Specific Conduit, Valve, Or Coupling Structure Patents (Class 62/50.7)
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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: 8122919Abstract: Disclosed herein is an LNG transferring arm. The LNG transferring arm includes a cylindrical support base. A main body is rotatably provided on the support base. A boom assembly is connected to a side of the main body to rotate up and down. A support assembly supports the boom assembly and is bent along with the boom assembly. A transfer pipe and a return pipe are arranged along the boom assembly. An end of each of the transfer pipe and the return pipe is connected to a tank to which LNG will be transferred. A balance weight is rotatably supported above the main body via a bracket, and is hinged at one end thereof to the boom assembly, thus maintaining balance. A rotary branch means is provided in the main body, and includes two pipes having different diameters and arranged concentrically.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Inventor: Jae-Wook Park
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Patent number: 8082741Abstract: A cluster tool has a transfer chamber, and a load lock chamber. An adaptor is configured to be coupled between the transfer chamber and the load lock chamber. The adaptor has an adaptor housing with an interior space including an entrance with a first valve and an exit with a second valve. The adaptor housing forms a substrate path through the interior space. The first valve connects the interior space and the load lock chamber. The second valve connects the interior space and the transfer chamber. A cryogenic surface is associated with the adaptor. Other pumps can be associated with the adaptor, such as, for example, a turbo pump, or water vapor pump. The cryogenic surface is configured to selectively evacuate the interior space. A wafer is adapted to be moved through the first valve and through the adaptor housing along the path. The wafer is moved through the exit and into the transfer chamber once the second valve is opened. This adaptor can be applied to the process chamber as well as the load lock.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2007Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Allen J. Bartlett, Joseph A. Kraus, Michael J. Eacobacci, Jr.
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Patent number: 8074687Abstract: A flexible cryogenic transfer hose for connecting two cryogenic facilities, has a length of at least 20 m, and: an inner flexible hose with at least two segments, interconnected via at least two transverse inner connecting members, an outer hose surrounding the inner hose and including a watertight elastomeric or composite material, the outer hose having at least two segments mutually connected via two outer connecting members, the outer hose having a wall thickness of at least 2 cm, a bend radius of at least 2 m, and an internal diameter of at least 20 cm, the inner hose being kept at a distance from the outer hose via spacer elements bridging a distance between the outer wall of the inner hose and an inner wall of the outer hose, which distance is between 0.1 and 0.8 times the internal diameter dio of the inner hose.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventors: Jean-Pierre Queau, Jack Pollack, Hein Wille, Liselotte Van Dijk
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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: 20110284784Abstract: Seals, ball valve assemblies, and methods of operating ball valves assemblies are provided. The seal includes an annular jacket, a restrictor, and a spring energizer. The annular jacket includes a first annular pocket and a second annular pocket. The restrictor is disposed in the first annular pocket and is capable of restricting shrinkage of the first annular pocket to a predetermined diameter range, if the seal is exposed to a temperature within a predetermined temperature range. The spring energizer is disposed in the second annular pocket and is configured to supply a force against the annular jacket to maintain the seal against a contact surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2010Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Micah S. Abel, Jeff Scott, Don Christensen
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Patent number: 8028724Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 26, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: 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: 20110225988Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is a cryo-connector, a connector that allows for the delivery and return of a cryogen in an axial configuration. In one embodiment, the connector is a tri-axial configuration allowing for the delivery and return of pressurized cryogen as well as the application of an independent vacuum in the third lumen. Various configurations, however, may accommodate any number of luminary spaces such that cryogen (or other fluids) and/or vacuum spaces may be created in a fashion complementary to the components that the connector will affix to and interconnect with. The connectors can be utilized with any low temperature, cryogenic device and at varying pressures.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: CPSI BIOTECHInventors: John M. Baust, Claudia Lueckge, Roy Cheeks, Melissa K. Dobson, Anthony T. Robilotto
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Patent number: 8006724Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: John S. Hartono, Kenneth W. Sheets, Jr.
