuel leaking into the internal space of a fuel processing area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated; and a transfer pump that transfers the fuel collected in the tray unit to at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit, wherein the fuel collected in the tray unit can be recovered to at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit.

[0022] Specifically, the fuel supply unit includes a fuel supply line for transferring fuel from the fuel tank to the demander; a supply heat exchanger and a supply pump provided in the fuel supply line; and a fuel recovery line for recovering surplus fuel from the demander; the fuel discharge unit includes a separator into which fuel from the fuel recovery line flows and a liquid separated therein is transferred to the fuel recovery line; a buffer tank provided downstream of the separator; and a knockout drum into which fuel discharged from the demander flows, and the transfer pump transfers fuel collected in the tray unit to the separator, and the fuel transferred to the separator by the transfer pump can be transferred from the separator to the supply pump.

[0023] Specifically, the present invention comprises: a fuel neutralization unit for neutralizing toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit; a disaster prevention material injection unit for injecting a disaster prevention material into the fuel supply unit or the fuel discharge unit within a fuel processing area in which the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated; and a plurality of tray units for collecting fuel leaking into the internal space of the fuel processing area and provided at a plurality of specific portions of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit through which fuel flows and at least two members are connected; and a delivery pump for forcibly draining the fuel collected in the tray unit, wherein the disaster prevention material injection unit controls the injection of the disaster prevention material in conjunction with the operation of the delivery pump, and can inject the disaster prevention material toward the tray unit after the fuel collected in the tray unit is drained below a predetermined level.

[0024] Specifically, the fuel neutralization unit for neutralizing toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit; and a bilge treatment unit for treating bilge within a fuel treatment area in which the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated, wherein the bilge treatment unit may further include a bilge well provided in the fuel treatment area; and a bilge delivery line for delivering bilge collected in the bilge well to the fuel neutralization unit.

[0025] The fuel processing system according to the present invention and the vessel including the same can secure excellent safety by supplying fuel containing ammonia to an engine and re-liquefying it as needed, while preventing workers from being exposed to ammonia when draining or purging the fuel as needed.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 12 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 13 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 14 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 15 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 16 is a conceptual diagram of a cover part according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 17 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 18 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 19 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 20 is a partial block diagram of a fuel neutralization unit in a fuel processing system according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] The objects, specific advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In this specification, when reference numerals are assigned to components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components are given the same reference numerals even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known technology is deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0047] In the present invention, the (gaseous) fuel may be a substance that has a boiling point lower than room temperature at atmospheric pressure and can be converted into energy. Examples of the fuel include, but are not limited to, toxic substances such as ammonia, liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas, and ethane. However, for convenience, the fuel will be described hereinafter as being ammonia.

[0048] In the drawings of the present invention, straight lines represent paths through which various fluids, such as fuel, refrigerant, heat, and purging gas, move, and can be interpreted as pipelines. Furthermore, the present invention allows pressure sensors (PT), temperature sensors (TT), and flow sensors (FT) to be installed at appropriate locations without limitation, and the measured values ​​from each sensor can be used in various ways without limitation in the operation of the components described below.

[0049] The present invention also includes a vessel equipped with the fuel processing system described below. In this case, the vessel is a concept that includes gas carriers, merchant ships transporting various types of cargo or people, FSRUs, FPSOs, bunkering vessels, offshore plants, etc.

[0050] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0051]

[0052] FIGS. 1 to 5 are conceptual diagrams of a fuel processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. For reference, FIGS. 1 to 5 each illustrate at least a portion of the components included in one embodiment as conceptual diagrams.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a fuel processing system (1) according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a storage unit (10), a fuel supply unit (20), a fuel discharge unit (30), a fuel neutralization unit (40), an exhaust treatment unit (50), etc.

[0054]

[0055] The storage unit (10) stores fuel. At this time, the fuel may be a toxic fuel such as ammonia, but as mentioned above, it is not limited thereto. However, for convenience, the fuel will be described below as a toxic fuel such as ammonia.

[0056] The storage unit (10) can store fuel consumed by a demand source such as an engine (E) or a boiler (B). In this case, the engine (E) may be an ammonia-only engine (E) or an ammonia-mixed engine (E). Of course, in this specification, the engine (E) is an engine that obtains energy by consuming ammonia, and can encompass all generators, turbines, fuel cells, etc.

[0057] The storage unit (10) includes a fuel tank (11), and the fuel tank (11) can store fuel in a liquid state. The fuel is a substance having a boiling point below room temperature and can be liquefied at low temperatures. The storage unit (10) can be insulated on at least one side, either internally or externally, to store the fuel in a liquid state. Alternatively, the fuel tank (11) can prevent fuel from vaporizing by storing the fuel at a high pressure. In this case, the pressurizing means of the fuel supply unit (20), which will be described later, can be reduced or omitted due to the pressure of the fuel tank (11).

[0058] The fuel tank (11) may be provided to form a cargo hold within the vessel. Alternatively, the fuel tank (11) may be an independent tank provided separately within the vessel or on the deck. One or more fuel tanks (11) may be provided, and when multiple fuel tanks (11) are provided, fuel may be consumed alternatively or simultaneously. That is, the fuel tank (11) may be of type A, type B, or type C, and in addition to these independent tanks, the fuel tank (11) may also be provided as a membrane tank.

[0059] The portion of the fuel tank (11) where fuel is stored is divided into a storage space (111), and an insulating space (112) may be provided on the outside of the storage space (111). The storage space (111) and the insulating space (112) may be separated by a barrier or the like. However, if the barrier is damaged, fuel may leak from the storage space (111) into the insulating space (112), and handling of this will be described in detail below.

[0060] A storage space (111) of a fuel tank (11) may be provided with a storage space discharge line (L11) to discharge gas generated inside to the outside to maintain an appropriate internal pressure of the storage space (111). In addition, an insulation space discharge line (L13) may be provided for an insulation space (112) surrounding the storage space (111) to prevent overpressure of the insulation space (112). A relief valve (not shown) may be provided in each of the storage space discharge line (L11) and the insulation space discharge line (L13), and the relief valve (25) of the storage space discharge line (L11) and the relief valve (25) of the insulation space discharge line (L13) may have different opening pressures.

[0061] The storage space discharge line (L11) can transfer gas discharged from the storage space (111) overboard. The storage space discharge line (L11) can have its outlet provided below or adjacent to the sea surface, and can allow gas discharged within the storage space (111) to be injected into seawater.

[0062] The storage space discharge line (L11) may be provided to be integrated with the insulated space discharge line (L13). The gas discharged from the storage space discharge line (L11) may be fuel, and the gas discharged from the insulated space (112) may be fuel leaked through a damaged portion of the barrier dividing the storage space (111) and the insulated space (112). Therefore, the gases discharged from the storage space discharge line (L11) and the insulated space discharge line (L13) may have the same or similar components, and the insulated space discharge line (L13) may be connected to the storage space discharge line (L11) to discharge the gas below the sea surface.

[0063] The discharge to the storage space (111) and the insulation space (112) can be controlled by a vacuum breaker (not shown). The vacuum breaker can be connected between a relief valve (not shown) in the storage space discharge line (L11) and the point where the insulation space discharge line (L13) joins the storage space discharge line (L11).

[0064] The storage space discharge line (L11) and the like may also be connected to the fuel neutralization unit (40) described later. That is, the gas discharged from the storage space (111) and the insulation space (112) may be injected into the seawater outside the ship or transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40) for processing, depending on the situation. For example, in the event of an accident such as a fire, the gas discharged from the storage space (111) and the like may be transferred to the seawater. On the other hand, the gas discharged through the storage space discharge line (L11) during normal operation of the fuel tank (11) may be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0065] The storage discharge line (L11) or the like may include at least two relief valves (25) having different opening pressures, and when the relief valve (25) with a low opening pressure is opened, the gas can be delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40). On the other hand, when the relief valve (25) with a high opening pressure is opened, the gas can be delivered into the seawater. Alternatively, the storage discharge line (L11) or the like may be provided with a three-way valve (not shown) downstream of the relief valve (25), and the downstream of the three-way valve may be connected to below the sea surface or to the fuel neutralization unit (40). Accordingly, the gas discharged from the storage discharge line (L11) may be injected into the seawater or delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40) by the three-way valve, the opening of which is controlled depending on the situation.

[0066] A fuel pump (not shown) may be provided inside the fuel tank (11). Of course, the fuel pump may also be provided outside the fuel tank (11), and may be provided both inside and outside the fuel tank (11). The fuel pump may transfer fuel stored in the fuel tank (11) to the fuel supply unit (20).

[0067] Fuel can be supplied to the fuel tank (11) from the bunkering unit (12). The bunkering unit (12) includes a manifold, a loading arm, etc., which are provided on the deck of the ship, etc., and through these, fuel can be delivered from the outside and loaded into the fuel tank (11).

[0068] A loading line (L10) may be provided from the bunkering section (12) to the fuel tank (11), and the loading line (L10) may be insulated to prevent vaporization of liquid fuel flowing into the interior of the fuel tank (11).

[0069] The fuel tank (11) may be a cargo tank installed in the cargo area of ​​the hull, or may be a tank provided separately from the cargo tank. In the latter case, the bunkering unit (12) may transfer fuel from the cargo tank to the fuel tank (11). Additionally, the bunkering unit (12) may return fuel from the fuel tank (11) to the cargo tank, if necessary.

[0070] A fuel tank (11) can be connected to a re-liquefaction unit (13). Fuel stored inside the fuel tank (11) can be at least partially vaporized as it is heated by heat penetrating into the fuel tank (11), and the vaporized fuel expands, causing an increase in pressure in the fuel tank (11).

[0071] The gaseous fuel generated in the fuel tank (11) can be discharged from the fuel tank (11) and delivered to the re-liquefaction unit (13). The re-liquefaction unit (13) can cool and liquefy the gaseous fuel using a known refrigerant (seawater, nitrogen, mixed refrigerant, a portion of fuel, etc.). The fuel liquefied in the re-liquefaction unit (13) can be returned to the fuel tank (11). To this end, a storage space discharge line (L11) provided to discharge the gaseous fuel from the fuel tank (11) can be connected to the re-liquefaction unit (13), and a re-liquefaction line (L12) is connected between the re-liquefaction unit (13) and the fuel tank (11).

[0072]

[0073] The fuel supply unit (20) supplies fuel stored in the storage unit (10) to a demander. The fuel supply unit (20) can supply at least liquid fuel among the fuel stored in the fuel tank (11) to an engine (E), etc. In particular, the fuel supply unit (20) can supply fuel in a liquid state to the engine (E), and the fuel supply unit (20) can variously adjust the state of the supplied fuel in response to changes in the specifications of the engine (E), etc.

[0074] The fuel supply unit (20) includes a supply heat exchanger (21), a supply pump (22), a filter unit (23), and a return heat exchanger. The supply heat exchanger (21) can heat or cool the fuel discharged from the fuel tank (11) so that the temperature of the fuel corresponds to the temperature required by the engine (E), etc.

[0075] A supply heat exchanger (21) can be provided between the fuel pump and a supply pump (22) to be described later, and considering that some temperature increase occurs when the fuel is pressurized by the supply pump (22), the heating / cooling of the supply heat exchanger (21) can be controlled.

[0076] The supply pump (22) pressurizes the fuel discharged from the fuel tank (11) by the fuel pump. The supply pump (22) can pressurize the fuel in response to the pressure required by the engine (E). The supply pump (22) can be provided downstream of the supply heat exchanger (21) and can receive fuel having a temperature higher than the boiling point. However, since the fuel is sufficiently pressurized by the fuel pump, it may not vaporize even if heated in the supply heat exchanger (21). Therefore, the supply pump (22) can receive liquid fuel from the supply heat exchanger (21), pressurize it, and then supply it to the engine (E).

[0077] Of course, the arrangement of the supply pump (22) may differ from the previous case. The supply pump (22) may be installed upstream of the supply heat exchanger (21). Alternatively, the supply pumps (22) may be installed upstream and downstream of the supply heat exchanger (21).

[0078] The filter unit (23) is provided downstream of the supply pump (22) and can filter out foreign substances contained in the fuel. Here, the foreign substances may refer to any substance that may affect the operation of the engine (E), and further, may include any substance other than fuel in the fluid supplied to the engine (E).

[0079] A fuel supply line (L20) extends from a fuel pump provided in a fuel tank (11), and a supply heat exchanger (21), a supply pump (22), a filter unit (23), etc. may be provided on the fuel supply line (L20). Accordingly, the fuel is discharged from the fuel tank (11) while being pressurized by the fuel pump, heated in the supply heat exchanger (21), pressurized in the supply pump (22), and then supplied in a liquid state to the engine (E).

[0080] The engine (E) may combust some of the fuel supplied through the fuel supply line (L20), generating excess fuel. The excess fuel is fuel that has been supplied to the engine (E) but has not been combusted within the engine (E). As it passes through at least a portion of the engine (E), it may contain lubricating oil used in the engine (E).

[0081] Excess fuel is recovered from the engine (E) to the fuel supply unit (20). Fuel is introduced into the engine (E) through a fuel supply line (L20), and excess fuel can be recovered through a fuel recovery line (L21) extending from the engine (E) to the fuel supply unit (20).

[0082] The fuel recovery line (L21) may be connected to the fuel supply line (L20). Fuel flowing in through the fuel recovery line (L21) may be re-introduced into the engine (E) without being delivered to the fuel tank (11) because it contains lubricating oil. The fuel recovery line (L21) may be connected upstream of the supply pump (22) in the fuel supply line (L20).

[0083] A fuel recovery line (L21) may be provided with a recovery heat exchanger (24). The recovery heat exchanger (24) can cool the fuel heated while passing through the engine (E) to a temperature suitable for introduction into the supply pump (22). In other words, the recovery heat exchanger (24) may be a cooler and may share a medium with the supply heat exchanger (21).

[0084] A supply valve train (SVT) may be provided upstream of the engine (E) in the fuel supply line (L20), and a return valve train (RVT) may be provided downstream of the engine (E) in the fuel return line (L21). The supply valve train and the return valve train may be collectively referred to as a fuel valve train (FVT).

[0085]

[0086] The fuel discharge unit (30) discharges fuel between the storage unit (10) and the engine (E). The fuel discharge unit (30) can drain fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit (20) or discharge fuel together with purging gas by purging the fuel supply unit (20). In other words, the fuel discharge unit (30) can perform functions such as draining and purging. In this case, the purging gas may be an inert gas or the like.

[0087] The fuel discharge unit (30) can discharge fuel while the engine (E) is stopped, or can process fuel discharged from the storage unit (10) or fuel supply unit (20) to relieve overpressure.

[0088] The fuel discharge unit (30) may include an inert gas supply unit (31), a recovery fuel discharge unit (32), and a residual fuel discharge unit (33). The inert gas supply unit (31) may supply inert gas to a fuel supply line (L20) of the fuel supply unit (20), etc., in order to forcibly discharge fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit (20) or the engine (E).

[0089] The inert gas supply unit (31) can supply nitrogen or inert gas, etc., and can be connected to one or more points in the fuel supply unit (20). The inert gas supply unit (31) can be connected to a downstream location of the supply pump (22) in the fuel supply line (L20). In addition, the inert gas supply unit (31) can also be added to the loading line (L10) between the bunkering unit (12) and the fuel tank (11).

[0090] The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) can recover the fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit (20) when the fuel supply by the fuel supply unit (20) is interrupted due to a stop of the engine (E), etc. The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) can recover the remaining fuel in the fuel supply line (L20) and the fuel recovery line (L21), and recovers the fuel together with the inert gas.

[0091] The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) includes a separator (321), a buffer tank (322), etc. The separator (321) can be branched and connected from a fuel recovery line (L21). A recovery fuel discharge line (L31) can be branched from the fuel recovery line (L21), and the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) can be connected to a fuel neutralization unit (40) after passing through the separator (321) and the buffer tank (322), etc.

