Pressure vessels, systems and apparatus

Abstract

Pressure vessel systems and apparatus for holding and containing fluids and their flow therethrough, the vessel heads being configured to assemble and disassemble to a containment structure, such as a vessel body, pipe or other component. The apparatus include vessel heads that are designed to handle pressures from contents of the vessel to which the vessel head assembles. Vessel heads are supported with one or more supporting structures, which include support members, and in some embodiments include overmolded structures that are provided on the vessel head body or wall portions. The vessel heads may include a plugged end, or may have an opening serving as an inlet and / or outlet, or may include a capping structure.

Description

Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT PRESSURE VESSELS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSBACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE1. Field of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of vessels that are used to contain fluids, such as for example water, wastewater, chemicals, foods, and other substances, and in particular where pressures from the fluids contained within or passing into or through the vessel exert pressure on the vessel. The disclosure relates to vessels and components for vessels and provides vessel heads that may be removably assembled and disassembled from one or more other components to form a containment structure, such as a tank or vessel.2, Brief Description of the Related Art

[0002] Pressure vessels may be used in a variety of industrial and other applications, including in the oil and gas industry, chemical processing industries, water and wastewater treatment, the food and beverage industry, and aerospace. For example, in the oil and gas industry, pressure vessels often find use as storage tanks, separation tanks, reactors and distillation columns. In the chemical processing industries, pressure vessels may serve as reaction vessels, mixing tanks, storage tanks for hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals. In the power generation industry, pressure vessels may be configured for boilers, steam generators, and for compressed air energy storage. Water treatment systems often use vessels for filtration systems, as well as pressure tanks for water distribution, and storage of chemicals for water treatment, sanitization or other processes. The food and beverage industry utilizes vessels for pasteurization tanks as well as carbonation vessels. Another use of pressure vessels is for fuel storage in aerospace and land vehicles.

[0003] Some vessels may be used as atmospheric vessels, where the pressure in the vessel matches or is very close to the ambient pressure of the environment outside the vessel. Typically, a pressure vessel is a container designed to handle fluids within the vessel that are at higher or lower pressures than the ambient pressure, and more likely the pressures are substantially higher or lower. The pressure vessel therefore must be suitable for encountering these pressures and the pressure differential, which require the vessel to be stronger than a vessel where the contents is not under pressure (higher) or at a lower pressure than the ambient pressure. The pressure vessels therefore are constructed using materials such as steel or aluminum, and are often heavy due to the strength requirements.

[0004] In some industries, steel or stainless steel vessels are used, in which the vessel is configured as a tank with a steel body that is typically cylindrical in shape, and with a steel head at one or both ends thereof. Steel vessels may be constructed from stainless steel, or may be constructed from a steel and then coated with an anti-corrosion or other substance that protects the inner steel surface from potential reaction or degradation (usually rust or oxidation) with the fluids that the vessel is to handle or contain.

[0005] A need exists for systems and devices that can withstand the pressures of fluid contents, and which are easier to maneuver and transport and provide versatility for configuring the vessel for the designated use.SUMMARYAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0006] The embodiments disclosed provide systems and apparatus configured or configurable as pressure vessels that are designed to handle fluids, such as liquids, therein. The embodiments also provide components, such as for example, vessel heads or tank heads that can be assembled or installed on a structure, such as a vessel body, tank body or pipe to provide an enclosure that contains contents, such as a fluid, within a structure, and which allows the structure to handle pressure (from fluid conditions, e.g., expansion, contraction, motion and / or evacuation). The inventive apparatus, such as the vessel heads and configured vessels, may be used for storage of fluids, or may be placed inline as a filter where fluids travel through the vessel interior and are subject to a treatment process. For example, according to some implementations and applications, the vessels may contain a media therein, or mixed media components, that filter substances, such as contaminants, from the fluid. In some configurations the vessels may include an inlet and an outlet, where the inlet provides the fluids to the media contained within the vessel, and the outlet provides an exit for treated (filtered) fluid to exit the vessel.

[0007] According to some other uses, the inventive vessel heads and structures such as vessels and containments, may hold fluids such as chemicals therein. For example, in water and wastewater processing facilities, there are often liquid chemicals kept on hand for usage, such as sodium hypochlorite, which can be stored in the vessels.

[0008] The vessel heads and vessels of the embodiments may be configured where the vessel body has a structure that is cylindrical shaped or another shape. According to an exemplary embodiment, a vessel configuration has a head at each end, with the body between the heads. Some configurations of vessels may have a closed end at one end of the vessel body and the head at the other end with an inlet, outlet or combination inlet / outlet. The closed end of the vessel may include a sealed head according to embodiments, where the head is designed to handle pressure and provide a closed end at a vessel end. According to another implementation, the inventive vessel heads may be employed as a pipe cap, and may install on an end of a pipe. The inventive vessel heads may be used on each end of a vessel body to produce a vessel, or alternatively, one vessel head may be used, and the vessel body may use a different type of end, which may be a removably connectable end, or a permanently attached end. The vessel heads of the disclosure and embodiments may be used with vessel body portions where one end of the vessel has a flat end, or other shaped end, such as hemispherical, elliptical, conical or torispherical. According to some embodiments the inventive vessel heads may be configured as a flat vessel head, and a flat vessel head may be assembled to a structure such as for example, a vessel body or pipe end. One or more vessel heads may be attached to a structure, and the vessel heads preferably may be provided in matched pairs, or alternatively, the vessel heads may be different, such as for example a flat head at one end, and a hemi-spherical head at another end.

[0009] According to preferred embodiments, the vessel head is attachable to and detachable from the body. The vessel head may be a curved or arcuate configuration, such as for example, hemispherical, elliptical, conical or torispherical. The head preferably is constructed from a polymer or polymer blend. Some examples of materials from which the vessel heads may be constructed, include plastic materials, with some preferred embodiments being constructed from polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl), high-densityAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT polyethylene (HDPE) or fiber reinforced HDPE, which are thermoplastic polymers that are strong, durable, and resistant to chemicals, moisture, and bacteria. The fiber in the reinforced HDPE may comprise a suitable fiber, with preferred embodiments comprising glass fiber (e.g., glass filled HDPE, glass fiber reinforced PVC) and / or carbon fiber. According to some preferred embodiments, a pressure vessel may utilize the HDPE or fiber reinforced HDPE as a vessel head composition, for all or portions of the vessel head. The disclosure and embodiments provide a novel pressure vessel head that may be installed on or configured for use with a vessel body. The vessel body may be constructed from the same material or materials as the head, or can be constructed from a different material. For example, the pressure vessel head may be attached to a vessel body that is made of steel, or one that is made of plastic, such as for example, HDPE.

[0010] The pressure vessel head is designed to seal to a pressure vessel body or pipe. According to some embodiments the vessel head may be configured with an opening therein that allows passage of fluid into the head or out from the head, or both. The pressure vessel head preferably has a space enclosed by the head, and when the head is installed on a body portion to form a vessel, then the head space communicates with the vessel body space. The pressure vessels may be used for a number of applications, including for filtration, where a filtration medium or media is contained therein.

[0011] The specially designed pressure vessel head may be installed on each end of a pressure vessel body, so for example, two of the pressure vessel heads are used, and each installed on an end of the pressure vessel body. The pressure vessel body includes a hollow space therein, which may be filled with or contain a media or other internal structuring or mechanism. The pressure vessel head installs on the body end. A suitable connection mechanism, such as a flange, collar, clamp and / or bolts may be used to attach the head to the vessel body.

[0012] The vessel head according to preferred embodiments is constructed from a plastic material. Some preferred embodiments are made from HDPE, which includes HDPE compositions, such as fiber reinforced HDPE. The vessel head preferably has a supporting structure that surrounds the exterior of the head. According to some preferred embodiments, the vessel structure may comprise a plurality of ribs disposed on or about the exterior of the head. The head has a wall that includes an interior surface that encloses the head interior space. The supporting structure preferably is provided on the exterior surface of the head wall. The supporting structure according to a preferred configuration has an upper hub and a lower hub, which may comprise flanges. The plurality of supports, such as ribs, preferably span between the upper and lower hub.

[0013] According to some preferred embodiments, the supporting structure may comprise a plurality of supports that can be installed to provide additional strength to the head wall. The supporting structure also is designed to support the connection that the head makes with the vessel body.

[0014] The head is configured to minimize or eliminate the viscoelastic effect. The head is designed to counter the viscoelastic forces and prevent or minimize the deformation that would otherwise result in the vessel connections between the head and vessel body to become compromised and potentially leak. When a material is subject to a viscoelastic effect, this means that the material deforms over time, and loses energyAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT when a force is applied. The force is required to secure the head to the vessel body. The material such as the HDPE, PVC or other plastic exhibits both elastic and viscous properties when it is deformed, and therefore upon the loss of energy may stay in a deformed condition overtime. The novel head construction is designed to allow the head to be secured to the vessel body, while at the same time prevent or minimize the tendency for the head and / or vessel body to deform and cause leakage.

[0015] The vessels of the embodiments are provided to handle pressures, and can be configured to support a range of pressures. According to some embodiments an arrangement of ribs is provided to span along the wall of the head. Some embodiments provide a further configuration where the ribs are connected with a connecting structure that provides additional support. The support structure does not interfere with the operations of the pressure vessel, and the vessel is able to be used for purposes for which a pressure vessel can be used. The plastic or HDPE material, as in the preferred embodiments, provides improvements and / or benefits over steel type structures, by being lighter in weight, and less susceptible to bacteria and other microbial growth. The vessel and head assembly and disassembly capability allows access to the vessel body and ready capability to change out or clean filter media or other interior mechanism residing within the vessel interior space.

[0016] The vessel or tank heads of the embodiments disclosed preferably are constructed by a suitable method, among which may include molding (e.g., injection molding), fabrication where parts forming the head are produced and assembled together by welding, adhesive, pressure, or other suitable process. In some implementations, some portions of the tank or vessel head may be molded and other components may be attached using another method. For example, according to some embodiments, the vessel head may be formed from a molded body portion, and supporting structures may be attached to the molded head portion using adhesive, bolts, welds or other connection methods.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the supporting structure may be attached to the head wall structure using a suitable adhesive. The head wall preferably is made from a polymer, and in some of the preferred embodiments, HDPE, or PVC. Therefore, the supporting structure may be attached to the head portions, such as the head wall exterior using a suitable adhesive that will adhere the supporting structure to the wall. In some instances, the supporting structure may be constructed from a material other than HDPE. In these instances, the adhesive bonding material requires compatibility to adhere the head wall (its composition), and the supporting structure (its composition). According to some embodiments, alternatively, or in addition to adhesive, fasteners may be used to secure the support structure to the head. In some embodiments, the head may include web or attachment structures provided for the supporting structure to secure to. The securing structure may comprise a plurality of supports that can be connected to each other to provide further support.

