Liquified Gas Transferred As Liquid Patents (Class 62/50.1)
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Patent number: 8511100Abstract: A system is disclosed for cooling superconducting devices. The system includes a cryogen cooling system configured to be coupled to the superconducting device and to supply cryogen to the device. The system also includes a cryogen storage system configured to supply cryogen to the device. The system further includes flow control valving configured to selectively isolate the cryogen cooling system from the device, thereby directing a flow of cryogen to the device from the cryogen storage system.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Evangelos Trifon Laskaris, John Arthur Urbahn, Albert Eugene Steinbach
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Publication number: 20130192297Abstract: A small scale natural gas liquefaction plant is integrated with an LNG loading facility in which natural gas is liquefied using a multi-stage gas expansion cycle. LNG is then loaded onto an LNG truck or other LNG transport vehicle at the loading facility using a differential pressure control system that uses compressed boil off gas as a motive force to move the LNG from the LNG storage tank to the LNG truck so as to avoid the use of an LNG pump and associated equipment as well as to avoid venting of boil off vapors into the environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2011Publication date: August 1, 2013Inventor: John Mak
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Patent number: 8490563Abstract: A floating liquefaction vessel and connecting device system for receiving a dry gas, forming a liquefied natural gas, and offloading the liquefied natural gas, wherein the system can include a floating liquefaction vessel for receiving the dry gas, cooling the dry gas to form liquefied natural gas, flowing the liquefied natural to a transport vessel, and receiving a hydrocarbon vapor from the transport vessel. A floating liquefaction vessel controller can monitor offloading of the liquefied natural gas. A connecting device can connect the transport vessel to the floating liquefaction vessel. The connecting device can include an inner walkway telescopically contained within an outer walkway and configured to extend and retract from the outer walkway in response to motions.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr.
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Patent number: 8490564Abstract: A method for processing a dry gas into a liquefied natural gas and offloading the liquefied natural gas, wherein the method can include using a connecting device to: attach and hold the transport vessel to the floating liquefaction vessel, and enabling an inner walkway to extend and retract from an outer walkway of the connecting device to accommodate for motions. The method can include receiving and cooling dry gas to form liquefied natural gas for transfer to the transport vessel. The method can include transferring personnel and equipment within walkway on the connecting device. The method can include using a transport vessel controller to continuously monitor receipt, storage, and offloading of the liquefied natural gas. The method can include dynamically positioning the transport vessel in proximity to the floating liquefaction vessel using computer instructions and motions measured by sensors or the like.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr.
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Patent number: 8490565Abstract: A method for receiving and processing dry gas into liquefied natural gas, offloading the liquefied natural gas, and transporting the liquefied natural gas to another location, wherein the method can include using a connecting device to: attach and hold a transport vessel to a floating liquefaction vessel. The connecting device can have an inner walkway configured to extend and retract from an outer walkway to accommodate for motions. The method can include receiving and cooling dry gas to form liquefied natural gas, and transferring the liquefied natural gas to the transport vessel. The method can include dynamically positioning the transport vessel in proximity to the floating liquefaction vessel using motions measured by motion sensors and the like. The method can include storing the liquefied natural gas on the floating transport vessel, releasing the transport vessel from the connecting device, and transporting the liquefied natural gas to another location.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr.
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Patent number: 8490566Abstract: A method for offloading a liquefied natural gas from a floating liquefaction vessel to a transport vessel for storage and transport, wherein the method can include using a connecting device to attach and hold the transport vessel to the floating liquefaction vessel, and using a ram to move a telescoping walkway of the connecting device from a transport position to a deployed position. The method can include connecting the telescoping walkway to a variety of bow configurations of transport vessels by securing an inner walkway to the transport vessel. The inner walkway can extend and retract from an outer walkway to accommodate for motions. The method can include transferring the liquefied natural gas to the transport vessel. The method can include monitoring receipt, storage, and offloading of the liquefied natural gas and dynamically positioning the transport vessel in proximity to the floating liquefaction vessel.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr.
