Cofferdam heating system and cofferdam heating method

Abstract

Provided is a cofferdam heating system. The cofferdam heating system comprises: a compressor installed in a ship; a dryer installed between the compressor and a cofferdam; a first gas flow line extending from the compressor to the dryer and serving as a flow path through which the gas compressed in the compressor flows to the dryer; a second gas flow line extending from the dryer into the cofferdam and serving as a flow path through which the gas dried in the dryer flows into the cofferdam; a third gas flow line extending from the compressor to an injector and serving as a flow path through which the gas compressed in the compressor flows to the injector; and opening / closing valves provided in the first gas flow line, the second gas flow line, and the third gas flow line, respectively.

Description

Cofferdam heating system and cofferdam heating method

[0001] The present invention relates to a cofferdam heating system and a cofferdam heating method for a ship, and more specifically, to a system for heating the interior of a cofferdam using gas compressed by a compressor installed on a ship and a method for heating a cofferdam using the same.

[0002] Generally, natural gas is transported in a gaseous state through onshore or offshore gas pipelines, or stored in LNG carriers as liquefied natural gas (hereinafter referred to as 'LNG') and transported to distant consumption sites.

[0003] Since LNG storage tanks store cryogenic LNG, installing cold tanks in succession can cause the temperature of the steel between them to drop rapidly, potentially leading to brittle fracture. To prevent this, a space called a cofferdam is placed between the tanks to maintain the temperature higher than that of the LNG, thereby protecting against damage caused by the low temperature.

[0004] However, in the case of existing LNG carriers, glycol water is heated and circulated to heat the cofferdam, which requires the installation of pumps, heaters, and heating coils inside the cofferdam, resulting in the problem of excessive installation costs.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a request for a cofferdam heating system and heating method that uses gas compressed by a compressor installed on a ship, replacing pumps, heaters, and heating coils.

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to provide a cofferdam heating system capable of heating a cofferdam without the installation of equipment such as pumps, heaters, and heating coils.

[0007] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a cofferdam heating system equipped with an auxiliary device.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a cofferdam heating system capable of constantly controlling the temperature of the cofferdam.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a cofferdam heating system that can be implemented with simple modifications to the structure of conventional ships.

[0010] A cofferdam heating system according to the present embodiment may include a compressor, a dryer, a first gas transfer line, a second gas transfer line, a third gas transfer line, and an opening / closing valve. The compressor may be installed on a vessel. The dryer may be installed between the compressor and the cofferdam. The first gas transfer line may extend from the compressor to the dryer. The first gas transfer line may serve as a flow path for gas compressed in the compressor to move to the dryer. The second gas transfer line may extend from the dryer to the interior of the cofferdam. The second gas transfer line may serve as a flow path for gas dried in the dryer to move into the interior of the cofferdam. The third gas transfer line may extend from the compressor to an injector. The third gas transfer line may serve as a flow path for gas compressed in the compressor to move to the injector. The above-mentioned opening and closing valve may be provided in the first gas transfer line, the second gas transfer line, or the third gas transfer line, respectively.

[0011] Specifically, the compressor may include a compressor for heating the cofferdam and a compressor for reducing frictional resistance. The compressor for heating the cofferdam may be connected to the dryer through the first gas transfer line. The compressor for reducing frictional resistance may be connected to the injector through the third gas transfer line.

[0012] Additionally, the dryer may include a main dryer and an auxiliary dryer. The main dryer may be connected to the first gas transfer line and the second gas transfer line, respectively. The auxiliary dryer may be connected to the first gas transfer line and the second gas transfer line, respectively. The auxiliary dryer may operate simultaneously with the main dryer or operate independently of the main dryer.

[0013] And the above cofferdam heating system may further include a fourth gas transfer line. The fourth gas transfer line may connect the first gas transfer line and the third gas transfer line to each other.

[0014] Additionally, the cofferdam heating system may further include a thermometer. The thermometer may be installed in the cofferdam. The thermometer can detect the temperature inside the cofferdam. If the temperature of the thermometer is above a preset temperature range, the shut-off valve installed in the third gas transfer line may be closed. If the temperature of the thermometer is below the preset temperature range, the shut-off valve installed in the third gas transfer line may be opened.

[0015] Specifically, the cofferdam heating system may further include a gas discharge line. The gas discharge line may extend from the inside of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam. The gas discharge line may serve as a flow path for the internal gas of the cofferdam to move to the outside of the cofferdam. The second gas transfer line may include a first supply line and a second supply line. The first supply line may extend from the dryer to the lower interior of the cofferdam. The second supply line may extend from the dryer to the upper interior of the cofferdam. The gas discharge line may include a first discharge line and a second discharge line. The first discharge line may extend from the lower interior of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam. The second discharge line may extend from the lower interior of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam.

[0016] For example, the first supply line may serve as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is greater than the density of the gas inside the cofferdam. The second supply line may serve as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is less than the density of the gas inside the cofferdam.

[0017] Additionally, the first supply line and the first discharge line may be integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam. The second supply line and the second discharge line may be integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam.

[0018] Specifically, the above-mentioned opening and closing valve may include a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve. The first valve may be provided between the first supply line and the location where the dryer and the first discharge line are connected. The first valve can open and close the first supply line. The second valve may be provided between the second supply line and the location where the dryer and the second discharge line are connected. The second valve can open and close the second supply line. The third valve may be provided in the first discharge line. The third valve can open and close the first discharge line. The fourth valve may be provided in the second discharge line. The fourth valve can open and close the second discharge line.

