Method and system for densifying cryogenic propellants
US6968704B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 11, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 5, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/402
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to methods and systems for densifying liquids, specifically the densification of cryogenic propellants. A preferred system of the present invention subcools and densifies liquid propellants by utilizing a countercurrent gas or liquid flow. The countercurrent flow preferably utilizes a gas having a lower boiling point than the propellants. A packed tower may then be used, at or above atmospheric pressure, to introduce the countercurrent flow to the propellant. This methodology avoids the costs and problems associated with subatmospheric operation. A preferred embodiment is directed toward the densification of liquid oxygen, with a similar embodiment directed toward the simultaneous densification of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. Systems and methods of the present invention may also be used to densify other liquids in similar fashion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.