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Patent number: 8490562Abstract: A floating liquefaction vessel and transport system for receiving, storing, and transporting a liquefied natural gas, wherein the system can include a transport vessel for monitoring, receiving, storing, and transporting the liquefied natural gas. A transport vessel controller can dynamically position the transport vessel in proximity to a floating liquefaction vessel using motion sensors, fan beams, and dynamic global positioning systems. The floating liquefaction vessel can include receive a dry gas, and cool the dry gas to form liquefied natural gas for transfer to the transport vessel across a connecting device. The connecting device can connect the transport vessel to the floating liquefaction vessel, and can include: an inner walkway telescopically contained within an outer walkway. The inner walkway can extend and retract from the outer walkway in response to motions.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr.
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Publication number: 20130180265Abstract: A method for operating a vehicle that provides refrigeration and is powered by an engine for burning liquefied natural gas. The vehicle contains on-board storage tanks for liquefied natural gas and liquid nitrogen. These two tanks are in thermal communication with each other and natural gas from the liquefied natural gas storage tank will periodically contact the liquid nitrogen and return as liquefied natural gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2012Publication date: July 18, 2013Inventors: Ron C. Lee, Michael D. Newman, Arthur I. Shirley, Stephen A. McCormick, Stevan Jovanovic
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Patent number: 8468840Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems are disclosed for supplying gas from a multi-container Bulk Specialty Gases Supply System wherein at least one process parameter is automatically monitored to prevent over-filling of at least a first and second container without operator intervention.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Praxair TechnologyInventors: Kenneth Leroy Burgers, Stephen Chesters, Justin Cole Germond, Edward Pryor, Jack W. Erb, Keith Randall Pace, Brian Michael Meredith
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Patent number: 8444411Abstract: An incinerator (20) for disposing of boil-off gas on an LNG carrier comprises a combustion section (40) wherein the boil-off gas admitted at (42) is burned in the presence of combustion air admitted at (44), producing a flame (46) and combustion products (C). Dilution air (A) is delivered into the combustion section (40) and mixed with the combustion products (C) to produce a diluted mixture (M). The combustion section (40) has an inner wall (48) and an outer wall (50) together defining a first passage (52) through which the dilution air (A) is passed before being mixed with the combustion products (C), whereby the dilution air A cools the combustion section (40). The dilution air A in the first passage (52) also provides a thermally insulting layer limiting radial heat transmission from the combustion section (40). A proportion (AP) of the dilution air is mixed directly with the combustion products (C).Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Inventors: Simon Mark O'Connor, Richard James Price, Nigel Peter Webley, Mark Boss
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Patent number: 8403000Abstract: A tank for a cryogenic liquid is fitted with a conduit assembly that provides for flow of the cryogenic liquid into and out of the tank, venting of the tank and control of the fill level in the tank. The conduit assembly includes serpentine tubes that extend into an upper region within the inner shell. Within the inner shell, one of the tubes extends downwardly to a lower opening and provides for liquid flow into and out the tank; the other tube has an end with a downwardly facing opening in the upper region whereby vapor can be conducted out of the tank and the fill level is established. A system for effecting pressure management of the cryogenic liquid in the tank includes a conduit network that provides for pressure build as pressure in the conduit network drops and provides for delivery of liquid only to, e.g., a vehicle engine.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2011Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Cryogenic Fuels, Inc.Inventors: Roy E Adkins, Harold E Sutton
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Patent number: 8381544Abstract: A method of altering the heating value of a liquefied natural gas by adding higher heating value components is disclosed. A portion of the liquefied natural gas is used to cool the higher heating value component stream prior to combining the higher heating value components with the liquefied natural gas to obtain a combined stream having a heating value greater than the liquefied natural gas.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2008Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Kellogg Brown & Root LLCInventor: David A. Coyle