[0018] The vessel or tank heads shown and described herein, in addition to their use as a vessel or tank head to serve as one or both ends of a vessel or tank body, alternatively, may be employed as a pipe end cap. The inventive apparatus are designed to provide appropriate cover to a tank or vessel, or pipe, and are designed also to hold pressure. Embodiments of the inventive vessel heads preferably include a reinforcing supporting structure that facilitates maintenance of the connection between the head, and any structure toAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT which it may be attached, such as a tank or vessel body, or a pipe. The susceptibility to potential deformation of the joining areas between the vessel head and structure to which it is attached, is eliminated, or minimized so as to not deleteriously effect the seal and pressure-holding capabilities of the inventive vessel assemblies, such as where the vessel head and vessel body connecting portions are made from a polymer.

[0019] The inventive vessel heads and vessel assemblies provided, are an economical solution that allows configurable vessels to be assembled in a desired variety of volume capacities. The vessel heads and assemblies may be made lighter in weight than traditional vessels, and provide pressure-holding strength, and resistance to leakage, as well as inertness and resistance to attractants, such as bio-films, corrosion and other potential contaminants that are present in some fluids that the vessel heads and assemblies process or handle.

[0020] The vessel heads and vessel systems may be readily deployable in the capacity needed, and whose capacity can be modified, adjusted, readjusted, recharged with contents such as filter media. One or more vessel heads may be configured with associated vessel body portions to form a tank or vessel. The vessel heads and vessel systems are configurable and can be assembled using the vessel heads of the disclosure as standardized top and bottom portions for a vessel or tank. The vessel body may have varied vessel body lengths or height which provide selectability when combined and assembled with the vessel heads to provide a suitable volume and / or flow or storage capacity properties for the anticipated contents to be handled by the assembled vessel.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0021] Fig. 1A is an isometric view of a vessel head apparatus according to an embodiment, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0022] Fig. IB is top plan view of the vessel head apparatus of Fig. 1A.

[0023] Fig. 1C is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 1A.

[0024] Fig. ID is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 1A, taken along the section line ID — ID of Fig.1C.

[0025] Fig. 2A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a support for a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the left and looking from above.

[0026] Fig. 2B is left side elevation view of the support shown in Fig. 2A.

[0027] Fig. 2C is front elevation view of the support shown in Fig. 2A.

[0028] Fig. 2D is sectional view of the support shown in Fig. 2A, taken along the section line 2D — 2D of Fig. 2C.

[0029] Fig. 3 A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a support for a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the left and looking from above.

[0030] Fig. 3B is left side elevation view of the support shown in Fig. 3A.

[0031] Fig. 3C is front elevation view of the support shown in Fig. 3A.

[0032] Fig. 3D is sectional view of the support shown in Fig. 3A, taken along the section line 3D — 3D of Fig. 3C.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0033] Fig. 3E is a partial exploded view looking from the left of the support shown in Fig. 3A.

[0034] Fig. 3F is an exploded assembly view of the support shown in Fig. 3A.

[0035] Fig. 4A is an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0036] Fig. 4B is top plan view of the vessel head apparatus of Fig. 4A.

[0037] Fig. 4C is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 4A.

[0038] Fig. 4D is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 4A, taken along the section line 4D — 4D of Fig.4C.

[0039] Fig. 5 A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0040] Fig. 5B is top plan view of the vessel head apparatus of Fig. 5A.

[0041] Fig. 5C is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 5A.

[0042] Fig. 5D is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 5A, taken along the section line 5D — 5D of Fig.5C.

[0043] Fig. 6A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0044] Fig. 6B is top plan view of the vessel head apparatus of Fig. 6A.

[0045] Fig. 6C is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 6A.

[0046] Fig. 6D is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 6A, taken along the section line 6D — 6D of Fig.6C.

[0047] Fig. 7A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus, and shown with the support member.

[0048] Fig. 7B is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 7A.

[0049] Fig. 7C is a is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 7A, taken along the section line 7C— 7C of Fig. 7B.

[0050] Fig. 7D is an isometric view of the vessel head shown separate, with the support member removed, as viewed from the front and looking from above.

[0051] Fig. 7E is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 7D.

[0052] Fig. 7F is an isometric view of the vessel head support member shown separate from the vessel head body, as viewed from the front and looking from above.

[0053] Fig. 7G is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 7F.

[0054] Fig. 8 A is front elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus.

[0055] Fig. 8B is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 8A taken along the section line 8B — 8B of Fig.8A.

[0056] Fig. 9A is a front elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus.

[0057] Fig. 9B is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 9A taken along the section line 9B — 9B of Fig.9A.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0058] Fig. 10A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0059] Fig. 10B is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 10A.

[0060] Fig. 10C is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 10A, taken along the section line 10C — 10C of Fig. 10B.

[0061] Fig. 10A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a support for a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the left and looking from above.

[0062] Fig. 10B is front elevation view of the support shown in Fig. 10A.

[0063] Fig. 10C is sectional view of the support shown in Fig. 10A, taken along the section line 10C — 10C of Fig. 10B.

[0064] Fig. 11A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above the apparatus.

[0065] Fig. 1 IB is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 11A.

[0066] Fig. 12A is an isometric view of an embodiment of a support for a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the right and looking from above.

[0067] Fig. 12B is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 12A.

[0068] Fig. 12C is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 12A, taken along the section line 12C — 12C of Fig. 12B.

[0069] Fig. 13A is a front elevation view showing the a pair of vessel heads of Figs. 11A-1 IB, assembled together with a vessel body to form a vessel, and shown on an optional support.

[0070] Fig. 13B is an isometric view of the vessel embodiment of Fig. 13A, shown rotated to the left about 90 degrees.

[0071] Fig. 14 is a side elevation view of a pipe section showing an alternate implementation of the head of Figs. 11A-1 IB installed on a pipe as an end cap.

[0072] Fig. 15A is an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus, as viewed from the front and looking from above.

[0073] Fig. 15B is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 15A.

[0074] Fig. 15C is a sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 15A, taken along the section line 15C — 15C ofFig. 15B.

[0075] Fig. 16A is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a vessel head apparatus shown connected to a vessel body, the vessel body being shown in part.

[0076] Fig. 16B is an isometric view of the vessel head and body ofFig. 16A, as viewed looking from the left and above.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] The embodiments provide systems and apparatus that include vessels, and in particular vessel components, such as vessel heads that can be configured with and assembled together with other portions of a vessel to provide a desired volume, length or flow path, and / or diameters. According to preferred embodiments, vessel apparatus comprise vessel heads for a tank comprised of a vessel body. According to some embodiments, a head is provided at each end of the vessel body, and other embodiments may configure and provide a head for attachment or assembly to a vessel body that has a closed end, or a different head at one end. The vessel body may comprise a hollow structure with a space therein for storing, flowing, or handling fluids, and may accommodate filter media therein for fluid treatment. Vessel apparatus may be referred to as pressure vessels, and some vessel apparatus may be referred to as cartridge tanks. Some vessels of the disclosure comprise a modular tank or vessel design that allow for a tank or vessel in the system to be quickly swapped in order to replaced that portion of the system’s media. The vessel or tank may be referred to as a pressure vessel, as the vessels or tanks are designed to hold pressure. The system preferably comprises one or more heads that are designed to be assembled to a body portion, such as a vessel body. Although embodiments are shown configured having a cylindrical configurations enclosing a cylindrical space, other shapes and configurations may be provided. The vessel heads may comprise a configuration or shape, such as hemi-spherical, elliptical, conical, torispherical or other shape. In some instanced, the vessel head may comprise an inlet or outlet, and may be fitted with, or adaptable to provide a connection to a pipe, hose or other conduit to communicate with the head space and vessel space.

[0078] The vessel apparatus may be used for a variety of applications, including storage of fluids therein, for filtration of fluids (such as water and wastewater filtration), food or beverage storage, chemical and / or pharmaceutical storage, as well as substances, such as cleaners for water and waste water treatment or filtration systems. According to some embodiments, the vessel head may be connected to and employed for use with a vessel that is configured to provide treatment via filter media, for a fluid source, such as for example, water and / or wastewater, where the vessel contains filter media and may contain one or more media supports, screens, flow straighteners, or other flow manipulation elements.

[0079] The vessel heads and associated connecting structures, such as a vessel body, provide the capability to transport the vessel in an assembled or unassembled condition to a location for use. For example, when the vessels are used for filtration, the entire vessel with media inside may be removed or taken transported to a more convenient location for the media replacement. Typically, a vessel service location would either be off-site or in a mobile servicing unit. Traditional vessels, permanently installed on-site, require the media to be pumped out of the vessels. This operation requires bringing in many types of equipment such as freight trucks for media, vac trucks for media pumping, cranes, etc. The other issue with on-site media replacement is that commissioning the newly replaced media requires backwashing with significant volumes of water that often cannot be drained to a sanitary sewer connection which requires storing the backwash water in temporary tanks on-site. Even when temporary tanks are not required, the backwashing operation to commission new media is a time-intensive process. The configurable vessels of the disclosure allow for these pressure vessels to be pre-backwashed and prepared to enter service in a convenient locationAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT which circumvents the logistical issues described for the on-site, traditional vessels. According to some embodiments, the vessels may be configured with the inventive vessel heads to comprise a cartridge tank, allowing the cartridge tank to be serviced on site or removed for servicing at a remote location.

