Abstract:
A storage tank for storing and selectively dispensing pressurized combustible fluid comprises a main tank having a delivery outlet, and a first valve mounted on the main tank in fluid communication with the delivery outlet for controlling the flow of the pressurized combustible fluid from within the main tank to the ambient surroundings. A reserve tank is mounted in supported relation on the main tank and has a reserve outlet disposed within the main tank to permit direct fluid delivery from the reserve tank into the main tank. A selectively openable and closable second valve is mounted on one of the main tank and the reserve tank in operative connection with the reserve outlet for selective movement between a closed configuration whereat flow of the pressurized combustible fluid from the reserve tank through the reserve outlet to the main tank is precluded, and an open configuration whereat flow of the pressurized combustible fluid from the reserve tank through the reserve outlet to the main tank is permitted.
Abstract:
A joint is disclosed for connecting extruded segments to form a container, such as a pressure vessel for storing liquid propane. In cross section, joint includes a pair of symmetrical tabs, each tab configured at the end of adjacent arcuate outer wall segments. Tabs are configured for contiguous engagement to form a boss having a proximate neck portion and a distal body portion. Joint also includes a retaining member configured at the end of an internal web segment. Retaining member is configured to capture boss. A sealing weld is utilized to seal the adjacent tabs at exposed seam.
Abstract:
A dual-chamber composite pressure vessel includes a first enclosure formed of a fiber reinforced resin matrix, having a hollow cylindrical central section, and first and second oblate end sections formed integrally over respective ends of the central section to define a first chamber. Also included is a second enclosure formed of a fiber-reinforced resin matrix, integrally with the first enclosure, and having a second hollow cylindrical section which is joined at one end to and extends from the second end section co-cylindrically with the central section of the first enclosure. The second enclosure also includes a third oblate end section formed integrally over the other end of the second cylindrical section to define a second chamber.
Abstract:
The storage tank consists of a main tank and ullage tank connected by a relatively small passage having a flow rate capacity up to 30% of the main fill line. To fill the tank, liquid cryogen is delivered to the main tank by either a top or bottom fill. Because the fill line is significantly larger than the passage, the main tank will become liquid full while the ullage tank remains substantially empty. When the tank becomes liquid full a dramatic drop in the flow rate will result that can be detected by a relatively insensitive, and inexpensive, flow monitoring device thereby to stop the filling operation. The ullage tank will retain trapped gas and gradually allow the liquid from the main tank to enter the ullage tank through the passage until the liquid level in the tanks are equal. Once the liquid levels in the tanks equalize, a vapor space is created above the liquid to accommodate vaporizing cryogen and provide long hold times.
Abstract:
A toroidal pressure vessel storing pressurized gas defines an outwardly exposed axially extending structural part of an automotive vehicle. Heat transfer from outside the vehicle directly to the pressure vessel advantageously offsets gas-expansion refrigeration effect when gas is used from the vessel.
Abstract:
An arrangement for securing independent storage tanks or containers in a tanker or other vehicle of transportation for transporting cargoes below or above ambient temperature wherein the arrangement comprises a system of key-keyway-bearer combinations removed from the neutral axis of the container, preferably located at the top and the bottom of the storage tank and utilizing loose keys, or in other words, keys that are detached from the surrounding keyway-bearer structure.