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Publication number: 20120317996Abstract: A floating type LNG station floats on the sea and is used for refueling a ship or a marine structure using LNG. The floating LNG station comprises: a floating structure; an LNG tank which is prepared for storing LNG in the floating structure; an LNG line for discharging the LNG from the LNG tank to the ship or the marine structure; and an LNG pump which provides the LNG line with pumping force for discharging the LNG.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2011Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: SAMSUNG HEAVY IND. CO., LTD.Inventor: Joong Nam Lee
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Patent number: 8308517Abstract: A method for receiving dry gas and forming liquefied natural gas on a floating vessel, and offloading the liquefied natural gas using telescoping mooring arms to a floating transport vessel is disclosed herein. The method can include mooring the floating vessel to a seabed with a mooring spread, using a soft yoke to moor the transport vessel to the floating vessel, receiving a dry gas, cooling the dry gas forming a liquefied nature gas, transferring the liquefied natural gas to the transport vessel, transferring personnel and equipment over a gangway, returning hydrocarbon vapor to the floating vessel, cooling the hydrocarbon vapor, and using the hydrocarbon vapor as a fuel for the floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
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Patent number: 8308518Abstract: A method for receiving dry natural gas, cryogenically cooling the gas, then forming liquefied natural gas is disclosed herein. The method can include flowing the liquefied natural gas to a moveable floating transport vessel. The method can include using mooring arms that maintain a nominal distance between the station and the vessel while simultaneously forming an enclosed gangway and monitoring offloading and return of hydrocarbon vapor. The method can include providing quick connect/disconnect engagements to the transport vessel and storing the liquefied natural gas on the transport vessel at a cryogenic temperature. The method can include recycling hydrocarbon vapor formed during offloading to the floating station and maintaining a cryogenic temperature using a flow rate substantially the same as the floating station uses fuel. The method can include releasing the transport vessel from the floating station to transport the liquefied natural gas to another location.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
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Patent number: 8291944Abstract: Hydrogen filling station, in particular, for refilling vehicle tanks with hydrogen gas, comprising a source reservoir designed to hold liquid hydrogen (LH2), a pipe for withdrawing liquid hydrogen from the source reservoir to at least one user station, an electric cryogenic pump arranged within the withdrawing pipe and an electric power supply connected to the cryogenic pump to supply the same with electricity, characterized in that the electric energy supply comprises at least one fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Laurent Allidieres
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Patent number: 8238988Abstract: A superconducting magnet assembly and method of cooling a superconducting magnet assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Ernst Wolfgang Stautner
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Publication number: 20120167598Abstract: A multi-well helium Dewar is provided for recirculating coolant about a cryostat probe; the Dewar includes a first well containing a first coolant reservoir, and a second well containing a second coolant reservoir. A fluid connection extends between the first and second coolant reservoirs. A low impedance conduit further connects a top end of the second well to the first well. In this regard, the Dewar at least partially contains a cryocooler within the first well and a cryostat probe within the second well. Vibrational noise is reduced by the incorporation of soft mounting components for connecting various features. A thermal shield of the Dewar can be thermally connected to isolated components for additional cooling power and increased efficiency during initialization. A second fluid connection may include a valve attached to a counter-flow heat exchanger for efficiently re-condensing excess gas within the Dewar.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2011Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: QUANTUM DESIGN, INC.Inventors: Jost Diederichs, Michael Bancroft Simmonds
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Publication number: 20120137708Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure may include a dispenser for dispensing a liquid. The dispenser may include a measurement chamber configured to receive the liquid, a temperature probe positioned within the measurement chamber, and a capacitance probe positioned within the measurement chamber. The capacitance probe may house the temperature probe. The dispenser may also include a first conduit fluidly coupled to the measurement chamber and configured to deliver the liquid out of the dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Inventor: Michael MACKEY
