LNG Tank Dome Pipe Support to Reduce Hull-Induced Bending Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquefied gas storage ships experience large relative displacement between transport pipes and their support structures due to hull deformation and temperature-induced expansion/contraction, leading to bending stress on the pipes.
Innovation Solution
The support structure body is fixed to the dome part of the tank, comprising an attachment part, a mount part, and a support part to connect and support the transport pipe, thereby minimizing relative displacement between the pipe and the support structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large-sized storage tank is used to ensure sufficient storage capacity, then the storage capacity is improved, but the ship's maneuverability and seakeeping performance deteriorate due to increased weight and top-heavy structure
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple small modular tanks instead of one large tank. Each module can be independently configured and positioned, allowing the center of gravity to be optimized for better maneuverability while maintaining total storage capacity. The modular design enables flexible arrangement to improve seakeeping performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single large-scale storage solution to a multi-dimensional modular configuration. By arranging multiple small tanks in three-dimensional space, the system achieves sufficient storage capacity while distributing weight to improve maneuverability and stability.
2Quantity of substance
If a large-sized storage tank is used to ensure sufficient storage capacity, then the storage capacity is improved, but the structural complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular tank design allows each module to serve multiple functions: storage, ballast water management, and potential conversion for different cargo types. This universal approach simplifies the overall system architecture compared to specialized large tanks, reducing structural complexity while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular tanks can be nested or stacked configurations, allowing efficient space utilization. Smaller modules can be positioned within or around larger structural elements, optimizing the use of available space without requiring a single massive tank structure.
3Device complexity
If conventional storage tanks are used, then the structure is simple, but the energy consumption increases due to insufficient insulation and thermal bridges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs advanced insulation layers and thermal barriers as thin-film structures between the liquid cargo and tank walls. These flexible insulation layers provide superior thermal performance compared to conventional rigid insulation, reducing energy consumption while maintaining a relatively simple overall tank structure.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional storage tanks are used, then the construction is straightforward, but safety risks increase due to corrosion and leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material qualities to different parts of the tank structure. The inner surface uses corrosion-resistant materials specifically where liquid cargo contacts, while outer structures use standard materials. This localized approach to material selection enhances safety and corrosion resistance without significantly complicating the overall construction process.
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 configuration significantly suppresses relative displacement between the pipe and the support structure, ensuring reliable pipe support and reducing bending stress.
Implementation Method 1
the tank is designed taking into account the shape of the liquid cargo stored in the tank and the center of gravity of the ship
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
Provided is a liquefied gas storage ship (1) including: a hull (3); a tank (5) that is installed in the hull (3) and stores liquefied gas, the tank (5) including a dome part (13) protruding upward; a pipe (7) extending from an inside of the tank (5) through the dome part (13) to an outside of the tank (5); and a support structure body (9) that is fixed to the dome part (13) and supports a portion (7a) of the pipe extending to the outside of the tank (5).