LNG to CNG Conversion Pump Using Phase Transition Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for converting liquefied natural gas (LNG) to high-pressure compressed natural gas (CNG) require additional power due to the need for compressors and pumps, resulting in parasitic losses and limited pressure capabilities, making them inefficient for high-pressure applications.
Innovation Solution
A gas production system that includes a conversion pump with a tank for storing liquefied fuel and a heat transfer device, utilizing a cyclic process to convert the effective volume of a container into mechanical power, allowing for the efficient production of high-pressure gaseous fuel by heating and cooling the fuel while managing its volume to produce auxiliary power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If compressors and pumps are used to convert LNG to high pressure CNG, then the gas can be pressurized for engine injection, but additional power is consumed resulting in parasitic losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes phase transitions of natural gas between liquid and gaseous states to drive the compression process. The expansion of gas from liquid phase to gas phase generates mechanical work that drives the compressor, eliminating the need for external power sources and reducing parasitic losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic cyclic operation where the container alternates between receiving liquid fuel, converting it to gas, storing the gas, and then expanding the gas to drive compression. This periodic phase change and expansion cycle continuously generates the mechanical power needed for compression without external energy input.
2Power
If compressors and pumps are used to convert LNG to high pressure CNG, then the gas can be pressurized for engine injection, but the pressure capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts pressure capabilities by controlling the rate and extent of gas expansion and phase transitions. The movable wall container allows dynamic volume adjustment to optimize pressure generation, enabling adaptation to different pressure requirements for various engine applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression process is segmented into multiple stages involving sequential phase transitions and expansion cycles. This multi-stage approach allows the system to achieve higher pressures by cumulative effect of multiple expansion events rather than relying on a single compression stage.
3Volume of stationary object
If the vessel dimensions are increased to achieve higher pressure, then more gas can be stored, but the supply pressure must overcome the vessel pressure to allow additional hydrogen to enter
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs a movable wall that dynamically adjusts the vessel volume and pressure in response to incoming liquid fuel. As liquid converts to gas, the wall moves to accommodate volume changes while maintaining optimal pressure differential, ensuring continuous fuel entry without pressure buildup limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters including temperature, pressure, and volume during the conversion cycle. By controlling temperature during phase transition and adjusting volume through the movable wall, the system maintains favorable pressure differentials that allow continuous fuel supply regardless of stored gas pressure.
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 system effectively produces high-pressure gaseous fuel with reduced parasitic losses, utilizing waste heat from the fuel consumption device to power the conversion process, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing energy wastage.
Implementation Method 1
a heat transfer device configured to transfer heat to fuel in the container
Implementation Method 2
converting a change in the effective volume of the container to mechanical power
Implementation Method 3
a crankshaft driven by the first piston to produce auxiliary power
Implementation Method 4
utilizing waste heat from the fuel consumption device to power the conversion process
Data Source
AI summary
A gas production system for producing high pressure gas is disclosed. The gas production system may perform a method for producing high pressure gaseous fuel. The method may include receiving liquefied fuel in a container having an effective volume, reducing the effective volume of the container, and heating the liquefied fuel. The method may also include releasing some gaseous fuel out of the container. The method may further include increasing the effective volume of the container, cooling residual gaseous fuel, and directing liquefied fuel into the container to replace released gaseous fuel. The method may include converting a change in the effective volume of the container to mechanical power.