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Publication number: 20120102978Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying liquefied natural gas to a storage tank or a fuel tank at specified temperatures and pressures. The method employs the steps of pressurizing a conditioning vessel with gaseous natural gas at a first pressure, feeding liquefied natural gas at a second pressure greater than the first pressure to a condenser in heat transfer relationship with the conditioning vessel, and withdrawing the liquefied natural gas from the condenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventors: Ron C. Lee, Philippe Heisch
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Publication number: 20120090334Abstract: A cryogenic storage tank comprises a partition that divides a cryogen space into a main storage space and an auxiliary space. A valve disposed inside the cryogen space is associated with a first fluid passage through the partition. The valve comprises a valve member that is actuatable by fluid forces within the cryogen space. A second fluid passage through the partition comprises a restricted flow area that is dimensioned to have a cross-sectional flow area that is smaller than that of a fill conduit such that there is a detectable increase in back-pressure when the main storage space is filled with liquefied gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2011Publication date: April 19, 2012Inventors: Gregory Charles Harper, Adrian Post
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Patent number: 8117852Abstract: LNG from a carrier is unloaded to an LNG storage tank in configurations and methods in which expansion of compressed and condensed boil-off vapors from the LNG storage tank provide refrigeration to subcool the LNG that is being unloaded. Most advantageously, such configuration and methods reduce the amount of boil-off vapors and eliminate the need for a vapor return line and associated compressor.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Fluor Technologies CorporationInventor: John Mak
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Patent number: 8113006Abstract: A system for cryogenic storage and delivery of fuel, particularly for supplying an internal-combustion engine driving a motor vehicle, includes at least a cryotank having an inner reservoir for receiving the cryogenic medium, which inner reservoir is held in a heat-insulated manner in an outer reservoir, a coolable cooling shield between the inner reservoir and the outer reservoir of the cryotank, and a heat sink. As a thermal-energy storage device, the heat sink is in heat-transmitting contact with the cooling shield. A filling and removal device has at least one pipe penetrating the outer reservoir and leading into the inner reservoir. At least for the filling with or for the removal of cryogenic medium, the heat sink is in heat-transmitting contact with the pipe for the cryogenic medium, in order to reduce the entry of heat from the environment into the inner reservoir while emitting heat.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2007Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Torsten Rech, Achim Baier, Markus Amsz, Tobias Brunner, Thomas Hagler, Oliver Kircher, Gregor Fischer
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Patent number: 8104416Abstract: A floating natural gas processing station for receiving dry gas and forming liquefied natural gas for offloading is disclosed herein. The station can use a station heat exchanger, a natural gas liquefaction train, and an offloading device having a primary quick connect/disconnect device, a secondary emergency disconnect device, and a tertiary emergency disconnect device to allow quick connect/disconnect or emergency disconnect of the floating natural gas processing station from a transport vessel. At least two telescoping mooring arms with a boom and a jib in a nested arrangement can hold the transport vessel at a nominal distance from the floating natural gas processing station, while forming a gangway to safely move personnel and loads between the floating natural gas processing station and the transport vessel.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
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Publication number: 20120017608Abstract: Disclosed is a liquefied natural gas storage apparatus. The apparatus includes a heat insulated tank and liquefied natural gas contained in the tank. The tank has heat insulation sufficient to maintain liquefied natural gas therein such that most of the liquefied natural gas stays in liquid. The contained liquefied natural gas has a vapor pressure from about 0.3 bar to about 2 bar. The apparatus further includes a safety valve configured to release a part of liquefied natural gas contained in the tank when a vapor pressure of liquefied natural gas within the tank becomes higher than a cut-off pressure. The cut-off pressure is from about 0.3 bar to about 2 bar.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.Inventors: JUNG HAN LEE, JUNG HO CHOI, SUNG KON HAN, DONG KYU CHOI, YOUNG SIK MOON