[0019] The cofferdam heating method according to the present embodiment can heat the interior of the cofferdam with gas compressed in a compressor.

[0020] Specifically, the cofferdam heating method may include a gas compression step, a gas drying step, and a gas distribution step. The gas compression step may be a step of compressing the gas in the compressor. The gas drying step may be a step of drying the compressed gas in a dryer. The gas distribution step may be a step of distributing the dried gas into the interiors of a plurality of cofferdams.

[0021] For example, in the above gas distribution step, gas may be moved to a cofferdam where the internal temperature is below a preset temperature. In the above gas distribution step, the movement of gas may be blocked to a cofferdam where the internal temperature is above a preset temperature.

[0022] Specifically, the gas distribution step may include a supply gas density measurement process, a gas state measurement process, a density comparison process, a supply gas supply process, and an internal gas discharge process. The supply gas density measurement process may be a process for measuring the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer. The gas state measurement process may be a process for measuring the pressure, temperature, and humidity of the internal gas inside the coffer dam. The density comparison process may be a process for comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas. The supply gas supply process may be a process for moving the gas generated in the dryer into the interior of the coffer dam through a second gas transfer line. The internal gas discharge process may be a process for discharging the internal gas inside the coffer dam to the outside of the coffer dam through a gas discharge line.

[0023] For example, in the above-described supply gas supply process, when the density of the supply gas is greater than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas can be moved into the interior of the cofferdam through the first supply line among the second gas transfer lines that extends to the lower interior of the cofferdam. In the above-described supply gas supply process, when the density of the supply gas is less than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas can be moved into the interior of the cofferdam through the second supply line among the second gas transfer lines that extends to the upper interior of the cofferdam.

[0024] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may include a compressor installed on a ship, a dryer installed between the compressor and the cofferdam, a first gas transfer line extending from the compressor to the dryer to serve as a flow path for gas compressed by the compressor to move to the dryer, a second gas transfer line extending from the dryer to the interior of the cofferdam to serve as a flow path for gas dried in the dryer to move into the interior of the cofferdam, a third gas transfer line extending from the compressor to an injector to serve as a flow path for gas compressed by the compressor to move to the injector, and shut-off valves provided in the first, second, or third gas transfer lines, respectively. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated without the installation of equipment such as a pump, a heater, and a heating coil.

[0025] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may include a compressor for heating the cofferdam, which is connected to a dryer through a first gas transfer line, and a compressor for reducing frictional resistance, which is connected to an injector through a third gas transfer line. Through this, the cofferdam heating system can be implemented with a simple modification to the structure of a conventional ship.

[0026] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may include a main dryer connected to a first gas transfer line and a second gas transfer line, respectively, and an auxiliary dryer connected to the first gas transfer line and the second gas transfer line, respectively, which operates simultaneously with the main dryer or separately from the main dryer. Through this, a cofferdam heating system equipped with an auxiliary device can be installed.

[0027] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may have a first transfer line and a first discharge line integrated and extended from the inside of the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam, and a second transfer line and a second discharge line integrated and extended from the inside of the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam. Through this, it can be implemented with minimal changes from a conventional cofferdam structure.

[0028] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may further include a fourth gas transfer line that connects the first gas transfer line and the third gas transfer line. Through this, a cofferdam heating system equipped with an auxiliary device can be installed.

[0029] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention further includes a thermometer equipped in the cofferdam to detect the temperature inside the cofferdam, wherein if the temperature of the thermometer is above a preset temperature range, an opening / closing valve equipped in a third gas transfer line is closed, and if the temperature of the thermometer is below the preset temperature range, the opening / closing valve equipped in the third gas transfer line can be opened. Through this, the temperature of the cofferdam can be controlled at a constant level.

[0030] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention further includes a gas discharge line extending from the inside of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam, serving as a flow path for the internal gas of the cofferdam to move to the outside of the cofferdam; the second gas transfer line includes a first supply line extending from the dryer to the inner lower part of the cofferdam and a second supply line extending from the dryer to the inner upper part of the cofferdam; and the gas discharge line may include a first discharge line extending from the inner lower part of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam and a second discharge line extending from the inner lower part of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0031] In the cofferdam heating system of the present invention, the first supply line serves as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is greater than the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam, and the second supply line serves as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is less than the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0032] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may have a first supply line and a first discharge line integrated and extended from the inside of the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam, and a second supply line and a second discharge line integrated and extended from the inside of the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam. Through this, it can be implemented with minimal changes from the conventional cofferdam structure.

[0033] The cofferdam heating system of the present invention may include a first valve that opens and closes the first supply line by being provided between the location where the dryer and the first discharge line are connected in the first supply line, a second valve that opens and closes the second supply line by being provided between the location where the dryer and the second discharge line are connected in the second supply line, a third valve that opens and closes the first discharge line by being provided in the first discharge line, and a fourth valve that opens and closes the second discharge line by being provided in the second discharge line. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0034] The cofferdam heating method of the present invention can heat the interior of the cofferdam using gas compressed by a compressor. Through this, a cofferdam heating system can be implemented with a simple modification to the structure of a conventional ship.

