Liquified Gas Transferred As Liquid Patents (Class 62/50.1)
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Publication number: 20090272126Abstract: The present application is directed to methods and systems for transporting or importing LNG via vessels. Under the present techniques, SRTs, which are equipped with regasification equipment, LNG offloading equipment (e.g. marinized mechanical loading arms), LNG storage tanks, and equipment to transfer natural gas to an import terminal are utilized as temporary interchangeable FSRUs (TIFs). Two or more TIFs in conjunction with transport vessels (e.g. LNGCs) are utilized to transfer LNG between an export terminal and an import terminal. A first of the TIFs is utilized at an import terminal to offload LNG from LNGCs, while the second of the TIFs is utilized as a LNGC, carrying LNG between the export terminal and import terminal. The first of the TIFs may be replaced by the second of the TIFs to maintain operations for the import terminal.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2007Publication date: November 5, 2009Inventors: William S. Mathews, Mark E. Ehrhardt
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Patent number: 7607310Abstract: Systems and processes that facilitate the absorption of natural gas or methane through the interaction of moderate pressure and low temperature into a liquid or liquid vapor medium for storage and transport, and back into a gas for delivery to market. In a preferred embodiment, the absorptive properties of ethane, propane and butane under moderate conditions of temperature and pressure (associated with a novel mixing process) are utilized to store natural gas or methane at more efficient levels of compressed volume ratio than are attainable with natural gas alone under similar holding conditions. The preferred mixing process efficiently combines natural gas or methane with a solvent medium such as liquid ethane, propane, butane, or other suitable fluid, to form a concentrated liquid or liquid vapor mixture suited for storage and transport. The solvent medium is preferably recycled in the conveyance vessel on unloading of the natural gas.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: SeaOne Maritime Corp.Inventors: Ian Morris, Patrick A. Agnew, Bruce Hall
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Publication number: 20090255274Abstract: A method for recharging a high pressure gas storage container unit comprises transporting a recharge gas container containing a fluid at a cryogenic temperature and low pressure; heating the fluid in the recharge gas container and the fluid expelled from the recharge gas container to ambient temperature; and filling the high pressure gas storage container with the heated fluid as a pressurized gas. A system for recharging gas at a high pressure level comprises a recharge gas container unit comprising a means for containing cryogenic liquid and a first means for heating the liquid, the first heating means disposed near an outlet portion of the containing means; a second means for heating operatively connected to the recharge gas container unit during recharge; and a high pressure storage container unit comprising means for storing gas at a high pressure, said storing means operatively connected to the second means for heating during recharge.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2008Publication date: October 15, 2009Inventors: Eugene K. Ungar, Warren P. Ruemmele, William C. Bohannon
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Publication number: 20090229275Abstract: A single cryogenic liquid vessel in which two cryogenic machines are disposed, supported and operable in tandem. In one embodiment the two cryogenic machines are operable in series or individually, and in another embodiment the two cryogenic machines are operable in parallel or individually. Preferably the machines are supported intermediately relative to the vessel, or at a top of the vessel. In various embodiments the machines are pumps or turbines or expanders.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2006Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventor: Joel V. Madison
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Patent number: 7584623Abstract: A device for supplying fuel to an onboard energy production installation (5) on a liquefied gas transport ship (1) from at least one liquefied gas tank (2) of the ship includes a liquid ejector (12) arranged in the tank in order to suck liquefied gas at the level of the bottom of the tank, a circulating pump (20) arranged above the tank, a liquid circuit (21, 22, 23, 24) connecting an outlet of the circulating pump to an inlet of the liquid ejector and an outlet of the liquid ejector to an inlet of the circulating pump to permit the closed-loop circulation of a stream of liquefied gas through the liquid ejector, and a feed line (28) connecting the liquid circuit to the energy production installation.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Gaztransport et TechnigazInventors: Laurent Spittael, Pascal Raynaud, Jacques Dhellemmes
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Publication number: 20090217676Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2007Publication date: September 3, 2009Applicant: FLUOR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventor: John Mak
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Publication number: 20090211262Abstract: 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: April 23, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: 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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Publication number: 20090205363Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., pollutant biomass from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of biomass, and further having structure for collecting the biomass. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Some implementations convert the collected biomass into biofuel. Some implementations initially employ the biomass to remediate an aquatic body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