[0092] When an inert gas is supplied downstream of a supply pump (22) in a fuel supply line (L20), fuel remaining in a portion of the fuel supply line (L20), inside the engine (E), and in the fuel recovery line (L21) may flow into the separator (321) together with the inert gas. The separator (321) may be provided as a pressurized type, and may store the inert gas and fuel, etc. at a certain pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure.

[0093] The separator (321) can implement the function of a gas-liquid separator, and the inert gas can be discharged as a gas and the fuel can be discharged as a liquid. The liquid discharged from the separator (321) can be transferred again to the fuel recovery line (L21) or the fuel supply line (L20). The liquid transferred from the separator (321) to the fuel recovery line (L21) can be combined upstream of the recovery heat exchanger (24). At this time, the liquid transferred from the separator (321) to the fuel recovery line (L21) may be mixed with lubricating oil mixed in from the engine (E).

[0094] On the other hand, the inert gas separated in the separator (321) can be discharged to the atmosphere or delivered to the fuel tank (11). The internal pressure of the fuel tank (11) may increase somewhat as the inert gas is injected, and the fuel tank (11) may withstand the internal pressure without discharging the gas phase, or discharge the gas phase to the reliquefaction unit (13) or the outside, depending on the type.

[0095] A buffer tank (322) may be provided downstream of the separator (321). The buffer tank (322) may be used as a gas-liquid separator, similar to the separator (321). However, since the separator (321) has primarily separated the inert gas, fuel, lubricant, etc., the buffer tank (322) may not return the liquid to the fuel supply unit (20). The inert gas and fuel may be introduced into the buffer tank (322), and the buffer tank (322) may transfer the inert gas to the fuel tank (11), etc., and transfer the fuel, etc. to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0096] Inert gas discharged from the separator (321) and the buffer tank (322) can be delivered to the fuel tank (11) through the gas discharge line (L33). At this time, the gas discharge line (L33) extends from the separator (321), the buffer tank (322), etc., and can join upstream of the fuel tank (11).

[0097] The gas discharge line (L33) may also be connected to a re-liquefaction unit (13). Inert gases discharged from a separator (321) or a buffer tank (322) may pass through a fuel tank (11) and then be delivered to the re-liquefaction unit (13), or may bypass the fuel tank (11) and be delivered directly to the re-liquefaction unit (13).

[0098] The gas discharge line (L33) may also be connected to a relief valve (25) provided in the fuel supply unit (20). The relief valve (25) may be provided in at least one of the fuel supply line (L20) and the fuel recovery line (L21), and may be directly provided in each piece of equipment included in the fuel supply unit (20). The relief valve (25) may be automatically opened when overpressure occurs in the portion of the fuel supply unit (20) where the relief valve (25) is provided, and when the relief valve (25) is opened, fuel, etc. may be discharged.

[0099] Since a gas discharge line (L33) is connected to the relief valve (25), fuel discharged from the fuel supply unit (20) to relieve overpressure can be delivered to the fuel tank (11) together with gas discharged from the separator (321), etc. Alternatively, fuel discharged through the relief valve (25) can be delivered to the re-liquefaction unit (13), liquefied by the re-liquefaction unit (13), and then returned to the fuel tank (11).

[0100] Alternatively, the gas discharge line (L33) may be connected to a membrane filter (34). The gas discharge line (L33) may be branched and connected to a fuel tank (11), a re-liquefaction unit (13), a membrane filter (34), etc. downstream of the separator (321). The gas discharged from the separator (321) may be introduced into the fuel tank (11), delivered to the re-liquefaction unit (13) to be liquefied and then returned to the fuel tank (11), or introduced into the membrane filter (34) to be separated from the fuel and then delivered to the fuel supply unit (20).

[0101] The membrane filter (34) may be a filter that separates fuel from an inert gas such as nitrogen, and may be a type that separates fuel based on a membrane structure. In addition, various physical or chemical filtering methods may be used. The inert gas separated from the membrane filter (34) may be discharged to the outside, and the fuel separated from the membrane filter (34) may be delivered to the inside of the fuel tank (11) or to the fuel supply line (L20). The gas discharge line (L33) may be connected from the downstream of the membrane filter (34) to the upstream of the supply heat exchanger (21).

[0102] The residual fuel discharge unit (33) can recover the residual fuel remaining in the engine (E) when the engine (E) is stopped. Although both the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) and the residual fuel discharge unit (33) recover the fuel remaining in the engine (E), they can be used at different times. For example, the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) can recover fuel when the engine (E) is normally stopped, and the residual fuel discharge unit (33) can recover fuel when the engine (E) is in an emergency stop.

[0103] The residual fuel discharge unit (33) can recover the fuel remaining in the engine (E) through the residual fuel discharge line (L32) branching from the fuel recovery line (L21). The residual fuel discharge unit (33) can include a knockout drum (331). When an inert gas is injected upstream of the engine (E) from the fuel supply line (L20), the knockout drum (331) can recover the inert gas passing through the engine (E) together with the residual fuel of the engine (E).

[0104] The knockout drum (331) can implement a gas-liquid separator function, similar to the separator (321). The knockout drum (331) can separate the lubricating oil used in the engine (E), and the lubricating oil can be reintroduced into the engine (E) through the fuel supply unit (20), etc. In addition, the knockout drum (331) can separate the inert gas and fuel, and the inert gas, etc. can be delivered to the fuel tank (11).

[0105] The gas discharge line (L33) described above can also be connected to the knockout drum (331). That is, the gas discharge line (L33) can transfer the inert gas discharged from the knockout drum (331), separator (321), buffer tank (322), etc. to the fuel tank (11), re-liquefaction unit (13), membrane filter (34), etc.

[0106] However, the knockout drum (331), separator (321), buffer tank (322), etc. may have different specifications, pressures, temperatures, etc. That is, the gas discharged from the knockout drum (331) and the gas discharged from the separator (321) may be in different states, and a check valve (not shown) may be provided in the gas discharge line (L33) to prevent backflow.

[0107] Fuel separated from the knockout drum (331) can be delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40). Fuel connected from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) and fuel connected from the residual fuel discharge unit (33) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) can be handled and processed differently.

[0108]

[0109] The fuel neutralization unit (40) neutralizes toxic fuel. The fuel neutralization unit (40) can dilute or eliminate toxicity of toxic fuel by supplying a neutralizing agent to the fuel. Fuel is a toxic substance and cannot be directly released into the atmosphere, but can only be released within a certain concentration standard (e.g., 25 ppm). Therefore, the fuel neutralization unit (40) can mix water or seawater, which is a neutralizing agent, with the fuel to release the fuel into the atmosphere.

[0110] The fuel neutralization unit (40) can limit the discharge of fuel so that fuel below a certain concentration standard is discharged into the atmosphere, and can also store wastewater mixed with fuel and neutralizing agent. In this case, the wastewater can be unloaded and processed when the vessel is anchored on land or at a port. Hereinafter, "wastewater" in this specification refers to a substance mixed with fuel and neutralizing agent, and the wastewater may be, for example, ammonia water.

[0111] The fuel neutralization unit (40) includes a scrubber (41), an absorption tank (42), and a wastewater tank (43). The scrubber (41) is configured to supply a neutralizing agent to the fuel so that the fuel dissolves in the neutralizing agent, and may be referred to as a dissolution unit. If the fuel is ammonia, considering that ammonia easily dissolves in water, the scrubber (41) may supply seawater or water. If seawater is used as a neutralizing agent, the scrubber (41) may be made of a corrosion-resistant material, or may use water to eliminate the possibility of corrosion.

[0112] Fuel discharged from a fuel supply unit (20), etc., can be introduced into the scrubber (41). A neutralizing agent supply line (L41) is connected to the scrubber (41), and the neutralizing agent supply line (L41) can be connected to the upper part of the scrubber (41). Water, which is a neutralizing agent, can be sprayed from the upper part of the scrubber (41), and fuel can be introduced from the lower part. Fuel introduced into the scrubber (41) can be dissolved in water sprayed from the upper part to generate ammonia water.

[0113] The water supplied to the scrubber (41) may be water for fire suppression provided on the ship, or may be water provided in the ship's fresh water tank. In other words, the neutralizing agent supplied to the scrubber (41) may be water used for other purposes on the ship.

[0114] The scrubber (41) may receive fuel delivered from a fuel supply unit (20) or a fuel discharge unit (30). Alternatively, the scrubber (41) may receive gas discharged from a space where the fuel supply unit (20) or the like is accommodated, such as a fuel treatment area (60). Alternatively, gas discharged from a relief valve (25) may also receive gas discharged from the scrubber (41).

[0115] One or more scrubbers (41) may be provided, and when a plurality of scrubbers (41) are provided, gas discharged from the fuel treatment area (60) may be introduced into one scrubber (41a), and gas delivered from the fuel discharge unit (30) may be introduced into another scrubber (41b). The plurality of scrubbers (41) may be referred to as a first scrubber (41a), a second scrubber (41b), etc.

[0116] At least one scrubber (41b, second scrubber) may be provided with an absorption tank (42). The absorption tank (42) may be provided at the bottom of the scrubber (41b). Fuel introduced into the scrubber (41b) may be at least partially dissolved in the neutralizing agent and then dropped into the absorption tank (42). The absorption tank (42) may store a certain level of the neutralizing agent, and fuel may be introduced into or above the neutralizing agent from the absorption tank (42). A separate neutralizing agent supply line (not shown) may be provided inside the absorption tank (42), and a neutralizing agent such as water may be filled at a certain level inside the absorption tank (42). At this time, the level of the neutralizing agent may be managed at an appropriate level by a sensor or the like provided in the absorption tank (42).

[0117] A scrubber (41) equipped with an absorption tank (42) receives gas discharged from a fuel treatment area (60), and an absorption tank (42) provided at the bottom of the scrubber (41) receives gas discharged from a recovery fuel discharge unit (32). In addition, another scrubber (41) may not be equipped with an absorption tank (42), and gas discharged from a residual fuel discharge unit (33) may receive gas.

[0118] The liquid level of the absorption tank (42) is monitored in real time by a level switch (LS), etc., and the liquid stored in the absorption tank (42) can be transferred to the wastewater tank (43) according to the liquid level. A wastewater transfer line (L40) can be provided between the absorption tank (42) and the wastewater tank (43), and a wastewater transfer valve (421) can be provided in the wastewater transfer line (L40). The wastewater transfer valve (421) can be opened and closed or its opening degree can be adjusted according to the liquid level of the absorption tank (42).

[0119] However, another scrubber (41a, first scrubber) may be connected to the wastewater tank without passing through the absorption tank (42). That is, a wastewater delivery line (L40) may be provided from at least two scrubbers (41a, 41b) toward the wastewater tank (43), and the wastewater delivery line (L40) may pass through the absorption tank (42) on one side.

[0120] The wastewater tank (43) stores wastewater. The wastewater tank (43) can receive wastewater delivered from the scrubber (41). The wastewater flowing into the wastewater tank (43) may be wastewater discharged from the fuel treatment area (60) and captured by the scrubber (41), wastewater discharged from the recovered fuel discharge unit (32), residual fuel discharge unit (33), etc. and captured by the absorption tank (42) or the scrubber (41), etc.

[0121] The wastewater tank (43) can store wastewater to a certain level, and at least a portion of the fuel contained in the wastewater can be vaporized within the wastewater tank (43). In this case, the fuel in the gaseous state vaporized in the wastewater tank (43) can be circulated to the scrubber (41) or the absorption tank (42).

[0122] A gas circulation line (L42) may be provided between the wastewater tank (43) and the absorption tank (42). Fuel that has been dissolved by a neutralizing agent in the scrubber (41) or absorption tank (42) and then separated again in the wastewater tank (43) may be reintroduced into the absorption tank (42) and dissolved again by the neutralizing agent. Accordingly, the fuel concentration in the wastewater tank (43) may be controlled within a certain level.

[0123] Some of the fuel vaporized in the wastewater tank (43) may be discharged into the atmosphere through the vent mast (44). A vent line (L43) is connected from the wastewater tank (43) to the vent mast (44), and the fuel flowing along the vent line (L43) can be controlled so that its concentration does not exceed the concentration according to environmental regulations. At this time, the control can be achieved by controlling the concentration inside the wastewater tank (43) and controlling the flow rate discharged from the vent line (L43). When the volume of the wastewater tank (43) is sufficiently large, a separate neutralizing agent may be supplied to the wastewater tank (43) in addition to the wastewater delivered from the scrubber (41) or the absorption tank (42). Through this, the concentration of the fuel in the gas vaporized in the wastewater tank (43) can be controlled.

[0124] The wastewater tank (43) may be provided by utilizing a tank already provided on the hull. For example, the wastewater tank (43) may be formed by at least one of a bow peak tank, a stern peak tank, or a ballast tank provided on the hull.

[0125] The wastewater transfer line (L40) may be joined with bilge generated from the fuel treatment area (60). Bilge refers to waste generated within the fuel treatment area (60), and may or may not be mixed with fuel.

[0126] A bilge well (not shown) corresponding to a bilge treatment unit may be provided in the fuel treatment area (60), and a bilge transfer line (L60) may be provided in the bilge well. The bilge transfer line (L60) joins the wastewater transfer line (L40) upstream of the wastewater tank (43), so that the bilge collected in the bilge well can be transferred to the wastewater tank (43).

[0127] At least a portion of the bilge flowing along the bilge transfer line (L60) can be supplied to the engine (E). Fuel contained in the bilge can be combusted within the engine (E). However, the membrane filter (34) described above may be applied upstream of the engine (E) in the bilge transfer line (L60). The membrane filter (34) can adsorb and separate water from low-concentration ammonia water to purify high-concentration ammonia, thereby controlling the water content in the bilge flowing into the engine (E) to within a certain concentration (0.5%).

[0128]

[0129] The exhaust treatment unit (50) treats exhaust gas discharged from a demand source such as an engine (E). The exhaust treatment unit (50) may purify pollutants contained within the engine (E), and may include a selective catalytic reduction device for reducing nitrogen oxides, a scrubbing device for removing sulfur oxides, etc.

[0130] A selective catalytic reduction device that may be included in the exhaust treatment unit (50) can chemically purify nitrogen oxides using urea water generated from urea, a urea component. At this time, the urea water may also be generated from ammonia, and a portion of the fuel may be delivered to the exhaust treatment unit (50). For example, fuel from a fuel supply unit (20), a fuel discharge unit (30), a fuel neutralization unit (40), etc. may be delivered to the exhaust treatment unit (50) and utilized for exhaust purification.

[0131] Additionally, a scrubbing device that may be included in the exhaust treatment unit (50) may share a neutralizing agent used in a fuel neutralization unit (40), etc. Alternatively, the scrubbing device may use wastewater treated to a low fuel concentration in the fuel neutralization unit (40) as a neutralizing agent.

[0132]

[0133] The fuel supply unit (20) and the fuel discharge unit (30) may be placed in a space separately partitioned from the ship. The space in which the fuel supply unit (20) and the fuel discharge unit (30) are accommodated may be defined as a fuel processing area (60).

[0134] The fuel handling area (60) may be provided on the deck of a ship or located at a specific location within the hull. In addition, the fuel handling area (60) may be constructed in a sealed form to prevent leakage of toxic fuel.

[0135] The fuel processing area (60) can be ventilated for its internal space. Ventilation can be performed a certain number of times over a certain period of time. To this end, the fuel processing area (60) can be provided with an air supply unit (61), an exhaust unit (62), an overpressure prevention unit (63), etc., and the air supply unit (61), exhaust unit (62), etc. can be referred to as a ventilation unit.

[0136] The air supply unit (61) supplies air from outside the fuel processing area (60) into the fuel processing area (60). The air supply unit (61) can forcibly inject outside air into the fuel processing area (60) using an air supply fan, etc. Alternatively, the air supply unit (61) can be provided with an air supply duct or a damper, etc., and the fuel processing area (60) can be provided with an exhaust unit (62) to forcibly discharge internal air to the outside of the fuel processing area (60).

