Thermal storage tank and associated top structure
US5201606A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 21, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 13, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 21, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/14
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed is a thermal storage tank for the long term storage of a thermal storage medium whose energy is available on demand for satisfying cooling or heating loads. The tank may be earth excavated and include side walls of a lightweight, high strength concrete that retains its thermal insulating characteristics even when exposed to groundwater. A unique inverted frustrum shape for the tank offers numerous advantages. In association with a cold storage tank, a novel submerged, single point ice introduction system provides a much improved formation of the ice mass in the tank. Also provided for the cold storage tank is a novel floating top that provides a ballast effect to keep the ice mass submerged.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.