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Publication number: 20090205365Abstract: The present invention provides a method of natural gas, the method at least comprising the steps of: (a) providing a natural gas stream (10) at a first location (2); (b) treating the natural gas stream (10) in the first location (2) thereby obtaining a treated natural gas stream (20), wherein the treated natural gas stream comprises in the range of from 70 to 100 mole % of methane; (c) transporting the treated natural gas stream (20) via a pipeline (4) over a distance of at least 2 km to a second location (3); (d) liquefying the treated natural gas stream (20) at the second location (3) thereby obtaining liquefied hydrocarbon product (50) at atmospheric pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2007Publication date: August 20, 2009Inventors: Michiel Gijsbert Van Aken, Marcus Johannes Antonius Van Dongen, Peter Marie Paulus, Johan Jan Barend Pek, David Bertil Runbalk
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Publication number: 20090199575Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and system for managing boil-off gas generated during ship-to-ship transfer of LNG at sea. The LNG is transferred from a storage tank onboard a delivery vessel to a storage tank onboard a receiving vessel. The process includes the steps of a) operating the receiving vessel storage tank at a pressure greater than the operating pressure of the delivery vessel storage tank; and, b) transferring a portion of the boil-off gas from the receiving vessel storage tank to the delivery vessel storage tank onboard.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: WOODSIDE ENERGY LIMITEDInventor: Solomon Aladja Faka
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Publication number: 20090199574Abstract: When hydrogen is taken out, para-hydrogen having a low energy is converted into ortho-hydrogen having a high energy, and a cooling effect of endothermy of the para-ortho conversion is utilized for maintaining the temperature within a hydrogen storage device low. For accomplishing such a system, there is provided a hydrogen storage device for storing a liquid hydrogen, wherein a porous magnetic body serving as a para-ortho conversion catalyst is arranged in a hydrogen circulation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2006Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventors: Katsuhiko Hirose, Daigoro Mori
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Patent number: 7568352Abstract: A cryogenic propellant storage tank system and method are disclosed that thermally couple LO2 and LCH4 tanks together by using either a single tank compartmentalized by a common tank wall or two separate tanks that are coupled together with one or more thermal couplers having high thermal conductivity. Cryogenic cooling equipment may be located only in the LO2 tank while the LCH4 is cooled by the LO2 tank interface. Embodiments of the invention may employ both LO2 and LCH4 liquid acquisition devices (LADs) for low-gravity use. In further embodiments, only the LO2 LADs may be integrated with thermal cooling equipment.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Gary D. Grayson, Michael L. Hand, Edwin C. Cady
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Publication number: 20090165468Abstract: Liquefied hydrocarbon gas carried by a tanker (78) is transferred to an import terminal (10) where the liquefied gas is heated to vaporize it and to heat the cold gas to at least ?30° C. but preferably about 0° C., with the warmed gas transferred to a gas receiving facility (20, 83). Vaporizing and heating is accomplished by using a large number (more than 10) of vertically mounted air vaporizers (84) of a known type, which use environmental air that flows down the exterior of the finned tubes in which the liquefied or cold gas flows. In the present invention a large number of individual vaporizers are positioned in close proximity to each other, i.e. within a distance that is smaller than half the vertical height of the vaporizer tubes. Their close proximity allows many units to be installed on a small plot space, and also affects their thermal performance.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventors: Wim Van Wiindaarden, Matthieu Ubas
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Publication number: 20090107152Abstract: A method is provided for operating a device for filling a tank for storing fuel as condensed gas, in particular a cryotank, for a consumer that can be operated with cryogenically stored fuel, in particular an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle. The tank includes a filling device for the cryogenically stored fuel, including at least one filling line and one extraction line for connecting to a filling device on a gas-station-side. The filling process is controlled in such a manner that in a first time period for cooling the tank, the condensed gas is introduced into the tank by way of the filling line, at least the large part is extracted again in the form of gas via the extraction line, and in a second subsequent time period, the tank is filled with condensed gas at the same time as at least the displaced gas is extracted.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2009Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Gregor Fischer, Robert Barnsteiner, Johann Schnagl