[0080] The vessel head and body may be constructed from suitable materials, such as for example, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, plastic or combinations thereof. According to some preferred embodiments, the vessel head and vessel body are preferably are constructed from a plastic material. A variety of polymers may be used to construct the vessel heads and vessels formed thereby. According to some embodiment, one preferred material is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and some other preferred materials include fiber filled HDPE. According to a preferred embodiment the fiber filled HDPE material may comprise a fiber glass filled HDPE (although other fibers, such as, for example, carbon fiber, may be used). Other polymers, such as for example, nylon also may be used to produce the inventive vessel heads and vessels. The vessel head and / or vessel body materials preferably are constructed from a material the is compatible with the intended usage of the vessel assembly, such as materials that do not react with the expected fluid substances that are to be contained in or otherwise come in contact with the vessel and vessel heads. According to some implementations and embodiments, HDPE and fiberglass filled HDPE (e.g., glass filled HDPE) are some preferred materials, as they do not require costly or degradable coatings that steel or other compositions may necessitate. During the use and / or maintenance operations, particularly where an abrasive component contacts the interior of the vessel walls, such as filter media or other substances, the coating may abrade from the metal composed vessel surfaces, and then can lead to rust or other consequence of direct contact with the metal wall composition.

[0081] The design of the vessel system and apparatus, including the vessel heads, may be configured to have the following attributes:

[0082] The vessels themselves are of a modular design which may comprise an assembly of parts with the vessel head or heads being connectable and disconnectable from a vessel body. The assembly can be altered to best suit the needs of the site-specific design characteristics depending on the nature of the fluid to be stored therein, or the fluid filtration that is to be carried out using the vessel, all while retaining the systemlevel modularity. The assembly of various parts, such as the vessel head and vessel body also allows for inventory control and economies of scale because common parts can be employed across vessels destined for different sites. Therefore, costs are again minimized without sacrificing design flexibility or necessitating a standard vessel size for numerous applications or site locations.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the vessel head may be configured with a connector or assembly at an end thereof that can connect to mounting appurtenances such as valves and fittings, hoses, pipes, and other conduits to provide for inflow and / or outflow through the vessel head (e.g., into or out of the vessel). The vessel heads may be assembled to another component, such as, for example, a vessel body by direct threading, bolting, grooved fittings, or welding with the appropriate seals such as o-rings or gaskets depending on the joint type. Some exemplary embodiments of the system and apparatus, including the vessel heads and configurable vessels, are discussed below and described in connection with the accompanying figures.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0084] Referring to Figs. 1A - ID, an apparatus shown comprising an exemplary embodiment of vessel head 110. The vessel head 110 is shown from slightly above in the view of Fig. 1A, and includes a head body 111 comprised of a wall 112 that encloses an interior space or head space 113. The wall 112 is shown with an interior or first surface 112a (Fig. ID), and an exterior or second surface 112b. On the embodiment illustrated the vessel head 110 is configured with a first or lower flange 114 that provides a first structure for connection to another vessel component, such as for example, a vessel body (see, as an example, Figs.13 A- 13B), and a second or upper flange 115 that provides a second structure for connection to a component, such as for example, a valve, hose, pipe, flowmeter, control, or other element. The use of references to lower and upper for the respective flanges 114, 115, are relative to the position of the head 110 shown in Figs. 1A - ID, while for example where the head 110 is installed at the bottom or lower end of a vessel body, then the orientation of the head 110 would be inverted from how it is shown in Figs. 1A - ID. The second flange 115 is shown connected to a channel wall 116. The channel wall 116 defines a channel 117 leading to and communicating with the interior space 113. The interior space end opposite the channel end is open, and may communicate with a structure to which the head 110 is attached, such as for example, a vessel or tank body, or pipe. In the embodiment depicted, the body 111 is shown comprised of a wall 112 which may be constructed or formed to include the lower flange 114, upper flange 115 and channel wall 116. The upper flange 115 is shown with a suitable connection element, which in the embodiment depicted, is shown for example, comprising a plurality of apertures 120 therein. The head body 111 may be formed or molded as a single structure, e.g., via injection molding, or alternatively, may be formed from separate components that are connected together e.g., being welded or adhered together, or connected together using another suitable attachment technique. In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the vessel head 110 is shown configured as a hemi-spherical shaped head, with a hemi-spherical interior space 113 therein defined by the wall 112, and wall interior 112a. The vessel head 110 is designed to connect to a containment structure, such as for example, a vessel body or tank (at one or both ends thereof), a pipe, or other structure that is designed to hold substances, such as fluids, liquids or viscous materials therein. Embodiments of the vessel heads shown and described herein provide alternatives for the vessel head, and also may be used in a similar manner. Some illustrative examples are depicted with the vessel head used to form a vessel assembly, and / or a pipe end cap.

[0085] According to preferred embodiments, the vessel head 110 is provided with a support structure. The support structure 118 supports the head wall 111. According to an exemplary embodiment, the support structure 118 is shown comprising a plurality of supporting members 121 which comprise support ribs 122, 123, which in the embodiment illustrated are shown disposed between the upper flange 115 and lower flange 114. A first or lower rib support 124 and second or upper rib support 125 are provided at each end of the ribs 122, 123 and are adjacent to the respective upper flange 115 and lower flange 114. The first or lower rib support 124 is shown having apertures 124a which align with apertures 114a of the lower flange 114 (Fig. 1A). The support structure 118 preferably distributes a plurality of the supports, such as the support ribs 122, 123 around the circumference or periphery of the hemi-spherical wall 112. According to preferred embodiments, the support ribs 122, 123 have edges 122a, 123a that are close to and preferablyAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT engage the exterior surface 112b of the wall 112. The upper rib support 125 is shown having apertures 125a which preferably align with the apertures 120 of the upper flange 115. The lower rib support 124 is shown having apertures 124a which preferably align with the apertures 114a of the lower flange 114. A supporting wall 126 is shown connecting to the upper rib support 125, and also preferably connects the ribs 122, 123. In the embodiment depicted, the supporting wall is shaped to support the channel wall 116.

[0086] A plurality of supporting members 121 are shown provided around the vessel head body 111, and preferably are disposed about the wall 112. In the embodiment illustrated, the support members 121 comprise a pair of ribs 122, 123, a lower rib support 124, and upper rib support 125, and a connecting wall 126. The ribs 122, 123, in the embodiment illustrated, are spaced apart from each other and define a space 127 therebetween. Referring to Figs. 2A - 2D, there is an exemplary embodiment of a supporting member 121 shown separate from the head body 111. The supporting members according to alternate embodiments may be formed with the head wall 112 and / or head body 111. In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the supporting members 121 are installed on the head body 111 as separate components. The ribs 122, 123 preferably are spaced apart at an angle 130, corresponding with the spherical circumference, and preferably are circumferentially spaced along their span, and converge as the spherical circumferential dimension of the wall 112 decreases (from bottom to top, in the orientation depicted). The connecting wall 126 preferably corresponds with the profde of the channel wall 116, and is shown in the exemplary embodiment being curved (see e.g., Fig. 2A). The lower rib support 124 preferably corresponds with the profde of the head wall 112, and the lower rib support 124 shown having a curved profde 124b which corresponds with the lower area of the outer wall surface 112b (see e.g., Figs. 1A and 2A). The supporting members 121 preferably may be disposed about the wall 112 to support the vessel head 110. In the embodiment depicted, there are a plurality of supporting members 121, and each is contiguous with another adjacent supporting member 121. According to some alternate embodiments, the supporting members 121 may be provided in arrangements and numbers that are lesser than the number shown. In the exemplary embodiment, there are eight supporting members 121, each disposed adjacent another, and their ribs 122, 123 being close to or engaging an adjacent rib of an adjacent supporting member 121. The supporting members 121 may be formed as a single unit or structure, or may be assembled from separate elements, such as the ribs 122, 123 which may be connected by welding, gluing or adhering, to the respective lower and upper rib supports 124, 125, and connecting wall 126. According to some preferred embodiments, the outer edge 124c of the lower rib support 124, is curved to match the profile of the lower flange 114, but according to some alternate embodiments, may be less than or greater than the radial portion of the flange, or flange ring radius. According to some embodiments, adjacent supporting members such as those supporting members 121 may be connected together, including via connection of adjacent ribs of two adjacent supporting members. The adjacent ribs may be connected together using an attachment mechanism or technique, which according to some exemplary embodiments shown and described herein may include adhesive, welding, and / or fasteners. Supporting members 221 similarly may be connected together.

[0087] According to an alternate embodiment, a supporting member 121 may be constructed with a wall portion that connects the adjacent ribs 122, 123. As shown in Figs. 3A-3D, the supporting member 221 isAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT shown, and is configured similar to the supporting member 121, including comprise a pair of ribs 222, 223, a lower rib support 224, and upper rib support 225, and a connecting wall 226. However, the ribs 222, 223 are connected by a rib connector, which is shown comprising a wall portion 231. The rib connector 231 in the exemplary embodiment illustrated, is shown connecting at the edges 222a, 223a of the ribs 222, 223. The rib connector 231 also connects with the lower rib support 224 and upper rib support 225, and preferably at the lower rib support inner edge 224b, and the connecting wall 226. The rib connector 231 is depicted as a solid wall, but according to alternate embodiments, may comprise wall portions or segments. Preferably the rib connector 231 has a profile that corresponds with the profile of the head wall 112. According to some embodiments the rib connector 231 preferably has an inner wall 23 la that has a profile corresponding with the profile of the head wall 112, and the profile of the exterior surface 23 lb may be a different profile. Although the supporting members 121 are depicted in an arrangement (in Figs. 1A-1D) where all of the supporting members 121 have a space 127, alternatively the head 110 may be constructed with supporting members 221 that have a connecting wall 231 between the ribs 222, 223, or may be constructed using combinations of supporting members 121 and supporting members 221, e.g., alternating or providing oppositely disposed, or other arrangement. Similar to the supporting members 121, the supporting members 221 are shown having apertures 224a on the lower rib support 224, and apertures 225a on the upper rib support 225.

[0088] The supporting members 121, 221 may be formed by any suitable method, including, molding, fabrication, welding and / or using adhesive to connect separate parts together to form the supporting member. Referring to Figs. 3E and 3F, an exemplary depiction is shown, where the components of a supporting member 221 are separately produced and connected together to form the supporting member. In this example, the pairs of ribs 222, 223 are shown separate from the other components of the support member 221, which include the a lower rib support 224, and upper rib support 225, and a connecting wall 226. The components may be produced using any suitable method, and may be connected to form the supporting member 221. Alternatively the supporting member 221 may be formed by molding or other suitable process, such as for example, injection molding, or combinations of processes.