[0137] The exhaust unit (62) discharges the air inside the fuel processing area (60) to the outside. The exhaust unit (62) can forcibly discharge the internal air to the outside of the fuel processing area (60) using an exhaust fan (621), etc. The exhaust unit (62) can be provided with a mushroom fan, etc., and can include one or more mushroom fans. Alternatively, the exhaust unit (62) can include an exhaust duct, etc., similar to a supply duct.

[0138] The air exhausted from the exhaust section (62) may contain fuel leaked from the fuel treatment area (60), depending on the situation. Therefore, since the exhausted air may be toxic, it is desirable to limit its release into the atmosphere. Accordingly, the exhaust section (62) can control the exhaust flow depending on whether fuel leaks occur.

[0139] The exhaust unit (62) can discharge the internal air of the fuel processing zone (60) to the atmosphere or transfer the air to the fuel neutralization unit (40). That is, the exhaust unit (62) can include an exhaust fan (621) for circulating the internal air of the fuel processing zone (60) and an exhaust fan (621) for transferring fuel leaking from the internal space of the fuel processing zone (60) to the fuel neutralization unit (40). In this case, the exhaust unit (62) can adjust the pressure inside the fuel processing zone (60) to negative pressure, etc., so that the fuel leaked from the fuel processing zone (60) does not escape to the air supply unit (61). That is, after the inside of the fuel processing zone (60) is controlled to negative pressure by the exhaust unit (62), the air supply duct of the air supply unit (61) is opened, so that external fuel leakage can be suppressed.

[0140] The exhaust fan (621) for circulating the internal air of the fuel processing area (60) in the exhaust section (62) may be a mushroom fan, etc., and the exhaust fan (621) for transferring the leaked fuel to the fuel neutralization section (40) may be provided as a blower, a compressor (132), an ejector, etc. In the case of the ejector, the leaked fuel can be sucked in using air or a neutralizing agent supplied from the outside as a working fluid. That is, the exhaust fan (621) for circulating the internal air in the exhaust section (62) and the exhaust fan (621) for transferring the leaked fuel may be provided to have different specifications.

[0141] Alternatively, the exhaust unit (62) may use an exhaust fan (621) to circulate the internal air of the fuel processing unit (60) to transfer the fuel leaked from the fuel processing unit (60) to the fuel neutralization unit (40). That is, instead of providing a separate fan to transfer air to the fuel neutralization unit (40), the exhaust unit (62) may use an exhaust fan (621) provided for air circulation to transfer air to the fuel neutralization unit (40). In this case, the exhaust fan (621) is provided as a variable controllable type and may be switched between a first mode in which it operates at a first load to circulate the interior of the fuel processing unit (60) and a second mode in which it operates at a second load to transfer air from the fuel processing unit (60) to the fuel neutralization unit (40). Since the first mode is for ventilation of the fuel treatment area (60), while the second mode is for treating fuel leaking within the fuel treatment area (60), the second mode may have a relatively lower load compared to the first mode.

[0142] Conversely, the exhaust section (62) can also be used to circulate air in the fuel treatment area (60) by using an exhaust fan (621) to transfer leaked fuel.

[0143] Alternatively, the fuel processing area (60) may be controlled to maintain a relatively positive pressure inside compared to outside. In this case, the exhaust section (62) may be provided with an exhaust duct or damper without an exhaust fan (621), and the exhausted air may flow in a free flow manner.

[0144] The exhaust unit (62) can transfer the exhausted air from the fuel processing area (60) to the fuel neutralization unit (40). For example, the exhaust unit (62) can transfer the exhausted air to the scrubber (41). The exhaust unit (62) can be connected to the scrubber (41) in which the absorption tank (42) is provided integrally, and can transfer the exhausted air to the scrubber (41). As described above, the fuel discharge unit (30), etc., can be connected to the absorption tank (42) in which the scrubber (41) is provided integrally. The interior of the fuel processing area (60) is maintained at a relatively high pressure compared to the scrubber (41), so that the air can be transferred from the fuel processing area (60) to the scrubber (41) in a free flow without compression.

[0145] The air exhausted from the exhaust section (62) and then delivered to the scrubber (41) may be discharged to the outside or circulated into the fuel processing area (60) through the air supply section (61). If a fuel leak occurs within the fuel processing area (60), the air delivered from the exhaust section (62) to the scrubber (41) may contain fuel. At this time, the scrubber (41) must control the concentration of the fuel below a certain value in order to release the air into the atmosphere, and for this purpose, the scrubber (41) must have a size capable of supplying a sufficient neutralizer to the air. In other words, the scrubber (41) may have to be provided with excessive specifications depending on the volume of the fuel processing area (60), the amount of air circulation, the amount of exhaust from the exhaust section (62), etc.

[0146] To resolve this, the scrubber (41) that receives air from the exhaust unit (62) can discharge air containing fuel having a concentration higher than a certain concentration to the outside of the scrubber (41), and at least a portion of the air discharged from the scrubber (41) can be delivered to the air supply unit (61). That is, since the air discharged from the scrubber (41) recirculates through the fuel processing area (60), even when a relatively small-sized scrubber (41) is used, the concentration of the fuel can be appropriately limited when discharging air to the fuel processing area (60).

[0147] The scrubber (41) to which the exhaust section (62) is connected may be the scrubber (41) described in the fuel neutralization section (40), and for example, may be a scrubber (41) in which an absorption tank (42) is provided integrally, or a scrubber (41) in which an absorption tank (42) is not connected. Alternatively, the exhaust section (62) may transmit air to a scrubber (41) provided separately from the fuel neutralization section (40).

[0148] The overpressure prevention unit (63) is opened when the pressure inside the fuel processing area (60) rises above a certain pressure, thereby relieving the overpressure in the fuel processing area (60). The overpressure prevention unit (63) may include a relief valve (not shown), and the relief valve (25) may be automatically opened when the pressure exceeds a certain pressure. In this case, the air inside the fuel processing area (60) may be discharged into the atmosphere. Alternatively, in preparation for fuel being mixed in the air, the overpressure prevention unit (63) may be connected to the fuel neutralization unit (40) to transmit the air to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0149] The fuel processing area (60) can periodically circulate internal air under the pressure before the overpressure prevention unit (63) is opened. However, if a fuel leak is detected or expected, the exhaust unit (62) of the fuel processing area (60) can be controlled so that the air inside the fuel processing area (60) is not released into the atmosphere but is delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0150] A tray section (64) may be allocated to the fuel processing area (60). The tray section (64) is configured to collect fuel leaking within the fuel processing area (60) and may be a drip tray with an open top, etc. The tray section (64) may be provided below the fuel supply section (20), the fuel discharge section (30), etc. provided within the fuel processing area (60), and may be provided in a form that covers both the fuel supply section (20) and the fuel discharge section (30), or may be provided in multiple forms to correspond to each of the fuel supply section (20) and the fuel discharge section (30).

[0151] Since the fuel processing area (60) may have a sealed housing structure to limit the release of toxic fuel, the tray section (64) may be placed below the fuel supply section (20) or the like within the fuel processing area (60).

[0152] Fuel leaking from the fuel supply unit (20), etc., can be collected by the tray unit (64), and the fuel collected in the tray unit (64) can be recovered by the transfer pump (641). A structure that allows the collected fuel to gather at one point can be applied to the tray unit (64), and such a structure can include a sump (1121), a floor slope, etc.

[0153] Fuel collected in the sump (1121) is transferred to the transfer pump (641) through the captured fuel transfer line (L50), and the transfer pump (641) can transfer the fuel to the fuel supply unit (20) or the fuel discharge unit (30). For example, the transfer pump (641) can transfer the fuel collected in the sump (1121) from the fuel discharge unit (30) to the separator (321) or the buffer tank (322). As described above, the separator (321) has a gas-liquid separation function, and the liquid separated in the separator (321) can be transferred to the fuel supply unit (20) through the fuel recovery line (L21), etc. Therefore, the fuel transferred to the separator (321) by the transfer pump (641) can be supplied to the engine (E) by being transferred from the separator (321) to the supply pump (22), etc.

[0154] That is, the fuel captured in the tray (64) can be delivered to the fuel supply unit (20) and used as fuel for the engine (E). Therefore, even if a fuel leak occurs in the fuel supply unit (20), the leaked fuel is not released into the atmosphere.

[0155] In order for the tray (64) to capture the fuel, the fuel must fall into the tray (64), but fuel leaking from the fuel supply unit (20) may vaporize and rise. Therefore, a fire prevention material spray unit (65) may be provided in the fuel treatment area (60). The fire prevention material spray unit (65) may spray water, a fire prevention material capable of dissolving fuel, onto the fuel supply unit (20). In addition, the fire prevention material spray unit (65) may spray the fire prevention material so as to cover all points where fuel may leak.

[0156] However, if the fire prevention material is delivered to the tray (64) while the fuel is collected in the tray (64), an exothermic reaction may occur when the fire prevention material and the fuel come into contact, and the fuel may rapidly vaporize and spread, which may increase the risk. Therefore, the fuel collected in the tray (64) may be forcibly drained by the delivery pump (641), and then the fire prevention material may be supplied. That is, in order to suppress the fuel from spreading due to heat when the fire prevention material is delivered to the tray (64), the delivery pump (641) may control the amount of fuel collected in the tray (64) to a certain level or less, and the fire prevention material injection unit (65) may supply the fire prevention material after the fuel is drained by the delivery pump (641).

[0157] The tray part (64) can be installed in each part where there is a relatively high possibility of fuel leakage, such as in the fuel supply part (20), similar to the cover part (66) described below. The tray part (64) can be placed in each specific part where fuel flows and where at least two members are connected to each other. The tray part (64) can be placed at the bottom of each specific part to receive fuel leaking from the specific part.

[0158] In addition, when fuel is collected in a tray (64) placed at each specific location, after the fuel collected in the tray (64) is drained by a delivery pump (641), etc., the fire prevention material spraying unit (65) can spray the fire prevention material to a specific location, etc.

[0159] Alternatively, when fuel collection in the tray (64) is detected through a level switch (LS) or a gas detector (GD), etc., the fire extinguishing agent spraying unit (65) can control the spraying form of the fire extinguishing agent by spraying the fire extinguishing agent toward the periphery of the tray (64) so ​​that the spraying direction of the fire extinguishing agent is not directed directly toward or concentrated on the fuel collected in the tray (64), thereby suppressing the fuel from spreading from the tray (64).

[0160] The disaster prevention material spray unit (65) can deliver disaster prevention material toward the tray unit (64) after sufficient drainage has been completed in the tray unit (64). To this end, the disaster prevention material spray unit (65) can adjust the spraying speed and spraying direction of the disaster prevention material, and can control the spraying of the disaster prevention material in conjunction with the operation of the delivery pump (641).

[0161] The fire prevention material spray unit (65) may be provided inside the fuel processing area (60). The fuel processing area (60) may be provided in a sealed form to limit external discharge of toxic fuel, and the fire prevention material spray unit (65) may be provided inside the fuel processing area (60) to enable spraying of the fire prevention material to a point of risk of leakage.

[0162] Water used as a fire suppression agent may include fresh water or seawater used for fire suppression onboard the vessel. Additionally, fresh water or ballast water already stored onboard the vessel may be used as a fire suppression agent. However, if seawater is used as a fire suppression agent, corrosion of various equipment installed in the fuel processing area (60) may be a concern. Therefore, fresh water or fresh water may be used as the fire suppression agent. The fire suppression agent may be the same as or similar to the neutralizing agent of the fuel neutralization unit (40) described above. In this case, the fire suppression agent and the neutralizing agent may be shared.

[0163] The fire prevention material spray unit (65) can form a fire prevention curtain using the fire prevention material within the fuel processing area (60). The fire prevention material spray unit (65) may supply the fire prevention material within the fuel processing area (60) for the purpose of blocking the flow of ammonia rather than dissolving the ammonia. In this case, the particle size of the fire prevention material sprayed by the fire prevention material spray unit (65) may be larger than the particle size of the neutralizing agent sprayed onto the fuel in the fuel neutralizing unit (40).

[0164] That is, the fire prevention material spray unit (65) can form a passage through which workers can escape from the fuel processing area (60) by forming a curtain as the fire prevention material rapidly falls. In contrast, in the case of the fuel neutralization unit (40), the neutralization agent can be sprayed in the form of fine particles so that the fuel can be sufficiently dissolved in the neutralization agent.

[0165] The falling speed of the fire extinguishing agent supplied by the fire extinguishing agent injection unit (65) can be set relatively fast compared to the falling speed of the neutralizing agent supplied by the fuel neutralizing unit (40). This can be controlled by the particle size of the fire extinguishing agent and the neutralizing agent, or by the injection pressure of the fire extinguishing agent and the neutralizing agent.

[0166] When fuel leaks from the fuel supply unit (20), the fire prevention material injection unit (65) supplies the fire prevention material toward the leak point. The fuel leaked from the fuel supply unit (20) can be dissolved in the fire prevention material and changed into ammonia water, etc., and can fall by gravity and be collected in the tray unit (64). The fuel collected in the tray unit (64) is dissolved in the fire prevention material, and the delivery pump (641) can simultaneously transfer the fire prevention material and the fuel to the separator (321). In this case, in addition to the fuel, the fire prevention material can also be transferred to some engines (E).

[0167] Alternatively, if the leaked fuel is dissolved by the disaster prevention material injection unit (65), the delivery pump (641) may deliver the fuel to the fuel neutralization unit (40) instead of delivering it to the fuel supply unit (20). In this case, the fluid delivered from the delivery pump (641) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) is fuel that already contains the disaster prevention material as a neutralizing agent, and thus may be delivered to an absorption tank (42) or a wastewater tank (43) for processing. That is, the captured fuel delivery line (L50) may also be connected to a scrubber (41) or an absorption tank (42) of the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0168] Alternatively, the captured fuel delivery line (L50) may be connected to a tank in which a neutralizing agent is stored. For example, the captured fuel delivery line (L50) may be connected to a bow peak tank, a stern peak tank, a ballast tank, etc. provided on a ship, and the fuel captured in the tray unit (64) may be delivered to the ballast tank via a delivery pump (641). In this case, the fuel may be rapidly dissolved in the seawater stored in the ballast tank. However, at least a portion of the ballast tanks provided on the ship may be structurally divided into an area into which the captured fuel may flow by a bulkhead (425), etc., and the divided area may be referred to as a captured fuel treatment tank, etc.

[0169] Alternatively, the captured fuel delivery line (L50) may be connected to a manifold, etc., provided on the ship. Since the manifold may be configured to deliver fuel to the storage unit (10), the fuel captured in the tray unit (64) may be delivered to the fuel supply unit (20) via the storage unit (10). However, in this case, a separate filter (not shown) may be added to prevent foreign substances from entering the storage unit (10).

[0170]

[0171] Figures 6 to 11 are conceptual diagrams of a fuel processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Below, the differences between this embodiment and the previous embodiment will be explained, and any omitted parts will be replaced with the previous content. This also applies to other embodiments below.

[0173] First, referring to FIG. 6, the fuel processing system (1) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may have changes from the previous embodiment in the fuel discharge unit (30), etc. The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) may include a separator (321) and a buffer tank (322), and the residual fuel discharge unit (33) may include a knockout drum (331) and a recovery tank (332).

[0174] The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) can recover fuel from the fuel supply line (L20) and the fuel recovery line (L21) when the inert gas is supplied to the fuel supply unit (20) or the like by the inert gas supply unit (31) when the engine (E) is stopped. The recovered fuel can be introduced into the separator (321) or the like together with the inert gas, and the separator (321) can separate the gas and liquid and return the liquid to the fuel supply unit (20).

[0175] Fuel, etc. separated in the separator (321) can be delivered to the buffer tank (322). The buffer tank (322) can perform secondary gas-liquid separation and separate fuel and inert gas, etc. The fuel, etc. separated in the buffer tank (322) can be delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0176] A gas discharge line (L33) is provided in the separator (321) and the buffer tank (322). Unlike the previous embodiment where the gas discharge line (L33) is delivered to the fuel tank (11), in this embodiment, the gas discharge line (L33) can be connected to the knockout drum (331). The gas discharge line (L33) can also be connected from the relief valve (25) provided in the fuel supply unit (20), and the gas discharged from the relief valve (25), the separator (321), the buffer tank (322), etc. of the fuel supply unit (20) can be delivered to the knockout drum (331) through the gas discharge line (L33). At this time, the gas delivered to the knockout drum (331) may be mixed with fuel.

