Cryogenic Tank Valve Circuit for Rapid Pressure Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tank systems for cryogenic two-phase mixtures face challenges in quickly reducing container pressure and minimizing evaporation losses, as existing pressure relief mechanisms, such as the economizer circuit, result in elevated tank pressures and slowed pressure reduction due to residual overpressure and admixture of cryogenic liquid.
Innovation Solution
A valve circuit that switches between extraction lines based on container pressure, prioritizing cryogenic gas removal at high pressure and cryogenic liquid removal at low pressure, with additional states for managing consumer demand and potential shut-off, utilizing pressure sensors and controllable switching valves to optimize pressure management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the economizer circuit with pressure relief valve and throttle valve is used to reduce container pressure, then the container pressure can be reduced, but the pressure reduction is slowed down due to residual overpressure and admixture of cryogenic liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different extraction line configurations based on real-time pressure conditions. The valve circuit transitions between first switching state (prioritizing gas extraction line) and second switching state (prioritizing liquid extraction line), enabling adaptive pressure management that optimizes both pressure reduction speed and evaporation loss minimization
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters by switching which extraction line is prioritized based on pressure thresholds. When pressure exceeds the first threshold value, the system opens the gas extraction line and closes the liquid extraction line. When pressure falls below the threshold, it reverses the configuration, thereby optimizing the pressure reduction process
2Speed
If cryogenic gas is withdrawn first to rapidly reduce vessel pressure, then pressure reduction speed increases, but evaporation losses increase due to prolonged high pressure periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic switching between extraction modes based on pressure threshold crossings. The valve circuit alternates between prioritizing gas extraction (when pressure is high) and liquid extraction (when pressure is low), creating a rhythmic control pattern that balances rapid pressure reduction with evaporation loss minimization
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor provides continuous feedback to the control system, enabling real-time decision-making about which extraction line to prioritize. This closed-loop control ensures that the system responds appropriately to pressure changes, switching between extraction modes to optimize both pressure reduction speed and evaporation loss prevention
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 allows for rapid pressure reduction and minimized evaporation losses by prioritizing cryogenic gas removal at high pressures and cryogenic liquid at low pressures, ensuring efficient supply to consumers and reducing tank pressure effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The feed line 11 then passes through a heating element 12, e.g., a heat exchanger, in which the cryogenic two-phase mixture 3 is vaporized.
Implementation Method 2
A valve circuit connected to a first pressure sensor (30) for measuring the container pressure (P1)
Implementation Method 3
A valve circuit connected to a first pressure sensor (30) for measuring the container pressure (P1), which is switchable at least between a first switching state in which a first extraction line (7) for cryogenic gas (4) is open and a second extraction line (9) for cryogenic fluid (5) is closed at least in the direction of travel to the consumer (M)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a tank system (16), a system (40), and a control method, comprising: a container (2) for receiving a two-phase mixture (3) of cryogenic gas (4) and cryogenic liquid (5) with a pressure sensor (30) for measuring the container pressure (P1), a first withdrawal line (7) for cryogenic gas (4) and a second withdrawal line (9) for cryogenic liquid (5), a feed line (11) for supplying a consumer (M) into which both withdrawal lines (7, 9) open, a heating element (12) through which the feed line (11) is routed, and a valve circuit (27) which is switchable at least between a first switching state (S1), in which the first withdrawal line (7) is open and the second withdrawal line (9) is closed towards the consumer (M), and a second switching state (S2), in which the first withdrawal line (7) is closed towards the consumer (M) and the second withdrawal line (9) is open. is,wherein the valve circuit (27) assumes the respective switching state (S1, S2) depending on the measured container pressure (P1).