Modular Tank Panels for Rapid Fluid Storage Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in managing and disposing of large quantities of fluids used in unconventional oil and natural gas operations, particularly in hydraulic fracturing, where existing methods like tanker trucks, rail cars, and pipelines are costly, hazardous, and inefficient for fluid storage and disposal, especially when dealing with high volumes and remote disposal facilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular above-ground tank system comprising trapezoidal panels that form a containment wall, with a frame assembly to support the panels and a liner for fluid containment, allowing for flexible and rapid setup, and capable of forming various shapes, including circular and rectangular configurations, to efficiently store and manage fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tanker trucks, rail cars, or pipelines are used to transport waste fluids, then fluids can be moved to disposal facilities, but costs increase significantly and road or rail traffic hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple modular panels that can be assembled on-site to create containment structures of various sizes and configurations. This eliminates the need for transporting large volumes of fluid via tanker trucks or rail cars, as the tank can be built directly at the fluid generation or storage location, thereby reducing transportation hazards and costs while maintaining reliable fluid disposal capability
Solution Approach 2:
The tank utilizes vertical space by elevating the upper perimeter above ground level, creating a three-dimensional containment structure. This allows large volumes of fluid to be stored on-site without requiring extensive horizontal transport infrastructure, reducing dependence on tanker trucks and pipelines while ensuring reliable fluid management
2Reliability
If traditional MAG tanks are used for fluid storage, then fluids can be contained, but set-up and take-down times are lengthy and site disturbance is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The tank structure is segmented into discrete panels that can be rapidly assembled and disassembled. Each panel is a self-contained unit that can be quickly connected to form the containment wall, significantly reducing set-up and take-down times compared to traditional monolithic tank structures while maintaining reliable fluid containment through the interlocking panel design
Solution Approach 2:
The tank design incorporates removable and reconfigurable components that allow the structure to be dynamically assembled and disassembled. The frame assembly and side wall sections can be quickly connected and disconnected, enabling rapid deployment and removal of the tank system while preserving containment integrity during operation
3Reliability
If traditional tank designs are used, then fluid storage is achieved, but flexibility in configuration and adaptation to uneven ground is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is constructed from multiple standardized panels that can be arranged in various configurations to create circular, rectangular, or custom-shaped containment structures. This modular approach provides flexibility in adapting to different site conditions and ground irregularities while maintaining reliable fluid storage capability through consistent panel connections and sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The tank design allows for asymmetric configurations where panels can be arranged to accommodate uneven ground surfaces and specific site constraints. The modular panel system enables creation of non-uniform shapes and elevations tailored to the specific installation location while preserving storage reliability through proper panel interconnection and liner placement
Data Source
AI summary
A modular tank comprises a plurality of panels positioned on the ground or another surface to form sides of a containment wall. Each panel comprises: i) a side wall section having a trapezoidal shape; and ii) a frame assembly connected to the side wall section and configured to support the side wall section such that a first base of the trapezoid shape is disposed proximate a base of the containment wall and a second base of the trapezoid shape is supported in an elevated position to form part of an upper perimeter of the containment wall. The modular tank also includes a liner configured to be disposed on at least one of the containment wall and the ground surface to thereby form a barrier for containing fluid in the modular tank. Depending on whether the first base of a panel is wider or narrower than the second base, panels may be aligned to form straight walls or curved walls, thereby enabling the modular tank to assume different shapes.