Cryogenic Trench Assembly With Polymeric Panels for LNG Spill Containment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for constructing cryogenic trenches are inadequate for containing spills of liquefied natural gas (LNG) due to insufficient insulation and structural integrity, particularly under cryogenic temperatures.
Innovation Solution
The method involves constructing precast concrete sections with polymeric concrete panels that are connected using specialized connections and sealed with a non-sag filler, incorporating a release material like lard and a stainless steel bellow structure to create a continuous cryogenic protection system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional construction methods are used for cryogenic trenches, then construction simplicity is maintained, but insulation performance and structural integrity are insufficient under cryogenic temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The trench is divided into precast concrete sections that can be manufactured separately with controlled insulation properties and then assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for cryogenic performance while maintaining construction efficiency through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The trench structure uses composite construction combining precast concrete sections with polymeric concrete panels and specialized connection systems. This composite approach provides both the structural integrity needed for cryogenic temperatures and the insulation performance required for LNG containment.
2Temperature
If precast concrete sections with polymeric panels are used, then insulation performance is improved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The polymeric concrete panels are pre-applied to the precast sections during manufacturing at the first location before transport. This preliminary action ensures proper adhesion and positioning while allowing the sections to be assembled quickly at the cryogenic facility without requiring complex on-site panel installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A specialized connection system acts as an intermediary between the precast concrete sections, providing both mechanical attachment and sealing functions. This connection system facilitates easy assembly while maintaining the insulation integrity required for cryogenic temperature containment.
3Strength
If specialized connections with epoxy grout are used, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system merges mechanical attachment and sealing functions into a single integrated assembly process. The precast sections are designed with built-in connection features that allow sections to be joined using standardized procedures with epoxy grout, reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength.
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 effective containment and insulation for cryogenic spills, maintaining structural integrity and preventing leakage even under extreme thermal conditions, ensuring safety and efficiency in LNG handling.
Implementation Method 1
multiple panels of polymeric concrete material can be prepared... The liquid polymeric concrete material can be a cryogenic insulating material
Implementation Method 2
one or more of the panels can be adhered to the bottom wall and side walls of each concrete section preferably using an adhesive
Implementation Method 3
An epoxy grout can be added to the connections at the second location
Data Source
AI summary
A method of installing a trench for containing a cryogenic spill, including the step of constructing multiple precast concrete sections at a first location, each section preferably having a bottom wall and spaced apart side walls connected to and extending up from the bottom wall. Each section preferably has end portions that enable connection to another said concrete section. The method includes (at the first location) preparing multiple panels of polymeric concrete material by filling one or more molds with a slurry or liquid polymeric concrete material and after time allowing the material to cure and harden. The mold can have a cavity that is lined with a release material. At the first location, one or more of the panels can be adhered to the bottom wall and side walls of each concrete section preferably using an adhesive. After adhering of the panels to the concrete sections, the concrete sections can be transported from the first location to a second location that is remote from the first location. At the second location, the concrete sections are connected together using connections that preferably join one end portion of a concrete section to and end portion of another concrete section. An epoxy grout is preferably field applied to the connections at the second location.