[0089] Referring to Fig. 1C, the inner diameter (i.d.), d, ofthe vessel head 110, preferably may be matched to a diameter (i.d.) of a connecting tank or vessel body, or pipe or structure to which the head 110 is mounted. Although the lower flange 114 of the respective head and attaching vessel body may align, it is conceivable that the diameter (i.d.) of a connecting structure, such as for example, a tank or vessel body, or pipe, could be different from the inner diameter d of the head 110. According to some embodiments, the inner diameter d at the end of the head space 113 may be the same as the inner diameter of a connecting structure for continuity and flow facilitation. According to some embodiments and implementations of the system and devices, the head 110 may be supplied as part of the system, and may be standardized in height and / or volume and / or dimension, since typically a single height for the head 110, e.g., when used as a pair on the ends of a vessel or tank body, will be suitable, allowing selection of the desired diameter heads 110 for use to assemble a structure, such as a tank or vessel, with the matching sized body. The other heads inAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT connection with embodiments shown and described herein, may also be configured and sized with diameters to match a connecting structure, such as for example, a tank or vessel body, or pipe.

[0090] According to some alternate embodiments, the vessel head may be configured to connect with a vessel body via a flange connector, where one or preferably a pair of flanges are used to connect the vessel head to a vessel body. An exemplary alternate embodiment of a vessel head 310 is shown in Figs. 4A-4D, where the vessel head 310 is constructed having a body 311 with a wall 312 having an interior surface 312a defining a head space 313, and an exterior 112b. The vessel head 310 similar to the vessel head 110, has a first or lower flange 314 and a second or upper flange 315. A channel wall 316 defines a channel 317 leading to and communicating with the interior head space 313. In the embodiment depicted, the first or lower flange 314 is configured as a stepped flange having a first annular ridge 314a comprising a first ledge on which a connecting flange 334 may be seated. The lower flange 314 also has a second annular ridge 314b comprising a second ledge. In the embodiment illustrated, the lower rib support 124 is supported in part on the second annular ledge 314b and in part on the flange connector 334. The flange connector 334 may be secured together with a flange of or another flange connector associated with a vessel body that is adapted to connect to the head 310. The vessel head 310 is shown with a plurality of supporting members 121 disposed about the wall 312. Apertures may be provided in the flange connector 334 and / or the flange 314 (such as for example, through the annular ledge 314a, to facilitate connecting with a flange connector or flange of a vessel body to which the head 310 attaches. Alternatively, the supporting members though shown as the members 121, may comprise other suitable support members, such as any of those described herein, including the supporting members 221 or combinations thereof. An upper flange connector 335 is shown disposed below the upper flange 315. The upper flange connector 335 may be secured to another flange or component to provide communication to the head interior space 313 via the opening 317. The upper flange connector 335 includes a plurality of apertures 335a therein to provide a connection mechanism, such as for example, passing bolts and fasteners through the upper flange connector 335 to connect it to another component, such as for example, a valve, conduit, pipe, hose, fitting or the like. The apertures of the upper flange connector 335a according to some preferred embodiments, may align with apertures 125a of a supporting member 121. As shown in Fig. 4B, the apertures 335a in the upper flange connector 335 are shown aligning with apertures 125a of the plurality of supporting members 121. Although in the support structure 118 there are eight supporting members 121 depicted in the exemplary embodiment, and the upper flange connector 335 is shown with four apertures 335a, the flange connector alternatively could have fewer or greater numbers of apertures, and according to some preferred embodiments, there may be eight apertures in the connecting flange. Some alternate embodiments may connect together adjacent supporting members 121 to provide further support, for example, where the apertures 125a of the supporting members 121 are not aligned with a flange connector aperture 335a. According to some other embodiments, the supporting members 121 may be attached to the head body via the channel wall 116, with welds or an adhesive, in addition to or as an alternative to fasteners.

[0091] According to some embodiments, the flanges 334 and / or 335 may comprise a fabricated flange, such as for example, a single piece ring. In this implementation, at least part of the head body 311 isAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT fabricated with the flange ring 335, and subsequently, the upper flange 315 is attached to the channel 316, or the channel 316 and upper flange 315 are attached to the top of the head wall 112. According to some alternate implementations, one or more of the flanges 334, 335 may comprise a split ring type of flange or ring, which allows the flange 335 to be installed around the channel 316 and below the head upper flange 315. The split ring type flange preferably is used when the vessel head 310 is molded (where the upper flange 315, channel 316 and wall 312 are formed together.

[0092] Referring to Figs. 5A-5D, an alternate embodiment of a vessel head is illustrated. The vessel head 410 is shown with an alternate coupling arrangement comprising a grooved coupling 401 shown installed on an end of the head 410, which in the depicted orientation is on the top of the head 410. The head 410 is shown having a body 411, a head wall 412 defining a space 413 (Fig. 5D). The head 410 is shown having a lower flange 414 and an opening 417 at the top of the head that communicates with the interior space 413. A channel wall 416 is provided at the top of the head to provide for flow communication to and / or from the head. In the embodiment illustrated, a grooved coupling 401, which, for example, may comprise a pipe joining coupling with gasketing and sealing (e.g., such as couplings sold under the brand Victaulic®). The coupling 401 preferably makes a seal to seal the communication with the head space 413, and prevent leakage and entry of debris. The coupling 401 is shown having a body 402 comprising a first part 402a and second part 402b, and a gasket 403 (Fig. 5D) comprising a flexible, pressure-responsive seal that creates a watertight joint. The body 402 comprises a sleeve, and is positioned over the channel wall 416. A pair of fasteners, such as the screws 404 and nuts 404a are shown disposed in the coupler arms 405a, 405b. The fasteners 404 are tightened to secure the coupling body 402 and gasket 403 on the head, which in this embodiment is installed on the channel wall 416. The channel wall 416 comprises an inlet and / or outlet of the head 410. According to some embodiments, the channel wall 416 may have a groove provided in its outer wall to facilitate attachment by a coupling.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 5D the sectional view shows an exemplary embodiment of the head 410 with a nested option, where a supporting structure is shown comprising supporting members 121 disposed about the head wall 412. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the head wall 412 is shown having a hemispherical configuration, and the outer bowl 421 is shown with a matingly corresponding profile, which preferably matches the shape of the wall 412. The outer bowl 421 is positioned over the head wall 412. In the embodiment depicted, the lower supports 124 of the supporting members 121 are supported on the lower support flange 414 of the head 410. The head body 411 is also shown with a channel wall 416.

[0094] The outer support structure, which in an exemplary embodiment is shown comprising the outer bowl 421, while shown in conjunction with the head 410, may be used with other heads shown and described herein.

[0095] Referring to Figs. 6A-6D, an alternate embodiment of a vessel head is illustrated. In this exemplary embodiment, the vessel head 510 is shown in Figs. 6A-6D with the coupler 401 of Figs. 5A-5D installed thereon. In Fig. 6D, the sectional view shows an exemplary embodiment of the head 510 and depicts a nested option, where a supporting structure is shown comprising an outer bowl or body 521 is installed on the head wall 512. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the head wall 512 is shown having a hemi-Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT spherical configuration, and the outer bowl 521 is shown with a matingly corresponding profile, which preferably matches the shape of the surface of the outer wall 512a. The outer bowl 521 is positioned over the head wall 512. In the embodiment depicted, the outer bowl 521 includes a lower support flange 524. The support flange 524 is shown situated on the top of the head lower flange 514, and in the embodiment depicted, has a redial depth and similar to the head lower flange 514. The bowl 521 is also shown with an upper collar 526 that is shown in a supporting position on the channel wall 516. The bowl 521 while shown in conjunction with the head 510, may be used with other heads shown and described herein. According to some embodiments, the supporting structure 521 may be molded onto the head wall 512, while according to some other embodiments, the supporting structure can be separately constructed, by molding or fabrication or other technique, and then applied to the head wall. The supporting structure 521 may comprise a suitable material, and preferably may comprise a polymer, which can be HDPE, or even another polymer.

[0096] Referring to Figs. 7A through 7G, another embodiment of a vessel head 610 is shown in a nested configuration, where the head wall 612 is shown with a supporting member 521 comprising a bowl installed over the head wall 612 which, in this embodiment, is comprised of multiple sections that include a first section 612a and second section 612a. In the embodiment depicted, the head 610 is configured from two portions that are separate pieces that can be produced and assembled together with the supporting member 621, which also is shown constructed from a plurality of portions 621a, 621a. The head wall 612 is shown comprising two portions 612a, each of which includes an interior surface 612b and an outer surface 612c. The supporting member 621 is shown having a multi -piece configuration, which in this exemplary embodiment comprises two portions 621a, including a first portion and a second portion, which are installed on the outer surface 612c. The embodiment illustrated shows the meeting or joining areas of each of the sections, the supporting members 621a and outer walls 612c having their joining areas offset from one another. In the exemplary embodiment, the joining location 650 of the supporting members 621a is at 90 degrees from the joining location 651 of the head wall sections 612a. Each of the supporting member portions 621a may be attached to the head body 611 or wall 612 using a suitable attachment mechanism, such as for example, adhesive, welding, or other technique. According to some embodiments, the supporting structure may be molded onto the head wall, while according to some other embodiments, the supporting structure can be separately constructed, by molding or fabrication or other technique, and then applied to the head wall. The supporting structure 621 may comprise a suitable material, and preferably may comprise a polymer, which can be HDPE, fiber reinforced HDPE (e.g., glass filled), or even another polymer. As shown in Fig. 7F, the supporting member 621 comprises a plurality of section, and in this exemplary embodiment is shown comprising two sections which are identical halves 621a. The supporting member 621 is shown including a supporting collar formed by the sections 626a, which are configured to support the respective channel wall of the head, which in this embodiments are depicted by the channel walls 616a. In the embodiment depicted, the vessel head 610 is shown having a flange 614a shown connected to the wall 612. The supporting member 621 is also shown with a flange 624, which is shown being configured to align with the flange 614a of the vessel head body 611.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0097] In Figs. 7A-7G, the supporting member 621 is shown comprising a plurality of sections and the head body 611 and head wall 612 also is shown comprising sections. Alternatively, the sectional supporting member 621 may be configured to install on a head that is molded as a unit, fabricated from different parts, or where the head body and head wall are not sectional components (like the embodiment 610 show in Figs. 7A-7G).

[0098] Referring to Figs. 8A-8B, a plugged molded-in head 710 is illustrated. An exemplary embodiment of a vessel head 710 is illustrated having a body 711 with a head wall 712 defining and enclosing a head space 713, a lower flange 714, and an upper flange 715 and a channel wall 716. In the embodiment depicted, the head space 713 is shown having an opening 719 at one end thereof, at the lower flange end, with the other end of the head being sealed with a sealing element, such as a plug 718. The plug 718 is shown blocking the entrance to the interior space 713 from the channel 717. In the embodiment depicted in Figs.8A-8B, the plug is shown molded as part of the head structure.