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Patent number: 7841190Abstract: Methods and devices for the management of cryogenic agents within analytical systems using freeze thaw valving having an expansion chamber that limits the flow of the cryogenic agent. The expansion chamber is fitted with an expansion nozzle through which a cryogen flows and a porous frit that allows the cryogen to be exhausted. The porous frit initially allows a rapid flow of cryogen into the expansion chamber. This rapid flow lowers the temperature of the expansion chamber causing fluid contents within a freeze thaw segment to freeze. As the cryogen expands into the expansion chamber and turns into a solid, the porous frit is occluded causing the rapid flow to be restricted. The restriction of the cryogen flow by the occlusion of the porous frit allows the freeze thaw valve to use significantly less cryogen. Sublimation of the cryogen trapped within the porous frit provides sufficient cooling to maintain the valve in its closed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Waters Technologies CorporationInventors: Geoff C. Gerhardt, Theodore Dourdeville
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Publication number: 20100287956Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that expand environmental support for an HVAC system with an HVAC fluid circulating throughout by vaporizing a cryogen; and sparging the vaporized cryogen to dispense sparge bubbles to the HVAC fluid to cool the HVAC fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2009Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventors: Boyd Bowdish, John Hammerman
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Publication number: 20100287957Abstract: The present invention provides a subsea transfer system for cryogenic fluids comprising reinforced concrete conduits (RCC), and stationary rollers that are anchored to the bottom of RCC, and one or more pipe-in-pipe that is supported on rollers along with insulation in the annulus. Each RCC is pre-cast with spigot and bell ends, and fits together with rubber gasket/sealant at joints. RCCs are installed first to form a dry path for pipeline(s). Once the RCC and stationary rollers are installed, a cryogenic pipeline having pipe-in-pipe configuration is then pulled into the RCC through and supported on the stationary rollers. As such a robust RCC protected pipe-in-pipe system for transfer of cryogenic fluids under water are established.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: Xuejie Liu
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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: 20100186426Abstract: A method of transporting natural gas by cooling and pressurizing retained natural gas to liquefy the retained natural gas within a fiber reinforced plastic pressure vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2009Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventor: Steven Campbell
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Publication number: 20100170268Abstract: A system for delivering vapor phase fluid at an elevated pressure from a transport vessel containing liquefied or two-phase fluid is provided. The system includes: (a) a transport vessel positioned in a substantially horizontal position; (b) one or more energy delivery elements disposed on the lower portion of the transport vessel wherein the energy delivery devices include a heating means and a first insulation means, wherein the energy delivery devices are configured to the contour of the transport vessel; (c) one or more substantially rigid support devices disposed on the outer periphery of the energy delivery devices, wherein the support devices hold the energy delivery devices in thermal contact with a lower portion of the transport vessel; and (d) one or more attaching devices secure the rigid support devices onto the transport vessel and hold the energy delivery devices between the substantially rigid support device and a wall of the transport vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2010Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventors: MARTIN LEE TIMM, Thomas John Bergman, JR., Justin Cole Germond, Keith Randall Pace, Kenneth Leroy Burgers, Michael Clinton Johnson
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Publication number: 20100162730Abstract: 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 12, 2008Publication date: July 1, 2010Applicant: ARBEL MEDICAL LTD.Inventors: Alexander Levin, Didier Toubia, Miron Kaganovich
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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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Publication number: 20100139293Abstract: The invention is related to an ultrafast freezing equipment for food contained in a packing with multiple cavities, for public sale, by applying a liquid nitrogen trickle, in an amount enough to produce an ultrafast freezing of food. Liquid nitrogen is dispensed from a container at atmospheric pressure, vacuum isolated, through a plurality of nozzles, by gravity, into the center of the upper surface for each cavity, producing short-time immersion in the individual cavity. Nitrogen gas produced is used to make a practically oxygen-free atmosphere, cold enough to maintain the freezing process after dispensing. The process diminish the amount of liquid nitrogen required as compared to other freezing processes, as well as personnel, facilities and physical space needed for install and operate it, reducing the associated costs.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventors: Yamil Adiv Maccise Sade, Mauricio Rioseco Orihuela