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Patent number: 8100076Abstract: A station and transport system for receiving, storing, and transporting liquefied natural gas is disclosed herein. The system can include a transport vessel, a floating liquefied natural gas processing station with a heat exchanger for receiving the dry gas from a pretreatment source and forming liquefied natural gas using a natural gas liquefaction train, a primary quick connect/disconnect device, a secondary emergency disconnect device, and a tertiary emergency disconnect device mounted to a station hull to allow quick connect/disconnect or emergency disconnect of the floating natural gas processing station from the transport vessel. The system can include a soft yoke with at least two telescoping soft yoke mooring arms, a boom, and a jib that form a gangway to safely hold the floating station to the transport vessel and to move personal and loads.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
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Patent number: 8065883Abstract: A method and apparatus for the controlled storage of liquefied gases such as liquefied natural gas in an enclosed insulated container, in which part of the liquid is withdrawn and fed to an external refrigeration unit for subcooling and the subcooled liquid is reintroduced into the container via one or more valve-controlled headers under the control of a control system operated in response to pressure and temperature signals from within the container, wherein the level of subcooling is matched to the heat inleak into the container and most or all of the subcooled liquid is reintroduced directly into the stored liquid so as to maintain stable conditions in the stored liquid and to minimise evaporation thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: The BOC Group plcInventor: Josef Pozivil
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Publication number: 20110277497Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing natural gas composed of various hydrocarbon components for transportation of the natural gas to a demand side without separation of the hydrocarbon components, such that the natural gas can be used by consumers after being separated into the hydrocarbon components according to the needs of the demand side. The apparatus includes a storage tank and a hydrocarbon liquefied gas mixture accommodated in the storage tank. The mixture has hydrocarbon components composed of methane, ethane, propane and butane, and is produced by liquefying raw natural gas without changing the relative ratio of methane, ethane, propane and butane in the raw natural gas immediately after extraction from the gas well. The method and apparatus can be applied to floating marine structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.Inventors: Jung Han Lee, Young Sik Moon, Dong Kyu Choi, Young Soo Kim, Jae Ryu Bae
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Publication number: 20110225985Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for transferring a cryogenic fluid. The apparatus includes a conduit having an inlet and outlet, a source of cryogenic fluid connected to the inlet for providing cryogenic fluid to the conduit and a cool down line disposed within the conduit, the cool down line in fluid communication with the source of cryogenic fluid. Such an apparatus enables a conduit for transferring a cryogenic fluid to be pre-cooled to a cryogenic temperature more quickly so that transfer operations can begin.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets, JR.
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Patent number: 8020589Abstract: A hydrogen dispensing station and method of operating a hydrogen dispensing station for dispensing to multiple receiving vessels. The station and method limit receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing. Various components used to limit receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing are mutual to multiple hydrogen service ports. Receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing may be affected by pressure ramp rate control, cooling of hydrogen in a heat exchanger, and/or use of a lower temperature hydrogen source stream.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Perry Cohen, Tama Maya Copeman
