Insulation Structure Anchor Strip Removal for Liquefied Gas Cargo Hold
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing insulation structures for liquefied gas cargo holds require anchor strips made of stainless steel, which increase production costs and complexity due to the need for additional components and riveting processes, and can damage upper insulation panels during welding.
Innovation Solution
An anchor strip-free insulation structure using a thermal protection member formed of aluminum foil covered with glass cloth, which is seated in a groove of the upper insulation panel to prevent damage from welding flames and securely attach the membrane sheet, eliminating the need for riveting and reducing weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If anchor strips made of stainless steel are used to secure the membrane sheet, then the membrane sheet can be firmly attached, but the production cost increases and the construction process becomes more complex due to additional components and riveting processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the anchor strip component entirely from the insulation structure. Instead of using separate anchor strips with rivets, the membrane sheet is directly secured to the upper insulation panel through integrated securing elements, eliminating the need for anchor strips and simplifying the construction process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of the upper insulation panel and the securing mechanism into a single integrated structure. The upper insulation panel incorporates securing elements that directly attach the membrane sheet, merging what were previously separate components (anchor strips, rivets, and insulation panels) into one unified system
2Strength
If anchor strips are used to secure the membrane sheet, then the membrane sheet can be firmly attached, but the upper insulation panel can be damaged by flame generated during welding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-combustible intermediate layer or heat-resistant material between the welding area and the upper insulation panel. This intermediary protects the insulation panel from direct exposure to welding flames while allowing the membrane sheet to be securely attached through heat-resistant securing elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses heat-resistant protective coverings or shields during the welding process that can be easily applied and removed. These temporary protective elements prevent thermal damage to the insulation panel during welding operations and are discarded after use
3Strength
If anchor strips made of stainless steel are used, then the membrane sheet can be secured, but the weight of the cargo hold increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the securing elements by using lightweight materials such as aluminum or aluminum alloys instead of stainless steel for anchor strips. This parameter change maintains the necessary attachment strength while significantly reducing the weight of the cargo hold structure
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 reduces production costs, simplifies the construction process, and protects the upper insulation panel from damage during welding while securely fastening the membrane sheet, thereby enhancing the insulation structure's efficiency and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal protection member formed of aluminum foil covered with glass cloth to reduce the weight of the cargo hold
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an insulation structure, for a liquefied gas cargo hold, having an anchor strip removed, a cargo hold comprising the insulation structure, and a liquefied gas carrier comprising the cargo hold. A thermal protection member is substituted for an existing anchor strip, thereby effectively preventing damage on an upper insulating panel, due to a hot gas and heat transfer during welding of a membrane, by means of the thermal protection member as well as enhancing the fixing force of the membrane. The weight of a cargo hold can be reduced by means of forming the thermal protection member from a material in which aluminum foil is covered with glass cloth. And by means of removing an existing SUS anchor strip, rivet processing is not required and thus constructability can be enhanced.