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Patent number: 7516752Abstract: A hydrogen-based propulsion system is provided for storing hydrogen feed gas which evaporates over time from a storage vessel containing liquid hydrogen as a fuel. In particular, this system enables the evaporated hydrogen feed gas to be stored for later use in the propulsion unit and also provides a system for enabling the stored hydrogen gas to be cooled by evaporated hydrogen feed gas in transit to the propulsion unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Gerd Arnold, Ulrich Eberle
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Patent number: 7497086Abstract: The present provides a cryogenic thermal battery arrangement for maintaining a superconducting magnet coil or similar apparatus at cryogenic temperature for a required shipping period, such as thirty days, without consuming a significant amount of costly cryogen. According to another aspect, the invention allows extended shipping periods without incurring excessive costs.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Siemens Magnet Technology Ltd.Inventors: Andrew Farquhar Atkins, Graham Gilgrass, Wolfgang Stautner
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Patent number: 7490605Abstract: A high-efficiency liquid oxygen (LOX) storage/delivery system utilizes a portable LOX/delivery apparatus with a portable LOX container. A portable-unit LOX transfer connector is connected to the portable LOX container and is connectable to a main source of LOX in a primary reservoir LOX container. A portable-unit oxygen gas transfer connector is provided for transferring oxygen gas from the portable LOX container to an oxygen gas delivery device for delivering oxygen gas to a patient. An inter-unit oxygen gas transfer connector also is provided for connecting the portable apparatus to a stationary source of oxygen gas in the primary reservoir container, for transferring oxygen gas to the portable apparatus. A portable-unit primary relief valve is connected to the portable LOX container for venting oxygen gas out of the portable LOX container when pressure in the portable LOX container reaches a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Mallinckrodt, Inc.Inventors: Mark R. Frye, Leonardo S. Toma, Richard A. Davis
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Publication number: 20090020537Abstract: A method and apparatus for unloading natural gas (NG), including gasifying liquid and/or compressed NG using the latent heat of water and propane, and/or storing liquid or compressed NG gas in a storage cavern system that utilizes a buffer layer to prevent hydrating the NG gas, the storage cavern system being configured such that the NG may be forced out of a first storage chamber by increasing the amount of brine in a second chamber to displace a buffer fluid located therein such that the displace buffer fluid enters the first storage chamber and displaces the NG, as well as the processes for compressing, chilling and/or liquefying quantities of LNG and transporting those volumes to markets for redelivery.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2008Publication date: January 22, 2009Inventors: Charles M. Darling IV, A. Bruce Murray
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Publication number: 20080314451Abstract: Methods of, and apparatus for, storing and transporting a hazardous fluid, such as a combustible fuel, include methods and means, respectively, for: (a) treating the fluid to reduce its hazardous condition; (b) storing and/or transporting the treated fluid in such a manner that the risk of its hazardous condition remains reduced; (c) thereafter retreating the fluid to restore it to its original hazardous condition so that the fluid may be used in its restored condition. The hazardous fluid may be treated by adding a substance to, or removing a substance from, the fluid, or by changing the state of the fluid. For example, if the fluid is a fuel, it may be treated by cooling it to near or below its freezing temperature to reduce its combustibility, volatility, explosivity and/or ease of ignition.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventor: Jeffrey A. Matos
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Publication number: 20080307800Abstract: The invention involves a siphon for delivery of a liquid cryogen from a container such as a Dewar flask. The siphon ensures delivery of a liquid cryogen with a lower proportion of the gaseous fraction. The siphon comprises a central feeding conduit, which is largely contained within the Dewar flask. There is an auxiliary conduit surrounding the central feeding conduit; the outer upper section of this auxiliary conduit is provided with an adjustable valve intended to release a gaseous fraction of the cryogen contained in the annular gap between the auxiliary and central feeding conduits. The upper section of the central feeding conduit is provided with an external layer of a porous capillary coating or with a wick; this ensures that the upper section of the central feeding conduit is continuously wetted with the liquid cryogen. This porous capillary coating prevents gasification of the liquid cryogen in the central feeding conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2007Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: ARBEL MEDICAL LTD.Inventors: Alexander LEVIN, Didier TOUBIA, Miron KAGANOVICH
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Publication number: 20080302110Abstract: Apparatus for the thermal management of high pressure gas storage tanks wherein the compression heat of refueling the tank is evacuated from the interior of the tank in which a gas circulates within the tank powered by a pump powered and as the gas traverses from the high pressure refuel depot to the storage tank, the circulating gas absorbs the refueling heat and carries the heat to a cooling system having a supplemental heat exchange device before the gas is introduced into the tank. The apparatus may be operated in reverse to transfer heat from a source to the tank interior to provide more complete exhaustion of the tank during vehicle operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2007Publication date: December 11, 2008Inventor: Kiyoshi Handa
