Controlled nitrogen blanketing systems
OwnerGregory E. Young, Zane A. Millerinventors
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An underground storage tank maintenance system includes a system of monitors to determine pressure and humidity in the system. Inert gas may be supplied into the ullage of the tank. The inert gas may first pass through an interstitial space as between the primary storage and secondary containment, and then passed into ullage to capture contaminants on the way out of the vent to atmosphere. The system and method prevent hydrocarbons exiting to atmosphere. Humidity sensors may be set along vent to determine water contamination and trigger drying cycles. Pressure readings help identify system leaks.
Claims24
A method for removing water and/or water vapor from a tank system, said method comprising the steps of:
- a. supplying an inert gas into an interstitial space within the tank system;
- b. drawing the inert gas out from the interstitial space directly over an ullage of the tank system;
- c. releasing the inert gas from the tank system.
A method for removing water and/or water vapor from a tank system, said method comprising the steps of:
- supplying an inert gas into an interstitial space within the tank system;
- releasing the inert gas from the tank system:
- monitoring pressure in the interstitial space to identify a leak in a primary or interstice, and wherein said step of supplying comprises delivering a known amount of inert gas continuously for a period of time at a set interval, and monitoring the amount of exhaust gas.
A system for drying an ullage and/or interstitial space in a tank comprising:
- a. an inert gas supply;
- b. a conduit in fluid communication with the interstitial space of the tank;
- c. a pump having an electrical supply line, said pump coupled with said conduit;
- d. said conduit in fluid connection with said inert gas supply and an outlet of said conduit along said interstitial space;
- e. a further outlet providing fluid communication between the interstitial space and a primary tank ullage;
- f. a vent in communication with said ullage and an external atmosphere.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.