[0099] Referring to Figs. 9A-9B, a plugged fabricated head 810 is illustrated. Similar to the exemplary embodiment depicted in Figs. 8A-8B, the head 810 has a body 811 with a head wall 812 defining and enclosing a head space 813, a lower flange 814, and an upper flange 815 and a channel wall 816. In the embodiment depicted, the head space 813 is shown having an opening 819 at one end thereof, at the lower flange end, with the other end of the head being sealed with a sealing element, such as a plug 818. The plug 818 is shown blocking the entrance to the interior space 813 from the channel 817. In the embodiment depicted in Figs. 8A-8B, the plug 818 is provided as a separate element or component, and is attached to the head structure, such as for example, the interior of the channel wall 816. The attachment of the plug may be achieved by any suitable mechanism, such as for example, adhesive, welding or other technique. The plug 816 may be formed from the same material as the head body 811, or may be formed from an alternate material that is suitable for attachment to provide a seal of the channel 817.

[0100] In the embodiments depicted, the supporting members, such as some or all of those members 121, 221 or components thereof, such as the respective ribs 122, 123, 222, 223, lower rib supports 124, 224, upper ribs supports 125, 225 and collar piece 126, 226, may be constructed from fiberglass or a composition comprising fiberglass. In addition the outer structural support members, such as, for example, the outer sections that correspond with the head wall profiles, e.g., the member 521 of the head 510 (Figs. 6A-6C), the support members 621a of the head 610 shown in Figs. 7A and 7F, may be constructed from fiberglass or a composition comprising fiberglass. According to some embodiments, the fiberglass or fiberglass containing material may be molded or assembled onto or over the head structure, such as over the head body, head wall or other portions of the head.

[0101] The vessel or tank heads may be configured to have different sizes and dimensions. For example, diameters of the vessels and heads may be up to 24 inches, or even larger. The heads may be constructed and maintained as a stock item for connection to a vessel body. For example, where a common demand is for 16 or 24 inch diameter tank sizes, then the heads may be stocked in those sizes and matched with a vessel body having the height or volume capacity to accommodate the desired application fluid storage, fluid filtration, or other usage. The vessel body to which a vessel head attaches may be provided having aAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT number of heights, which may be determined based on the space within which the vessel will be used, stored and / or transported, and / or the capacity or capacities of volumes and / or flows of fluid and / or other material capacity to be held within the assembled vessel.

[0102] Referring to Figs. 10A-10C, there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of a tank or vessel head 910, which is similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A-1D, but configured as an elliptical shaped head. The head 910 includes a head body 911 comprised of a wall 912 that encloses an interior space or head space 913. The wall 912 has an interior or first surface 912a (Fig. 10C), and an exterior or second surface 912b. A lower flange 914 provides a first structure for connection to another vessel component, such as for example, a vessel body (see Figs. 13A-13), and a second or upper flange 915 that provides a second structure for connection to a component, such as for example, a valve, hose, pipe, flowmeter, control, or other element. A channel wall 916 supports the upper flange 915. The head shape is exemplary, and the heads shown having the hemi-spherical configuration may be constructed as shown and described herein in connection with the alternate embodiments (e.g., such as the heads 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810) but with the elliptical shape. The head 910 also is provided with supporting structure, which in the embodiment illustrated is shown comprising a plurality of supporting members 121’. The supporting members 121’ are configured similar to the supporting members 121 shown and described herein, with the supporting members 121’ configured to correspond with the profile of the elliptically configured head 910, and outer wall surface 912b. The supporting members 121’ are illustrated to include a lower rib support 124’ and upper rib support 125’, and ribs 122’, 123’.

[0103] Referring to Figs. 11A-1 IB, another alternate embodiment of a vessel head is shown. The vessel head 1010 may be configured in accordance with the vessels shown and described herein. For this example, the vessel 110 of Figs. 1A-1D is shown, and numbered 1010, as the vessel includes a support structure comprised of a plurality of support members 1121, which may be constructed similar to other support members shown and described herein. The vessel has a wall 1112, a lower flange 1014 and an upper flange 1015. The support members 1121 in the embodiment of the head 1010 are constructed having a pair of ribs 1122, 1123, a lower rib support 1124 joining the ribs at one end, and an upper rib support 1125 joining the ribs 1122, 1123 at the other end. The ribs may 1122, 1123 and rib supports 1124, 1125 may comprise any suitable material. In the embodiment depicted, the support members 1121 are fastened together. The support members 1121, in the exemplary embodiment, are shown fastened together along their respective fascia 1122a, 1123a. A plurality of fasteners 1130 are shown and pass through the ribs 1122, 1123. In the embodiment depicted, the fasteners are shown comprising bolts 1131 with a nut 1132, which may comprise a lock nut, or other suitable nut, with washers or fastening component. Adhesive also may be used, which according to some embodiments and implementations may be used in place of the bolt fasteners, while in other embodiments may be used along with the bolt fasteners. Alternatively, the fasteners may be used to secure adjacent ribs together without the use of adhesive to secure the adjoining rib fascia. As with some alternate embodiments, according to some optional configurations, adhesive may be used along a rib edge where the rib adjoins the outer wall of the head body.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0104] The vessel heads may be configured with support structures that connect to the vessel head. In the embodiments illustrated, the supporting structure is shown comprising one or more support members that attach to the vessel head via the vessel head flanges, channel wall, or vessel head wall. According to alternate embodiments, the vessel head may be constructed according to the embodiments shown and described herein, and may be provided with attachment structures for mounting the supporting members. An example of an embodiment of a vessel head having attachment structures is depicted in Figs. 12A-12C. The vessel head 1210 is configured having a body 1211, a head wall 1212, a lower flange 1214 and an upper flange 1215. The head wall 1212 has an exterior or outer surface 1212a, and an inner surface 1212b. The head 1210 similar to the head 110 of Figs. 1A-1D, and other heads depicted herein, has a space therein 1213, which is enclosed in part by the head wall 1212. A plurality of mounting structures are shown comprising brackets 1219 provided on the head body 1211, and in the embodiment illustrated are disposed on the head wall 1212. The brackets 1219 may be secured to the outer wall with a suitable connection, such as adhesive, welding, or other technique. According to some alternate embodiments, the brackets 1219 may be integrally molded with the head wall 1212 or may be integrally molded with the head body 1211. The brackets alternatively may be separately fabricated or molded, and then attached to the head body 1211. In the embodiment illustrated, an exemplary arrangement of brackets 1219 are disposed at locations on the exterior of the wall 1212, at spaced apart intervals. The brackets 1219 are shown provided in pairs, such as the pair 1219a, 1219b, wherein the pairs are spaced apart from each other to define a space 1219c therein for receiving a supporting structure, such as for example, one or more ribs of support member. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the bracket pair 1219a, 1219b are spaced apart, defining a space between them in which a pair of adjacent ribs 1222, 1223 of adjacently located support members 1221 are situated. The support members 1221 are shown having a lower rib support 1224, and upper rib support 1225 The ribs 1222, 1223 are shown passing through the space 1219c. The brackets 1219 secure to the ribs, and may be affixed thereto using adhesive, welds, or other suitable attachment mechanism or technique. According to some embodiments, the brackets 1219 preferably include apertures therein to receive fasteners. The ribs 1222, 1223 preferably also may be provided with corresponding apertures that align with the apertures of the respective brackets 1219. The brackets 1219 may be secured to the ribs using fasteners, as well as one or more other securing mechanisms or techniques.

[0105] The vessel or tank heads are designed for usages as a head for tanks, vessels, pipes and containers. In particular the heads are configured for pressure vessels, tanks and pipe ends where the contents held or expected to be held contain or are expected to contain pressure greater or lesser than atm (atmospheric pressure). The heads and vessels are designed to handle pressure loads, both positive and negative. For example, some fluids, such as liquids, may expand or contract as a result of changes in conditions, e.g., exposure to increased or decreased thermal conditions, change in chemical composition of a substance, production of gas or by products, and other factors. For example, where a fluid is evacuated from a container, the exit of the fluid may cause the formation of a vacuum which can disturb the head or vessel structure, causing the potential for a head or vessel wall to collapse.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0106] According to some embodiments and implementations, the vessel heads may connect to another component, such as a tank or vessel body, or a pipe. As one example, the vessel head may connect to a tank body at one or both ends thereof, and provide access through the head to communicate outside the vessel, such as to a pipe, hose, valve, fitting or conduit. The vessel head may include a port, such as a channel, to provide inflow / outflow into the head and vessel body, e.g., the assembled vessel space. A second head may be provided and a vessel may be therefore configured with a head at each end, which may comprise one or both heads of the inventive vessel heads shown and described herein. The vessel heads are shown and described herein using flange connectors and / or a lower flange.

[0107] Alternatively, other connections may be used to secure the vessel head to the vessel body, such as for example, direct fusion to the vessel head or to an element of the head, as well as elbows, pipes, valves, inserts, hoses and other fluid regulation mechanisms and / or conduits.