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Publication number: 20080295526Abstract: An LNG terminal is disclosed which includes an offshore mooring turret, an LNG storage vessel operatively coupled to the mooring turret, the LNG storage vessel including at least one LNG storage tank for the storage of liquid natural gas and a regasification vessel operatively coupled to the LNG storage vessel. A method of operating an offshore LNG terminal is also disclosed which includes obtaining liquefied natural gas from at least one LNG storage tank on an LNG storage vessel that is operatively coupled to a mooring turret, regasifying the liquefied natural gas from the LNG storage vessel using a regasification vessel operatively coupled to the LNG storage vessel, and supplying the regasified gas to at least one subsea pipeline via the mooring turret.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventors: L. Terry Boatman, Yonghui Liu
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Publication number: 20080209918Abstract: A container and a method for storage and/or transport of a compressed fluid such as compressed natural gas are provided. The container has a pair of opposing heads and a wall section between the heads, the wall section defining a square cross-section comprising substantially planar sides joined together by rounded corners. The container is designed for the side walls to deflect outwardly while under pressure, but to be supported externally by a support system that restricts outward expansion of the side walls. The support system can be provided as the walls of a cargo hold in a marine or land transport vessel, an ISO shipping container or an underground shaft. Multiple containers can be located side by side in the external support system so that the sides of adjacent containers rest against each other for support while under pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 29, 2008Publication date: September 4, 2008Applicant: EnerSea Transport LLCInventor: Charles N. White
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Publication number: 20080209917Abstract: A storage tank, in particular a storage tank for cryogenic media, preferably for liquid hydrogen, including at least one condensation pipe, which is used for delivering a gaseous cryogenic medium, is disclosed. In addition, a method for filling a storage tank with a gaseous cryogenic medium is disclosed. The condensation pipe is equipped with at least one heat exchanger via which the delivered cryogenic medium is cooled by exchanging heat with the stored cryogenic medium.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2006Publication date: September 4, 2008Applicant: Linde AktiengesellschaftInventor: Robert Adler
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Publication number: 20080190118Abstract: 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: July 26, 2007Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: 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: 7395675Abstract: A superconducting cable cooling system, wherein coolant continually provides cooling to superconducting cable, comprising a plurality of nodes within a superconducting cable network and a plurality of legs of superconducting cable which interconnect each of the nodes of the superconducting cable network.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: John Henri Royal, Barry Minbiole, Jalal Hunain Zia, Nancy Jean Lynch
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Publication number: 20080148740Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a cryogenic fluid. The apparatus includes a conduit having an inlet and an outlet, a source of cryogenic fluid connected to the inlet for providing cryogenic fluid to the conduit and a cool down line connected to the conduit at an intermediate port between the inlet and the outlet, the cool down line in fluid communication with the source of cryogenic fluid for providing cryogenic fluid to the conduit through the intermediate port. The cool down line can be external and intersect with the conduit at the intermediate port, or may be disposed within the conduit. The conduit may have more than one intermediate port for providing cryogenic fluid to the conduit downstream from the inlet. 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: December 20, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. INC.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets
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Publication number: 20080148741Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets
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Publication number: 20080078188Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2005Publication date: April 3, 2008Applicant: MESSER FRANCE S.A.Inventors: Patrick Matheoud, Jean-Claude Zimmer
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Patent number: 7316363Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a rotating nozzle assembly includes a rotatable shaft having a bore to transport a cryogenic fluid therethrough. The rotatable shaft has an upstream portion associated with a feed chamber and a downstream portion. The nozzle assembly further includes a seal disposed within the feed chamber and surrounding at least a portion of the rotatable shaft, and a seal backup disk disposed proximate the seal. The seal backup disk includes an orifice surrounding an outside diameter of the rotatable shaft, the orifice having a diameter such that, when the cryogenic fluid is flowing through the bore of the rotatable shaft, the rotatable shaft can freely rotate while the seal prevents the cryogenic fluid from seeping past the seal.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2004Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: NitroCision LLCInventors: Howard R. Hume, Ronald R. Warnecke, Gary L. Palmer, Leslie J. Fekete