[0177] The residual fuel discharge unit (33) recovers the fuel remaining in the engine (E) when the engine (E) stops operating abnormally, such as in the case of an emergency stop. The residual fuel discharge unit (33) may include a knockout drum (331) and a recovery tank (332). The knockout drum (331) receives the residual fuel discharged from the engine (E) and stores it inside. Compared to the previous embodiment, the knockout drum (331) in the present embodiment may be provided with a volume large enough to cover the entire amount of residual fuel. In this case, the residual fuel may be held in the knockout drum (331). Alternatively, the present embodiment may be a case where the amount of residual fuel in the engine (E) is relatively small compared to the previous embodiment.

[0178] The knockout drum (331) can separate lubricating oil mixed in the fuel discharged from the engine (E). The lubricating oil, etc. can be delivered to the recovery tank (332) and delivered to the fuel supply unit (20) via the recovery tank (332).

[0179] The knockout drum (331) may be provided with a structure that does not separately discharge the gas present inside during normal operation, and may be provided with a pressurized structure. The knockout drum (331) may accumulate inert gas, fuel, lubricant, etc., and then transfer them to the fuel supply unit (20) via the recovery tank (332).

[0180] The recovery tank (332) receives liquid, etc. separated from the knockout drum (331) and delivers it to the fuel supply unit (20). The knockout drum (331) and the recovery tank (332) are connected by a liquid discharge line (L34), and the liquid discharge line (L34) can be connected from the recovery tank (332) to the fuel recovery line (L21). That is, with respect to the knockout drum (331), a gas discharge line (L33) can be connected from a separator (321) or a buffer tank (322) on one side, and a liquid discharge line (L34) can be extended toward the recovery tank (332) on the other side.

[0181] The recovery tank (332) can implement functions such as gas-liquid separation and pressure accumulation similar to the knockout drum (331), and the liquid separated from the recovery tank (332) can be transferred to the fuel recovery line (L21). However, the knockout drum (331) and the recovery tank (332) can hold fuel, etc. until the engine (E) is restarted from an emergency stop.

[0182] Referring to Fig. 7, in the present embodiment, the storage space discharge line (L11) provided in the storage unit (10) may not be directly connected to the seawater. In the previous embodiment, fuel discharged from the storage space (111) and the insulation space (112) may be discharged below the sea surface outside the ship through the storage space discharge line (L11) and the insulation space discharge line (L13). On the other hand, in the present embodiment, considering environmental regulations, etc., the fuel discharged from the storage space (111) and the insulation space (112) may be discharged into the sea via the neutralization treatment unit (113).

[0183] The storage space discharge line (L11) and the insulation space discharge line (L13) can be connected to a neutralization treatment unit (113). The neutralization treatment unit (113) can receive fuel discharged by opening a relief valve (25) in the storage space (111) where overpressure has occurred, and can neutralize the fuel to reduce the fuel concentration.

[0184] In addition, the neutralization treatment unit (113) can receive fuel discharged from the insulated space (112) when a leak occurs in the barrier dividing the storage space (111) and the insulated space (112), and when the internal pressure of the insulated space (112) increases due to the continuous leakage of fuel and the relief valve (25) assigned to the insulated space (112) is opened. The fuel discharged from the storage space (111) and the fuel discharged from the insulated space (112) can be delivered to one neutralization treatment unit (113) and diluted within the neutralization treatment unit (113). The storage space discharge line (L11) and the insulated space discharge line (L13) can each be connected to the neutralization treatment unit (113), or they can be integrated upstream of the neutralization treatment unit (113) and then connected to the neutralization treatment unit (113). In the latter case, the opening pressure of the relief valve (25) provided in the storage space (111) and the relief valve (25) provided in the insulation space (112) may be the same or similar.

[0185] Alternatively, a neutralization treatment unit (113) connected to the storage space discharge line (L11) and a neutralization treatment unit (113) connected to the insulation space discharge line (L13) may be provided respectively. Since the concentrations of the fuel discharged from the storage space (111) and the fuel discharged from the insulation space (112) may be different, a plurality of neutralization treatment units (113) may be provided and allocated respectively to the storage space (111) and the insulation space (112), and the control for dilution of the fuel may be different.

[0186] The neutralization unit (113) can dilute the fuel and discharge it below the sea surface. The neutralization unit (113) can utilize seawater. A seawater supply line (L14) can be connected to the neutralization unit (113), and seawater is supplied to the neutralization unit (113) through a seawater pump (114), etc.

[0187] The neutralization treatment unit (113) can lower the concentration of fuel by mixing seawater with the fuel discharged from the storage space (111), etc. When the concentration of the fuel is adjusted to a concentration below that which satisfies environmental regulations, the neutralization treatment unit (113) can discharge the mixture of seawater and fuel below the sea surface.

[0188] The neutralization unit (113) may be provided with a structure similar to the scrubber (41) described above in the fuel neutralization unit (40). That is, fuel discharged from the storage space (111) or the like may be dissolved by seawater sprayed from above, temporarily stored within the neutralization unit (113), and then discharged below the sea surface. Alternatively, the neutralization unit (113) may have a structure similar to the absorption tank (42) of the fuel neutralization unit (40), or may be provided in a form similar to that in which the scrubber (41) and the absorption tank (42) are integrated. That is, the neutralization unit (113) may use various structures capable of lowering the concentration of the fuel by using seawater.

[0189] Referring to Fig. 8, in the present embodiment, unlike the previous embodiment, the fuel neutralization unit (40) may be partially integrated and may have a circulation structure. The fuel neutralization unit (40) may include a scrubber (41), an absorption tank (42), and a wastewater tank (43), and fuel delivered from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) and the residual fuel discharge unit (33) may be delivered to the scrubber (41) or the absorption tank (42). For example, both the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) and the residual fuel discharge line (L32) may be connected to the absorption tank (42), and the residual fuel discharge line (L32) may be joined to the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) upstream of the absorption tank (42). In addition, air, etc., discharged from the exhaust unit (62) of the fuel treatment area (60) may be introduced into the scrubber (41) provided integrally with the absorption tank (42).

[0190] Ammonia water generated in the scrubber (41) and absorption tank (42) is delivered to the wastewater tank (43) through the wastewater delivery line (L40), and a bilge delivery line (L60), etc., can be joined to the wastewater delivery line (L40). The absorption tank (42) can be monitored for level, pressure, concentration, ammonium, pH, etc., and the flow of the wastewater delivery line (L40) can be controlled by the wastewater delivery valve (421) according to the monitored values.

[0191] A gas circulation line (L42) is provided in the wastewater tank (43), and gas generated in the wastewater tank (43) can be recovered by a scrubber (41) or an absorption tank (42). For example, the gas circulation line (L42) can be connected from the absorption tank (42) to the inside of the neutralizer, so that gas discharged from the wastewater tank (43) can be injected into the inside of the neutralizer in the absorption tank (42).

[0192] A wastewater circulation line (L44) may be provided in the wastewater delivery line (L40) connecting the absorption tank (42) and the wastewater tank (43). At least a portion of the wastewater discharged from the absorption tank (42) may be introduced into the wastewater pump (422) along the wastewater circulation line (L44) branching off from the wastewater delivery line (L40). The wastewater pump (422) may transfer the wastewater discharged from the absorption tank (42) to the scrubber (41).

[0193] A wastewater pump (422) and a wastewater circulation valve (423) may be provided in the wastewater circulation line (L44), and like the wastewater delivery valve (421) described above, the wastewater pump (422) and the wastewater circulation valve (423) may be controlled by the level or pH of the absorption tank (42).

[0194] A neutralizing agent supply line (L41) for supplying a neutralizing agent such as water may be provided in the scrubber (41). In particular, the neutralizing agent supply line (L41) may be connected to a wastewater circulation line (L44). Since wastewater discharged from the absorption tank (42) may be used as a neutralizing agent in the scrubber (41), the amount of neutralizing agent supplied through the neutralizing agent supply line (L41) may be reduced in accordance with the amount of wastewater circulation.

[0195] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the wastewater delivered from the absorption tank (42) to the wastewater tank (43) is circulated to the scrubber (41) and used as a neutralizing agent. In this case, the total flow rate of the wastewater flowing into the wastewater tank (43) may be reduced.

[0196] In the previous embodiment, the amount of wastewater is determined based on the time and amount of neutralizing agent supplied, resulting in a large amount of wastewater being generated regardless of the amount or concentration of ammonia discharged. In contrast, the present embodiment employs a closed loop system to ensure that at least a portion of the wastewater is circulated while monitoring the internal state of the absorption tank (42), thereby enabling the amount of wastewater to be determined based on the amount of ammonia.

[0197] However, since heat may be generated when ammonia is absorbed into the neutralizer, the circulating wastewater may be cooled. The wastewater circulation line (L44) may be provided with a wastewater pump (422), a wastewater circulation valve (423), and a wastewater cooler (424). The wastewater cooler (424) may use a separate refrigerant, or a neutralizer, a disaster prevention material, seawater, etc. having an appropriate temperature.

[0198] A neutralizing agent can be supplied to the absorption tank (42) similarly to the scrubber (41). Similarly to the neutralizing agent supply line (L41) being connected to the scrubber (41), a neutralizing agent supply unit (45) can be provided in the absorption tank (42). The neutralizing agent supply unit (45) can supply a substance for chemically neutralizing ammonia to the absorption tank (42).

[0199] The neutralizing agent supply unit (45) may be equipped with a neutralizing agent tank (451) for storing a neutralizing agent. The neutralizing agent stored in the neutralizing agent tank (451) may be a substance such as hypochlorous acid or sulfuric acid. The neutralizing agent stored in the neutralizing agent tank (451) may be supplied to the absorption tank (42) via a neutralizing agent pump (452). The control of the neutralizing agent pump (452) may be performed based on the pH of the absorption tank (42), etc.

[0200] The neutralizing agent supply unit (45) may further include a neutralizing agent generation unit (453). The neutralizing agent generation unit (453) may receive a source for generating a neutralizing agent and generate a neutralizing agent using a chemical reaction or the like. The neutralizing agent generation unit (453) may utilize seawater and generate a neutralizing agent by electrolyzing seawater. In this case, the neutralizing agent may be sodium hypochlorite or the like.

[0201] The seawater supplied to the neutralizing agent generating unit (453) may be ballast water, etc. provided on the ship, and in this case, the neutralizing agent generating unit (453) may be a ballast water treatment unit provided on the ship. That is, the ballast water treatment unit may generate an acid substance, such as hypochlorous acid, by electrolyzing seawater for chemical treatment, such as sterilization, of the ballast water, and the sodium hypochlorite, etc. generated in the ballast water treatment unit may be delivered to the absorption tank (42) through the neutralizing agent supply unit (45). Alternatively, the neutralizing agent generating unit (453) may also generate a neutralizing agent to be supplied to the absorption tank (42) using a disaster prevention material or a neutralizing agent that has already been used. However, the neutralizing agent supplied by the neutralizing agent supply unit (45) through the ballast water treatment unit may be different from the neutralizing agent used in the scrubber (41), and in this case, the neutralizing agent used in the scrubber (41) may be referred to as a dissolved substance, etc. The neutralizing agent supply unit (45) can directly supply the acid substance to the absorption tank (52), or can mix the acid substance with a dissolved substance such as clear water and deliver it to the absorption tank (52) in the form of hypochlorous acid water, etc.

[0202] Referring to Fig. 9, the present embodiment may include a boiler (B). The boiler (B) may be arranged to at least partially replace the fuel neutralization unit (40). The fuel neutralization unit (40) may be supplied with air discharged from the fuel treatment area (60), fuel discharged from the recovered fuel discharge unit (32), the residual fuel discharge unit (33), bilge from the fuel treatment area (60), etc., and at least one of these may be supplied to the boiler (B) and combusted.

[0203] For example, the boiler (B) can receive fuel delivered from the buffer tank (322) of the recovery fuel discharge unit (32). The boiler (B) can receive the recovered fuel and separately receive air to combust the fuel. The boiler (B) can be equipped with a burner for combustion of the fuel, and can additionally receive pilot fuel or the like to assist in combustion of the fuel.

[0204] The boiler (B) may be supplied with bilge. The bilge may flow along the bilge delivery line (L60) and be delivered to the wastewater tank (43), and at least a portion of the bilge flowing toward the wastewater tank (43) may be branched and supplied to the boiler (B). The fuel delivered to the boiler (B) from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) or the bilge well may not be pure fuel, but may be mixed with an inert gas or a neutralizing agent. Therefore, the boiler (B) may detect the ratio of combustible materials in the recovery fuel delivered to the boiler (B) and receive pilot fuel or the like accordingly.

[0205] Alternatively, the exhaust treatment unit (50) may at least partially replace the fuel neutralization unit (40). In this case, the recovered fuel and residual fuel, etc. may be delivered to a buffer (not shown) in place of the fuel neutralization unit (40). That is, the purging gas (in a state where the fuel can be mixed) of the engine (E) is held in the buffer, and the buffer may store or adsorb the purging gas. In the case where the buffer adsorbs the purging gas, a heating means may be provided within the buffer to discharge the purging gas.

[0206] When purging the engine (E), purging gas is delivered to the buffer, and the buffer temporarily stores the purging gas and can deliver it to the exhaust or exhaust treatment unit (50) of the engine (E) when the engine (E) is next operated. Alternatively, since the auxiliary engine (GE) can remain in operation when purging the main engine (ME), the purging gas of the main engine (ME) can be delivered to the buffer and then delivered to the exhaust or exhaust treatment unit (50) of the auxiliary engine (GE).

[0207] Referring to Fig. 10, a fuel processing area (60) may be provided with an air supply unit (61) and an exhaust unit (62). The air supply unit (61) may inject external air into the fuel processing area (60), and in the event of a fuel leak, at least a portion of the air discharged and neutralized from the exhaust unit (62) may be circulated to the fuel processing area (60) through the air supply unit (61).

[0208] The exhaust unit (62) can discharge air within the fuel processing area (60) to the outside. However, the exhaust unit (62) of the present embodiment can allow air from the fuel processing area (60) to be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40) without using a separate ventilation fan or the like.

[0209] However, an exhaust switching valve (622) may be provided upstream of the fuel neutralization unit (40) in the exhaust unit (62). The exhaust switching valve (622) may be a three-way valve, etc., and may be controlled to allow air flowing from the exhaust unit (62) toward the fuel neutralization unit (40) to be discharged into the atmosphere or transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40). In a normal situation, the air discharged by the exhaust unit (62) may be discharged into the atmosphere as the exhaust switching valve (622) blocks the flow to the fuel neutralization unit (40). On the other hand, in a problem situation such as a fuel leak, the exhaust switching valve (622) may block the flow to the atmosphere so that the air in the exhaust unit (62) may be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0210] Alternatively, the exhaust section (62) may include an exhaust port (not shown) that is opened and closed separately from the line that is delivered to the fuel neutralization section (40), and the exhaust port and the line may be controlled to have interlocking flows. When the exhaust port is opened, the flow between the exhaust section (62) and the fuel neutralization section (40) may be blocked, and conversely, when the flow from the exhaust section (62) to the fuel neutralization section (40) is permitted, the exhaust port may be blocked. The exhaust port may be an exhaust duct or a damper, etc.

[0211] If the mutually linked control of the discharge of air into the atmosphere and the delivery of air from the exhaust section (62) to the fuel neutralization section (40) is used, the overpressure prevention section (63) can be omitted. If overpressure occurs in the fuel processing area (60) due to fuel leakage or the like, the atmosphere section can be automatically opened, and the air discharged from the atmosphere section can be delivered to the fuel neutralization section (40).

[0212] Referring to FIG. 11, in the present embodiment, a tray section (64) may be arranged with respect to a fuel supply section (20), etc. Fuel captured in the tray section (64) may be delivered to a separator (321) of the fuel supply section (20), etc., as described above.

