Cryogenic tanks are an essential part for many industries, as they are a key element to store certain gases crucial for diverse processes. In light of such importance, we take a look at the different possibilities in the current cryogenic tanks market and provide 4 key questions to answer before acquiring a cryogenic container.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website LNG Cryogenic Cylinder.

Use and utility of cryogenic tanks

Cryogenic tanks are a type of industrial storage tank ideal for situations where large quantities of gas need to be stored in liquid form.

They are the right solution to store substances such as Liquid Oxygen, Liquid Nitrogen, Argon, C02, LNG, LPG, Liquid Hydrogen, etc, all of which must be stored at very low temperatures in order to maintain their properties. Thus, it&#;s common to hear of a cryogenic oxygen tank, a LNG cryogenic tank, and so forth.

As more and more industries require the gases mentioned above, demand for cryogenic tanks keeps growing and is projected to grow at a higher rate than 5% CAGR between and . 

The main characteristics of an adequate cryogenic storage tank include:

• They&#;re versatile, provide an optimal internal distribution and thus optimize resources. They allow for the installation of a centralised network for the optimal distribution of the different cryogenic gases used, so that there is no gas return to the plant
• Improved loading process through the use of vaporisers, so that the liquid gas passes directly from the production plant to the user, avoiding sudden movements and improving stability and safety.
• Higher purity than other storage systems, as the gas remains isolated in a hermetically sealed tank so that the possibility of contamination with any external agents is minimized.
• Because they&#;re hermetically sealed, they remain stable and thus are safer than other storage alternatives. Also, as the cylinder transfer within the facilities is avoided, unnecessary risks aren&#;t taken.

Related content: Cryogenic dewar: tips for a safe, optimized storage

Types of cryogenic tanks

The structure for cryogenic tanks is made of three parts:

• An inner vessel made of stainless steel and designed to withstand very low temperatures.
• An outer vessel made of carbon steel. In order to guarantee cryogenic temperatures and safety, these two vessels are insulated from each other by a combination of materials that provide such insulation.
• In addition to these two containers, a cryogenic storage tank is also equipped with a pressure regulation system, which is specifically designed to ensure that the cryogenic tank always operates at a constant pressure. At the same time, this pressure is set with the user&#;s needs in mind.

While cryogenic tanks have this basic structure in common, it&#;s possible to distinguish between two types of cryogenic container: 

• Flat-bottom cryogenic tanks, such as the flat-bottomed tanks Cryospain has recently installed in the USA.
• Large vacuum-insulated cryogenic pressure vessels, such as the new vacuum insulated vessels Cryospain has generated in collaboration with IDESA, which allow for large-scale cryogenic storage.

How to choose a cryogenic container?

Depending on the substance to be stored

When choosing cryogenic tanks, companies must consider what substances they need to store, and communicate it to the tanks manufacturer. 

Different substances will require a different tank shape and design, so that it perfectly adapts to the cryogenic liquid it will need to store. 

Some common substances that require a cryogenic container include: 

• 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

Depending on the size

Different companies will be in need of different tank sizes, depending on their substance demand and use, among other factors. At Cryospain we are specialized in tanks for large quantities >500 m3

Depending on the material

Stainless steel and carbon steel are the main two materials for building cryogenic tanks. At the same time, different insulating materials can be used: from cellular glass, to rockwool and expanded perlite. Thus, each project must be studied separately, in order to ensure the right materials are used. 

Other considerations

Other criteria to pick the right cryogenic tanks can include: 

• The need to comply with national and/or international regulations.
• The geographical location where the tanks will be installed. For instance, seismic criteria must be considered. The difficulty to access the are might also present a challenge, like it did when Cryospain built a flat-bottom cryogenic tank in Santa Cruz, Bolivia.

Keep reading: Everything you need to know when choosing cryogenic tanks for gas storage

At Cryospain we develop custom flat-bottom cryogenic tanks, as well as large vacuum-insulated cryogenic pressure vessels, all according to our clients&#; needs as well as international and local regulations.

We are in charge of designing these cryogenic tanks from the first sketches  through to construction and commissioning, coordinating our design, engineering and production teams. 

In order to take into account our clients&#; needs and to guarantee a smooth implementation, we provide a careful design process through computer-aided systems, which provide virtual simulations of the future cryogenic tanks.

Thus, as part of the cryogenic tanks market, we generate tailored cryogenic storage solutions, designed and built by our experts. Want to learn more about cryogenic tanks and how to pick the right one for your business? Get in touch with us. 

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Liquified Methane

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Liquified Methane

Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

11 Nov 16 01:04

I am doing some research that requires small amounts of liquified methane (<50L) I need a tank I can transport by truck to my closet LNG fueling station to refill. The only tanks that are available for LNG are for class 8 commercial trucks as fuel tanks to run the truck on LNG. So they are much more expensive and currently only available in the whole kit to convert each truck. I only need the tank and fittings, I've reached out to the company (blu fuels) and I'm awaiting response to know if I can buy pieces of the kit individually. If I cannot I am looking at some cheaper possible alternatives.

One idea I've thought of is to convert a N2 cryogenic tank to LNG. I found one other thread on another forum on this topic but unfortunately it didn't have much information. They said it should work. I would still need to the correct fittings to refuel but those are available.

What other modifications would be required to convert a N2 tank to LNG? Is it technically feasible? Practical?

I appreciate any input on this topic. This is not my area of expertise yet, I am learning more about these LNG systems there is just not as much information readily available like for CNG systems. In order to carry out this experiment I need LNG but my budget is restricted to less than $10k so I'm trying to find a solution.

Thank you for looking!

