Multi-Layer Fireproof Insulating Roll for Tank Cars

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tank cars lack effective fireproofing and thermal insulation solutions, particularly for transporting flammable and thermally sensitive materials, which poses risks during transportation and in case of accidents.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer fireproof insulating roll with a fire-resistant layer and a thermally insulating layer, integrated with securing straps, is deployed over tank cars to provide comprehensive fireproofing and insulation. The roll is designed to be easily secured around the tank car's circumference, ensuring the fire-resistant layer is firmly retained and the insulating layer is in contact with the tanker.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single-layer insulation material is used on tank cars, then the installation process is simple, but the fire resistance and thermal insulation performance are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefire resistance and thermal insulation performanceVSAvoidmulti-layer structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by combining a fire-resistant layer (e.g., ceramic fiber blanket) with a thermal insulation layer (e.g., foam insulation) to create a multi-layer insulating roll. This composite structure provides both fire resistance and thermal insulation properties that a single material cannot achieve, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The insulation system is segmented into distinct functional layers: a fire-resistant layer positioned against the tank car surface and a thermal insulation layer positioned against the fire-resistant layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If traditional insulation materials are applied to tank cars, then the installation process is straightforward, but the materials do not conform to the curved surface of the tank car

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact and conformability to tank car surfaceVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs flexible insulation materials including a fire-resistant layer made of flexible ceramic fiber blanket and a thermal insulation layer made of flexible foam. These flexible materials can conform to the curved surface of the tank car while maintaining their insulating properties, enabling reliable contact without complex installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-layer insulating roll is designed with flexible materials that can dynamically adapt to the tank car's surface geometry. The layers can bend and conform to curved surfaces during installation, providing reliable contact while keeping the installation process straightforward.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the fire-resistant layer is positioned away from the tank car surface, then the thermal insulation layer can be in direct contact with the tank car, but the fire-resistant layer cannot provide effective protection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefire protection effectivenessVSAvoidthermal insulation performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the insulation system into two distinct layers with specific positioning: the fire-resistant layer is positioned in direct contact with the tank car surface to provide fire protection, while the thermal insulation layer is positioned against the fire-resistant layer to provide thermal insulation. This segmentation allows both functions to be performed effectively simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The composite structure places the fire-resistant layer (ceramic fiber blanket) in contact with the tank car surface, followed by the thermal insulation layer (foam). This arrangement ensures the fire-resistant layer can effectively protect against external fires while the thermal insulation layer maintains temperature control, resolving the contradiction between fire protection and thermal insulation performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 insulates and fireproofs tank cars, preventing damage from external fires and maintaining the temperature of transported materials, thus ensuring safety and security during transportation and potential incidents.

Implementation Method 1

at least one layer providing fire resistance properties and at least one additional layer providing thermal insulating properties

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

The layer providing fire resistance properties and the layer providing thermal insulating properties can be integrally joined, for example with adhesive bonding, stitch bonding, or the like

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS9174418B1Fireproof thermal insulation method
Publication Date: 2015.11.03 SPECIALTY DISTRIBUTION GRP LLC
  • US9174418B1 patent drawing
  • US9174418B1 patent drawing
  • US9174418B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-layer fireproof insulation roll for fireproofing and thermally insulating a tank car. The multi-layer fireproof insulation roll having a first layer with fire-retardant properties, a second layer having thermal insulating properties and a first strap. The first strap securing the first layer to the tank car. A method of fireproofing and insulating a tank car. A method of making a multi-layer fireproof insulation roll.