[0213] However, the present embodiment may include a drain port (642) instead of a delivery pump (641) that delivers captured fuel. The drain port (642) may be provided in the form of a container that is pressurized while storing fuel inside. Fuel flows into the interior of the drain port (642) along a captured fuel delivery line (L50) extending from the tray portion (64), and the drain port (642) can deliver the fuel to a separator (321) or the like when the interior pressure exceeds a certain level.

[0214] A gas injection port (643) may be connected to the drain port (642) to control internal pressure. The gas injection port (643) may inject a gas such as nitrogen or an inert gas into the drain port (642). As gas flows into the drain port (642) through the gas injection port (643), the internal pressure may increase, and fuel storage may be maintained while suppressing fuel vaporization.

[0215] Fuel stored in the pressurized drain port (642) may be delivered to the separator (321) of the fuel supply unit (20) or to the fuel tank (11) of the storage unit (10). Alternatively, the fuel in the drain port (642) may be delivered to a stern peak tank or ballast tank provided on the ship, and may be circulated to the fuel supply unit (20) through a manifold.

[0216]

[0217] Figures 12 and 13 are conceptual diagrams of a fuel processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0218] First, referring to FIG. 12, the fuel processing system (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a storage unit (10) that includes a hold (112) that accommodates a fuel tank (11). The hold (112) may be used as an insulating space (112) as needed, and it will be noted below that the hold (112) and the insulating space (112) may be used as substitutes for or complements each other.

[0219] The hold (112) is provided on the outside of the storage space (111), and can prevent the leaked fuel from being discharged to the outside of the ship when the barrier forming the storage space (111) is damaged and fuel leaks. Fuel leaking from the storage space (111) can flow into the hold (112), and the hold (112) can collect and process the leaked fuel.

[0220] The hold (112) may be provided with a sump (1121) to collect leaked fuel. The hold (112) may be structured to allow leaked fuel to gather at a single point. Alternatively, a slope may be applied to the bottom of the hold (112) in place of the sump (1121) or in conjunction with the sump (1121).

[0221] Leaked fuel collected in a location such as a sump (1121) in the hold (112) can be processed through a discharge pump (1122). The discharge pump (1122) can be placed inside the sump (1121) or can be placed outside the sump (1121) and connected to the inside of the sump (1121) by a line. Fuel introduced into the hold (112) can flow through a hold discharge line (L13). The hold discharge line (L13) can extend from the sump (1121) to the outside of the hold (112).

[0222] The hold discharge line (L13) can be connected to a fuel supply unit (20) or a fuel discharge unit (30), etc. The hold discharge line (L13) can be connected to a separator (321) or a buffer tank (322), etc., and fuel transferred from the hold (112) to the outside through the hold discharge line (L13) can be transferred to the fuel supply unit (20) via the separator (321), etc.

[0223] Alternatively, the hold discharge line (L13) may be connected to a stern peak tank or ballast tank provided on the ship. Fuel discharged from the hold (112) through the hold discharge line (L13) may be delivered to a ballast tank or the like, and may be dissolved by seawater stored in the ballast tank.

[0224] Instead of delivering fuel to the outside of the hold (112), the hold discharge line (L13) may return at least a portion of the fuel to the storage space (111). That is, the hold discharge line (L13) may be extended from a sump (1121) or the like and then connected to the inside of the storage space (111). At this time, at least a portion of the hold discharge line (L13) may be arranged to pass through the outside of the hold (112), and a valve for controlling the flow of the hold discharge line (L13), an inspection device for checking the flow of the hold discharge line (L13), etc. may be arranged at a portion of the hold discharge line (L13) located outside the hold (112).

[0225] The hold (112) may be provided with a configuration for discharging gas when overpressure occurs inside. That is, a relief valve (not shown) may be placed in the hold (112), and the relief valve (25) may be connected to a vent mast (44). Gas within the hold (112) where overpressure occurs may be transferred to the vent mast (44) and processed by opening the relief valve (25).

[0226] However, since the cause of the overpressure within the hold (112) may be a fuel leak, the gas discharged from the hold (112) through the relief valve (25) may be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40). In this case, the gas discharged from the hold (112) may be treated by a scrubber (41) or the like, so that fuel discharge above a certain concentration may be suppressed in the vent mast (44).

[0227] As described above, when the hold discharge line (L13) is connected to the storage space (111), fuel leaking from the storage space (111) can be injected into the storage space (111) through the hold discharge line (L13). This can reduce the flow rate of gas transferred from the hold (112) to the vent mast (44), and also reduce the concentration of fuel within the gas.

[0228] A gas detector (GD) may be provided within the hold (112), and when fuel leakage from the storage space (111) to the hold (112) is detected by the gas detector (GD), the discharge pump (1122) may transfer the leaking fuel to the outside of the hold (112), etc. Alternatively, a neutralizer may be used in response to fuel leakage within the hold (112).

[0229] The bottom of the hold (112) may be filled with a neutralizing agent. The neutralizing agent may be water, seawater, etc., and may be stored at a level that can fill the sump (1121). If a break occurs at a certain point in the barrier forming the storage space (111), fuel stored in liquid form within the storage space (111) may leak toward the bottom within the hold (112). At this time, the fuel may dissolve in the neutralizing agent filled within the hold (112) when it comes into contact with it. The liquid level of the neutralizing agent may be appropriately controlled in the hold (112) so that the leaking fuel can be sufficiently absorbed. To this end, the hold (112) may be provided with a level switch (LS), and the neutralizing agent may be replenished or released externally depending on the level of the neutralizing agent detected by the level switch (LS). The discharge of the neutralizer can be accomplished by a discharge pump (1122), and the replenishment of the neutralizer can be accomplished by a neutralizer supply line (not shown) that can be installed in the hold (112).

[0230] The discharge pump (1122) can maintain the suction end immersed in the neutralizer. That is, the discharge pump (1122) can be used as a submerged pump. The discharge pump (1122) remains immersed in the neutralizer, not the low-temperature fuel, and instead of pumping the leaked fuel itself, it pumps the neutralizer in which the leaked fuel is dissolved. Therefore, the discharge pump (1122) may not need to be designed for low temperatures, and may be provided with specifications having a design temperature of room temperature.

[0231] The level of neutralizer within the hold (112) can be maintained at a level that allows for emergency response in the event of a leak in the storage space (111). However, as the buoyancy of the vessel may decrease as the neutralizer fills the hold (112), the level of neutralizer within the hold (112) can be determined and controlled by considering the amount of fuel within the storage space (111), the displacement of the vessel, the loading status, etc.

[0232] As described above, when overpressure occurs in the hold (112), the gas within the hold (112) can be transferred to the vent mast (44) by opening the relief valve (25). In addition, the hold (112) may be provided with a relief hatch (115). The relief hatch (115) may be opened when overpressure of the first pressure occurs within the hold (112). The relief hatch (115) may be provided to prevent damage to the hull structure when overpressure occurs.

[0233] On the other hand, the relief valve (25) may be opened when an overpressure of a second pressure lower than the first pressure occurs within the hold (112). The relief hatch (115) may be configured to be conservatively designed to assume adverse conditions that may occur in the hold (112). On the other hand, the relief valve (25) may be designed and applied based on a scenario in which a relatively low flow rate of fuel leaks compared to a scenario in which the relief hatch (115) is opened.

[0234] Accordingly, a relief valve (25) and a relief hatch (115) having different release pressures are applied to the hold (112), and the relief valve (25) is designed to discharge a lower flow rate than the relief hatch (115). Through this, the flow rate of gas to be processed in the event of a fuel leak in the hold (112) can be drastically reduced.

[0235] The gas discharged to the outside of the hold (112) through the relief hatch (115) or the relief valve (25) may be transferred to a scrubber (41) of a fuel neutralization unit (40), neutralized, and then discharged through a vent mast (44). At this time, the scrubber (41) may be a small scrubber (41) for processing recovered fuel or a large scrubber (41) for processing residual fuel. Alternatively, the gas discharged to the outside may be discharged below the sea surface through a hold discharge line (L13) that may be connected to the relief hatch (115) or the relief valve (25), so that the fuel may be dissolved in seawater.

[0236] Accordingly, the hold (112) protects the structure by allowing a small amount of fuel to be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40) through the relief valve (25) when a large amount of fuel leaks, and by inevitably releasing gas through the relief hatch (115) when a large amount of fuel leaks. In addition, liquid fuel leaking into the hold (112) can be circulated into the storage space (111) through the discharge pump (1122).

[0237]

[0238] Referring to FIG. 13, the fuel processing system (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may have a fuel neutralization unit (40) that may be different from the previous embodiment. The fuel neutralization unit (40) may include a scrubber (41) and a wastewater tank (43). The configuration for processing fuel discharged from the residual fuel discharge unit (33) described in the first embodiment may also be provided to process fuel discharged from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32).

[0239] The scrubber (41) can neutralize the fuel delivered through the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) when the engine (E) is normally stopped and the fuel delivered through the residual fuel discharge unit (33) when the engine (E) is emergency stopped. A neutralizing agent supply line (L41) is connected to the scrubber (41), and the scrubber can be arranged to discharge the fuel to the atmosphere at a concentration below a certain level. In addition, a residual fuel discharge line (L32) extending from the residual fuel discharge unit (33) can be integrated into the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) connected from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) to the scrubber (41), and an exhaust unit (62) provided in the fuel treatment area (60) can also be connected.

[0240] However, in order to process both the recovered fuel and the residual fuel with a single scrubber (41), a configuration may be provided in the recovered fuel discharge unit (32) to delay the delivery of fuel to the scrubber (41). An exhaust control valve (323) may be provided downstream of the separator (321), upstream of the buffer tank (322), and downstream of the buffer tank (322) in the recovered fuel discharge unit (32). The buffer tank (322) can deliver only gas among the gases and liquids separated therein to the scrubber (41), and the exhaust control valve (323) can be controlled to accumulate gas, etc. in the buffer tank (322). That is, the buffer tank (322) can be placed in a pressurized state due to the exhaust control valve (323).

[0241] The discharge control valve (323) can control the flow rate of fuel (gas) transferred from the buffer tank (322) to the scrubber (41) to enable discharge for a relatively long period of time. Accordingly, sufficient time for fuel to be neutralized in the scrubber (41) can be secured, and thus, even if the recovered fuel and residual fuel are processed by a single scrubber (41), the enlargement of the scrubber (41) can be prevented.

[0242] In the scrubber (41), the fuel is dissolved in a neutralizing agent, and the neutralizing agent (e.g., ammonia water, etc.) in which the fuel is dissolved can be delivered to the wastewater tank (43) through the wastewater delivery line (L40). The bilge delivery line (L60) described above can be connected to the wastewater delivery line (L40).

[0243] The wastewater tank (43) may be provided with a neutralizing agent supply unit (45) that supplies a neutralizing agent that is the same as or different from the neutralizing agent supplied to the scrubber (41), and the neutralizing agent supply unit (45) may supply sodium hypochlorite, etc. produced by electrolyzing seawater, to the wastewater tank (43). Gas generated within the wastewater tank (43) may be delivered to the vent mast (44) through the vent line (L43) and released into the atmosphere.

[0244] The liquid stored in the wastewater tank (43) can be discharged overboard when necessary. The wastewater tank (43) may be provided with a wastewater discharge line (L45) at the bottom, and wastewater mixed with fuel below a certain concentration can be discharged into the sea. That is, the wastewater discharge line (L45) can extend below the sea surface and inject wastewater into the seawater. Considering that the regulation of fuel discharge concentration is intended to eliminate the risk of harm to humans, the wastewater tank (43) can discharge wastewater mixed with fuel exceeding a certain concentration into the sea through the wastewater discharge line (L45). In this case, since the fuel mixed in the wastewater can dissolve in the seawater, the concentration of the fuel discharged above the sea surface may be below the standard concentration.

[0245]

[0246] Figure 14 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0247] Referring to FIG. 14, the fuel processing system (1) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may have a fuel discharge by the fuel discharge unit (30) that is different from the previous embodiment.

[0248] The fuel discharge unit (30) may include a recovery fuel discharge unit (32) and a residual fuel discharge unit (33). The recovery fuel discharge unit (32) may recover fuel when the engine (E) is normally stopped, and the residual fuel discharge unit (33) may recover fuel when the engine (E) is in an emergency stop.

[0249] Unlike the previous embodiment, the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) may use a fuel tank (11) without a separator (321) or a buffer tank (322). That is, the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) may be branched from the fuel recovery line (L21) and connected to the fuel tank (11). In this case, when the engine (E) is stopped and the inert gas is injected into the fuel supply line (L20) by the inert gas supply unit (31), the fuel remaining in the fuel supply line (L20) upstream of the engine (E) and the fuel recovery line (L21) downstream of the engine (E) may be recovered into the fuel tank (11) together with the inert gas.

[0250] However, as fuel flows into the fuel tank (11) via the engine (E) and the fuel recovery line (L21), lubricating oil used in the engine (E) may be mixed in. Fuel and lubricating oil stored in the fuel tank (11) may be supplied back to the engine (E) through the fuel supply unit (20).

[0251] The fuel tank (11) is provided with a storage space discharge line (L11), and inert gas and fuel stored in the fuel tank (11) can be discharged to the outside of the fuel tank (11) along the storage space discharge line (L11). The storage space discharge line (L11) can be connected to a fuel neutralization unit (40), and fuel recovered from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) can be delivered to a scrubber (41) of the fuel neutralization unit (40) via the fuel tank (11).

[0252] The time at which fuel is transferred from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) to the fuel tank (11) and the time at which fuel, etc., is transferred from the fuel tank (11) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) may be different. That is, the fuel tank (11) can store fuel transferred from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) and transfer it to the fuel neutralization unit (40) when necessary.

[0253] The fuel tank (11) can transfer fuel and inert gas, etc., transferred from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) to the re-liquefaction unit (13). That is, even if fuel is recovered from the recovery fuel discharge unit (32) to the fuel tank (11), the fuel is not transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40) but can be processed through accumulation or re-liquefaction within the fuel tank (11).

[0254] In this embodiment, the residual fuel discharge unit (33) may utilize the fuel tank (11) without having a knockout drum (331), similar to the recovery fuel discharge unit (32). The residual fuel discharge line (L32) may be branched from the fuel recovery line (L21) and connected to the fuel tank (11). When the engine (E) is stopped in an emergency, the fuel remaining in the engine (E) is recovered to the fuel tank (11) through the residual fuel discharge line (L32).

[0255] The residual fuel discharge line (L32) may be integrated into the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) upstream of the fuel tank (11). However, since the pressure of the fuel flowing along the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) and the residual fuel discharge line (L32) may be different, a pressure regulating valve (not shown) may be provided in the recovery fuel discharge line (L31) and the residual fuel discharge line (L32).

[0256] However, since the discharge of recovered fuel and the discharge of residual fuel may occur at different times, it may be acceptable for the pressures, etc., of the fuel delivered by the recovered fuel discharge unit (32) and the fuel delivered by the residual fuel discharge unit (33) to be different from each other. However, the section where the recovered fuel discharge line (L31) and the residual fuel discharge line (L32) join and are connected to the fuel tank (11) may be provided with specifications that cover both the pressure of the fuel delivered by the recovered fuel discharge unit (32) and the pressure of the fuel delivered by the residual fuel discharge unit (33).

[0257]

[0258] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 16 is a conceptual diagram of a cover part according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0259] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the fuel processing system (1) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention can more effectively process fuel leaking within the fuel processing zone (60).

[0260] In this embodiment, a cover (66) may be provided for a portion of the fuel supply unit (20) or the like where there is a relatively high possibility of fuel leakage. A portion where there is a relatively high possibility of fuel leakage refers to a portion where fuel flows and where at least two components are not manufactured as a single unit, but rather manufactured separately and then connected to each other. For example, valves, the intake and exhaust ends of equipment, and flanges may be interpreted as portions where there is a high possibility of fuel leakage.

