Cryogenic Fuel Tank Cooling Layout for Pressure and Vaporization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for storing cryogenic flammable fuels, such as natural gas and hydrogen, fail to precisely control pressure and temperature in cryogenic tanks, leading to potential explosive risks due to vaporization and increased pressure, as they do not effectively manage heat input and insulation-related issues.
Innovation Solution
A station with a cooling circuit comprising two pipes with heat exchangers positioned in the upper and lower parts of the first tank, connected to a second cryogenic tank for inert gas, allowing for controlled heat exchange to reduce vaporization and manage pressure, along with a withdrawing circuit and leak detection system for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single cooling circuit is used, then the structure is simple, but the control precision of pressure and temperature is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling circuit is segmented into two independent circuits, each with its own heat exchanger positioned at different locations (upper and lower parts) of the fuel tank. This segmentation allows independent control of cooling at different zones, enabling precise pressure and temperature control throughout the tank volume.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the tank receive differentiated cooling treatment through the upper and lower heat exchangers. The local quality principle is applied by positioning heat exchangers at specific locations (upper and lower parts) to address local thermal variations and achieve uniform temperature distribution throughout the tank.
2Device complexity
If heat exchangers are positioned only at one location, then the structure is simple, but the temperature distribution in the tank is non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchange system is segmented into two separate heat exchangers positioned at different vertical locations within the tank. This segmentation ensures that both the upper and lower portions of the fuel receive adequate cooling, maintaining uniform temperature distribution and preventing thermal stratification.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchanger arrangement extends into the vertical dimension by positioning exchangers at both upper and lower parts of the tank. This dimensional distribution of heat exchange surfaces ensures comprehensive thermal coverage throughout the fuel volume, achieving uniform temperature distribution.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If liquid is not regularly withdrawn, then the storage is continuous, but the pressure increases due to vaporization
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system performs preliminary action by continuously removing heat from the fuel before significant vaporization can occur. The heat exchangers pre-cool the fuel and maintain it at appropriate temperatures, preventing the pressure buildup that would otherwise require frequent liquid withdrawal or safety valve activation.
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
This solution provides precise control over pressure and temperature in the fuel tank, reducing the risk of explosive clouds and ensuring safe storage by using a dual-walled tank setup and inert gas cooling, while also incorporating a leak detection and release system for safety.
Implementation Method 1
the cooling circuit comprises two pipes each provided with a respective heat exchanger housed in the first tank, the two exchangers being respectively situated in the upper and lower parts of the first tank
Implementation Method 2
a cooling circuit in a heat-exchange relationship with the first tank, the cooling circuit comprising an upstream end connected to the second cryogenic tank for drawing cryogenic fluid from the second cryogenic tank in order to give up frigories from the fluid of the second cryogenic tank to the first tank
Implementation Method 3
Storing a cryogenic liquid in an insulated tank under vacuum is prone to an increase in the internal pressure thereof
Implementation Method 4
Storing a cryogenic liquid in an insulated tank under vacuum
Data Source
AI summary
Station for supplying a flammable fluid fuel comprising a first cryogenic tank (2) for storing fuel in the form of a cryogenic liquid, a second cryogenic tank (3) for storing an inert gas, a cooling circuit (4, 14) in a heat-exchange relationship with the first tank (2), the cooling circuit (4, 14) comprising an upstream end connected to the second cryogenic tank (3) for drawing cryogenic fluid from the second cryogenic tank (3) in order to give up frigories from the fluid of the second cryogenic tank (3) to the first tank (2), the station comprising a circuit (7) for withdrawing fluid derived from the second tank (3), characterized in that the cooling circuit comprises two pipes (4, 14) comprising an upstream end connected to the second tank (3), the two pipes (4, 14) each being provided with a respective exchanger (9, 10) housed in the first tank (2), the two exchangers (9, 10) being respectively situated in the upper and lower parts of the first tank.