[0035] The cofferdam heating method of the present invention may include a gas compression step of compressing gas in a compressor, a gas drying step of drying the compressed gas in a dryer, and a gas distribution step of distributing the dried gas into the interiors of a plurality of cofferdams. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated without the installation of equipment such as pumps, heaters, and heating coils.

[0036] In the gas distribution step of the cofferdam heating method of the present invention, gas can be moved to cofferdams where the internal temperature is below a preset temperature, and gas can be blocked from moving to cofferdams where the internal temperature is above a preset temperature. Through this, the temperature of the cofferdam can be controlled to a constant level.

[0037] The cofferdam heating method of the present invention may include a gas distribution step comprising a supply gas density measurement process for measuring the density of a supply gas generated in a dryer, a gas state measurement process for measuring the pressure, temperature, and humidity of an internal gas inside the cofferdam, a density comparison process for comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas, a supply gas supply process for moving the gas generated in the dryer into the interior of the cofferdam through a second gas transfer line, and an internal gas discharge process for discharging the internal gas inside the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam through a gas discharge line. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated without the installation of equipment such as a pump, a heater, and a heating coil.

[0038] In the cofferdam heating method of the present invention, when the density of the supply gas in the supply gas supply process is greater than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas is moved into the interior of the cofferdam through a first supply line extending to the lower interior of the cofferdam among the second gas transfer lines, and when the density of the supply gas is less than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas is moved into the interior of the cofferdam through a second supply line extending to the upper interior of the cofferdam among the second gas transfer lines. Through this, the cofferdam can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a friction resistance reduction device applied to a ship.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to the present embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to another embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to another embodiment.

[0043] In order to fully understand the present invention, the operational advantages of the present invention, and the objectives achieved by the implementation of the present invention, reference must be made to the accompanying drawings illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention and the contents described in the accompanying drawings.

[0044] The present invention will be described in detail below by explaining preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the attached drawings. Identical reference numerals in each drawing indicate identical components.

[0045] In this specification, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] In this embodiment, the length of the hull refers to the distance from the bow to the stern parallel to the upper deck of the hull.

[0047] In this embodiment, the width of the hull refers to the distance from one side of the hull parallel to the upper deck to the other side.

[0048] In this embodiment, the height of the hull refers to the distance from the upper deck to the bottom of the hull that is perpendicular to the upper deck of the hull.

[0049] In this embodiment, the cross section refers to a cross section obtained by cutting the hull in the width direction of the hull.

[0050] In this embodiment, the longitudinal section refers to a cross-section obtained by cutting the hull along the longitudinal direction of the hull.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a friction resistance reduction device applied to a ship.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, the friction resistance reduction device allows external gas (not shown) sucked in through a gas intake port (90) installed on the ship (20) to be moved to a compressor (100) through a gas intake pipe (not shown). The compressed gas (not shown) compressed in the compressor (100) can be moved to a sprayer (40) installed in two rows through a third gas transfer line (300). The compressed gas can be sprayed onto the bottom of the ship (20) through the sprayer (40). A layer of gas is formed on the bottom surface by the compressed gas sprayed onto the bottom, thereby reducing friction resistance between the bottom of the ship and the sea surface.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to the present embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present embodiment may include a compressor (100), a dryer (200), a first gas transfer line (300), a second gas transfer line (400), a third gas transfer line (500), a fourth gas transfer line (600), an opening / closing valve (700), and a thermometer (820). Gas compressed in the compressor (100) may be transferred to the dryer (200) through the first gas transfer line (300). Gas dried in the dryer (200) may be transferred into the interior of the cofferdam (30) through the second gas transfer line (400). Through this, the cofferdam (30) can be heated without the installation of equipment such as a pump, a heater, and a heating coil.

[0055] The gas compressed in the compressor (100) may be transferred to the injector (40) through the third gas transfer line (500). The transfer of gas between the first gas transfer line (300) and the third gas transfer line (500) may be carried out through the fourth gas transfer line (600). An opening / closing valve (700) is provided in each gas transfer line (300, 400, 500, 600) to control the transfer of gas. A thermometer (820) is provided in the cofferdam (30) to detect the internal temperature of the cofferdam (30).

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present embodiment may have three or more compressors (100) for reducing friction resistance installed. The compressors (100) according to the present embodiment may be installed on a ship (20). The compressors (100) may compress gas sucked into the ship (20) through a gas intake port (90). The gas compressed by the compressors (100) may be used for heating the cofferdam (30) or for reducing friction resistance. That is, the compressors (100) may include at least one compressor for heating the cofferdam (100) connected to a dryer (200) to be described later by a first gas transfer line (300) to be described later. Additionally, the compressors (100) may include at least one compressor for reducing friction resistance connected to an injector (40) by a third gas transfer line (500) to be described later. Through this, a cofferdam heating system (10) can be implemented with a simple modification to the structure of a conventional ship (20). The compressor (100) according to the present embodiment may include a first compressor (110), a second compressor (120), and a third compressor (130).

[0057] The first compressor (110) according to the present embodiment may be a compressor (100) for heating the coffer dam (30). The compressor (100) for heating the coffer dam (30) may be connected to a dryer (200) through a first gas transfer line (300) to be described later. The first compressor (110) may normally be used for heating the inside of the coffer dam (30). The first compressor (110) may also be used for reducing frictional resistance when necessary. That is, the first compressor (110) may be used as a backup device for the frictional resistance compressor (100).