[0261] The cover portion (66) may be a housing or casing made of hard or soft material, and may have a shape that at least partially surrounds a specific area where leakage is a concern. For example, the cover portion (66) may be made of a tarp (66a) that has a flexible shape and is provided to cover between one side and the other side, as shown in Fig. 16 (A).

[0262] The cover part (66) may be provided to cover a valve provided in the fuel supply part (20) or the fuel discharge part (30). In this case, the tarp (66a) may be provided so that one end and the other end are fixed to the upstream and downstream of the valve, and a flexible sheet covers the valve. At this time, the flexible sheet may be made of an ammonia-resistant film, etc. However, the tarp (66a) may be provided in a structure in which the flexible sheet surrounds a specific portion and both sides of the specific portion are tightened with a string, wire, Velcro, etc. Accordingly, one end and the other end of the tarp (66a) are installed to surround the line at the upstream and downstream of the valve, but complete sealing may not be achieved and a semi-enclosure may be achieved.

[0263] The cover portion (66) utilizing the tarp (66a) may have a function of delaying the diffusion of fuel rather than completely blocking the fuel leak. If fuel leaks from the portion surrounded by the tarp (66a), a small amount of fuel may leak out through one end and the other end of the tarp (66a).

[0264] The cover part (66) may cover a valve or flange, which are parts at risk of leakage, or may cover equipment such as a supply pump (22) provided in the fuel supply part (20). A plurality of covers (66) may be provided and installed for each valve or equipment. Alternatively, the cover parts (66) may be installed to cover two or more valves or equipment at once. These cover parts (66) may include a type that is installed at a part at risk of leakage on the line, and a type that is installed to cover one or more equipment. The former cover part (66) may be a small tarp (66a) that is installed by tightening both ends, and the latter cover part (66) may be a tent-shaped tarp (66a).

[0265] A gas detector (GD) may be provided in the tarp (66a). The gas detector (GD) may include a gas sensor or a discoloring material (such as a coated or attached tape) and a monitoring device. When detecting a fuel leak in the fuel processing area (60), it is dangerous because the fuel may have already spread within the fuel processing area (60). On the other hand, in the present embodiment, by installing a plurality of cover parts (66) in areas or equipment at risk of leaks and placing a gas detector (GD) on each cover part (66), the target area for gas detection can be significantly reduced compared to the fuel processing area (60), and faster and more accurate leak detection is possible.

[0266] The tarp (66a) may be provided with a portion of the flexible sheet being transparent or translucent so that the interior of the cover portion (66) can be visually confirmed, and a discoloration material, etc. may be installed corresponding to the visually confirmed portion. Alternatively, the tarp (66a) may not have a completely sealed structure and may have a discoloration material installed at one end and the other end.

[0267] Discoloration substances, etc. provided on the tarp (66a) can be monitored in real time by a surveillance device such as a camera located within the fuel processing area (60). That is, the surveillance device monitors a number of tarps (66a) installed within the fuel processing area (60), and when a change in the discoloration substances is detected in one of the tarps (66a), it is confirmed that fuel has leaked from the inside of the tarp (66a), and measures can be taken quickly.

[0268] The cover part (66), such as the tarp (66a), may be connected to the exhaust part (62) of the fuel processing area (60). When a fuel leak occurs within the cover part (66), the fuel flowing into the cover part (66) may be discharged to the outside of the fuel processing area (60) by the operation of the exhaust fan (621), etc. The fuel discharged from the cover part (66) may be delivered to the fuel neutralization part (40) and processed. In addition, a gas detector (GD) may be provided before and after the exhaust fan (621). Among the paths through which the fuel is delivered to the fuel neutralization part (40), the gas detector (GD) is provided on the path through which the fuel is delivered from one or more cover parts (66), so that a fuel leak from the cover part (66) can be quickly detected.

[0269] Alternatively, the cover portion (66) may be provided with an exhaust fan (661) that is provided separately from the exhaust fan (621) for air circulation in the fuel processing area (60). Accordingly, the air in the fuel processing area (60) is discharged through the exhaust fan (621), and fuel leaking within the cover portion (66) can be discharged through a separate exhaust fan (661). In this case, the exhaust fan (661) connected to the cover portion (66) is sufficient to cover the volume of one or more cover portions (66), and thus may be provided with a smaller capacity than the exhaust fan (621).

[0270] The exhaust fan (661) provided for the cover part (66) can be installed around the fuel processing area (60). Alternatively, it is also possible to provide an exhaust fan (661) for each cover part (66). The size of the cover part (66) may vary depending on the surrounding configuration (valve, flange, equipment, etc.), and the exhaust fan (661) can be installed in the cover part (66) such as a tent-shaped tarp (66a). The exhaust fan (661) can transfer fuel leaking from equipment, etc. within the cover part (66) to the fuel neutralization part (40).

[0271] Alternatively, the exhaust fan (661) can forcibly diffuse fuel leaking from within the cover portion (66). The exhaust fan (661) can be provided to communicate between the inside of the cover portion (66) and the outside of the cover portion (66). The exhaust fan (661) can forcibly cause the gas within the cover portion (66) to flow toward the fuel processing zone (60) outside the cover portion (66), thereby reducing the concentration of the fuel within the cover portion (66).

[0272] The purpose of reducing the fuel concentration within the cover portion (66) is to prevent fuel leaking within the cover portion (66) from accumulating and reaching an explosive concentration. As will be described later, an opening (662) is provided in the cover portion (66) to delay the diffusion of fuel from the inside to the outside of the cover portion (66), but when the fuel concentration within the cover portion (66) rises above a certain level, the exhaust fan (661) can induce forced diffusion of fuel from the inside to the outside of the cover portion (66).

[0273] A leak fuel discharge line (L70) may be provided in the cover part (66), and the leak fuel discharge line (L70) may be detachably provided in the cover part (66) and connected to the fuel neutralization unit (40). A discharge fan (661) may be installed at the inlet end of the leak fuel discharge line (L70), or may be provided downstream of the leak fuel discharge line (L70). The leak fuel discharge line (L70) may be connected to the fuel neutralization unit (40) as described above.

[0274] However, when the exhaust fan (661) is used to forcibly diffuse the internal gas of the cover part (66) to lower the internal fuel concentration of the cover part (66), the leak fuel exhaust line (L70) may be provided to connect the inside of the cover part (66) to the inside of the fuel processing area (60).

[0275] The leak fuel discharge line (L70) extends from a plurality of cover parts (66), and at least two or more of them can be integrated with each other. The gas detector (GD) described above can be provided in the leak fuel discharge line (L70). The gas detector (GD) can be provided before or after the discharge fan (661) in the leak fuel discharge line (L70).

[0276] Fuel leaking from the cover portion (66) can be treated by a scrubber (not shown) provided separately from the scrubber (41) of the fuel neutralization portion (40) described above. The scrubber connected to the cover portion (66) can treat the fuel using a neutralizing agent such as clean water when a leak is detected within the cover portion (66), thereby significantly reducing the amount of wastewater generated by the cover portion (66).

[0277] The inside of the tarp (66a) used as the cover part (66) can maintain a relatively negative pressure compared to the inside of the fuel processing area (60) by means of the exhaust fan (661). Since the cover part (66) such as the tarp (66a) is not gas tight as described above, when the gas inside the cover part (66) is exhausted by the exhaust fan (661), air inside the fuel processing area (60) can flow into the cover part (66) through the opening of the cover part (66).

[0278] The tarp (66a) covers valves and the like using a flexible sheet. However, if negative pressure is continuously applied to the tarp (66a), the tarp (66a) may contract and not be able to sufficiently contain the leaking fuel. Therefore, the tarp (66a) may be installed with a hook, band, frame, etc. so that it can be installed in a form that secures a certain volume for the valve or equipment. Through this, the cover (66) can contain the leaking fuel within the cover (66) for a sufficient period of time, thereby reducing the risk within the fuel handling area (60).

[0279] The cover portion (66) can delay the diffusion of fuel leaking from the area covered by the cover portion (66). The cover portion (66) can confine a portion of the leaking fuel, but may not be in the form of a complete seal. The cover portion (66), such as a tarp (66a), can cover the leaking area to an appropriate level to slow the rate at which the leaking fuel flows out to the fuel treatment area (60).

[0280] An opening (662) may be provided in the tarp (66a). The opening (662) may be formed of a plurality of micro-holes and may include a discharge-blocking element such as a filter membrane, and is always provided in an open state to allow fuel leaking from within the tarp (66a) to be discharged outside the tarp (66a) and spread into the fuel treatment area (60). However, the tarp (66a) may prevent the risk level of the fuel treatment area (60) from rapidly increasing by allowing the leaking fuel to be discharged into the fuel treatment area (60) for a relatively long period of time. That is, the opening (662) may delay the discharge of fuel for at least a preset period of time with respect to the cover portion (66), thereby slowing down the spread of toxicity within the fuel treatment area (60).

[0281] If an opening (662) is provided in the tarp (66a), the leak fuel discharge line (L70) may be omitted. Alternatively, the opening (662) may be used to ensure that the inside of the tarp (66a) has a negative pressure when the exhaust fan (661) is operated. Alternatively, the opening (662) may be provided on the leak fuel discharge line (L70). In this case, when the exhaust fan (661) is operated, the leak fuel inside the cover part (66) flows, and the air around the opening (662) in the fuel treatment area (60) may be sucked into the leak fuel discharge line (L70) and flow together with the leak fuel.

[0282] Completely sealing a fuel leak area, if ventilation is cut off within the sealed area, carries the risk of fuel concentration exceeding explosive levels. Even small leaks, where the risk is mitigated by dilution through fuel circulation, can still result in concentrations exceeding hazardous toxicity levels, potentially leading to an accident. Therefore, completely blocking circulation in a specific area must be carefully considered, taking into account the risks to the area being circulated.

[0283] In contrast, the present embodiment utilizes a semi-sealed cover (66) to reduce the circulation rate, delay diffusion, and mitigate risks through dilution in the event of a small leak. Furthermore, safety can be effectively secured by treating and discharging a fuel-air mixture using a relatively small-capacity scrubber (41).

[0284] A fire prevention material spray unit (65) may be provided in the cover section (66). The fire prevention material spray unit (65) that sprays the fire prevention material toward the fuel supply section (20) within the fuel processing area (60) has been described above, but a separate fire prevention material spray unit (65) may also be provided for each cover section (66).

[0285] For the tarp (66a) included in the cover part (66), the disaster prevention material spraying part (65) can locally spray the disaster prevention material toward the point where the leak fuel discharge line (L70) is connected to the tarp (66a), the opening (662) on the surface of the tarp (66a), both ends of the tarp (66a) surrounding a specific portion, etc.

[0286] When spraying a fire prevention material over the entire fuel treatment area (60), a large amount of the fire prevention material must be sprayed in proportion to the area of ​​release and the flow rate of the released gas, and fuel absorption is not efficient. On the other hand, when spraying the fire prevention material partially toward the tarp (66a) where fuel is leaking, the leaked fuel can be effectively absorbed and treated with a flow rate of the fire prevention material that is proportional to the leakage rate.

[0287] In addition, fuel leaking from the fuel processing area (60) can be captured in the tray section (64), etc., but in this case, there is a problem that when the fire prevention material is delivered, an exothermic reaction occurs in the tray section (64), causing forced diffusion of the fuel. On the other hand, when the cover section (66) is used, the liquid fuel does not accumulate at a certain point, but only the gaseous fuel is discharged to the outside through the gap of the cover section (66) and can then be safely absorbed and processed by the fire prevention material.

[0288] The fire prevention material spray unit (65) provided within the fuel processing area (60) can spray the fire prevention material toward equipment such as the supply pump (22), but in this case, depending on the type or properties of the fire prevention material, the equipment may be contaminated or malfunction. On the other hand, the fire prevention material spray unit (65) provided in the cover part (66) does not directly deliver the fire prevention material to equipment surrounded by the cover part (66), but can spray the fire prevention material by focusing on the part where fuel may leak from the cover part (66).

[0289] That is, in this embodiment, a fire prevention material spraying unit (65) is installed corresponding to the cover unit (66), and the fire prevention material is delivered to the part where fuel leaks from the cover unit (66), thereby preventing equipment housed within the cover unit (66) from being damaged by the fire prevention material. Accordingly, the cover unit (66) can implement a function of protecting equipment from the fire prevention material.

[0290] Additionally, the fire prevention material sprayed toward the cover part (66) may be fresh water, etc. This is to prevent equipment from corroding in the event that the fire prevention material comes into contact with the equipment within the cover part (66). The fresh water as a fire prevention material may be fresh water provided for fire suppression within the ship.

[0291] Referring to Fig. 16 (B), the cover portion (66) may be provided as a tank (67) that accommodates valves or equipment, which are relatively prone to leaks, within a fire prevention material. The tank (67) is arranged to surround the valves, etc., and the tank (67) may be filled with a fire prevention material, such as water, to a certain level. At this time, the level of the fire prevention material filled in the tank (67) may be a level that covers the area where fuel may leak.

[0292] The tank (67) may be provided as an open type with an open top, and a disaster prevention material spraying section (65) may be provided at the top. Alternatively, it may be provided as an enclosed type with an upper portion opened and closed by a hatch, as needed. The tank (67) may be provided individually for each component having a leak area, or may be provided as an integrated type covering two or more pieces of equipment.

[0293] The disaster prevention material supplied to the tank (67) may be made of fresh water, etc., to prevent corrosion of equipment, etc. submerged in the tank (67). Fresh water may be supplied to the tank (67) from a fresh water tank, etc., provided on the ship. The tank (67) may drain the disaster prevention material when maintenance of the part submerged therein is required. The disaster prevention material drained from one tank (67) may be transferred to another tank (67), and the disaster prevention material may be circulated between the tanks (67).

[0294] A level switch (LS) for measuring the level of the disaster prevention material may be provided in the tank (67), and depending on the measured value of the level switch (LS), the disaster prevention material may be replenished in the tank (67) or at least a portion of the disaster prevention material may be drained. In addition, the pH of the disaster prevention material filled inside the tank (67) may be monitored by a pH sensor or the like. Depending on the pH of the disaster prevention material, etc., it may be determined whether fuel has leaked from a portion submerged in the tank (67).

[0295]

[0296] Figure 17 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0297] Referring to FIG. 17, in the fuel processing system (1) according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the part that processes wastewater in the fuel neutralization unit (40) can be changed.

[0298] The fuel neutralization unit (40) includes a scrubber (41) and a wastewater tank (43). The scrubber (41) may be provided with a neutralizing agent supply line (L41) through which a neutralizing agent is supplied, and the neutralizing agent supply line (L41) may supply the neutralizing agent to at least two points in the scrubber (41).

[0299] The scrubber (41) may be internally divided into multiple zones by partition walls (425). At this time, the multiple zones may be arranged sequentially, so that the neutralizer and fuel may sequentially move from one zone to another. Fuel may be delivered to the scrubber (41) from a residual fuel discharge unit (33), etc., and the fuel delivered from the residual fuel discharge unit (33) may be delivered to any one zone.

[0300] Each zone may be filled with a certain level of neutralizer, and the neutralizer level may vary across zones. The zone where fuel flows in from the residual fuel discharge port (33), for example, may have the highest neutralizer level, and the neutralizer level for each zone may be adjusted in response to the movement of the neutralizer mixed with fuel across the zone. Considering this, the scrubber (41) of the present embodiment may also be referred to as an absorption tank (42).

[0301] The scrubber (41) can discharge gas to the outside from at least one area. The gas discharged from the scrubber (41) can be discharged into the atmosphere by being transferred to a vent mast (44), etc. However, the fuel concentration of the gas discharged from the scrubber (41) can be monitored. The area where the gas is discharged from the scrubber (41) may be provided on the opposite side from the area where the fuel is introduced.

[0302] In the scrubber (41), a wastewater delivery line (L40) may be provided for each zone. The wastewater delivery line (L40) may be provided for each zone, or may be provided for all zones except for the zone into which fuel is introduced. If the wastewater delivery line (L40) is provided for each zone, the wastewater delivery line (L40) of the zone into which fuel is introduced may be kept closed to allow sufficient absorption of fuel into the neutralizer, and may be opened when necessary.