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Publication number: 20110126451Abstract: An integrated process and an apparatus for converting natural gas from an offshore field site to liquefied natural gas and to liquid fuel at an onshore site are disclosed. The process includes liquefying the natural gas and producing natural gas liquids using heat exchange at the offshore site. The liquefied natural gas can be transported to a market distribution location, and the natural gas liquids can be transported to the onshore site for further processing to liquid fuels. An air separation unit at the onshore site provides both liquefied nitrogen for use as coolant in the offshore heat exchange process as well as oxygen for use in an autothermal reformer at the onshore site. The natural gas liquids produced offshore can be fed to the autothermal reformer to generate synthesis gas which can be converted to liquid fuels.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2009Publication date: June 2, 2011Inventors: Justin I-Ching Pan, Lixin You
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Patent number: 7891197Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the uninterrupted supply of liquid subcooled carbon dioxide. The liquid is supplied at a nearly constant pressure greater than about 40 bar. Liquid carbon dioxide is supplied at a low pressure and is sent into a low pressure tank where it is stored temporarily. The carbon dioxide is then pumped, with a pump, from the low pressure tank to a high pressure tank. During the pumping, the pressure of the carbon dioxide is increased. The carbon dioxide is stored in the high pressure tank until its removal. When the carbon dioxide is removed, it is in a thermodynamic disequilibrium between the liquid and gas phases.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme a Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Harald Winter
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Publication number: 20100326097Abstract: A method for densifying liquid methane is described. The method includes passing the liquid methane through a liquid nitrogen bath, self-pressurizing a container associated with the liquid nitrogen bath through boil off of the liquid nitrogen within the container, and regulating pressure within the liquid nitrogen container to maintain a boiling point of the liquid nitrogen above the triple point temperature of the liquid methane passing through the liquid nitrogen bath.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Han V. Nguyen, Martin E. Lozano
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Publication number: 20100319360Abstract: A dispensing head for dispensing a cryogenic fluid may comprise a flow passage configured to be placed in flow communication with a reservoir containing a cryogenic fluid, the flow passage defining a flow passage inlet opening configured to receive the cryogenic fluid from the reservoir, and a flow passage outlet opening opposite the flow passage inlet opening. The dispensing head may further comprise a dispensing member configured to dispense the cryogenic fluid, the dispensing member defining a lumen having a lumen inlet opening and a lumen outlet opening; and at least one porous member disposed in the flow passage, the at least one porous member being configured as a primary flow regulation mechanism to limit a flow rate of the cryogenic fluid as it flows from the reservoir to the lumen outlet opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2009Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventors: R. Sam NIEDBALA, Lincoln C. Young, Peng Zhou
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Publication number: 20100307635Abstract: The present invention describes methods and systems of oxygen transfill that includes the step of delivering a quantity of liquid oxygen to an evaporation chamber in a liquid oxygen evaporation device. Next, at least a portion of the liquid oxygen in the evaporation chamber is evaporated and a quantity of gaseous oxygen is maintained at a predetermined pressure level in the evaporation chamber. The method includes filling a portable compressed oxygen device with at least a portion of the gaseous oxygen.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2008Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.Inventor: Gary N. Holder
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Patent number: 7836840Abstract: The current invention includes to systems and methods of transferring cryogenic fluids between two locations. More particularly, some embodiments of the invention are related to systems and methods of using cryogenic risers and rotatable connections for transferring cryogenic fluids, including liquefied natural gas, from an ocean going vessel to a second location. One embodiment of the invention includes a system for transporting a cryogenic fluid between a floating vessel and a second location. The system including a cryogenic riser, a submersible turret connector. The being riser adapted to allow the vertical position of the first end of the riser to be changed, the second end of the first riser located in a body of water and in fluid communication with the second location. The submersible turret connector connected to the first end of the first riser.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Mark E. Ehrhardt, William S. Mathews, Dawn Rymer, W. Brett Wilson