[0058] The second compressor (120) according to the present embodiment may be a friction resistance reduction compressor (100). The friction resistance reduction compressor (100) may be connected to the injector (40) through the third gas transfer line (500) to be described later. The second compressor (120) may be used to reduce friction resistance under normal circumstances. The second compressor (120) may also be used for heating the cofferdam (30) when necessary. That is, the second compressor (120) may be used as an auxiliary device for the compressor (100) for heating the cofferdam (30).

[0059] The third compressor (130) according to the present embodiment may be a friction resistance reduction compressor (100). The friction resistance reduction compressor (100) may be connected to the injector (40) through the third gas transfer line (500) to be described later. The third compressor (130) may be used to reduce friction resistance under normal circumstances. The third compressor (130) may also be used for heating the coffer dam (30) when necessary. That is, the third compressor (130) may be used as an auxiliary device for the compressor (100) for heating the coffer dam (30).

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2, the compressor (100) can be cooled by fuel water. That is, the compressor (100), whose temperature has risen while compressing gas, can be cooled by fuel water. The fuel water stored in the fuel water storage tank (70) or the fuel water discharged from the compressor (100) can be moved to the fuel water cooler (50) by the fuel water pump (60). In addition, seawater flowing into the sea chest can be moved to the fuel water cooler (50) by the seawater pump (80). Accordingly, the fuel water moved to the fuel water cooler (50) can be cooled by heat exchange with the seawater moved to the fuel water cooler (50). The cooled fuel water can be moved to the compressor (100) to cool the compressor (100).

[0061] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the dryer (200) according to the present embodiment may be installed between the compressor (100) and the cofferdam (30). That is, the gas compressed in the compressor (100) may be moved into the interior of the cofferdam (30) after being dried in the dryer (200). Moisture contained in the compressed gas may be removed in the dryer (200). Accordingly, the dew point temperature of the compressed gas may be minus 40 degrees Celsius or lower. The dryer (200) may include a main dryer (210) and an auxiliary dryer (220). A cofferdam heating system (10) equipped with an auxiliary device may be installed.

[0063] The main dryer (210) can be connected to the first gas transfer line (300) and the second gas transfer line (400), respectively. The auxiliary dryer (220) can be connected to the first gas transfer line (300) and the second gas transfer line (400), respectively. The auxiliary dryer (220) can be operated simultaneously with the main dryer (210). Additionally, the auxiliary dryer (220) can be operated separately from the main dryer (210). Accordingly, the main dryer (210) is used normally, and when necessary, the auxiliary dryer (220) can be added to the main dryer (210) or used to replace the main dryer (210).

[0064] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2, the first gas transfer line (300) according to the present embodiment may extend from the compressor (100) to the dryer (200). The first gas transfer line (300) may be a flow path through which gas compressed in the compressor (100) moves to the dryer (200). The first gas transfer line (300) may include a first main gas transfer line (310) and a first auxiliary gas transfer line (320).

[0066] The first gas main transfer line (310) can be connected to the main dryer (210). Accordingly, the gas compressed in the compressor (100) can be transferred to the main dryer (210) through the first gas main transfer line (310). The first gas auxiliary transfer line (320) can be connected to the auxiliary dryer (220). Accordingly, the gas compressed in the compressor (100) can be transferred to the auxiliary dryer (220) through the first gas auxiliary transfer line (320).

[0067] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the second gas transfer line (400) according to the present embodiment may extend from the dryer (200) to the interior of the coffer dam (30). The second gas transfer line (400) may serve as a flow path for the gas dried in the dryer (200) to move into the interior of the coffer dam (30). The second gas transfer line (400) may include a second main gas transfer line (410), a second auxiliary gas transfer line (420), and a second gas connection line (430).

[0069] The second gas main transfer line (410) can be connected to the main dryer (210). Accordingly, the gas dried in the main dryer (210) can be transferred into the interior of the cofferdam (30) via the second gas main transfer line (410). The second gas auxiliary transfer line (420) can be connected to the auxiliary dryer (220). Accordingly, the gas dried in the auxiliary dryer (220) can be transferred into the interior of the cofferdam (30) via the second gas auxiliary transfer line (420).

[0070] The second gas connection line (430) can be installed between the second gas main transfer line (410) and the second gas auxiliary transfer line (420). That is, the second gas connection line (430) can connect the second gas main transfer line (410) and the second gas auxiliary transfer line (420). Accordingly, the gas dried in the main dryer (210) can be transferred to the second gas auxiliary transfer line (420) through the second gas connection line (430). In addition, the gas dried in the auxiliary dryer (220) can be transferred to the second gas main transfer line (410) through the second gas connection line (430).

[0071] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the third gas transfer line (500) according to the present embodiment may extend from the compressor (100) to the injector. The third gas transfer line (500) may serve as a path through which the gas compressed in the compressor (100) travels to the injector (40). Since the process of the gas compressed in the compressor (100) traveling to the injector (40) through the third gas transfer line (500) and then being discharged to the outside of the vessel (20) is a known technology, further explanation is omitted here.