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Patent number: 7299641Abstract: A cryogenic storage system for cryogenic storage using liquid refrigerant is provided. The cryogenic storage system includes first and second vacuum vessels, a vacuum source, a quantity of a liquid refrigerant, and at least one temperature control assembly. An insulating wall may be provided on an interior surface of one of the vessels. A common vacuum condition is provided in voids that are present in the wall of the first and second vessels as well as in the insulating wall. The at least one temperature control assembly includes a power supply, a temperature sensor, a heater, and a conductive element. The at least one conductive element provides a link or thermal coupling between a space defined in the first vessel and the liquid refrigerant stored in the second vessel.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: The Stasis FoundationInventors: Michael Iarocci, Stephen Valentine, Brian Wowk
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Patent number: 7296569Abstract: A portable liquid oxygen (LOX) storage/delivery apparatus is provided, including an insulated (LOX) container having an interior, a top portion, a bottom portion and a sidewall, the sidewall including a first side portion and a second side portion, both extending between the top portion of the bottom portion, and a port system in communication with the interior of the container for charging the container and for withdrawing LOX and gaseous oxygen from the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: Mallinckrodt, Inc.Inventors: Mark Robert Frye, Leonardo Shiki Toma, Richard Scott Remes
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Patent number: 7293418Abstract: A cryogenic tank assembly has a pump which discharges into an accumulator which is located in the cryogenic storage area. This reduces the space required for the device as well as the functioning of the device. The high pressure fluid in the accumulator remains at a cryogenic temperature. The system may also include a heater to deliver high pressure gas form the liquid storage volume.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2002Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Westport Power Inc.Inventors: Stephen D. Noble, Thomas C. Brook, Lance G. Follett, Gregory C. Harper
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Patent number: 7293417Abstract: A cryogenic fluid storage/processing system which includes a tank for storing the cryogenic fluid, and a containment wall surrounding the tank and defining an impoundment area. The system further includes a vaporizer for regasification of the cryogenic fluid. Piping is discharges the vaporizer heating medium into the impoundment area, and/or routes it beneath the tank to heat the ground beneath the tank. Further, the system provides for all liquid hydrocarbons to be contained within the impoundment area with the pumps inside and the vaporizers mounted on the containment walls.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Mustang Engineering, L.P.Inventor: Ned Baudat
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Patent number: 7264025Abstract: A method for supplying a cryogenic fluid to a network of two or more cryogenic fluid receiving stations, wherein a cryogenic liquid is routed to cryogenic fluid receiving stations in a single cryogenic vessel and is dispensed to the cryogenic fluid receiving stations as either a cryogenic liquid, a compressed gas, both a cryogenic liquid and a compressed gas, or as a mixture of a cryogenic liquid and a compressed gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: David John Farese, Thomas James Sakach
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Patent number: 7240499Abstract: A method for preventing explosions while transporting compressed natural gas by a floating vessel entails obtaining pressurized high-energy content gas; separating the pressurized product stream into saturated gas and liquids; and removing impurities from the saturated gas. The saturated gas is dehydrated forming a dry pressurized gas that is subsequently cooled forming a two-phase gas. The two-phase gas, natural gas liquid, and condensate are loaded onto a storage element forming a mixture. The storage elements are loaded onto the deck to provide open ventilation of the storage element. The floating vessel transports the storage elements to a desired location at a lower cost than comparable submarine pipeline transport costs for distances of less than about 2500 nautical miles while utilizing the vapor phase during transit to power the floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventor: Robert Magee Shivers, III
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Patent number: 7240498Abstract: A method for providing inventory for expedited loading and transport of compressed natural gas entails obtaining pressurized high-energy content gas; separating the high-energy gas into saturated gas and liquids; and removing impurities from the saturated gas. Water is removed from the gas forming a dry pressurized gas. The dry gas is cooled forming a two-phase gas. The gas is loaded into a storage element located on a floating vessel, while the liquids are loaded into the storage element forming a mixture. One or more storage elements are collected on the land to create an inventory that is quicker to load than comparable loading of natural gas unto the floating vessel. The floating vessel transports the inventory to a desired location at a lower cost than comparable submarine pipeline transport costs for distances of less than about 2500 nautical miles while utilizing the vapor phase during transit to power the floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventor: Robert Magee Shivers, III
