Cryogenic tanks are an optimal solution in cases where large quantities of gas need to be stored in liquid form, such as Liquid Oxygen, Liquid Nitrogen, Argon, C02, LNG, LPG, Liquid Hydrogen, etc.
What are the benefits of using cryogenic tanks?
Cryogenic tanks are a type of industrial storage tank boasting a range of strengths, related to aspects such as internal distribution, loading and safety.
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Better internal distribution and optimisation of resources
Cryogenic tanks are very versatile, allowing for the installation of a centralised network for the optimal distribution of the different cryogenic gases used. An important advantage of this type of tank is that there is no gas return to the plant, as is the case with other systems such as cylinders. It goes without saying that this translates into resources saved.
Improved loading process
The loading of the gases into the cryogenic tanks is done using vaporisers. The major benefit of this system is that the liquid gas passes directly from the production plant to the user, avoiding sudden movements and improving stability and safety.
Higher purity
The gas stored in cryogenic tanks maintains a higher level of purity than in other storage systems, as it always remains isolated in a hermetically sealed tank meaning that no possibility exists of contamination with any external agents.
Increased safety
Risks are kept to a minimum, as the gas remains isolated in hermetically sealed, stable tanks with no contact with the outside world. Cylinder transfer within the facilities is avoided, avoiding unnecessary hazards.
Main components in tanks for cryogenic liquids
A cryogenic tank is composed of a structure divided into two fundamental parts:
- An inner vessel made of stainless steel and designed to withstand very low temperatures.
- An outer vessel made of carbon steel.
The two vessels are insulated from each other by a combination of insulating materials.
In addition to these two containers separated by insulating material, cryogenic tanks are equipped with another vital component: a pressure regulation system. This system is specifically designed to ensure that the cryogenic tank always operates at a constant pressure that is set with the user’s needs in mind.
Safety requirements for cryogenic tanks
Tanks for storing cryogenic gases follow very strict safety requirements and protocols, in order to avoid any type of accident that may cause leaks, material damage and, above all, personal injury. Here are some of the main safety measures:
- All cryogenic tanks are constructed with a double wall: an inner vessel and an outer vessel, which acts as an encasing. In addition, they are separated by an intermediate chamber that acts as a thermal insulating element, which ensures that the cryogenic fluids are always at the right temperature.
- These tanks are equipped with relief valves and rupture or bursting discs, which automatically release the gas in the event of an unforeseen pressure increase. This ensures that the pressure is constantly maintained at the correct levels.
- Not only is storage safe, so is transport, which is carried out in tankers that are also double-walled and vacuum insulated by means of an inter-chamber.
Types of cryogenic tanks depending on the gas they store
A huge variety of cryogenic tanks exists, each perfectly adapted to the cryogenic liquid they have to hold, as well as to where they are going to be located: size, place, terrain, etc.
Cryogenic tanks will therefore have different shape and design characteristics depending on whether they contain:
- LIN (liquid nitrogen)
- LOX (Liquid Oxygen)
- LAR (Liquid Argon)
- CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)
- LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas)
- LHe (Liquid Helium)
- LH2 (Liquid Hydrogen)
- LPG ( Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
- Liquid Ethylene
Some examples of this type of projects that we have carried out are:
At Cryospain, we’re very proud of our team of experts, who boast a wealth of experience in the design, manufacture, assembly and commissioning of low-pressure liquefied gas storage tanks. Add to this the advanced technical resources at our disposal and the result is cryogenic tank supply and design 100% tailored to the needs of each of our clients.
If your project needs gas storage solutions designed and built by true experts, why not contact us today?