[0073] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 2, the fourth gas transfer line (600) according to the present embodiment may be installed between the first gas transfer line (300) and the third gas transfer line (500). That is, the fourth gas transfer line may be connected to the first gas transfer line (300) and the third gas transfer line (400). Through this, a cofferdam heating system (10) equipped with an auxiliary device may be installed. The fourth gas transfer line (600) may be equipped with an opening / closing valve (700) to be described later. Accordingly, gas may be transferred through the fourth gas transfer line (600) or the transfer of gas through the fourth gas transfer line (600) may be blocked depending on the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing valve (700). The fourth gas transfer line (600) may include a fourth gas intake line (610) and a fourth gas discharge line (620).

[0075] When the shut-off valve (700) provided in the fourth gas discharge line (620) is opened, the gas compressed in the first compressor (110) can pass through the first gas transfer line (300), the fourth gas discharge line (620), and the third gas transfer line (500) in sequence and be transferred to the injector (40). When the shut-off valve (700) provided in the fourth gas intake line (610) is opened, the gas compressed in the second compressor (120) or the third compressor (130) can pass through the third gas transfer line (500), the fourth gas intake line (610), and the first gas transfer line (300) in sequence and be transferred into the interior of the cofferdam (30).

[0076] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 2, the opening / closing valve (700) according to the present embodiment may be provided in the first gas transfer line (300), the second gas transfer line (400), the third gas transfer line (500), or the fourth gas transfer line (600), respectively. When the opening / closing valve (700) is opened, gas can be moved through the gas transfer lines (300, 400, 500, 600). When the opening / closing valve (700) is closed, the movement of gas through the gas transfer lines (300, 400, 500, 600) can be blocked. Since the structure and operation of the opening / closing valve (700) are known technology, further explanation is omitted here.

[0078] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 2, a thermometer (820) according to the present embodiment may be provided in the coffer dam (30). The temperature inside the coffer dam (30) can be detected by the thermometer (820). If the temperature of the thermometer (820) is above a preset temperature range, the opening / closing valve (700) provided in the third gas transfer line (500) may be closed. Accordingly, the movement of gas through the third gas transfer line (500) may be blocked. If the temperature of the thermometer is below the preset temperature range, the opening / closing valve (700) provided in the third gas transfer line (500) may be opened. Accordingly, gas may be moved into the interior of the coffer dam (30) through the third gas transfer line (500). Through this, the temperature of the coffer dam (30) can be controlled at a constant level.

[0080] A thermometer (820) may be provided in each of the multiple cofferdams (30). Additionally, an opening / closing valve (700) provided in the third gas transfer line (500) may also be provided in correspondence with each of the multiple cofferdams (30). Accordingly, the opening and closing of the opening / closing valve (700) based on the temperature detected by the thermometer (820) can be performed individually for each of the multiple cofferdams (30). Since the structure and operation of the thermometer (820) are known technology, further explanation is omitted here.

[0081] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0082] The operating effects of the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present invention are as follows.

[0083] When the internal temperature of a plurality of cofferdams (30) is below a preset temperature, the gas compressed in the compressor (100) can be moved to the dryer (200) through the first gas transfer line (300). The gas dried in the dryer (200) can be moved into the interior of the cofferdam (30) through the second gas transfer line (400) to heat the interior of the cofferdam (30).

[0084] If the internal temperature of a plurality of cofferdams (30) is above a preset temperature, the opening / closing valve (700) corresponding to the cofferdam (30) among the plurality of opening / closing valves (700) provided in the second gas transfer line (400) may be closed. Accordingly, the movement of gas to the corresponding cofferdam (30) may be blocked.

[0085] If necessary, the friction resistance reduction compressor (100) among the compressors (100) may be used for heating the coffer dam (30). That is, the friction resistance reduction compressor (120) may be used as an auxiliary device for the compressor (100) for heating the coffer dam (30). In this case, the gas discharged from the friction resistance reduction compressor (120) may be moved to the second gas transfer line (400) through the fourth gas intake line (610) of the fourth gas transfer line (600).

[0086] Additionally, if necessary, the compressor (100) for heating the coffer dam (30) among the compressors (100) may be used for friction resistance reduction. That is, the compressor (120) for heating the coffer dam (30) may be used as an auxiliary device for the compressor (100) for friction resistance reduction. In this case, the gas discharged from the compressor (120) for heating the coffer dam (30) may be transferred to the third gas transfer line (400) through the fourth gas discharge line (620) of the fourth gas transfer line (600).

[0087] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0088]

[0089] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to another embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, in a cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment, two compressors (100) for reducing friction resistance may be installed. The compressors (100) may include a first compressor (110), a second compressor (120), a third compressor (130), and a fourth compressor (140). The first compressor (110) and the second compressor (120) may be used as compressors (100) for heating the cofferdam (30). The third compressor (130) and the fourth compressor (140) may be used as compressors (100) for reducing friction resistance. Accordingly, a fourth gas transfer line (600) may not be installed in the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment.

[0091] That is, heating of the cofferdam (30) can be achieved only by gas compressed in the compressor (100) for heating the cofferdam (30). In addition, friction resistance reduction can be achieved only by gas compressed in the compressor (100) for reducing friction resistance.

[0092] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0093]

[0094] The cofferdam heating method according to the present embodiment may be a method of heating the interior of the cofferdam (30) with gas compressed in a compressor (100). Through this, the cofferdam heating system (10) can be implemented with a simple modification to the structure of a conventional ship (20). Since the temperature of the gas rises as it is compressed in the compressor (100), the compressed gas can heat the interior of the cofferdam (30). The cofferdam heating method may include a gas compression step, a gas drying step, and a gas distribution step. Through this, the cofferdam (30) can be heated without the installation of equipment such as a pump, a heater, and a heating coil.

