Vertical Oval Fluid Storage Tank for Fracturing Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid storage tanks for well fracturing fluids occupy large areas and require significant space and handling efforts, especially when a large volume of fracturing fluid is needed for lengthy operations, leading to increased equipment and labor costs due to the need for multiple tanks.
Innovation Solution
A vertical, oval-shaped fluid storage tank with a small footprint that can be easily transported and positioned, featuring a frame member with a ladder and walkway for access, stiffening rings for structural support, and a fluid circulating arrangement to prevent fluid settling, allowing for efficient storage and circulation of fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If trailer tanks are used for fluid storage, then transportation is simplified, but the storage area occupied at the worksite becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The tank design transitions from a horizontal orientation (trailer tank) to a vertical orientation, utilizing the vertical dimension to reduce the horizontal footprint at the worksite. The vertical tank maintains transportation capability through specialized mounting while occupying minimal ground space during storage operations.
2Area of stationary object
If skid tanks are used for fluid storage, then worksite storage area is reduced, but additional handling equipment and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical tank incorporates self-positioning features including a skid base with integrated lifting points and alignment guides that enable the tank to be easily positioned and leveled at the worksite without requiring complex external handling equipment or multiple operations.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple tanks are used to store large volumes of fracturing fluid, then sufficient fluid capacity is achieved, but the total worksite space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a vertical configuration that stacks fluid storage capacity in the vertical dimension rather than expanding horizontally. This allows multiple tank volumes to be accommodated within a compact footprint by increasing height rather than spread, thereby storing large quantities of fracturing fluid while minimizing worksite space occupation.
4Ease of operation
If horizontal trailer tanks are positioned at the worksite, then easy access is achieved, but large ground area is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The tank design rotates from horizontal to vertical orientation, accessing the vertical space above the worksite rather than consuming horizontal ground area. This dimensional transition maintains operational accessibility through top-mounted access points and side outlets while dramatically reducing the ground footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertical fluid storage tank including a body extending from a first end to a second end and including a substantially oval-shaped cross-section, a top wall connected to the first end of the body, a bottom wall connected to the second end of the body, at least one access opening positioned on the top wall configured for access to an interior cavity of the body, and at least one discharge valve connected to the body. The storage tank is configured to be arranged in at least two positions. The at least two positions include a first position in which the storage tank is arranged parallel to a surface, and a second position in which the storage tank is arranged perpendicular to the surface. A walkway may be positioned in the interior cavity of the body.