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Patent number: 7237391Abstract: A method for processing and transporting compressed natural gas by a floating vessel with a power plant entails obtaining pressurized high-energy content gas, separating the pressurized product stream into saturated gas and liquids, and removing impurities from the saturated gas. Water is removed from the gas forming a dry pressurized gas. The dry pressurized gas is cooled forming a two-phase gas. The gas is loaded into a storage element located on a floating vessel, while the liquids are loaded into the storage element forming a mixture. The floating vessel transports the storage modules and elements to a desired location at a lower cost than comparable submarine pipeline transport costs for distances of less than about 2500 nautical miles while utilizing the vapor phase during transit to power the floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventor: Robert Magee Shivers, III
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Patent number: 7191602Abstract: For the first time, a hydrogen storage method, apparatus and system having a fluid mixture is provided. At predetermined pressures and/or temperatures within a contained substantially fixed volume, the fluid mixture can store a high density of hydrogen molecules, wherein a predetermined phase of the fluid mixture is capable of being withdrawn from the substantially fixed volume for use as a vehicle fuel or energy storage having reduced and/or eliminated evaporative losses, especially where storage weight, vessel cost, vessel shape, safety, and energy efficiency are beneficial.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Gene David Berry, Salvador Martin Aceves
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Patent number: 7171814Abstract: A system and a method of its use for the accelerated cooldown of at least one unit by injecting liquid carbon dioxide via a sparger into a pipeline connected to the unit via an access valve upstream of the unit being cooled. By providing an evenly distributed flow into the system gas prior to entry into the unit, the system and its method of use efficiently and uniformly cooldown the unit. In a preferred embodiment, multiple spargers using this technique can cooldown multiple units in series.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: BJ Services CompanyInventors: Bradley Cyril Ingham, Steven J. Barber
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Patent number: 7165408Abstract: The present invention teaches methods of operating a pressurized cryogenic liquid gas storage tank that has a vent cooling shield around which fuel vented from a storage tank flows to cool the storage tank by reducing the influence of heat influx into the storage tank. The method of the present invention provides for reduction in the quantity of fuel loss during the venting operation and allows a greater volume of liquid fuel to be stored in the storage tank. The method includes allowing fuel in a storage tank to transition between a two-phase state of liquid and gas into a single-phase state of liquid and back into a two-phase state of liquid and gas. Additionally, the present invention allows filling a storage tank to a liquid level greater than about 95% of the capacity of the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Rainer Immel
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Patent number: 7155918Abstract: A system for processing and transporting compressed natural gas having a separator for separating the pressurized high-energy content gas into saturated gas and liquids; a decontamination unit for removing impurities from the saturated gas to create a decontaminated saturated gas; a dehydration unit for dehydrating the decontaminated saturated gas to remove water forming a dry pressurized gas; a chiller for cooling the dry pressurized gas cooled from ambient temperature to between ?80 Fahrenheit and ?120 Fahrenheit forming a two-phase gas; a floating vessel; at least one storage module located on the floating vessel that maintains a pressure ranging from 800 psi and 1200 psi; and wherein the floating vessel transports at least one storage module a distance ranging between 500 nautical miles and 2500 nautical miles and utilizes the vapor phase during transit to power the floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas CorporationInventor: Robert Magee Shivers, III
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Patent number: 7131278Abstract: A system and method to transfer a cryogenic liquid from a station tank system to a recipient tank is provided. At least a part of said cryogenic liquid is stored at a first pressure higher than the pressure in said recipient tank and is cooled to a temperature below the equilibrium temperature for said first pressure. The cooled part of said cryogenic liquid is transferred to said recipient tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Linde AktiengesellschaftInventors: Orvar Svensson, Nils Yngve Appelquist, Kenneth Stig Lindqvist, Hans Gustav Sahlen
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Patent number: 7114342Abstract: A storage and delivery device for a cryogenic liquid that includes a vessel assembly and a delivery line assembly. The vessel assembly has a liquid space and a vapor space. The delivery line assembly has a liquid line, a vapor line, and a delivery line. The liquid line is in fluid communication with the liquid space. The vapor line is in fluid communication with the vapor space. The liquid line has a flow control device located thereon and structured to control the flow of fluid through the liquid line. The liquid line flow control device is structured to close the liquid line when the vessel assembly is at a predetermined pressure.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Harsco Technologies CorporationInventors: Robert W. Oldham, Mark B. Oldham