[0095] The gas compression step may be a step of compressing the gas in a compressor (100).

[0096] The gas drying step may be a step of drying the compressed gas in a dryer (200).

[0097] The gas distribution step may be a step of distributing dried gas into the interiors of multiple cofferdams (30). In the gas distribution step, gas may be moved to cofferdams (30) where the internal temperature is below a preset temperature. The movement of gas may be blocked to cofferdams (30) where the internal temperature is above a preset temperature. Through this, the temperature of the cofferdams (30) can be controlled at a constant level.

[0098]

[0099] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a cofferdam heating system according to another embodiment.

[0100] The configuration of the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment shown in FIG. 4 may be applied to the configuration of the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 2 or the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment shown in FIG. 3. Additionally, the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment shown in FIG. 4 may be applied separately from the configuration of the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 2 and the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4, the second gas transfer line (410, 420) according to the present embodiment may extend from the dryer (200) to the interior of the coffer dam (30). The second gas transfer line (410, 420) may serve as a flow path for the supply gas generated in the dryer (200) to move into the interior of the coffer dam (30). High-temperature supply gas may be supplied through the second gas transfer line (410, 420). Accordingly, the second gas transfer line (410, 420) may be formed of a heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant material.

[0102] The second gas transfer line (410, 420) may include a first supply line (411, 421) and a second supply line (421, 422). The first supply line (411, 421) may extend from the dryer (200) to the lower interior of the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the supply gas transferred through the first supply line (411, 421) may be supplied to the lower interior of the cofferdam (30). The first supply line (411, 421) may serve as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer (200) is greater than the density of the gas inside the cofferdam (30).

[0103] In addition, a supply gas with a density greater than that of the internal gas can effectively replace the internal gas through the piston effect. That is, a supply gas with a relatively high density is supplied to the lower part of the coffer dam (30), so that the internal gas with a relatively low density is moved upward in the coffer dam (30) without creating a gap inside the coffer dam (30) and discharged through the gas discharge line (900). Through this, the coffer dam (30) can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer (200) even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0104] The second supply line (421, 422) can be extended from the dryer (200) to the upper interior of the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the supply gas moving through the second supply line (421, 422) can be supplied to the upper interior of the cofferdam (30). The second supply line (421, 422) can serve as a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer (200) is lower than the density of the gas inside the cofferdam (30).

[0105] In addition, a supply gas with a density lower than that of the internal gas can effectively replace the internal gas through the piston effect. That is, a supply gas with a relatively lower density is supplied to the lower part of the coffer dam (30), so that the internal gas with a relatively higher density is moved downward in the direction of the coffer dam (30) without creating a gap inside the coffer dam (30) and discharged through the gas discharge line (900). Through this, the coffer dam (30) can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer (200) even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0106] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 4, the gas discharge line (900) according to the present embodiment may extend from inside the coffer dam (30) to outside the coffer dam (30). The gas discharge line (900) may serve as a flow path for internal gas of the coffer dam (30) to move to the outside of the coffer dam (30). Low-temperature internal gas may be discharged through the gas discharge line (900). Accordingly, the gas discharge line (900) may be formed of a cold-resistant and corrosion-resistant material.

[0108] The gas discharge line (900) may include a first discharge line (910) and a second discharge line (920). The first discharge line (910) may extend from the inner lower part of the cofferdam (30) to the outside of the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the internal gas moving through the first discharge line (910) may be discharged from the inner lower part of the cofferdam (30). The first discharge line (910) may serve as a flow path for the internal gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer (200) is lower than the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam (30).

[0109] Through this, the internal gas, which has a density greater than that of the supply gas, can be effectively replaced by the piston effect. That is, the supply gas with a relatively lower density moves the internal gas with a relatively higher density toward the lower direction of the coffer dam (30) so that no gaps are created inside the coffer dam (30), thereby allowing the internal gas to be discharged through the first discharge line (910) extending from the lower interior of the coffer dam (30).

[0110] The first supply line (411, 421) and the first discharge line (910) can be integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam (30) to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam (30). That is, the first discharge line (910) can be branched from the first supply line (411, 421) at a location between the cofferdam (30) and the dryer (200) and extended outside the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the configuration of the first supply line (411, 421) and the first discharge line (910) can be simplified. Through this, it can be implemented with minimal changes from the conventional cofferdam (30) structure.

[0111] The second discharge line (920) may extend from the upper interior of the cofferdam (30) to the outside of the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the internal gas moving through the second discharge line (920) may be discharged from the upper interior of the cofferdam (30). The second discharge line (920) may serve as a passageway for the internal gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer (200) is greater than the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam (30).

[0112] Through this, the internal gas, which has a density lower than that of the supply gas, can be effectively replaced by the piston effect. That is, the supply gas with a relatively high density can move the internal gas with a relatively low density upwards within the coffer dam (30) without creating a gap, so that the internal gas can be discharged through the second discharge line (920) extending from the upper interior of the coffer dam (30).

[0113] The second supply line (421, 422) and the second discharge line (920) can be integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam (30) to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam (30). That is, the second discharge line (920) can be branched from the second supply line (421, 422) at a location between the cofferdam (30) and the dryer (200) and extended outside the cofferdam (30). Accordingly, the configuration of the second supply line (421, 422) and the second discharge line (920) can be simplified. Through this, it can be implemented with minimal changes from the conventional cofferdam (30) structure.