[0303] A wastewater delivery line (L40) extending from the area of ​​the scrubber (41) can be connected to a wastewater tank (43). The neutralizing agent supplied to each area and the fuel dissolved in the neutralizing agent can be stored inside the wastewater tank (43) along the wastewater delivery line (L40).

[0304] A wastewater discharge line (L45) may be provided in the wastewater tank (43). A wastewater delivery line (L40) extending from the scrubber (41) is connected to the upper portion of the wastewater tank (43), and a wastewater discharge line (L45) may be extended to the lower portion of the wastewater tank (43). The wastewater discharge line (L45) may be connected to a stripping unit (431).

[0305] The stripping unit (431) can separate fuel by injecting air into wastewater discharged from the wastewater tank (43). The stripping unit (431) can be provided in the form of a tower or a top, and wastewater can be sprayed downward from the upper portion inside the stripping unit (431). Air can be injected downward from the lower portion inside the stripping unit (431) by an air injection unit (432).

[0306] When air is injected into the stripping section (431), the fuel and neutralizer can be separated as the wastewater sprayed from the upper part of the stripping section (431) meets the air. The neutralizer separated from the wastewater can be discharged through the lower part of the stripping section (431). A neutralizer discharge line (L47) can be provided at the lower part of the stripping section (431), and the neutralizer discharged along the neutralizer discharge line (L47) can be transferred to the neutralizer supply line (L41) of the scrubber (41) and reused.

[0307] The fuel separated from the wastewater can be discharged upward from the stripping unit (431) in a form below a certain concentration. Within the stripping unit (431), the fuel in the wastewater can be diluted by mixing with air and changed into a diluted gas, and the fuel concentration of the diluted gas can be monitored and controlled in real time. The diluted gas discharged upward from the stripping unit (431) can be managed to be less than 25 ppm when it diffuses into a human-accessible area. In addition, the neutralizing agent discharged downward from the stripping unit (431) and reused can have a fuel concentration of less than 1 ppm. This concentration control can be achieved by an air injection unit (432) connected to the stripping unit (431). That is, the air injection unit (432) controls the injection of air (flow rate, pressure, speed, etc.) into the stripping unit (431) to control the concentration of fuel discharged upward from the stripping unit (431) to a first value or less, and the concentration of fuel included in the neutralizing agent discharged downward from the stripping unit (431) to a second value or less that is less than the first value.

[0308] The path through which the diluted gas is discharged upward from the stripping section (431) can be integrated with the path of the gas discharged from at least one section of the scrubber (41). That is, the diluted gas discharged from the stripping section (431) can be combined with the path through which the gas is discharged from the scrubber (41).

[0309] The air injection unit (432) can inject air into the stripping unit (431) to separate the wastewater into fuel and neutralizer. The air injection unit (432) can transfer external air into the interior of the stripping unit (431) using a fan (not shown). The air injection unit (432) can be connected to the lower part of the stripping unit (431) through an air injection line (L46), and when wastewater is sprayed upward inside the stripping unit (431), the air injected downward meets the wastewater, thereby separating the fuel in the wastewater.

[0310] However, when using a stripping unit (431), the use of an acidic substance as a neutralizing agent in the scrubber (41) or the like may be excluded, and water or the like may be used to dissolve ammonia. This is because, when an acidic substance is used in the scrubber (41), stripping may not be sufficiently performed as the volatility of ammonia is weakened.

[0311] On the other hand, in the case of the embodiment using the gas circulation line (L42) among the embodiments described above, the scrubber (41) or the absorption tank (42) can weaken the volatility of ammonia by using a neutralizing agent such as an acidic substance. That is, since the wastewater in which ammonia water and a neutralizing agent (acidic substance) are mixed has a weakened volatility of ammonia, a closed loop configuration between the wastewater tank (43) and the scrubber (41) can be possible.

[0312]

[0313] Fig. 18 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0314] Referring to FIG. 18, in the fuel processing system (1) according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, the part that processes wastewater in the fuel neutralization unit (40) can be changed.

[0315] The fuel neutralization unit (40) includes a scrubber (41) and a wastewater tank (43), and a wastewater discharge line (L45) for discharging wastewater into the sea outside the ship may be provided in the wastewater tank (43). In this case, a seawater dilution unit (433) may be provided in the wastewater discharge line (L45).

[0316] The seawater dilution unit (433) can mix seawater, etc., which corresponds to a neutralizing agent, into the wastewater. The seawater dilution unit (433) can mix a sufficient amount of seawater into the wastewater discharged from the wastewater tank (43) to the outside through the wastewater discharge line (L45) to reduce the fuel concentration. The seawater dilution unit (433) is provided with an in-line mixer or the like, and can mix seawater into the wastewater flowing in the wastewater discharge line (L45).

[0317] pH, etc. can be detected by a sensor downstream of the point where seawater is diluted in the wastewater discharge line (L45), and the seawater supply amount of the seawater dilution unit (433) can be controlled based on the detected value. The detected pH can be managed so that the pH difference compared to seawater is less than 2.

[0318] When wastewater is stored in the wastewater tank (43), in addition to the gas containing fuel below a certain concentration being discharged along the vent line (L43), the wastewater can remain stored within the wastewater tank (43). In this case, since the wastewater must be continuously stored while the ship is in operation, the volume of the wastewater tank (43) must be sufficiently secured. However, if a seawater dilution unit (433) is grafted, the wastewater stored in the wastewater tank (43) can be sufficiently diluted with seawater and disposed of by lowering the concentration below a certain level.

[0319] Therefore, the seawater dilution unit (433) can induce the effect of reducing the volume of the wastewater tank (43). In addition, the seawater dilution unit (433) uses seawater that is easily secured when the ship is operating, and can be operated only when wastewater discharge is required, resulting in low operating costs.

[0320] A neutralizing agent supply unit (45) may be provided in the wastewater tank (43). A neutralizing agent tank (451) may be connected to the wastewater tank (43), and the neutralizing agent may be hypochlorous acid, sulfuric acid, or the like. Sulfuric acid, etc., stored in the neutralizing agent tank (451) is injected into the wastewater tank (43) when necessary, and when it is confirmed that the pH concentration of the wastewater has been lowered by the sulfuric acid, the wastewater may be discharged to the outside.

[0321] Discharging fuel into the ocean can cause marine life to die due to the alkalinity of ammonia. This problem can be addressed by mixing sulfuric acid with the wastewater. However, when ammonia and sulfuric acid are neutralized, ammonium, which can cause red tides, can be produced. However, the negative impact on marine life can be significantly mitigated.

[0322]

[0323] Figure 19 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel processing system according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0324] Referring to FIG. 19, a fuel processing system (1) according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention includes a storage unit (10), a fuel supply unit (20), a fuel discharge unit (30), a fuel neutralization unit (40), etc.

[0325] The storage unit (10) may be a fuel tank (11), and a fuel supply line (L20) may extend from a fuel pump provided within the fuel tank (11). A line may be provided to return fuel from a point of the fuel supply line (L20) to the fuel tank (11), which may be utilized to control the load of the fuel pump.

[0326] The fuel tank (11) can be connected to a re-liquefaction unit (13) via a storage space discharge line (L11). When the gaseous fuel in the fuel tank (11) exceeds a certain level, the storage space discharge line (L11) can transfer the gaseous fuel to the re-liquefaction unit (13).

[0327] The re-liquefaction unit (13) includes a buffer (131), a compressor (132), a cooler (133), a receiver (134), and an intercooler (135). The buffer (131) temporarily stores gaseous fuel discharged from the fuel tank (11). The buffer (131) is a gas-liquid separator that separates gaseous and liquid phases, and supplies only gaseous fuel, excluding the liquid phase, to the compressor (132), thereby preventing damage to the compressor (132).

[0328] The compressor (132) is provided downstream of the buffer (131) and compresses the fuel gas generated in the fuel tank (11). Depending on the type of compressor (132), a single-stage or multi-stage compressor (132) may be applied, and the multi-stage compressor (132) may have multiple compression stages provided in series along the flow of fuel to form a multi-stage compressor (132) (for example, two or more stages). An intercooler (135) may be connected to an intermediate stage between the first compression stage and the second compression stage.

[0329] As will be described later, the intercooler (135) is a cooling device that uses depressurized fuel as a refrigerant without a separate refrigerant, and can cool low-pressure fuel introduced from the compressor (132). Therefore, the intercooler (135) can implement cooling at the middle stage of the compressor (132).

[0330] The cooler (133) cools the fuel compressed in the compressor (132) with a refrigerant. The refrigerant of the cooler (133) may be seawater, etc., and at least a portion of the fuel may be liquefied in the cooler (133). Alternatively, the cooler (133) may cool the fuel using a refrigerant other than seawater (nitrogen, LNG, LPG, propane, R134a, CO2, ammonia, etc.).

[0331] The receiver (134) temporarily stores the liquefied fuel while passing through the cooler (133). The receiver (134) can be placed downstream of the cooler (133) and upstream of the intercooler (135), and implements a gas-liquid separation function similar to the buffer (131).

[0332] The receiver (134) can transfer liquefied fuel from among the cooled fuel to the intercooler (135). In addition, the receiver (134) can store the fuel vaporized inside it, thereby accumulating pressure and preventing vaporization.

[0333] The intercooler (135) exchanges heat between a portion of the fuel downstream of the cooler (133) and the remainder. The intercooler (135) is branched from the upstream portion of the intercooler (135) based on the flow of fuel and has a space for receiving fuel depressurized by a pressure reducing valve (not shown).

[0334] Additionally, the intercooler (135) may include a coil-shaped cooling path through which the fuel cooled in the cooler (133) passes. The cooling path passes through the interior of the fuel contained in the intercooler (135) via a pressure reducing valve. Therefore, the intercooler (135) can achieve liquefaction through non-contact heat exchange between fuels without a separate refrigerant.

[0335] In addition, the intercooler (135) can perform the role of an intercooler (133) of the compressor (132) upstream of the cooler (133). The intercooler (135) can cool the fuel compressed by some of the multiple compression stages of the compressor (132) using the depressurized fuel, and can transfer the fuel in the gaseous state generated by heat exchange to the compressor (132). In addition, the intercooler (135) can recover the liquid fuel to the fuel tank (11).

[0336]

[0337] The fuel supply unit (20) may be provided to supply fuel to the main engine (ME) for propulsion, the auxiliary engine (GE) for power generation, etc., respectively. First, looking at the flow of fuel to the main engine (ME), the fuel may pass through the filter unit (23), the supply heat exchanger (21), the supply pump (22), etc., and then flow into the main engine (ME) through the supply valve train. In addition, the surplus fuel discharged from the main engine (ME) may be combined with the upstream of the supply heat exchanger (21) and then delivered to the main engine (ME) again. However, if necessary, at least a portion of the fuel pressurized in the supply pump (22) may be returned to the upstream of the supply heat exchanger (21), which may be for controlling the load of the supply pump (22) and the temperature of the fuel flowing into the supply pump (22).

[0338] Looking at the flow of fuel to the auxiliary engine (GE), the fuel is branched off downstream of the filter section (23) and then flows through the supply heat exchanger (21), supply pump (22), filter section (23), and supply valve train to be introduced into the auxiliary engine (GE). Of course, the arrangement of the filter section (23) can be changed at any time depending on the specifications of the main engine (ME) and the auxiliary engine (GE).

[0339] Excess fuel discharged from the auxiliary engine (GE) can be delivered upstream of the supply pump (22) via a return valve train, a return heat exchanger, etc. Additionally, fuel can be delivered downstream of the supply pump (22) to a return heat exchanger and recirculated to the supply pump (22).

[0340]

[0341] The fuel discharge unit (30) can process fuel discharged from the main engine (ME) and the auxiliary engine (GE). The fuel discharge unit (30) can be provided differently for the main engine (ME) and the auxiliary engine (GE). The fuel discharge unit (30) assigned to the main engine (ME) includes a separator (321) and a buffer tank (322), and the separator (321) can be directly connected to the fuel recovery line (L21). Therefore, the fuel discharged from the main engine (ME) and then recycled to the supply pump (22) can pass through the separator (321). The separator (321) can perform gas-liquid separation when recovering the fuel, and can separate nitrogen, lubricating oil, etc.

[0342] On the other hand, the fuel discharge unit (30) allocated to the auxiliary engine (GE) may include a separator (321), a knockout drum (331), and a recovery tank (332). The separator (321) may be connected to a fuel recovery line (L21) as in the case of the main engine (ME), so that surplus fuel discharged from the auxiliary engine (GE) may pass through the separator (321) and then be transferred to the return heat exchanger.

[0343] The liquid separated from the separator (321) can be transferred to the return heat exchanger and then reintroduced into the auxiliary engine (GE). On the other hand, the gas separated from the separator (321) can be transferred to the knockout drum (331). The knockout drum (331) can separate lubricating oil, etc. discharged from the auxiliary engine (GE).

[0344] The liquid separated in the knockout drum (331) can be transferred to the recovery tank (332) by gravity, and the gas separated in the recovery tank (332) can be circulated to the knockout drum (331). Alternatively, the gas separated in the separator (321) can be transferred to the knockout drum (331) or the recovery tank (332).

[0345] The fuel discharge unit (30) can process fuel or gas discharged from the fuel valve train. For example, when purging the fuel valve train assigned to the main engine (ME), the mixed gas of fuel and inert gas discharged from the fuel valve train can be transferred to a separate purge tank (35). The purge tank (35) can temporarily store fuel and an inert gas such as nitrogen and then transfer the gas to the fuel neutralization unit (40). Alternatively, the mixed gas can be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40) or to the buffer tank (322).

[0346] On the other hand, when purging the fuel valve train assigned to the auxiliary engine (GE), the mixed gas of fuel and inert gas discharged from the fuel valve train can be delivered to a knockout drum (331) or the like. The mixed gas can be combined on a fuel discharge line (L30) connected from the separator (321) to the knockout drum (331), and the gas in the knockout drum (331) can be delivered to a fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0347] The fuel discharge unit (30) may include an inert gas supply unit (31) that supplies inert gas for purging, etc. The inert gas supply unit (31) may purge the fuel supply unit (20), reliquefaction unit (13), etc. using nitrogen, etc.

[0348] The inert gas supply unit (31) can be connected to an upstream point such as a public heat exchanger (21) in the fuel supply line (L20) that supplies fuel to the main engine (ME), and an upstream point such as a supply heat exchanger (21) in the fuel supply line (L20) that supplies fuel to the power generation engine (E). A bypass line (L22) that bypasses the engine (E) and is connected to the fuel recovery line (L21) in the fuel supply line (L20) upstream of the main engine (ME) and the auxiliary engine (GE) can be provided, and the bypass line (L22) can allow the inert gas to be delivered.

[0349] Additionally, the inert gas supply unit (31) may be connected to the re-liquefaction unit (13) or may be connected to the upstream side of the boiler (B) in the storage space discharge line (L11). Hereinafter, the purging process by the inert gas supply unit (31) will be described.

[0350] First, the fuel supply valve (26) in front of the supply heat exchanger (21) in the fuel supply unit (20) is blocked, and the remaining fuel liquid distributed in front of the fuel supply valve (26) can be drained into the fuel tank (11). Then, by injecting an inert gas from the fuel supply unit (20) into the front of the fuel supply valve (26) by the inert gas supply unit (31), the remaining fuel in front of the fuel supply valve (26) can be purged into the fuel tank (11).

[0351] Afterwards, the fuel supply line (L20), fuel recovery line (L21), etc. downstream of the fuel supply valve (26) are depressurized to the fuel neutralization unit (40), thereby vaporizing the fuel within the corresponding path. At this time, the pressure of the line can be depressurized from 20 bar to approximately 1 bar.

