LNG Tank Support Devices Preventing Force Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current marine LNG containment systems face challenges in preventing the transfer of forces between the primary and secondary barriers, especially at very low temperatures, due to direct structural connections which are not suitable for LNG's extreme conditions, and lack a complete secondary barrier for full containment.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting primary barrier and a secondary barrier are separately connected to the hull compartment with support devices penetrating the secondary barrier, and an access space is maintained between them, preventing direct force transfer and ensuring independent load transfer, with the secondary barrier being a liquid-tight thermal insulation connected to the hull compartment surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If direct structural connections are used between primary and secondary barriers, then structural support is provided, but force transfer between barriers occurs which is unsuitable for LNG's extreme low temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into discrete support devices rather than continuous direct connections. Each support device is a separate element that provides structural support while preventing force transfer between barriers, resolving the contradiction between needing strength and preventing harmful force transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
Support devices act as intermediary elements between the primary and secondary barriers. These intermediaries provide the necessary structural support while isolating the barriers from each other, preventing direct force transfer and addressing the reliability concern at extreme temperatures.
2Reliability
If a complete secondary barrier is implemented, then full containment integrity is ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary barrier serves multiple functions: it provides containment integrity, acts as thermal insulation support, and works with support devices to prevent force transfer. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining complete containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary barrier is nested within the hull compartment structure, utilizing existing structural elements. This nesting approach provides complete containment integrity while avoiding the need for entirely separate complex structures.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If thermal insulation is attached directly to the primary barrier, then insulation efficiency is improved, but load transfer to the secondary barrier occurs which is not suitable for LNG temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
Support devices serve as intermediaries between the primary barrier and the thermal insulation layer. This arrangement maintains efficient thermal insulation while preventing direct load transfer to the secondary barrier, addressing both the energy efficiency and force transfer concerns.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal insulation is applied locally to the primary barrier in specific areas where load transfer must be prevented. This localized approach maintains insulation efficiency while avoiding harmful force transfer to the secondary barrier 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 arrangement prevents force transfer between the primary and secondary barriers, enhancing the structural integrity and safety of LNG containment by maintaining independence between the barriers, allowing for effective thermal insulation and protection of the hull from LNG's extreme temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
The purpose of thermal insulation is to insulate the LNG from influx of heat and to protect the hull construction of the LNG ship from the very low temperature of LNG
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an arrangement for containment of liquid natural gas (LNG) in a hull compartment of a marine construction, comprising a self-supporting primary barrier, a secondary barrier surrounding the self-supporting primary barrier, and an access space between the self-supporting primary barrier and the secondary barrier, wherein the self-supporting primary barrier is a liquid-tight self-supporting LNG tank and is connected with the hull compartment by support devices penetrating the secondary barrier, the secondary barrier is a liquid-tight thermal insulation connected with the interior surface of the hull nd is sealed to the support devices by a flexible liquid tight seal, so that the self-supporting primary barrier and the secondary barrier are separately connected with the hull compartment to prevent transfer of forces between the primary barrier and the secondary barrier.