Floating Vessel Tank Support Positioning for Thermal Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank arrangements for liquefied hydrocarbon gases in floating vessels are affected by temperature changes, leading to length variations that impact pipe connections and require complex support systems, while also posing hazards due to pipe locations and ventilation issues.
Innovation Solution
A floating vessel design where the tank is supported by a deck member at less than 1/3 of its total height, with pipe connections above the deck to minimize length change effects, and featuring a self-supporting tank structure, dedicated compartment, and natural or forced ventilation to reduce hazards and stabilize the tank.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tank is supported at the middle (prior art arrangement), then the support structure is stable, but pipe connections are significantly affected by tank length changes due to temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the vertical position dimension of the support point, moving it from the middle of the tank to the top portion (above 1/3 from bottom). This dimensional change in support location reduces the lever arm for thermal expansion effects on pipe connections while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of support location height, specifying that the support should be positioned at a height above 1/3 of the tank total height from the bottom. This parameter change optimizes the balance between support stability and minimization of thermal expansion impact on piping.
2Device complexity
If the tank is supported at the middle (prior art arrangement), then the support structure is straightforward, but hazardous areas increase due to pipe connection locations and ventilation issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pipe connections from the hazardous zone by positioning them above the deck level, separating them from the confined space below where the tank is located. This reduces the volume of hazardous areas and improves ventilation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the tank above 1/3 of its height from the bottom, which allows for improved air circulation and reduces the extent of hazardous areas in the lower confined space.
3Area of stationary object
If the tank extends through the deck member, then deck space is maximized for equipment support, but tank length changes still affect pipe connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing specific support at the top portion of the tank (above 1/3 height) while allowing the tank to extend through the deck. This localized support arrangement maintains deck space utility while specifically addressing pipe connection stability at the supported location.
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 design reduces the impact of tank length changes on pipe connections, enhances safety by minimizing hazardous areas, and provides effective ventilation and stabilization, allowing for efficient storage and use of liquefied hydrocarbon gases.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the temperature changes a length of the tank will change, the tank contracting when filled with the cold liquefied gas
Data Source
AI summary
Herein a floating vessel is disclosed. The floating vessel comprises a deck member and a tank for liquefied hydrocarbon gas such as LNG. The tank extends through the deck member, and the tank is supported by the deck member, suspended at less than ⅓ of a total height of the tank, seen from the top of the tank.