[0108] Referring to Figs. 13A and 13B, an exemplary arrangement of a pressure vessel 1310 is shown where two vessel heads are provided at each end of the vessel body. The vessel body 1340 is depicted as a cylindrical tubular structure, which is has a vessel space therein. In the exemplary assembly, for illustration purposes, the heads at each end are depicted to comprise the heads 1010 shown in Figs 11A and 11B, although any other of the heads shown and described herein may be used. The heads 1010 are shown connected to the vessel body 1340 at each body end thereof. In this assembly, the vessel 1310 is shown with a vessel body that has a first or upper flange 1341, and a second or lower flange 1342. Each vessel body flange 1341, 1342 is shown connecting with a respective flange 1014 of each head 1010. Each head 1010 is shown configured with supporting structure, which in this exemplary embodiment, comprises a plurality of support members 1121, which are connected to adjacent support members 1121 with fasteners 1130. The support members 1121 include lower rib supports 1124. Fasteners, shown comprising bolts 1350 which are shown passing through the apertures in the lower rib support 1124 of the support member 1121, and through the lower flange 1014 of the head, and apertures 1341a and 1342a in the respective vessel upper and lower flanges 1341, 1342. Additionally, although not shown, gaskets or other elements may be provided as part of the connection. The vessel 1310 preferably is supported on a pressure vessel supporting stand or other holding structure, and in the exemplary embodiment, an example of a vessel holder 1360 is shown. The vessel holder 1360 is shown configured as a leg type stand having legs, which may comprise a suitable number of legs, with three legs 1361, 1362, 1363 of a four leg support structure being shown in the views of Figs. 13A and 13B. As an option, the vessel holding structure may fasten to the vessel using the fasteners that secure the head 1010 to the vessel body 1340, or alternatively, may attach separately to the vessel 1310, or its components, such as the vessel body 1340 or head 1010. In the embodiment shown the legs include upper and lower platforms, such as the lower platform 1362a and upper platform 1362b of the leg 1362. The platforms 1362a, 1362b may include apertures therein for receiving the fasteners. Accordingly, alternatively, and / or in addition to the leg type holder shown, alternate pressure vessel holding structures may be utilized to support the vessel, such as for example, skirt supports, bracket and / or lug supports and / or saddle supports.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0109] Referring to Fig. 14, an alternate implementation showing a head according to the disclosure configured as a pipe end cap, and being shown installed on the end of a pipe. In the exemplary embodiment, the head 1410 is similar to the head 1010 of Figs. 11A and 11B, and is installed on apipe 1001. The pipe 1001 is shown having a flange 1002, which for illustration purposes, is configured similar to the flange 1341 of the vessel body 1340 shown in Figs. 13A and 13B. The head 1410 includes the lower flange 1414 and the supporting structure provided on the head 1010, which is shown comprising the plurality of support members 1121. The head 1410 has an upper flange 1415, which in this embodiment may comprise a solid flange that does not include the opening provided in the upper flange 1015 shown in Fig. 13B. The head 1410 is designed to hold pressure that may be exerted on it from inside the pipe, e.g., from a fluid, or the absence of a fluid, or movement of a fluid into or out from another end of the pipe 1001 or a conduit communicating with the pipe 1001. The head 1410 is shown attached to the pipe end flange 1002 with a plurality of fasteners comprising bolts and nuts. The pipe 1001 is shown supported with posts 1003, 1004, and straps 1005, 1006. According to some embodiments, the pipe end cap head 1410 may be configured with a plug at the upper flange end thereof, to seal the channel, such as for example, the plugs shown in connection with the head embodiments in Figs. 8A-8B and 9A-9B.

[0110] Referring to Figs. 15A-15C, an alternate embodiment of a vessel head 1510 is shown. The vessel head 1510 is configured as a dished or flat vessel head shown comprising a body 1511 having a wall 1512 with an inner surface 1512a defining the vessel head space 1513. The vessel head space 1513 is shown being open at the lower end (depicted in the orientation shown in the figures), and having a communication channel 1517 provided at the opposite end, which is defined by a channel wall 1516 that is shown connecting with the wall 1512. The vessel head 1510 in the embodiment depicted is shown having an upper flange 1515 which is shown connecting to the channel wall 1516. A support structure 1518 supports the head wall 1511. According to an exemplary embodiment, the support structure 1518 is shown comprising a plurality of supporting members 1521 which comprise support ribs 1522, 1523, which in the embodiment illustrated are shown disposed between the upper flange 1515 and the lower surface 1512b. The wall 1512 may be configured to comprise an outer flange or rim 1514, which may comprise a portion of the body 1511 at the lower end or open end of the head 1510 that is designed to connect to another structure, such as, for example, a tank or vessel body, orpipe. The supporting members 1521 are shown disposed adjacent to one another, and in this exemplary configuration are depicted with contiguous ribs (such as the rib 1522 from one adjacent member 1521 being contiguous with a rib 1523 from an adjacent one of the respective members 1521. The supporting members are shown having a lower portion 1524 which is connected to a lower end of each rib 1522, 1523 ofthe rib pair of the member 1521. The ribs 1522, 1523 are shownjoining an upper rib support 1525 of the supporting member 1521. The upper rib support 1525 is depicted connected to a vertical rib support 1526 that spans along the outer surface 1516a of the channel wall 1516. The upper rib support 1525 and lower ribs support 1524 may be connected together, such as for example, via the vertical rib support 1526. The upper rib support 1525 may be secured to the upper flange 1515, which may be done using fasteners that can pass through the openings 1515a of the flange 1515 (and connect with another end fitting or conduit), or may be secured to the flange via welds, adhesive or otherAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT technique. The upper rib support 1525 may be connected to the flange using combination of securing methods, including adhesive, welds and / or fasteners. Similar to the supporting members 121, 221 and other supporting members shown and described herein, the supporting members 1521 may be affixed to the head body 1511, such as to the head wall 1512, and in particular as depicted with the lower rib support 1524 secured to the wall outer surface 1512b (using adhesive, welds, fasteners or other techniques. The supporting members 1521 may be constructed similar to any of the supporting members shown and described herein, such as for example by molding, fabrication and assembly of individual parts, or combinations thereof. According to some alternate embodiments, the vertical rib support 1526 may be omitted, or shortened, but in the embodiment illustrated provides support by connecting the lower rib support 1524 and upper rib support 1525, and may further be secured to the wall 1516a of the channel wall 1516.

[0111] Referring to Figs. 16A and 16B, there is illustrated a alternate embodiment of a vessel head 1610 according to the disclosure. The vessel head 1610 is configured semi- or hemi- spherical shaped, shown comprising a body 1611 having a wall 1612 with an inner surface 1612a defining the vessel head space 1613, and an outer surface 1612b. The vessel head space 1613 is shown being open at the lower end (depicted in the orientation shown in the figures), and having an opening 1617 at the end opposite the lower end.

[0112] The vessel head may be constructed from a durable material that is inert to the substances to be handled. According to the embodiment illustrated, the head vessel is constructed from a polymer, such as HDPE, and according to some preferred embodiments PVC. In the embodiment depicted, the vessel head is a polymer structure shown having a wall 1612 which in this embodiment encloses in part the vessel head space 1613. The vessel wall includes an interior wall surface 1612a, an exterior wall surface 1612b, and a wall thickness 1612c. The wall 1612 is shown terminating at the lower end into the flange 1614. The opening 1617 is shown with a fitting or capping structure 1630 connected to the opening 1617. The capping structure 1630 comprises a bulkhead having an insert 1631 that according to the preferred embodiment spans through the opening 1617, and which includes a channel 1631a. The insert 1631 is shown comprising a stepped configuration having a first portion 1632, which in the embodiment depicted is circumferential, and has a shoulder 1633 that is abutting the interior surface 1612a of the vessel head wall 1612. The vessel head wall 1612 is shown in the embodiment illustrated having an intumed wall portion 1612d that is circumferential and is shown as a horizontal or substantially horizontal positioned wall in the view of Fig.16A. The shoulder 1633 is shown connected to the intumed wall portion 1612d, which preferably is done using a suitable adhesive to bond or secure together the insert 1631 and the vessel head wall 1612. The insert includes a structure which in this embodiment is shown comprising a ring 1634 that matches the opening 1617 of the vessel wall to fit within the opening. The ring 1634 extends upward from the insert shoulder 1633, and has a shoulder 1635. A sleeve 1636 is shown spanning upward from the shoulder of the ring 1634. In the embodiment depicted, the vessel wall portion 1612d and the shoulder 1635 of the ring 1634 are shown forming a ledge or shelf that provides a contact surface for a retainer 1637. The retainer 1637 is shown seated on the shoulder 1635 of the insert 1631 and shown spanning the surfaces that includeAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT the shoulder 1635 and the vessel head wall 1612d. The connection of the insert 1631 and its exterior surfaces, including in the embodiment depicted, the shoulder 1633 of the first portion 1632, the circumferential edge 1634a of the ring 1634, the shoulder of the ring 1635, and the retainer 1637 are connected with adhesive or other suitable bonding. The retainer 1637 may preferably be secured at its lower surface 1637a to the shoulder 1635, and at its inner surface 1637b, which in this embodiment is shown comprising an interior circumferential surface forming an opening comprising the channel 1631a. The retainer 1637 also is shown secured to the sleeve 1638 of the insert 1631, and in this embodiment, the retainer inner surface 1637b is attached to the outer surface 1638a of the sleeve 1638. The capping structure 1630 provides a sealed end of the vessel head body 1611, and int eh configuration depicted is provided to secure against the forces exerted on the structures by the fluid pressure, such as a liquid or flowable material moving through the vessel and vessel head structures. The shoulder 1633 provides a stop against the insert being dislodged from the vessel head body or being otherwise forced out of position, as well as handling force loads from internal pressure imparted on the vessel head, and capping structure 1630. The capping structure 1630 and insert 1631 preferably are secured together without the use of threads, and preferably are fused using solvent welding, such as adhesive or other bonding. The insert 1631 as well as the capping structure 1630 may be formed without the use of gaskets, thereby eliminating the potential for gasket adjustments and pressure applications to set or install a gasket. The surfaces of the capping structure are constructed to deter or remove the potential susceptibility to microbes by providing mating surfaces that are fused together by bonding or solvents (adhesive). The joint between the insert 1631 and the vessel head wall 1612d is inside of the vessel head 1612 within the space 1613, and therefore the stress on the capping structure 1630 from upward flows is decreased, as the shoulder 1633 provides an area for destressing and redistribution of stress, along with the support 1637 to which the insert 1631 is bonded.

[0113] The insert 1631 of the capping structure 1630 is shown having a channel 163 la that spans through the insert and communicates with the interior space 1612c of the vessel head 1610 and provides an outlet (or inlet as the use may warrant) for fluid. The fluid may for example, be water or waste water that is being treated, or may be other fluid that is being stored or flowed through the vessel and head. The capping structure 1630 connects with outlet piping or channels to direct the flow from the vessel and vessel head to another location for use, distribution, storage, testing, further treatment or processing or other need.

[0114] The insert 1631 of the capping structure 1630 includes a sleeve 1638 that is shown spanning upwardly from the vessel head wall 1612. The sleeve 1638 includes an interior surface that defines a channel that communicates with the interior space 1612c of the vessel head 1612.