[0114] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 4, the opening / closing valve (700) according to the present embodiment may be provided in the second gas transfer line (410, 420) and the gas discharge line (900), respectively. By opening and closing the opening / closing valve (700), the supply of supply gas through the second gas transfer line (410, 420) and the discharge of internal gas through the gas discharge line (900) may be connected or blocked. The opening / closing valve (700) may include a first valve (710), a second valve (720), a third valve (730), a fourth valve (740), and a fifth valve (750).

[0116] The first valve (710) may be provided between the first supply line (411, 421) and the location where the dryer (200) and the first discharge line (910) are connected. The first valve (710) can open and close the first supply line (411, 421). Accordingly, the first valve (710) can open and close the movement of the supply gas through the first supply line (411, 421) by comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas.

[0117] The second valve (720) may be provided between the second supply line (421, 422) and the location where the dryer (200) and the second discharge line (920) are connected. The second valve (720) can open and close the second supply line (421, 422). Accordingly, the second valve (720) can open and close the movement of the supply gas through the second supply line (421, 422) by comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas.

[0118] A third valve (730) may be provided in the first discharge line (910). The third valve (730) can open and close the first discharge line (910). Accordingly, the third valve (730) can open and close the movement of the internal gas through the first discharge line (910) by comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas.

[0119] A fourth valve (740) may be provided in the second discharge line (920). The fourth valve (740) can open and close the second discharge line (920). Accordingly, the fourth valve (740) can open and close the movement of the internal gas through the second discharge line (920) by comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas.

[0120] The fifth valve (750) may be provided in a line (not shown) extending from the dryer (200) into the interior of the storage tank (96) through the liquid dome (97) of the storage tank (96). The fifth valve (750) can open and close the supply gas moving from the dryer (200) into the interior of the storage tank (96).

[0121] Through this, even if the density of the gas supplied from the dryer (200) fluctuates, the copper dam (30) can be heated using it.

[0122] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 4, the gas measuring device (800) according to the present embodiment can be connected to the coffer dam (30). The gas measuring device (800) can measure the pressure, temperature, and humidity of the internal gas of the coffer dam (30). Through this, the IAS (Integration Automation System, 95), which receives the data measured by the gas measuring device (800), can calculate the density of the internal gas inside the coffer dam (30) and compare it with the density of the supply gas supplied from the dryer (200).

[0124] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 4, the supply gas measuring device (840) according to the present embodiment may be provided in the second gas transfer line (410, 420). The supply gas measuring device (840) may be provided between the dryer (200) and the opening / closing valve (700). The supply gas measuring device (840) can measure the density of the supply gas supplied from the dryer (200) and transferred through the second gas transfer line (410, 420). Through this, the IAS (95), which receives the data measured by the supply gas measuring device (840), can compare the density of the internal gas inside the cofferdam (30) with the density of the supply gas supplied from the dryer (200). In addition, a response to fluctuations in the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam (30) can be made automatically.

[0126] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0127] The operating effect of the cofferdam heating system (10) according to another embodiment is as follows.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 4, in the cofferdam heating system (10) according to the present embodiment, when the density of the supply gas supplied from the dryer (200) is greater than the density of the internal gas inside the cofferdam (30), the second supply line (421, 422) can be closed by the second valve (720) in the IAS (95) and the first discharge line (910) can be closed by the third valve (730). Accordingly, the supply gas can be supplied to the lower interior of the cofferdam (30) through the first supply line (411, 421) and the internal gas can be discharged from the upper interior of the cofferdam (30) through the second discharge line (920).

[0129] Additionally, if the density of the supply gas supplied from the dryer (200) is less than the density of the internal gas inside the cofferdam (30), the first supply line (411, 421) can be closed by the first valve (710) in the IAS (95) and the second discharge line (920) can be closed by the fourth valve (740). Accordingly, the supply gas can be supplied to the upper interior of the cofferdam (30) through the second supply line (421, 422), and the internal gas can be discharged from the lower interior of the cofferdam (30) through the first discharge line (910).

[0130] Through this, the internal gas inside the coffer dam (30) is replaced by the high-temperature supply gas by the piston effect, so that the interior of the coffer dam (30) can be heated.

[0131] The present invention is not limited to what is shown or described above. What is shown or described above is merely an example.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 4, the gas distribution step according to the present embodiment may include a supply gas density measurement process, an internal gas state measurement process, a density comparison process, a supply gas supply process, and an internal gas discharge process.

[0133] The supply gas density measurement process may be a process for measuring the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer (200).

[0134] The internal gas state measurement process may be a process for measuring the pressure, temperature, and humidity of the internal gas inside the coffer dam (30).

[0135] The density comparison process may be a process that compares the density of the supply gas and the density of the internal gas in IAS (95).

[0136] The supply gas supply process may be a process of moving the gas generated in the dryer (200) into the interior of the coffer dam (30) through the second gas transfer line (410, 420).