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Publication number: 20100076421Abstract: The device of the invention takes the form of a catheter/probe and is a closed loop system in which cryogen is delivered along the length of the catheter/probe to the tip where freezing occurs, and then is recirculated. The device is a tube within a tube and comprises a number of parts including supply and return tubes (internal tubes), outer sheath (external tube) sealed to the inner tubes at one or both ends with a gas filled lumen between the internal and external tubes. The lumen of the external tube is filled with a saturated gas which solidifies upon cooling, thereby creating a vacuum along the length of the catheter and providing for insulation between the inner and outer tubes, and preventing freezing along the length of the probe shaft. Further, the outside surface of the internal tubes is modified to potentiate gas nucleation on the outer surfaces of the internal tubes when cooled.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: John M. Baust, John G. Baust, Roy Cheeks, Anthony Robilotto, Kristi Snyder
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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: 20090272127Abstract: A system and method to connect a cryocooler (refrigerator) to a superconducting magnet or cooled object allows for replacement without the need to break the cryostat vacuum or the need to warm up the superconducting magnet or other cooled object. A pneumatic or other type of actuator establishes a thermo-mechanical coupling. The mechanical closing forces are directed perpendicular (cross-axially) to the cryocooler axis and are not applied to the thin wall cryocooler body or to the thin cryostat walls or to the cooled object or to its shield. It is also possible that some of the compressive force be transferred to the cryocooler body. In that case, the extensions are designed so that the forces transferred to the cryocooler thermal stages do not exceed allowable stresses in the cryocooler stage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2008Publication date: November 5, 2009Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Alexey L. Radovinsky, Alexander Zhukovsky
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Publication number: 20090266087Abstract: A system and a process are provided for transferring a cryogenic fluid such as liquefied natural gas between a floating transport vessel and a storage vessel. The fluid is transferred through at least one submerged/subsea/subsurface catenary flexible conduit, the conduits being configured to avoid damage from waves and abrasion or contact with the other conduits, the vessels, or other objects. A conduit transfer vessel is provided for storing the conduit in the water, delivering the conduit to each transport vessel, but standing off from the transport vessel during cryogenic fluid transfer, and then retrieving the conduit from the transport vessel, which greatly improves the safety of the cryogenic fluid transfer operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2009Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventors: Jimmie Dean Adkins, David T. McDonald
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Patent number: 7600387Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cryogenic fluid delivery system includes a vessel containing a cryogenic fluid at a first pressure and a first temperature, a first heat exchanger coupled to the vessel for receiving the cryogenic fluid and cooling the cryogenic fluid to a second temperature, a first pump coupled to the first heat exchanger for pressurizing the cryogenic fluid to a second pressure, a second pump for pressurizing the cryogenic fluid to a third pressure, a second heat exchanger coupled to the second pump for cooling the cryogenic fluid to a third temperature, and a nozzle coupled to the second heat exchanger for delivering a jet of the cryogenic fluid toward a target.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2007Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: NitroCision LLCInventors: Howard R. Hume, Ronald R. Warnecke, Gary L. Palmer, Leslie J. Fekete
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Publication number: 20090229276Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the regasification of liquefied natural gas, the method at least comprising the steps of: a) removing liquefied natural gas (10) from a storage tank (2) using a first pump unit (3); b) passing the removed liquefied natural gas (20) to and feeding it into a second pump unit (4) at an inlet pressure; c) increasing the pressure of the liquefied natural gas in the second pump unit (4) thereby obtaining pressurized liquefied natural gas (50); d) vaporizing the pressurized liquefied natural gas (50) thereby obtaining gaseous natural gas (60); wherein the second pump unit (4) discharges the pressurized liquefied natural gas (50) at a pre-selected pressure value, regardless of the inlet pressure at the second pump unit (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2007Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventors: Marc Alexander Rieder, David Bertil Runbalk, Alexander Emanuel Maria Straver
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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: 20090211264Abstract: Industrial gas customer station components comprising a plurality of cryogenic storage tanks each having top and bottom nozzles in flow communication with first and second tank piping connection points, respectively, disposed at a defined distance apart, thereby providing standardized first and second tank piping connection points, and a plurality of piping skids each comprising first and second pipe sections having first and second ends, the first ends thereof defining first and second piping skid connection points disposed at a defined distance apart, thereby providing standardized first and second piping skid connection points. The defined distances between the respective first and second piping skid connection points and the first and second tank piping connection points are essentially equal.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: AIR PRODUCTS AND CHEMICALS, INC.Inventors: Stephen Joseph McKitish, Robert William Hadden, III, Kameel Sattouf, Douglas R. Williams, Donald Nelly, Kent Richard Buzard, Brian Clark Jackson, SR.
