Multi-Stage Fuel Tank Cleaning System with Recirculation Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fuel tank cleaning methods are inefficient, as they primarily focus on the area around the access port, leaving contaminants at the bottom of the tank untouched, leading to frequent maintenance needs and significant downtime, which results in continuous contaminant buildup and reduced tank lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A comprehensive fuel tank maintenance system utilizing a pressure cleaning head, graduated filter cells, and a circulation process that thoroughly cleans the entire tank, including the bottom, by filtering and recirculating the fuel through multiple stages of filtration and treatment, ensuring complete removal of contaminants and biological growths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional suction hose and filter system is used for tank cleaning, then the access port area can be cleaned, but the bottom of the tank remains contaminated and requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The tank cleaning process is segmented into multiple zones: the access port area is cleaned by traditional suction, while the bottom zone is addressed by a separate downwardly directed jet nozzle system. This segmentation allows simultaneous cleaning of different tank regions, achieving complete contaminant removal and extending the time between maintenance operations.
2Reliability
If tank cleaning is performed frequently to remove contaminants, then fuel quality is maintained, but significant downtime is required for each cleaning operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous circulation and filtration of fuel through the tank. The recirculation pump continuously moves fuel through the filtration system, and the jet nozzles continuously clean tank surfaces, eliminating the need for prolonged shutdowns and maintaining both fuel quality and tank availability.
3Ease of operation
If simple filtration is used, then the system is easy to operate, but contaminants accumulate and reduce tank lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the fuel itself as the cleaning medium. Fuel is circulated through the tank, and contaminants are removed via filtration and jet washing. This self-service approach maintains simplicity while effectively removing contaminants that would otherwise accumulate and reduce tank lifespan.
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 system effectively extends the time between cleanings, increases the useful life of the tank, and reduces downtime by ensuring thorough cleaning and protection against future contaminants, achieving a cleaner tank surface and improved fuel quality.
Implementation Method 1
circulation of the fuel, breaking up the sediment and contaminant pieces
Implementation Method 2
filtration and hose system... the liquid in the tank, and in the area of the suction hose is pumped out, collected and filtered
Implementation Method 3
The higher-pressure fuel spray or stream from the pressure treating head is used to spray against the surfaces of the tank... breaking down of sediment and contaminant pieces
Data Source
AI summary
A complete fuel tank maintenance and cleaning system. This apparatus and method are capable of effectively cleaning an underground or aboveground storage tank by implementing a multi-stage filtration and removal system, and effectively removing contaminants from tank surfaces by using the product or alternative as a streamed cleaning agent within the storage tank.