[0137] The supply gas supply process may be characterized in that when the density of the supply gas is greater than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas can be moved into the interior of the coffer dam (30) through the first supply line (411, 421) which extends to the lower interior of the coffer dam (30) among the second gas transfer lines (410, 420). Additionally, when the density of the supply gas is less than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas can be moved into the interior of the coffer dam (30) through the second supply line (421, 422) which extends to the upper interior of the coffer dam (30) among the second gas transfer lines (410, 420). Through this, the coffer dam (30) can be heated using the gas supplied from the dryer (200) even if the density of the gas fluctuates.

[0138] The internal gas discharge process may be a process of discharging internal gas from inside the coffer dam (30) to the outside of the coffer dam (30) through a gas discharge line (900).

[0139] Through this, the coffer dam (30) can be heated without the installation of equipment such as a pump, heater, and heating coil.

[0140] As such, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments and can be modified and varied in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, such modified or varied embodiments should be deemed to fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A compressor installed on a ship; A dryer installed between the above compressor and the cofferdam; A first gas transfer line extending from the compressor to the dryer and serving as a flow path for the gas compressed in the compressor to move to the dryer; A second gas transfer line extending from the above dryer to the interior of the cofferdam, serving as a flow path for the gas dried in the above dryer to move into the interior of the cofferdam; A third gas transfer line extending from the compressor to the injector and serving as a flow path for the gas compressed in the compressor to move to the injector; and A device comprising an opening / closing valve provided in each of the first gas transfer line, the second gas transfer line, or the third gas transfer line. Cofferdam heating system.

2. In Claim 1, The above compressor is, A compressor for heating a copper dam connected to the dryer through the first gas transfer line; and A compressor for reducing friction resistance connected to an injector through the third gas transfer line, Cofferdam heating system.

3. In Claim 1, The above dryer is, A main dryer connected to the first gas transfer line and the second gas transfer line, respectively; and Auxiliary dryers connected to the first gas transfer line and the second gas transfer line, respectively, and operating simultaneously with the main dryer or separately from the main dryer. Cofferdam heating system.

4. In Claim 1, A fourth gas transfer line further comprising connecting the first gas transfer line and the third gas transfer line to each other. Cofferdam heating system.

5. In Claim 1, It further includes a thermometer equipped in the cofferdam to detect the temperature inside the cofferdam, and If the temperature of the above thermometer is above a preset temperature range, the opening and closing valve provided in the above third gas transfer line is closed, and If the temperature of the above thermometer is below a preset temperature range, the opening / closing valve provided in the above third gas transfer line is opened. Cofferdam heating system.

6. In Claim 1, It further includes a gas discharge line that extends from the interior of the cofferdam to the exterior of the cofferdam and serves as a flow path for the internal gas of the cofferdam to move to the exterior of the cofferdam. The above second gas transfer line is, A first supply line extending from the above dryer to the inner lower part of the above cofferdam; and It includes a second supply line extending from the above dryer to the upper interior of the above cofferdam, The above gas exhaust line is, A first discharge line extending from the inner lower part of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam; and A second discharge line extending from the inner lower part of the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam, Cofferdam heating system.

7. In Claim 6, The first supply line above becomes a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is greater than the density of the gas inside the cofferdam, and The second supply line is characterized by becoming a flow path for the supply gas when the density of the supply gas generated in the dryer is lower than the density of the internal gas of the cofferdam. Cofferdam heating system.

8. In Claim 6, The first supply line and the first discharge line are integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam, and The second supply line and the second discharge line are characterized by being integrated and extended from inside the cofferdam to a predetermined distance outside the cofferdam. Cofferdam heating system.

9. In Claim 6, The above-mentioned shut-off valve is, A first valve provided between the position where the dryer and the first discharge line are connected in the first supply line and for opening and closing the first supply line; A second valve provided between the position where the dryer and the second discharge line are connected in the second supply line and for opening and closing the second supply line; A third valve provided in the first discharge line to open and close the first discharge line; and A fourth valve provided in the second discharge line to open and close the second discharge line, Cofferdam heating system.

10. Heating the interior of the cofferdam with gas compressed in a compressor, Cofferdam heating method.

11. In Claim 10, A gas compression step of compressing the gas in the above compressor; A gas drying step for drying the compressed gas in a dryer; and A gas distribution step comprising distributing dried gas into the interiors of multiple cofferdams, Cofferdam heating method.

12. In Claim 11, In the above gas distribution step, Gas is moved to cofferdams where the internal temperature is below a preset temperature, and Gas movement is blocked in cofferdams where the internal temperature is above a preset temperature, Cofferdam heating method.

13. In Claim 11, The above gas distribution step is, A supply gas density measurement process for measuring the density of the supply gas generated in the above dryer; A gas state measurement process for measuring the pressure, temperature, and humidity of the internal gas inside a cofferdam; Density comparison process for comparing the density of the supply gas with the density of the internal gas; A supply gas supply process for moving the gas generated in the above dryer into the interior of the above coffer dam through a second gas transfer line; and A process including an internal gas discharge process for discharging internal gas inside the cofferdam to the outside of the cofferdam through a gas discharge line, Cofferdam heating method.

14. In Claim 13, The above supply gas supply process is, When the density of the supply gas is greater than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas is moved into the interior of the cofferdam through the first supply line extending to the lower interior of the cofferdam among the second gas transfer lines, and Characterized that when the density of the supply gas is less than the density of the internal gas, the supply gas is moved into the interior of the cofferdam through a second supply line that extends to the upper interior of the cofferdam among the second gas transfer lines. Cofferdam heating method.

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