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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: 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: 20090205343Abstract: A system for transfer of a liquid, such as liquefied natural gas, from a ship such as a liquefied natural gas carrier and a floating or fixed production and/or storage unit. The system has articulated arms and has n degrees of freedom, generally six, provided by rotating joint joints. At least one of the rotating joints is located on the ship.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2007Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: SOCIETE EUROPEENNE D'INGENIERIE MECANIQUE-EURODIMInventors: Bernard Dupont, Stéphane Paquet
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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: 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: 7562534Abstract: A method for establishing a cryogenic insulation system wherein aerogel is provided to a sealable insulation space which is pressurized and depressurized, preferably using carbon dioxide gas, and cooled to cryogenic temperatures typically by the application of refrigeration from cryogenic liquid.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Richard John Jibb, John Henri Royal, Norman Henry White, Steve Allan Schweichler, Wevone Hobbs
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Publication number: 20090151427Abstract: A liquid gas vaporization and measurement system, and associated method, for efficiently vaporizing a continuous sample of liquid gas, such as liquid natural gas (LNG), and accurately determining the constituent components of the gas. A constant flow of liquid gas sampled from a mass storage device is maintained in a vaporizing device. Within the vaporizing device the liquid gas is flash vaporized within heated narrow tubing. The liquid gas is converted to vapor very quickly as it enters one or more independently operating vaporizer stages within the vaporizing device. The vapor gas is provided to a measuring instrument such as a chromatograph and the individual constituent components and the BTU value of the gas are determined to an accuracy of within +/?0.5 mole percent and 1 BTU, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2009Publication date: June 18, 2009Applicant: MUSTANG SAMPLING LLCInventors: Kenneth O. Thompson, Walter F. Gerhold
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Patent number: 7546744Abstract: A storage tank defines a cryogen space for storing a cryogenic liquid. The storage tank comprises a combined fill and vent assembly, which comprises a conduit having a first end with an opening disposed within an upper part of the cryogen space, and a second end outside of the cryogen space that is connected to a receptacle, to which a re-filling nozzle can be attached. A check valve disposed in the conduit allows flow only in the direction of filling the cryogen space with cryogenic liquid from the receptacle. A by-pass line is provided around the check valve with a valve disposed in the by-pass line that is operable to open or close to control flow through the by-pass line. The method comprises attaching a re-filling nozzle to the receptacle and opening the by-pass valve to vent vapor from the cryogen space to reduce vapor pressure therein and to cool the conduit, receptacle, re-filling nozzle, and fill line.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Westport Power Inc.Inventors: Gregory Harper, Randall Mark
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Publication number: 20090107153Abstract: An offshore hydrocarbon transfer system (10) wherein a conduit (24) connects a floating structure (12) to a second structure (22) to carry hydrocarbons between them, and one of the structures has a shutoff valve (30) that produces a pressure surge in the conduit if the shut-off valve closes too fast. The invention provides a surge protection apparatus (40) with an overflow container (50) that receives hydrocarbons in the event of a pressure surge. The overflow container lies adjacent to the conduit and is connected to the conduit by a pressure relief valve (60). In one apparatus (40), the overflow container lies coaxial with a relief conduit section (42), and includes an elastic outer wall (44) that surrounds the conduit section. In another apparatus, the overflow container (72) lies completely outside the conduit section (42), and can be removed after it has filled with hydrocarbons.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Inventors: James Ellis, Patronella Van Emde Boas, Hein Wille
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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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Publication number: 20090077982Abstract: A cryogenic material transfer system incorporates a pipe-in-pipe configuration with a nanoporous or microporous insulating layer filling the annulus between the inner and outer pipe. The insulating layer is of sufficient flexibility to absorb and expansion or contraction of the inner pipe due to the flow of cryogenic material therethrough. For longer transfer systems a bulkhead is provided between adjacent pipe joints. Intermediately of the pipe joints an additional bulkhead may be employed to provide additional sealing or water stops and for providing provide additional load transfer. A fiber optic sensor system is installed in the annuals between the inner and outer pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Inventor: David V. Brower
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Publication number: 20090071173Abstract: The present invention regards a system for transferal of at least one cryogenic fluid between to objects. At least one transfer pipe extending from the installation extends into a receiving room in the vessel, the transfer pipe being connectable with piping on the vessel through connection means in the receiving room. According to the invention the receiving room is closable, the connection means, and or at least a part of the construction forming the receiving room and or other elements in the receiving room comprises means to withstand eventual leakage of the cryogenic fluid and the system also comprises means for evacuating the receiving room for eventual spilled fluid. The invention also regards a flange for use in the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2006Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: FRAMO ENGINEERING ASInventor: Jorgen Eide
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Publication number: 20090071174Abstract: A storage tank assembly for storage of cryogenic liquids comprising a first outer tank and a second, inner tank, the first and second tanks being spaced apart from one another to form an insulation space, each of the first and second tanks having a first end, and an opposite second end spaced apart from the first end, and a wall extending from the first end to the second end, the assembly further comprising a pipe work system comprising a plurality of pipes and a first connector extending through the wall of the first tank, the pipe work being connectable to the first connector such that the pipe work is spaced apart from the wall of the first tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: T. BADEN HARDSTAFF LTD.Inventors: Darryl William Hylands, Aik Beng Lua