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Patent number: 7069730Abstract: A system dispenses both liquid natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG). A bulk tank contains a supply of LNG which is pumped to a smaller storage tank. After the storage tank is refilled, LNG from the bulk tank is pumped to a vaporizer so that CNG is produced. The CNG may be routed to the LNG in the storage tank to condition it. It is also used to recharge a pressurizing cylinder that is placed in communication with the head space of the storage tank when it is desired to rapidly dispense LNG to a vehicle. A bank of cascaded storage cylinders alternatively may receive CNG from the vaporizer for later dispensing through the system CNG dispenser. The CNG from the vaporizer may also be dispensed directly via the system CNG dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Chart Inc.Inventors: Claus D. Emmer, Jesse Gamble, Craig Zelasko, Thomas K. Drube
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Patent number: 7052047Abstract: A coupler for making a detachable bayonet connection between two sections of a flow path. The coupler includes male and female bayonet hub members that detachably connect the flow path sections. In one aspect of the invention, the coupler includes an internal vapor shielding flow path defined within the coupler by the interconnection of the hub members that operates to intercept and remove heat entering the coupler from the external environment. In this regard, the internal vapor shielding flow path may include at least one valve to vent at least a portion of the vapor shielding material external to the coupler from the vapor shielding flow path.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Charles W. Box, Frank C. Zegler
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Patent number: 7028488Abstract: A method of dispensing a liquid material from a source container which includes a blend of fluids of a first composition that normally fractionate upon boiling. A material of a second composition (different than that of the first composition) and capable of maintaining the first composition of the material remaining in the source container is added to the source container during the transfer of liquid from the source container. This addition of a material of a second composition to the supply container during the transfer can minimize and/or even eliminate fractionation of the liquid in the source tank.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Robert G. Richard, Henk van der Maaten
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Patent number: 7017352Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for cooling extruded and molded materials. The present invention is especially useful to thoroughly cool an extrudate by directing a cooling fluid toward a surface of the extrudate (e.g., an interior surface that defines a hollow portion of an extrudate). Hollows may be created in order to reduce material, weight, and/or processing time. A cooling fluid is diverted toward the surface of the extrudate so as to cool the material and assist in solidification. A baffle may serve to divert the cooling fluid in the desired direction. In another example, the extrudate may be partially or totally immersed in a liquid cryogenic fluid. Increases in production line throughput may result by rapidly cooling the molded material. In addition, the more efficient cooling may be achieved with a lesser amount of the cooling fluid, and the velocity and temperature of the cooling fluid may be reduced.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Crane Plastics Company LLCInventors: Herbert L. Hutchison, Jeffrey R. Brandt
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Patent number: 6988370Abstract: A cryogenic storage system for cryogenic storage using liquid refrigerant is provided. The cryogenic storage system includes first and second vacuum vessels, a vacuum source, a quantity of a liquid refrigerant, and at least one temperature control assembly. An insulating wall may be provided on an interior surface of one of the vessels. A common vacuum condition is provided in voids that are present in the wall of the first and second vessels as well as in the insulating wall. The at least one temperature control assembly includes a power supply, a temperature sensor, a heater, and a conductive element. The at least one conductive element provides a link or thermal coupling between a space defined in the first vessel and the liquid refrigerant stored in the second vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Inventors: Michael Iarocci, Stephen Valentine, Brian Wowk
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Patent number: 6983611Abstract: A storage container (1) for cryogenic media (2), especially for liquid hydrogen, having an outside container (3), an inside container (4) and at least one extraction and fill line (6, 6?) is described. According to the invention in the storage container (1), there is at least one additional storage space (5, 5?) for a medium and at least the extraction line (6, 6?) is dynamically connected to the additional storage space (5, 5?). A shield (12) that preferably at least partially surrounds the inside container (4) can be assigned to the additional storage space (5, 5?) and can be in thermal contact with it. The additional storage space (5) can also be made in the form of a hollow chamber section and can at least partially surround the inside container (4). The invention makes it possible to greatly reduce the evaporation rate in storage containers (1) that are used to store cryogenic media (2).Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2001Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Linde AGInventors: Wilfried-Henning Reese, Joachim Wolf