Method for transferring cryogenic fluid using a device for transferring cryogenic fluid

A method for transferring cryogenic fluid using a device for transferring cryogenic fluid, wherein the device comprises a first tank configured to distribute a cryogenic fluid and to store a cryogenic fluid in liquid phase in a lower part therein and in gaseous phase in an upper part therein at an initial pressure, a second tank configured to accommodate the cryogenic fluid from the first tank in liquid phase in a lower part therein and in gaseous phase in an upper part therein at a second initial pressure, and a fluid transfer circuit connecting the first and the second tank, the fluid transfer circuit comprising a first pipe that connects the upper parts of the first and second tanks and which comprises at least one valve and a second pipe that connects the lower part of the first tank to the second tank and which comprises a set of one or more valves for interrupting or authorizing a transfer of a liquid stream of the cryogenic fluid from the first tank to the second tank, and also a pump that comprises an inlet connected to the first tank and an outlet connected to the second tank, the pump and the at least one valve of the first pipe being configured to place the upper parts of the first and second tanks in fluidic communication by opening the at least one valve during a transfer of liquid from the first tank to the second tank by way of the pump, the method ensuring a transfer of cryogenic fluid between the first tank and the second tank,

• wherein the method comprises the steps of:
• with the at least one valve of the first pipe being closed and the set of valves of the second pipe being initially closed, opening the at least one valve of the first pipe, thereby pressure equalizing the first and second tanks and lowering the pressure of the second tank from the initial pressure thereof and increasing the pressure of the first tank from the initial pressure therefor;
• and
• starting the pump and opening the set of valves of the second pipe, thereby transferring the cryogenic fluid in liquid form from the first tank to the second tank,
• wherein the pump is disposed outside of the first and second tanks,
• prior to pressure-equalization between the first and second tanks, precooling the first pipe and/or the second pipe with amounts of gaseous cryogen from the headspace of the first tank, and/or
• prior to pressure-equalization between the first and second tanks, precooling the first pipe and/or the second pipe with amounts of gaseous cryogen from the headspace of the second tank.