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Patent number: 7472551Abstract: A cryogenic process system wherein a solids removal filter positioned in a conduit upstream of process equipment is within a filter housing having an angled bonnet which extends to the outside of insulated housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventor: Douglas Henry May
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Patent number: 7469718Abstract: A generally cylindrical quick disconnect female cryogenic coupler, interconnected with a cryogenic fluid transfer apparatus, includes a coupler body with a first cavity housing a laterally severed tubular bushing, an adaptor having one end attached to the coupler body and another end to the apparatus, a normally closed-biased valve between the coupler body and the adaptor, a coupling sleeve, attached to the coupler body having, a frusto-conical inlet portion, and a vent fitting having one end connected with a coupling sleeve radial aperture and another end in operative connection with a cryogenic fluid storage vessel, associated with the noted apparatus, to permit the inlet purging by using the vessel's own gaseous phase as a purging medium during liquid fluid transfer operation. The severed bushing inhibits ice formation, at an inlet/male nipple interface during the noted transfer. A method for purging moisture at the noted interface is also set forth.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Todd Dennis Lambert, Shawn David Ellis, Mario Alejandro Calvo
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Publication number: 20080307799Abstract: A process for the use of ambient air as a heat exchange medium for vaporizing cryogenic fluids wherein the vaporized cryogenic gases are heated to a selected temperature for use or delivery to a pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: Martin J. Rosetta, Bill R. Minton, David A. Franklin
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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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Patent number: 7464734Abstract: A system for transfer of cryogenic fluids and a method to keep the system at cryogenic temperatures during non-transfer periods requires an insulated transfer pipe that is inclined with a high end at a storage tank, a transfer jumper extending from the high end to the vapor area of the tank and a feeding line fluidly connecting to the high end also. During idle periods, the cryogenic liquid is fed from the storage tank into the transfer pipe to compensate the liquid that vaporizes in the transfer pipe due to heat leakage from the surroundings. The fed liquid flows down by gravity, and the boil-off gas flows back to the storage tank along the top of the transfer pipe and through the transfer jumper. As a result, the transfer system is kept at cryogenic temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Inventor: Xuejie Liu
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Patent number: 7448223Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 3, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: DQ Holdings, LLCInventors: Charles M. Darling, IV, A. Bruce Murray
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Publication number: 20080256959Abstract: A water-going liquefied carbon dioxide (LCD) transport vessel comprising a pressurised and refrigerated LCD container, a cargo discharge pump within said container for pumping LCD out of said container along a conduit, a booster pump for pumping LCD along the conduit to a platform, a first backflow line downstream of the cargo pump to the container, a second backflow line from downstream of the booster pump to the container, and optionally a heater arranged to heat LCD flowing from said vessel along the conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2005Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicants: STATOIL ASA, SINVENT AS, ORKLA ENGINEERING, TEEKAY NORWAY ASInventors: Audun Aspelund, Henrik Krogstad, Tor Erling Sandvik, Jan Einar Fivelstad, Roar Frode Henningsen, Leif Roar Wongraven, Tor Erik Hilden, Narve Oma
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Patent number: 7410348Abstract: A pumping/compressing apparatus for use in a fluid handling system transferring a fluid from one location, e.g., a tank, to another location or to an end use is provided. The apparatus basically includes a motor and a multistage, e.g., two stage, device including at least one reciprocating piston, an inlet stage chamber, an outlet stage chamber, an inlet, and an outlet. The piston is arranged to be reciprocated at multiple, e.g., respective first and second, speeds. The second speed is higher than the first speed, whereupon when the piston is reciprocated at the first speed the device effectively pumps liquid or mostly liquid to the outlet. When the piston is reciprocated at the second speed the device effectively compresses gas or mostly gas fluid and provides it to the outlet. A blowby port may be provided to provide blowby fluid back to the tank or the device.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2005Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: David Jonathan Chalk, David John Farese
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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: 20080134693Abstract: A storage tank defines a cryogen space for storing a cryogenic liquid. The storage tank comprises a combined fill and vent assembly, which comprises a conduit having a first end with an opening disposed within an upper part of the cryogen space, and a second end outside of the cryogen space that is connected to a receptacle, to which a re-filling nozzle can be attached. A check valve disposed in the conduit allows flow only in the direction of filling the cryogen space with cryogenic liquid from the receptacle. A by-pass line is provided around the check valve with a valve disposed in the by-pass line that is operable to open or close to control flow through the by-pass line. The method comprises attaching a re-filling nozzle to the receptacle and opening the by-pass valve to vent vapor from the cryogen space to reduce vapor pressure therein and to cool the conduit, receptacle, re-filling nozzle, and fill line.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventors: Gregory Harper, Randall Mark
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Publication number: 20080134692Abstract: A gas transfer hose for connecting a cryogenic apparatus to a superconducting system such as a magnetic resonant imaging system. The improved gas transfer hose, in operation, is quieter than hitherto.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2005Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: Siemens Magnet Technology Ltd.Inventor: David Michael Crowley