[0115] In the depiction illustrated, the vessel head 1610 is shown having a flange 1614, which is provided to connect to another structure that preferably provides communication with the head space and lower opening of the head 1610. The head 1610 is designed to connect with a containment structure, such as for example a vessel or pipe. In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the flange 1614 is circumferential, and is shown connecting with a flange 1641 of the vessel body 1640. In the embodiment illustrated, the vessel body 1640 is shown in part and represented as a cylindrical structure matching the circumferential head 1610. The vessel body 1640 also is shown connected to a flange or upper portion 1641, and may beAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT connected to the flange using adhesive or other fusing or bonding technique (solvent welding). Although depicted as separate structures connected together, the vessel body 1640 and vessel flange 1641 may be unitary, formed together or separate components connected together. According to preferred embodiments, a gasket 1643 may be provided between the head flange 1614 andthe vessel body flange 1641. Additional supporting structures may be used to secure the respective head flange 1614 and vessel flange 1641 of the vessel 1640 (or other connecting structure) . According to the exemplary embodiment a plurality of supports 1650 are shown arranged around the flange 1614. In this embodiment there are two layers of supports 1650, and each layer is comprised of three supports. The supports 1650 also are arranged so that the seam or adjacent ends preferably are not aligned, but are offset from a location of another seam (upper or lower). In the embodiment depicted there are shown three upper supports 1650 forming a first layer, and three lower supports forming a second layer. Different numbers of supports may be used other than the arrangement depicted in the illustrated embodiment. A plurality of fasteners, shown comprising bolts 1655 and matingly associated nuts 1656 are shown connecting the respective head and vessel flanges 1614, 1641, gasket 1643, and support members 1650 together.

[0116] The capping structure 1630 is shown secured to the vessel head 1610, and may be provided as part of the vessel head structure. The capping structure 1630 preferably is installed or pre-installed on the vessel head wall 1612 prior to attachment of the vessel head 1610 to another structure such as a pipe or vessel, such as for example, the vessel body 1640 and / or vessel flange 1641. The capping structure 1630 is shown provided on both sides of the vessel head wall 1612, including the interior side and the exterior side. The insert 1631 includes an interior portion comprising the first portion 1632, and on the exterior includes the sleeve 1638 that spans beyond the vessel head wall 1612. The capping structure insert 1631 is held in place by the adherence of the surfaces to the vessel head wall 1612, as well as by the capping structure retainer 1637. The capping structure 1630 also includes the extension of the sleeve 1638 which provides a port for connecting other components and accessories.

[0117] According to one example, the capping structure 1630 is shown connecting to an optional accessory which in the exemplary implementation comprises a tee 1660 and ball valve 1665. The tee first arm 1661 is shown comprising a socket 1661a and connected to the sleeve 1638 of the capping structure 1630. In this exemplary embodiment, the tee first arm 1661 is connected by being fused together by an adhesive or other solvent welding. Alternatively, the insert sleeve 1638 may be provided having threads to make a threaded connection with components, such as for example, the tee 1660 shown as an exemplary component that can be connected to the vessel head 1610. According to some alternate embodiments, the sleeve 1638 may provide a suitable connecting end, such as for example, threads for connection to valves, pipes, hoses or other components and accessories.

[0118] The vessel head 1610, although shown without supporting structures that are provided in some of the other embodiments, may also include supporting structures, such as for example, supporting members that are shown and described in connection with the other embodiments in the figures herein. For example, as an option, alternatively, embodiments of the head 1610 may have a structure like any of those shown in the other embodiments. According to some options, an alternative embodiment may include a second layerAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT or shell, such as those shown and described herein in connection with the other embodiments. The layer or shell may be provided over the exterior of the head, and may be attached thereto using a suitable adhesive or other attachment mechanism.

[0119] The configurations depicted in conjunction with one shape of head, such as hemi-spherical, elliptical, flat, dished or other shape, may employ the supporting structures shown and described herein. For example, couplings may be used in connection with the embodiments depicted to provide a connection for inflow and / or outflow from the vessel. The tanks and pressure vessels constructed with the vessel heads of the disclosure, although shown in an exemplary embodiment in a vertical or upright position, may be utilized or installed for use horizontally.

[0120] The embodiments herein depict some examples of connection arrangements where the vessel head includes a flange at the head end having the larger diameter opening (where the head space meets with another structure such as a vessel body or pipe), and bolts are shown passed through the head flange to connect the vessel body or pipe to the head. Alternatively, the vessel head may be provided with alternate attachment mechanisms such as for example, flange pairs that are not connected to the head or vessel body, and which sandwich or compress the head end and vessel body or pipe end together. In these embodiments, the vessel head may have a flange and the vessel body or pipe also may have a flange. One example of the separate flange assembly arrangement is depicted in Figs. 4A-4D. Other embodiments of the vessel head, and supporting structures may be configured to assemble using a separate flange, like the example depicted in Figs. 4A-4D. The connection between the head and another structure, such as a vessel, tank or pipe, may be made by any suitable mechanism, and some exemplary embodiments are shown herein. For example, a connector, such as threads (e.g., direct threading), bolts, grooved fittings, or welding, along with optional seals such as o-rings or gaskets (depending on the joint type), may be used to secure the vessel head to other structures, such as to vessel body or tank, or pipe. According to some embodiments and implementations direct face to face polymer contact, such as by contact of the respective surfaces, such as for example, joining flanges of the head with another structure, such as a vessel body may be used. Suitable gaskets may be provided between the flange connections to provide a seal against leakage and to contain the contents within the structure. A groove, such as an annular groove may be provided in the flange surfaces of the head and vessel body flanges, and a seal, such as an o-ring or other sealing element may be seated on or in the groove to provide sealing when the flange portions are secured together. The gasket also may be provided with aligning apertures or may be punctured so it is securely tightened with the flange connections, when the vessel head portion is secured to a structure, such as a vessel body, tank or pipe. Alternatively, the vessel head may be secured to a structure using a suitable coupler, such as for example, a grooved couple, like a Victaulic® type coupling. According to some alternate embodiments and implementations, the vessel heads may secure to a vessel body where an intermediate element is provided, such as for example a flow straightener, filter or other component. The intermediate element may attach to the respective flanges of the vessel head and vessel body, or alternatively, or in addition, may be secured to the head and body using a separate flanges or clamp pairs that clamp the components together.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT

[0121] According to some alternate embodiments, for example, the vessel head may be assembled to a vessel body that is formed using two or more connectable body portions which, for example, may have end flanges that connect at adjacent locations of the vessel body portions, or other suitable connection means, such as threaded ends, or the like. The configurations and installations of the inventive vessel heads may be assembled with other components to provide a vessel, such as for example, the vessel 1310 of Figs. 13A and 13B, including a vessel that is designed to have flow through the vessel entering through an inlet, and exiting via an outlet. The inlet and / or outlet may be provided on the vessel body itself, or may be provided at the vessel head, such as for example, through the channels at the head end shown and described in the embodiments herein, or at both the head ends and the vessel body. Alternatively, a head with a sealed or closed end may be used, where the head end does not require access to fluid via an inlet or outlet at that head location. The vessel heads shown and described herein may be configured to have a connector attached to the vessel head end, such as to the upper flange. This may include any suitable flow member, such as for example, a manually operable valve (such as a ball valve) or any valve that is suitable to regulate the fluid flow therethrough, and according to some embodiments, may comprise an electronically operated valve, a manually operated valve, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, pipes, hoses and fittings may be connected to the head upper flange, as well as elbows, straight pipe, or other conduit. The vessel head walls and walls of vessel bodies, preferably are comprised of a wall having a suitable thicknesses to support contents therein, e.g., fluids, such as water, wastewater, beverages, food products, chemicals and the like.

[0122] The inventive vessel heads, as well as the tank or vessel bodies may be constructed from a suitable material that is resistant to chemicals, environmental conditions, such as cold and hot temperatures, corrosion, and degradation. According to some preferred embodiments, the vessel head structures that come into contact with the fluid may be made from a material that is lightweight, corrosion-proof, resistant to bacteriological and chemical buildup, and has a higher life expectancy (as compared to other types of materials, e.g., steel, iron, and / or copper). Some suitable materials include plastic materials. One preferred material for the vessel heads is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is lightweight and has desirable properties for the system. The vessel body may be constructed of similar material as the head. According to some embodiments, the supporting structure of the vessel head may be constructed of the same material as the vessel head, or alternatively, may be constructed from a different material.

[0123] The vessel heads shown and described herein are assemblable to and disconnectable from other structures, such as tank or vessel bodies or pipes, to allow for reuse, reconfiguration, as well as cleaning of the assembled and disassembled components. Where applications permit, the vessel heads and other vessel components, such as the vessel body or body portions, conserve environmental resources by providing the capability to reconfigure and reuse the vessel heads and other components, thereby minimizing the potential for scrap and waste when transitioning to a different application (different volume size) or different application.

[0124] Although the vessel heads and vessel bodies may be constructed from a number of materials, the preferred polymer materials, such as for example, HDPE, or other polymer compositions, provide less weight than other components, such as steel, and therefore can be easier to transport and maneuver. ThisAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT may be beneficial for example where the vessel head attaches to a vessel body that is designed to hold serviceable materials therein, such as a filter media, fluid repository or other contents that require removal, cleaning and / or replacement or replenishment.

[0125] Accordingly, the diameters (i.d.) of the vessel head opening near the flange end preferably is matched to the diameter (i.d.) of the vessel body. Although the flange portions of the respective vessel heads and vessel body align, it is conceivable that the diameters (i.d.) of the vessel body could be different from the vessel heads provided at one or both ends thereof, but preferably they are the same for continuity and flow facilitation. The vessel heads also may be supplied as part of a system, and may be standardized in height or dimension and / or volume, since typically a single height for the vessel heads will be suitable, allowing selection of the desired diameter vessel heads for producing a vessel assembly with a matching sized vessel body.

[0126] The exemplary embodiments depicts flanges and / or clamps and / or fasteners, to secure the components such as vessel heads to a vessel body or pipe. However, according to some alternate embodiments, threads may be provided at the end of each vessel head opening and the vessel body openings, so that a vessel head may be rotated and secured to the vessel body by the mating or complementary threads. Alternatively, welds or adhesive may be used to secure the vessel head to the vessel body, where disassembly is not required. Other methods to secure the vessel head and a structure may include direct face to face polymer contact, between the vessel head (e.g., head flange) and the flange or surface of another structure, such as a vessel body. Welds and / or adhesive or direct polymer contact connections of the components, such as, for example, the vessel head and vessel body, may be used as an addition to, or an alternative to the clamps and bolts shown in the figures. Other alternative connection mechanisms may be employed to connect the vessel head with a vessel body, some examples of which may include pipe joining couplings with gasketing and sealing (e.g., such as couplings sold under the brand Victaulic®).

