System and method for dynamically purging cargo tank wet lines
US6244287A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 3, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 12, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 3, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/8342
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method ensures that the wet lines of a bottom loading petroleum cargo tank remain free of hazardous liquid during transit. The system and method continuously monitor and automatically purge liquid that collects in the wet lines during transit, for example from a leaking emergency valve. The system includes a liquid sensor positioned at a low point in the wet line, a low pressure purge controller in electrical communication with the liquid sensor and a solenoid valve in electrical communication with the purge controller. The system further includes a one-way flow valve in flow communication with the solenoid valve and the wet line. The solenoid valve is also in flow communication with an external source of compressed gas, such as the air system of the cargo tank or an auxiliary air supply. Preferably, the system further includes a remote warning indicator for indicating to the operator of the cargo tank that a particular wet line is leaking excessively. When liquid is present in the wet line, the liquid sensor transmits an electrical signal to the purge controller. The purge controller then transmits an electrical signal to open the solenoid valve, thereby permitting th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.