Compressible Vapor Plug for Floating Roof Deck Leg Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vapor emission control methods for deck leg apertures of floating roof storage tanks, such as impermeable bags or leg socks, are not effective and difficult to maintain, leading to compliance issues and potential fines due to incomplete sealing and material fatigue.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of vapor emission control apparatuses with compressible members that form an air-tight seal within the leg sleeves below the leg pin apertures, reducing or eliminating VOC emissions by compressing to secure a tight fit and easy removal for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If impermeable bags or leg socks are installed over the leg sleeve, then vapor emissions are reduced, but the device is difficult to maintain and may rip or tear from installation and material fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible vapor plug made of elastomeric material that is inserted into the leg sleeve. This flexible plug conforms to the inner surface of the leg sleeve and can be compressed to form a reliable seal, eliminating vapor emissions while being more durable than impermeable bags or socks.
Solution Approach 2:
The vapor plug's physical state is changed by compression. When installed, the plug is compressed within the leg sleeve to form a tight seal. This parameter change (from uncompressed to compressed state) enables the plug to effectively block vapor emissions while maintaining structural integrity.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If impermeable bags or leg socks are used to seal the leg sleeve, then vapor emissions are minimized, but the sealing effectiveness is insufficient and compliance issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible elastomeric vapor plug is designed to conform precisely to the inner surface of the leg sleeve. This flexibility allows it to create an effective seal that blocks vapor emissions, achieving the required sealing precision that rigid or less adaptable materials like bags or socks cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The vapor plug acts as an intermediary element between the leg sleeve and the external environment. By positioning the plug within the leg sleeve and compressing it against the inner surface, it creates an effective barrier that prevents vapor emissions, achieving compliance with emission standards.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the compressible member is compressed to form an air-tight seal, then VOC emissions are reduced by at least 95%, but the installation and removal process requires compression force
Solution Approach 1:
The vapor plug utilizes compression as a parameter change to achieve its sealing function. When installed, the plug is compressed within the leg sleeve to form a tight seal that reduces VOC emissions by at least 95%. The elastomeric material allows for this compression while maintaining structural integrity and seal effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces VOC emissions by at least 95% (or higher), is easier to maintain, and likely classified as Best Available Control Technology (BACT), resulting in cost savings and reduced risk of permit violations.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible member that when compressed forms an air tight or substantially air tight seal against an inner surface of the leg sleeves
Implementation Method 2
The compressible member includes an aperture therethrough; the top plate includes an aperture therethrough; and the bottom plate includes an aperture therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
Floating roof storage vessels including a vapor emission reduction system designed to be inserted into deck leg apertures, when the legs have been removed during hydrocarbon storage.