[0127] While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the disclosure. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure. Features disclosed in one embodiment may be implemented in one or more of the other embodiments, separately or in combination with other features. While the system, devices and methods have been disclosed in detail, and the preferred embodiments and best mode for practice have been similarly disclosed, the scope of exclusive rights is not limited by the disclosure.

Claims

Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A vessel head for a containment structure, comprising:a) a body having a wall enclosing a head space therein, andb) a support disposed on the body;c) wherein the body is adaptable to connect to the containment structure.

2. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the support comprises a plurality of supporting members disposed on the body wall.

3. The vessel head of claim 2, comprising an end portion and a connecting portion, the end portion being at one end of the head, and the connecting portion being at the other end of the head, the connecting portion adapted to connect with the containment structure.

4. The vessel head of claim 3, wherein the supporting members comprise ribs.

5. The vessel head of claim 4, wherein a plurality of the ribs span between the head end portion and the head connecting portion.

6. The vessel head of claim 5, wherein the plurality of ribs connect to a rib support, wherein the rib support comprises a first rib support disposed at the connecting portion and a second rib support disposed at the end portion.

7. The vessel head of claim 6, wherein the supporting members further comprise a plurality of units, wherein each unit comprises a pair of the ribs, the first rib support and the second rib support, and wherein the plurality of units are adjacently arranged on the body wall, and secured to the body.

8. The vessel head of claim 6, wherein the supporting members are formed by the first rib support and the second rib support, and the pair of ribs, wherein each rib of the pair of ribs has a first end and a second end, and wherein the first rib support connects with the first end of each rib, and wherein the second rib support connects with the second end of each rib, the ribs being spaced apart from one another by the first rib support.

9. The vessel head of claim 8, wherein the plurality of supporting members are adjacently arranged, and wherein each rib of a rib support adjoins another rib of an adjacent rib support.

10. The vessel head of claim 9, wherein adjoining ribs are connected together.

11. The vessel head of claim 4, wherein at least some of the plurality of ribs are disposed at substantially spaced apart distances from each other.

12. The vessel head of claim 4, wherein the supporting members comprise a plurality of sections, each section comprising at least one rib, and being connectable to the body.

13. The vessel head of claim 12, wherein each section comprises at least two ribs, wherein at least two of the at least two ribs are longitudinally spaced apart from each other, wherein the first rib support spaces the at least two ribs at one end thereof, and wherein the second rib support spaces the at least two ribs at the other end thereof.

14. The vessel head of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the support is connected to the body.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT 15. A vessel system comprising at least one vessel head of any one of claims 1 to 13, and a vessel body, wherein the at least one vessel head is connected to the vessel body.

16. The vessel system of claim 15, including at least two said vessel heads, including a first vessel head, and a second vessel head, wherein the vessel body has a first end that connects with the first vessel head, and wherein the vessel body has a second end that connects with the second vessel head.

17. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the wall enclosing the head space includes at least one exterior surface with a profile, and wherein the support comprises a structure disposed on the exterior wall surface.

18. The vessel head of claim 17, wherein the support structure disposed on the exterior wall surface has a profile matching the exterior wall surface profile.

19. The vessel head of claim 18, wherein the support structure is connected to the body wall.

20. The vessel head of claim 19, wherein the support structure includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein the support structure inner surface is adhered to the exterior surface of the body wall.

21. The vessel head of claim 18, wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of sections.

22. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body includes a plurality of brackets, wherein the support comprises a plurality of supporting members disposed on the body, and wherein the plurality of supporting members attach to the plurality of brackets.

23. The vessel head of claim 22, wherein the plurality of brackets are located on the body wall.

24. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body comprises at least one flange, and wherein the at least one flange includes an annular ridge.

25. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the vessel head body is molded, and wherein the support is molded over the vessel body.

26. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the head space is hemi-spherical having a first opening at one end and second opening at the other end, the first opening comprising a larger diameter opening than the second opening.

27. The vessel head of claim 26, wherein the body wall includes a lower edge, and wherein the body further comprises a first flange disposed along the body wall lower edge at the location of the lower opening, a channel wall forming the second opening, and a second flange provided at the second opening.

28. The vessel head of claim 27, including a plug sealing closed the channel.

29. The vessel head of claim 28, wherein the vessel head comprises a pipe cap.

30. The vessel head of claim 28, wherein one or more of the body wall, channel wall, and flange are assembled together via welding or adhesive.

31. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body is comprised ofHDPE.

32. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the support is comprised of a polymer composition, metal composition, or combinations thereof.

33. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body wall has an elliptical configuration, and wherein the head space is elliptical.

34. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body wall has a hemi-spherical configuration, and wherein the head space is hemi-spherical.Atty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT 35. The vessel head of claim 13, wherein the support is molded.

36. The vessel head of claim 8, wherein the first rib support, the second rib support and the pair of ribs are separately fabricated and connected to form the support member.

37. A vessel comprising:a) a vessel body having a space therein, and having a first end and a second end;b) the vessel head of claim 1 comprising a first vessel head being releasably attachable to the vessel body first end; andc) a second vessel head provided on the vessel body second end.

38. The vessel of claim 37, wherein the first vessel head, second vessel head and vessel body are modular components that are connected together to form the vessel.

39. The vessel of claim 37, wherein the first vessel head is attachable to and releasable from the vessel body.

40. The vessel of claim 39, wherein the second vessel head is attachable to and releasable from the vessel body.

41. The vessel of claim 40, including a second vessel head, wherein the second vessel head comprises a body having a wall enclosing a head space therein, and a support disposed on the body.

42. The vessel of any one of claims 37 to 41, including at least one first connector for connecting the first vessel head and the vessel body together; and at least one second connector for connecting the second vessel head and vessel body together.

43. The vessel of claim 42, wherein the at least one connector for connecting the first vessel head and the vessel body together is a releasable connector that releasably connects the first vessel head and the vessel body together; and wherein the at least one connector for connecting the second vessel head and vessel body together is a releasable connector that releasably connects the second vessel head and vessel body together.

44. The vessel of claim 43, wherein the at least one connector for releasably the first vessel head and the vessel body together comprises a clamp provided to clamp together the first vessel head and the vessel body, and wherein the at least one connector for releasably connecting the second vessel head and vessel body together comprises a clamp provided to clamp together the second vessel head and vessel body.

45. The vessel of claim 44, wherein each clamp comprises a pair of rings that are secured together to provide a clamping force.

46. The vessel of claim 45, wherein the rings have apertures therein, and wherein the rings of each pair of rings are disposed with their apertures aligned, and wherein fasteners pass through the respective apertures to secure the rings in a clamping engagement with the vessel body ends and a respective one of the first vessel head and second vessel head.

47. The vessel of claim 46, wherein the first vessel head includes an annular flange, wherein the second vessel head includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pair of annular flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first vessel head annular flange connects to one of the vesselAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT body annular flanges, and wherein the second vessel head annular flange connects to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

48. The vessel of claim 47, including connectors that connect the first vessel head annular flange to one of the vessel body annular flanges and that connect the second vessel head annular flange to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

49. The vessel of claim 48, wherein the connectors comprise annular rings disposed on each side of the connecting flanges.

50. The vessel of claim 48, wherein the connectors comprise bolt and nut fasteners, and wherein the flanges have apertures therein for receiving the bolts therethrough.

51. The vessel of claim 50, wherein the flanges and annular rings have apertures therein, and wherein the connectors further include bolt and nut fasteners, and wherein the bolts pass through the apertures to secure the first vessel head annular flange and the second vessel head annular flange with a respective one of the vessel body annular flanges.

52. The vessel of claim 46, wherein the first vessel head includes an annular flange, wherein the second vessel head includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pair of annular flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first vessel head annular flange connects to one of the vessel body annular flanges, and wherein the second vessel head annular flange connects to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

53. The vessel head of claim 1, wherein the body wall has a configuration that is one of flat, hemispherical, elliptical, torispherical or conical.

54. The vessel head of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the body is comprised of fiber reinforced HDPE.

55. The vessel head of claim 54, wherein the vessel head body comprises fiber reinforced HDPE wherein the fiber comprises glass or carbon.

56. The vessel head of any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the supporting member sections are adjacently arranged, and wherein at least some of the plurality of supporting member sections connect to one or more adjacent ones of the plurality of supporting member sections.

57. The vessel head of claim 56, wherein the plurality of supporting member sections that connect to one or more adjacent ones of the plurality of supporting member sections connect together via the connection of their respective adjacent ribs.

58. The vessel head of claim 1, the body wall having an interior side and an exterior side and an opening therein, the vessel head further comprising a capping structure having an insert and a retainer, wherein the insert is disposed in the opening and is secured in the opening to close the opening, the insert including a channel spanning through the insert and communicating with the head space, wherein the insert first portion includes a shoulder connected to the body wall interior side, and wherein the insert second portion includes a sleeve, wherein the sleeve spans beyond the retainer, wherein the retainer includes an opening defined by a retainer wall, and wherein the retainer wall is connected to the sleeve, and whereinAtty. Dkt. no. 26-909469-1PCT the retainer includes a bottom surface, and wherein the retainer bottom surface is connected to the exterior side of the body wall.

59. The vessel head of claim 58, wherein the insert and retainer connect to each other and to the body wall by a solvent weld.

60. The vessel head of any one of claims 58 or 59, wherein the sleeve is configured to connect with one or more accessories and distribute flow from the head space to the one or more accessories.

61. The vessel of any one of claims 58 or 59, wherein the body wall includes at least one flat or substantially flat portion disposed between the insert shoulder and the retainer.

62. The vessel head of claim 61, wherein the insert shoulder comprises a flat or substantially flat surface, and wherein the retainer bottom surface comprises a flat or substantially flat surface.

63. The vessel head of claim 62, wherein the insert includes a plug portion that fits in the body wall opening, and is secured in the body wall opening, the plug portion including an upper surface comprising a second shoulder of the insert, the retainer being supported on and connected to the second shoulder of the insert.

64. The vessel head of claim 63, wherein the second shoulder of the insert and the body wall at least one flat or substantially flat portion form a connecting surface for the retainer to connect to.

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