Removable Storage Tanks for Offshore Chemical Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore structures face challenges in storing corrosive chemicals over their long service life, as existing storage solutions are not easily replaceable and do not accommodate varying chemical types and volumes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A buoyant offshore structure design featuring removable, vertically supported storage tanks made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or super duplex steel, which can be easily replaced and arranged within a sump tank for enhanced compartmentalization and storage capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If storage tanks are permanently installed in offshore structures, then structural integrity is maintained, but replacement and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank system is divided into modular sections that can be independently removed and replaced. The tank is segmented from the hull structure through removable connections, allowing maintenance without compromising the overall structural integrity of the offshore platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage tank is designed to be extractable from the hull element through vertical lifting operations. This extraction capability enables complete removal of corroded or damaged tanks while maintaining the structural framework of the offshore structure intact.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If storage tanks are made of corrosion-resistant materials, then service life is extended, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Corrosion-resistant materials are applied selectively to the inner surfaces and areas most exposed to chemical storage conditions. This localized application of premium materials extends service life where needed while reducing overall manufacturing costs compared to using corrosion-resistant materials throughout the entire tank structure.
3Quantity of substance
If storage capacity is increased, then chemical storage needs are met, but accessibility for maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tank design incorporates dynamic accessibility features that allow maintenance personnel to reach interior components despite large storage capacity. Lifting mechanisms and removable access points enable easy entry and exit for maintenance operations while maintaining maximum storage volume within the hull element constraints.
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
Enables efficient storage and replacement of chemicals, preventing corrosion and accommodating different types and volumes, while ensuring structural integrity and safety through compartmentalization and easy access for maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
the storage tank is removable from the inner space by lifting from the hull element's surface end
Data Source
AI summary
A buoyant offshore structure, comprising a hull element (6a) having an inner space (10), a surface end (12) and an underwater end (14); and at least one storage tank (15a) for liquid, extending from the surface end (12) of the hull element into the inner space (10), wherein the storage tank is removable from the inner space by lifting from the hull element's surface end.