Cryogenic Tank Support Structure with Segmented Heat Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic storage of liquid methane faces challenges due to heat transfer through mounting structures between inner and outer vessels, leading to reduced hold times and potential gas venting, which is undesirable for its high global warming potential.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with a plurality of openings arranged in a repeating pattern is used to extend the heat path between the inner and outer vessels, minimizing heat load and improving hold times, which can be implemented in cryogenic storage tanks, including those for methane, nitrogen, and oxygen, using materials like stainless steel and aluminum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a mounting structure connects the inner vessel to the outer vessel, then mechanical support is provided, but heat transfer occurs between vessels reducing hold time
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is segmented into multiple discrete support elements (spacers, posts, or ribs) distributed across the vessel interface, with each element containing openings that further segment the heat transfer path. This segmentation reduces continuous thermal conduction while maintaining mechanical support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure incorporates openings at specific locations where heat transfer is most problematic, creating local variations in thermal conductivity. The structure transitions from uniform solid material to a non-uniform configuration with strategic openings that target hot spots while preserving structural integrity in critical load-bearing areas.
2Strength
If conventional solid mounting structures are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but heat load on inner vessel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure incorporates a porous or perforated configuration with multiple openings distributed throughout the material. This porous design reduces the solid material volume that conducts heat while maintaining sufficient structural strength through the geometric arrangement of remaining material and support elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure combines materials with different thermal properties or uses a composite configuration where solid structural elements are integrated with low-conductivity features (openings, vacuum spaces, or insulating materials) to create a composite structure that balances mechanical strength and thermal insulation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the support structure uses solid material, then manufacturing is simple, but heat path length is short
Solution Approach 1:
The heat path is segmented into multiple sections by introducing openings and discontinuities in the support structure. This segmentation forces heat to travel through a more complex, longer path with multiple interfaces and air gaps, effectively increasing the thermal resistance without requiring a proportionally longer overall structure.
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 minimizes heat transfer between the inner and outer vessels, extending the hold time of cryogenic liquids and reducing the need for gas venting, thereby enhancing the storage efficiency and environmental sustainability of cryogenic fuels.
Implementation Method 1
heat can be introduced to the inner vessel housing the cryogenic material via these heat paths
Implementation Method 2
The vacuum and/or insulation limits the heat load on the inner tank by reducing the heat gained through conduction
Data Source
AI summary
Storage systems and methods of manufacturing and using the same. A storage tank is provided with an inner vessel, an outer vessel, and a support system between the vessels. The support system may comprise a repeating pattern of openings that effectively lengthens the heat path between the inner and outer vessels.