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Publication number: 20100199688Abstract: An apparatus for supplying liquid nitrogen for a decompression device: includes a liquid nitrogen supply line extending such that high-temperature, high-pressure liquid nitrogen is introduced to a decompression device; a bypass pipe diverging from the liquid nitrogen supply line; and an expansion unit installed at the bypass pipe to evaporate the liquid nitrogen into nitrogen gas. The expansion unit is disposed to absorb heat from the liquid nitrogen in the liquid nitrogen supply line before being introduced to the decompression device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventors: Choon Dong Kim, Su Kil Lee, Hyun Man Jang, Chang Youl Choi
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Publication number: 20100187364Abstract: A cryogenic propellant depot and sunshield are provided for operation in earth orbit to fuel or refuel other space vehicles. The sunshield is deployed to effectively mitigate solar radiation emanating from the earth and the sun thereby providing a long term storage solution for cryogenic fluids prone to boil-off. The depot has supporting subsystems to include station keeping equipment and communication equipment so that the depot can be independently controlled. Inflatable booms are used to deploy the sunshield in a desired pattern around the depot.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventors: Bernard Friedrich Kutter, Frank Charles Zegler, Mohamed M. Ragab
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Publication number: 20100186447Abstract: A method of controlling the turndown of a compressor (12) for a gaseous hydrocarbon stream (10) such as natural gas, comprising at least the steps of: (a) passing the gaseous hydrocarbon stream (10) through the compressor (12) to provide a compressed hydrocarbon stream (20); (b) passing at least a fraction (30) of the compressed hydrocarbon stream (20) through an expander (14) which is mechanically interconnected with the compressor (12), to provide an expanded hydrocarbon stream (40); and (c) re-circulating part or all of the expanded hydrocarbon stream (40) through the compressor (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2007Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventor: Alexander Emanuel Maria Straver
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Publication number: 20100154439Abstract: A cooling system employs a single-acting positive displacement bellows pump to transfer a cryogenic liquid such as liquid nitrogen from a storage dewar to a heat exchanger coupled to a measurement chamber of an instrument, wherein cooling takes place by vaporizing the liquid. Preferably, the capacity of the pump is greater than the maximum cooling requirement of the instrument, wherein both vapor resulting from vaporizing of the cryogenic liquid circulated through the heat exchanger and liquid that does not vaporize when circulated through the heat exchanger are returned to the storage dewar, wherein the vapor is subsequently vented from the dewar. Preferably, with the aid of a weir in a return line, the level of liquid in the heat exchanger is maintained full and constant, and the cooling demands are automatically met without the need for other control of the flow rate or level of the liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Applicant: WATERS INVESTMENTS LIMITEDInventors: Robert L. Danley, Patrick Traini
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Patent number: 7726358Abstract: A method for loading LNG on a floating vessel through a conduit having the inlet, an outlet and an intermediate port located between the inlet and the outlet. The method includes the step of pumping a reduced flow of LNG into the inlet and the step of pumping a reduced flow of LNG into the intermediate port so that different sections of the conduit can be cooled simultaneously. When the conduit has cooled to a temperature suitable for transferring LNG, the method further includes pumping an increased flow of the LNG into the inlet of the conduit. The LNG can then be directed from the outlet to a storage tank onboard a floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets, Jr.
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Patent number: 7726359Abstract: A method for transferring a cryogenic fluid from a floating vessel. The cryogenic fluids to be transferred can include liquefied hydrocarbon gases such as LNG. The method includes the steps of pumping a reduced flow of a cryogenic fluid into a first end and/or a second end of a conduit to begin pre-cooling the conduit. Pre-cooling also includes pumping a reduced flow of the cryogenic fluid into the conduit at a point intermediate the first end and the second end so that different sections of the conduit are cooled simultaneously. When the conduit has cooled to a temperature suitable for transferring the cryogenic fluid, an increased flow of the cryogenic fluid is pumped into the first end of the conduit to transfer the cryogenic fluid from the floating vessel. The cryogenic fluid can then be directed from the second end of the conduit to a storage tank on shore or onboard a second floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets, Jr.
