Abstract:
The development of polymer composite liquid oxygen (LOX) tanks is a critical step in creating the next generation of launch vehicles. A composite LOX tank will weigh significantly less than conventional metal tanks. This benefit of reduced weight is critical to enable future launch vehicles to meet required mass ractions. The high strength and low weight of a composite tank allows for a lighter weight craft and/or higher payload capacity which results in lower costs per pound to place an object in orbit. The unique, nontraditional idea described here is to use resin-based composite materials to make such a composite tank or other oxygen carrying component such as a feedline. Polymer composites have traditionally been regarded as being more flammable than metals and therefore deemed not oxygen compatible. However, a hybrid composite material may provide the optimal balance of oxygen compatibility and mechanical performance that would make composite oxygen tanks feasible.
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 support system is provided for a tank for the storage of fluid media under pressure which tank has its top, bottom and side walls each made up of a series of parallel outwardly convex lobes. The bottom supports of the support system comprise A-frame cradles that are secured to external structure, and have traylike saddles at their apices in which rest blocks of load-bearing heat-insulating material shaped at their tops to fit into interlobe nodal recesses of the tank bottom. When each heat-insulating block is in correct positional relationship with the respective tank bottom recess, the tray in which it rests is filled with synthetic plastics material which sets to anchor the block in place. The support system also comprises top and bottom locating keys which likewise are located at interlobe nodes of the tank top and bottom walls, each consisting of an extension piece or tongue projecting from an interlobe node to engage external support structure. There may be top locating keys at every interlobe node of the tank top but only one central key at the tank bottom.
Abstract:
A storage tank having a unique geometric shape and adapted to contain a liquid or a compressed gas at pressures above atmospheric pressure. The tank can be made of special materials for low temperature applications. The weight of the tank and its contents is carried on an integral supporting structure advantageously located at the lower corners of the tank. Since the tank is a single walled, pressure-type vessel, it can be utilized in the transportation of liquid natural gas without the need for a secondary liquid-tight barrier.