Storage system having flexible vacuum jacket
US8807382B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 1, 2010 |
| Grant date | Aug 19, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/32
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A storage system useful for storing cryogenic liquids is disclosed. The storage system includes a storage vessel, insulation surrounding the storage vessel and a flexible vacuum jacket enclosing them both. The flexible vacuum jacket can be made from a flexible plastic film such as polyimide. Polyimide is preferred due to its ability to remain flexible at cryogenic temperatures. The inner volume of the flexible vacuum jacket is placed under vacuum such that the insulation is maintained under vacuum. The flexible vacuum jacket can collapse against and conform to the insulation when it is evacuated, saving substantially on volume. A fitting for combining multiple passageways is also disclosed, so that multiple passageways can proceed through the vacuum jacket through a single penetration.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.