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Publication number: 20100024440Abstract: A system provides the flow control of a cryogenic element to remove heat from an environment. The system includes a cryogenic storage to store a cryogen; a cryogenic delivery system coupled to the cryogenic storage to transport the cryogen; a distributor coupled to the cryogenic delivery system, the distributor having a plurality of distribution lead tubes to evenly distribute the enthalpic potential of the cryogenic element; and a heat exchanger coupled to the distribution lead tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2008Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventors: John Dain, Boyd Bowdish
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Publication number: 20100018249Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems are disclosed for supplying gas from a multi-container BSGS system wherein at least one process parameter is automatically monitored to prevent over-filling of at least a first and second container without operator intervention.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2008Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventors: Kenneth Leroy Burgers, Stephen Chesters, Justin Cole Germond, Edward Pryor, Jack W. Erb, Keith Randall Pace, Brian Michael Meredith
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Publication number: 20100018453Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing liquid within a storage tank such that a natural resonance of fluid motion of the stored fluid falls between natural resonance periods of a floating vessel that includes the storage tank. As a result, resonant energy of the floating vessel imparted to fluid stored in the storage tank may be controlled and sloshing loads may be reduced, thereby avoiding damage to the floating vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2007Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventor: Sathish Balasubramanian
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Publication number: 20100005812Abstract: In one embodiment of the disclosure, an apparatus is provided for fueling a device using a cryogenic fluid. The apparatus may comprise: a cryogenic fluid supply container; a vessel connected to the supply container with an entrance valve to regulate flow of cryogenic fluid from the supply container; a heat transfer system capable of transferring heat from a device to the vessel to heat gas in the vessel; and an accumulator connected to the vessel with an exit valve to regulate flow of gas from the vessel to the accumulator. The accumulator may be capable of being connected to a device. In other embodiments, methods are provided of controllably mixing at least one fluid within a fluid mixing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2007Publication date: January 14, 2010Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: DANIEL A. WATTS, JASON A. GROW
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Publication number: 20100000232Abstract: A cryogenic liquid storage system for a spacecraft comprising at least one liquid tank with an outer casing and an evacuated space arranged between the tank and the outer casing. The system further comprises a propellant management device made of material that is a good conductor of heat and that is cooled by a cryorefrigerator to localize the liquid inside the tank when in microgravity, a filler pipe situated in the portion of the tank that is at the bottom when the tank is on the ground, and that is surrounded by an evacuated insulating double wall and a purge pipe connecting the tank to the outer casing and presenting an internal length that is not less than half the diameter of the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2009Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: SNECMAInventor: Dominique Valentian
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Patent number: 7631506Abstract: A method and apparatus for using liquid nitrogen to render crises safe, as in circumstances of hostage crises, entering Methamphetamine labs, purging the accumulating toxic or flammable gases, ending the dispersal of substances from aerosols and capturing the material dispersed by condensing it and sealing it in containers for disposal, picking up spills by solidifying them or gelling the material and containing it for disposal—this includes Mercury spills, sealing and repairing broken pipes and dikes and dams, enabling a combustion engine to quit running, changing the conditions in a weather system to counter funnel formation in a tornado threat, strengthening levee structures by freezing the core for the length of the levee when severe crises occur, rapid cooling lava flows to structure the solid lava formation to something useful in that location, purging the coalmine fire environment of Oxygen to quell the long-term blaze, and treating industrial stack gas to useful soot, water and Carbon dioxide componenType: GrantFiled: February 15, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: AirWars Defence LPInventor: Denyse Claire DuBrucq
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Publication number: 20090293506Abstract: Disclosed herein is a semi-submersible offshore structure having storage tanks for liquefied gas, which is constructed so as to improve workability in marine offloading of the liquefied gas stored in the storage tanks while reducing an influence of sloshing. The offshore structure is anchored at sea and has liquefied gas. The offshore structure includes a storage tank storing liquefied gas, a plurality of columns partially submerged under the sea level and each having the storage tank therein, and an upper deck located on the plurality of columns to connect the columns to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2009Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicant: Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Min Cheol Ryu, Jun Hyung Jung, Deok Su Kim, Yoon Sik Hwang, Yong Soo Kim, Chuel Hyun Kim
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Patent number: 7617848Abstract: A method and device for filling a container with liquid gas from a storage tank includes removing the liquefied gas from the storage tank and feeding it to a container via a liquid feed line through use of a delivery system. The gas is compressed in the container and is removed from the container in its gaseous state and is at least partially liquefied by cooling in a heat exchanger. The at least partially liquefied gas is fed into the liquid feed line at the suction end of the delivery device.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2005Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Messer France S..A.S.Inventors: Patrick Matheoud, Jean-Claude Zimmer