[0352] Thereafter, the inert gas supply unit (31) supplies inert gas downstream of the fuel supply valve (26). For reference, the inert gas supply unit (31) is provided so as to be able to supply inert gas to each of the upstream and downstream of the fuel supply valve (26). The inert gas injected downstream of the fuel supply valve (26) can purge the remaining fuel in the line from the fuel supply unit (20) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0353] The process of reducing pressure from the line downstream of the fuel supply valve (26) to the fuel neutralization unit (40) and delivering the fuel in the corresponding area to the fuel neutralization unit (40) can be performed for each of the portion allocated to the main engine (ME) and the portion allocated to the power generation engine (E) in the fuel supply unit (20).

[0354] Purging can also be performed on the re-liquefaction unit (13), etc. The inert gas supply unit (31) can supply inert gas upstream of the buffer (131) in the re-liquefaction unit (13), thereby purging the remaining fuel on the re-liquefaction line (L12) to the fuel neutralization unit (40). In addition, inert gas can also be supplied to the part connected to the boiler (B) from the storage space discharge line (L11), and the remaining fuel in the corresponding path can be transferred to the fuel neutralization unit (40).

[0355]

[0356] The fuel neutralization unit (40) includes a scrubber (41), a wastewater tank (43), etc. The fuel neutralization unit (40) can receive fuel-mixed gas from the fuel discharge unit (30) assigned to the main engine (ME) and the auxiliary engine (GE) and neutralize it. A fuel discharge line (L30) from a buffer tank (322), a purge tank (35), a knockout drum (331), etc. can be connected to the scrubber (41), and the fuel can be neutralized using a neutralizing agent such as clean water.

[0357] In addition, gas discharged from the re-liquefaction unit (13) can be introduced into the scrubber (41). The re-liquefaction unit (13) is provided with a receiver (134), and non-condensable gas, which is fuel that has not been liquefied, is generated in the receiver (134), and the non-condensable gas can be transferred to the scrubber (41).

[0358] The scrubber (41) can discharge gases below a certain fuel concentration into the atmosphere. The scrubber (41) can be connected to a vent line (L43) such as a vent mast (44), and the gas flowing into the scrubber (41) can be vented along the vent line (L43) after the fuel concentration is lowered by a neutralizer.

[0359] In the scrubber (41), a neutralizing agent such as ammonia water dissolved in the fuel can be delivered to the wastewater tank (43) through the wastewater delivery line (L40), and at least a portion of the gas in the wastewater tank (43) can be circulated to the scrubber (41) through the gas circulation line (L42).

[0360] Gaseous fuel discharged from the fuel tank (11) can be introduced into the wastewater tank (43). To relieve overpressure in the fuel tank (11), the gaseous fuel discharged from the fuel tank (11) can be re-liquefied in the re-liquefaction unit (13), or can be dissolved and processed in wastewater stored in the wastewater tank (43).

[0361] The fuel in the gaseous state discharged from the fuel tank (11) may be delivered to the re-liquefaction unit (13), the wastewater tank (43), or the scrubber (41), and may also be delivered to the boiler (B) or the like for combustion. That is, the storage space discharge line (L11) may be connected to the re-liquefaction unit (13), the boiler (B), the scrubber (41), or the wastewater tank (43). A compressor (132) may be provided upstream of the boiler (B) in the storage space discharge line (L11), and the compressor (132) may be configured to be provided separately from the compressor (132) of the re-liquefaction unit (13). Alternatively, a line may be connected to the boiler (B) downstream of the compressor (132) of the re-liquefaction unit (13).

[0362]

[0363] FIG. 20 is a partial block diagram of a fuel neutralization unit in a fuel processing system according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0364] Referring to FIG. 20, the fuel treatment system (1) according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention may include a wastewater discharge unit (46) for the fuel neutralization unit (40) to treat wastewater. The wastewater discharge unit (46) may be configured to safely treat wastewater stored in a wastewater tank (43), etc., and the wastewater may be a neutralizing agent in which fuel is dissolved, or bilge delivered from a fuel treatment area (60), etc. The wastewater discharge unit (46) separates fuel from the wastewater, monitors the fuel concentration, and discharges the wastewater, and may monitor and record this process.

[0365] The wastewater discharge unit (46) includes a wastewater treatment unit (461), a status check unit (462), a discharge determination unit (463), a discharge monitoring unit (464), etc. The wastewater treatment unit (461) can separate fuel and other substances from wastewater, etc. stored in the wastewater tank (43). At this time, the fuel separation can utilize the difference in boiling point. The wastewater treatment unit (461) is built into the wastewater tank (43) and can separate fuel and neutralizing agent, etc. from the wastewater, and the wastewater tank (43) can form at least a part of the wastewater treatment unit (461). In addition, the wastewater treatment unit (461) can receive the wastewater stored in the wastewater tank (43) and then separate fuel, etc. To this end, the wastewater treatment unit (461) can have a form that allows vaporization of fuel while temporarily storing the wastewater, and can be equipped with a temperature control function such as heating.

[0366] In addition, the wastewater treatment unit (461) can separate the lubricating oil contained in the fuel delivered to the fuel neutralization unit (40). That is, the wastewater treatment unit (461) can additionally be equipped with an oil-water separation function. The wastewater treatment unit (461) can separate the lubricating oil and neutralizing agent from the oil-water by utilizing the difference in density and utilizing a partition (not shown), etc.

[0367] The fuel separated in the wastewater treatment unit (461) may be recycled to the scrubber (41) of the fuel neutralization unit (40), or may be delivered to the fuel supply unit (20) and supplied to the engine (E), or may be delivered to the vent mast (44), etc. and released into the atmosphere. Alternatively, the fuel separated in the wastewater treatment unit (461) may be injected back into the wastewater tank (43) and then re-separated by the wastewater treatment unit (461).

[0368] In addition to or instead of separating fuel from wastewater, the wastewater treatment unit (461) may dilute the fuel. For example, the wastewater treatment unit (461) may mix a neutralizing agent or seawater with the wastewater. The wastewater treatment unit (461) may include the seawater dilution unit (433) described above. In other words, the wastewater treatment unit (461) may sufficiently reduce the fuel concentration by mixing seawater with the wastewater inside the wastewater tank (43) or the wastewater discharged from the wastewater tank (43).

[0369] The status confirmation unit (462) can confirm the status of wastewater from which fuel, etc. has been separated or diluted at least while passing through the wastewater treatment unit (461). The status values ​​confirmed for the wastewater may be flow rate, pH, fuel concentration (ppm), etc., and in addition, pressure, temperature, etc. may also be measured.

[0370] At least a portion of the wastewater delivered from the wastewater treatment unit (461) may be delivered to a sampling point, where the concentration of the fuel may be measured by the status confirmation unit (462). In addition, the status confirmation unit (462) may detect the flow rate of the wastewater delivered from the wastewater treatment unit (461) using a flow monitor or the like.

[0371] The status check unit (462) can measure turbidity. Turbidity may include the ratio of salts such as ammonium present in the wastewater. As previously described, a neutralizing agent such as hypochlorous acid or sulfuric acid may be supplied to the wastewater tank (43), and in this case, ammonium may be generated as the ammonia fuel is neutralized. Since ammonium may have a certain impact on the marine environment, the wastewater discharge unit (46) can measure the ratio of substances such as ammonium in addition to the fuel and neutralizing agent.

[0372] The discharge determination unit (463) can determine whether or not the wastewater can be discharged into the ocean based on the concentration of fuel, pH, turbidity, etc. in the wastewater confirmed by the status confirmation unit (462). For example, if the wastewater treated by the wastewater treatment unit (461) is confirmed by the status confirmation unit (462) to have a fuel concentration of 1 ppm or less, the discharge determination unit (463) can output a conclusion that the wastewater can be discharged into the ocean, and if the fuel concentration in the wastewater is confirmed to be 1 ppm or more, the discharge determination unit (463) can output a conclusion that the wastewater can be discharged after performing additional operations such as dilution. Alternatively, the discharge determination unit (463) can determine that discharge is not possible if the fuel concentration in the wastewater is confirmed to be above a certain ppm.

[0373] The discharge determination unit (463) can determine whether to discharge wastewater by considering the ship's operating status. The discharge determination unit (463) can determine whether to discharge wastewater based on factors such as ship speed, draft, and marine environment. In addition, the discharge determination unit (463) can determine whether to discharge wastewater into the sea in the area where the ship is located. Ships operate in various seas, and different environmental regulations may apply to each sea. Therefore, the discharge determination unit (463) can consider the status value confirmed for wastewater and regulations for the area where the ship is currently located or areas the ship passes through on its route, and determine whether to discharge wastewater and establish a wastewater discharge plan.

[0374] For example, the discharge judgment unit (463) can comprehensively consider values ​​for the operating status including the ship's operating route, regulatory values ​​for the operating area, and the status values ​​of wastewater input by the status confirmation unit (462) in real time or at regular intervals, and calculate a plan for whether or not to discharge wastewater, the discharge time of wastewater, and the discharge amount.

[0375] In addition, the discharge judgment unit (463) can estimate the future state value of the wastewater based on the state value of the wastewater transmitted by the state confirmation unit (462). That is, the discharge judgment unit (463) can roughly predict how the state of the wastewater will change during the operation of the ship by considering the wastewater neutralization treatment method and the state value trend of the wastewater, thereby preventing in advance the occurrence of a situation in which regulations are exceeded while the wastewater is discharged into the sea.

[0376] The discharge monitoring unit (464) can monitor and record the discharge of wastewater in real time when the discharge judgment unit (463) determines that discharge of wastewater into the ocean is possible. The monitored values ​​may include the concentration of wastewater, turbidity, discharge amount, discharge temperature, ocean conditions, and ship operation conditions.

[0377] The outlet through which wastewater is discharged into the sea may be located above the sea surface. In this case, the discharge monitoring unit (464) can record the discharge status of wastewater in real time by taking a video or the like.

[0378] However, considering the toxicity of the fuel contained in the wastewater, the wastewater outlet may be located below sea level. Even in this case, the discharge monitoring unit (464) can continuously monitor the area where the wastewater is discharged by photographing it.

[0379]

[0380] The present invention encompasses all embodiments resulting from a combination of the above embodiments and known techniques, in addition to the embodiments described above.

[0381] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific examples, this is intended to specifically explain the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent that modifications and improvements can be made by those skilled in the art within the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0382] All simple modifications or changes of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be made clear by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fuel tank provided on the hull to store toxic fuel; A fuel supply unit that supplies fuel stored in the above fuel tank to a demand source; A fuel discharge unit for draining fuel remaining in the fuel supply unit or purging the fuel supply unit to discharge fuel together with purging gas; and It includes a cover part provided to surround a specific part where fuel flows and at least two members are connected among the fuel supply part and the fuel discharge part. The above cover part, A fuel handling system that semi-encloses the specific area to delay the diffusion of fuel leaking from the specific area.

2. In paragraph 1, the specific part is, comprising at least one of a valve, a fuel intake or exhaust end and a flange; The above cover part, It has a structure in which at least both ends are finished and has a sheet covering the above-mentioned specific area, The above sheet, A fuel treatment system having an ammonia resistant film.

3. In the second paragraph, the cover part, A gas detector is provided inside to detect fuel leaking from the above specific area, The above gas detector, A fuel treatment system comprising at least one of a gas sensor and a discoloring material.

4. In paragraph 3, The above cover part, At least a portion of the above sheet is provided to be transparent or translucent so that the inside of the cover part can be visually confirmed, The discoloration material is provided corresponding to the visually visible part of the above sheet, A fuel processing system further comprising a monitoring device for monitoring a discoloring material provided on one or more of the above cover portions.

5. In the second paragraph, the fuel supply unit, A fuel supply line that delivers fuel from the above fuel tank to the above demand source; A supply heat exchanger and a supply pump provided in the above fuel supply line; and Includes a fuel recovery line for recovering surplus fuel from the above demand source, The above cover part, A small cover provided to cover each valve or flange provided in the fuel supply unit; and A fuel processing system comprising a large cover portion configured to cover the supply heat exchanger and the supply pump simultaneously.

6. In the fifth paragraph, among the small cover part and the large cover part, at least the large cover part, A fuel treatment system, wherein a discharge fan is provided to discharge fuel leaking from the above-mentioned specific area to the outside of a fuel treatment area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated.

7. In paragraph 6, Further comprising a fuel neutralization unit for neutralizing toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit, The above exhaust fan, A fuel treatment system that transfers fuel leaking from the above-mentioned specific area to the fuel neutralization unit.

8. In paragraph 5, It further includes a fire extinguishing material spraying unit that locally sprays a fire extinguishing material to the cover unit within the fuel processing area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated. The above sheet of the above large cover part, A fuel processing system that protects the supply heat exchanger and the supply pump from the fire extinguishing agent sprayed from the fire extinguishing agent spray unit.

9. In paragraph 1, A fuel neutralization unit that neutralizes toxic fuel; and It includes a ventilation unit that is responsible for supplying or exhausting air to the internal space of the fuel processing area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated. The above ventilation part, A fuel processing system that switches between a first mode in which it operates at a first load for internal air circulation in the fuel processing zone and a second mode in which it operates at a second load for delivering air in the fuel processing zone to the fuel neutralization unit.

10. In the 9th paragraph, the ventilation part, An air supply unit that supplies outside air into the interior of the fuel processing area; An exhaust section for discharging air inside the fuel processing area to the outside; and It includes an overpressure prevention unit including a relief valve that opens when the pressure inside the fuel processing area rises above a certain pressure, The above exhaust part is, Includes an exhaust fan for air circulation, The above-mentioned emergency department, A fuel processing system including a supply duct that is opened after the inside of the fuel processing area is controlled to negative pressure by the exhaust unit.

11. In the 10th paragraph, the exhaust fan, It is provided as a variable controllable type and is switched between the first mode and the second mode, A fuel processing system that operates at the first load for internal air circulation in the fuel processing area, or at the second load that is relatively lower than the first load for transferring fuel leaking from the fuel processing area to the fuel neutralization unit.

12. In paragraph 1, Fuel neutralization unit that neutralizes toxic fuel; A tray section for collecting fuel leaking into the internal space of the fuel processing area where the fuel supply section and the fuel discharge section are accommodated; and It includes a transfer pump that transfers the fuel captured in the tray to at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit, A fuel processing system, wherein the fuel captured in the above tray is recovered through at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit.

13. In the 12th paragraph, the fuel supply unit, A fuel supply line that delivers fuel from the above fuel tank to the above demand source; A supply heat exchanger and a supply pump provided in the above fuel supply line; and Includes a fuel recovery line for recovering surplus fuel from the above demand source, The above fuel discharge section, A separator into which fuel is introduced into the fuel recovery line and the liquid separated therein is delivered to the fuel recovery line; A buffer tank provided downstream of the above separator; and It includes a knockout drum into which fuel discharged from the above demand source is introduced, The above transmission pump, The fuel captured in the above tray is delivered to the separator, A fuel processing system in which fuel delivered to the separator by the delivery pump is delivered from the separator to the supply pump.

14. In paragraph 1, A fuel neutralization unit for neutralizing toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit; A fire extinguishing material spraying unit that sprays a fire extinguishing material to the fuel supply unit or the fuel discharge unit within a fuel treatment area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated; and A tray section configured in multiple numbers to collect fuel leaking into the internal space of the fuel processing area and to be provided at each of a plurality of specific parts where fuel flows and at least two members are connected among the fuel supply section and the fuel discharge section; and It includes a delivery pump that forcibly drains the fuel captured in the above tray section, The above-mentioned disaster prevention material spraying unit is, A fuel treatment system that controls the spraying of a fire extinguishing agent in conjunction with the operation of the above-mentioned transfer pump, so that the fuel collected in the above-mentioned tray is drained below a certain level and then the fire extinguishing agent is sprayed toward the above-mentioned tray.

15. In paragraph 1, A fuel neutralization unit for neutralizing toxic fuel delivered from at least one of the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit; and It includes a bilge treatment unit that treats bilge within a fuel treatment area where the fuel supply unit and the fuel discharge unit are accommodated. The above bilge treatment unit is, A bilge well provided in the above fuel processing area; and A fuel processing system further comprising a bilge delivery line that delivers bilge collected in the bilge well to the fuel neutralization unit.

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