Contact us to discuss your requirements of hydrogen tanker. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

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RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

11 Nov 16 01:16

The Blu V2 LNG Fuel Delivery System, a 160-diesel-gallon equivalent twin-tank package, has a list price of $18,000 after a $7,000 rebate for fueling at Blu&#;s network of 24 LNG stations across the country.

Website:

BTW here is the truck fuel tank:The Blu V2 LNG Fuel Delivery System, a 160-diesel-gallon equivalent twin-tank package, has a list price of $18,000 after a $7,000 rebate for fueling at Blu&#;s network of 24 LNG stations across the country.Website: http://www.blulng.com/lng-solutions

RE: Liquified Methane

LittleInch

(Petroleum)

11 Nov 16 20:11

Otherwise I can't see any serious issues, but the venting is your key problem. You could very easily create am explosive atmosphere if your not careful whereas as N2 whilst an asphhxiant won't blow up.

I can't see why a liquid N2 tank wouldn't work. The difference is how do you deal worth the boil off gas as you transport it??. All such systems work at very low pressure but need to vent if you're not using gas.Otherwise I can't see any serious issues, but the venting is your key problem. You could very easily create am explosive atmosphere if your not careful whereas as N2 whilst an asphhxiant won't blow up.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

RE: Liquified Methane

saplanti

(Mechanical)

12 Nov 16 08:11

As I understand the automotive applications, not exactly but almost the same as the LPG bottles. Methane liquefies under pressure, and I guess, this is the one you are after. I do not think you want liquefied methane at atmospheric pressure.

RE: Liquified Methane

EmmanuelTop

(Chemical)

12 Nov 16 08:32

The version is available on the internet:

The major difference between N2 and LNG is that the latter is flammable which imposes additional safety features.

You should verify the requirements against NFPA 59A, "Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)". The most recent version can be accessed by signing in at NFPA 59A The version is available on the internet: NFPA 59A () The major difference between N2 and LNG is that the latter is flammable which imposes additional safety features.

Dejan IVANOVIC
Process Engineer, MSChE

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

14 Nov 16 01:22

Thank you all for your input it is greatly appreciated!

I am reading about the cryogenic tanks I am considering using, I will post the specs for them and the valves tomorrow. I will share the information I get from Blu Fuels; I've also reached out to some other people inside the LNG industry and i am awaiting response.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

14 Nov 16 18:13

Hey all just thought I would explain a little more what my research is. It's pretty simple really; im doing bench testing with a prototype engine. I've written about this engine on physics forums a few years ago. It's called a reverse uniflow 2 stroke diesel engine. It utilizes a turbocharger and supercharger for maximum power density and efficiency. I am using LNG because because of it's cryogenic properties, it will cool compressed air coming from the turbo compressor which allows higher levels of boost with less heat. This engine also utilizes water injection to further cool compressed air without the need for an intercooler. It is possible to do some of the testing without LNG and just using gaseous methane; however for the best results I need LNG.

RE: Liquified Methane

EmmanuelTop

(Chemical)

14 Nov 16 18:27

Then you might also be interested in NFPA 57a or PDF version at NFPA 57A

Dejan IVANOVIC
Process Engineer, MSChE

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

21 Nov 16 18:17

1.) Liquid Nitrogen Dewar, 25 liter, Taylor-Wharton brand, Model 25 LD. Nice used condition. No damage. Comes with plywood dog house shown, and roll around stand. Shipping depends on whether or not buyer wants the plywood box. So for now, it's shown as Local Pickup. Will Ship. Thanks for looking.

2.) This CFI Cryofab Liquid Nitrogen UN Dewar Non-Magnetic 11/99 appears to be in fair cosmetic condition with signs of wear and previous use.

I really lack the knowledge and equipment to test this piece properly and so it is being sold as-is.

Unpacked dims are 20*20*41.

I attached 2 pdf files with the specs for the fill and vent valve. I've also included pictures of the tanks and valves. Here is the website:

Link

The more I research this the more I realize it is definitely possible. The main requirement is to get a LN2 tank that already has fittings, valves, and gauges on it. They are a little harder to find but they are definitely out there. I will hopefully be purchasing a tank this week. I can then know if I need my fill/vent valves to be in english or metric; both are available from Macro Tech.

Thank you all again for your help, it took me longer to get these specs up here so I apologize for the delay. I will definitely give updates of my progress and take lots of pics to show what I am doing. I'm sure I'll have some other questions.

• http://files.engineering.com/getfile.aspx?folder=fbf9c0a1--4a70-b898-30

Here are 2 tanks I am considering purchasing; they are both LN2 dewars but they already have the plumbing needed to convert to LNG.1.) Liquid Nitrogen Dewar, 25 liter, Taylor-Wharton brand, Model 25 LD. Nice used condition. No damage. Comes with plywood dog house shown, and roll around stand. Shipping depends on whether or not buyer wants the plywood box. So for now, it's shown as Local Pickup. Will Ship. Thanks for looking.2.) This CFI Cryofab Liquid Nitrogen UN Dewar Non-Magnetic 11/99 appears to be in fair cosmetic condition with signs of wear and previous use.I really lack the knowledge and equipment to test this piece properly and so it is being sold as-is.Unpacked dims are 20*20*41.I attached 2 pdf files with the specs for the fill and vent valve. I've also included pictures of the tanks and valves. Here is the website:The more I research this the more I realize it is definitely possible. The main requirement is to get a LN2 tank that already has fittings, valves, and gauges on it. They are a little harder to find but they are definitely out there. I will hopefully be purchasing a tank this week. I can then know if I need my fill/vent valves to be in english or metric; both are available from Macro Tech.Thank you all again for your help, it took me longer to get these specs up here so I apologize for the delay. I will definitely give updates of my progress and take lots of pics to show what I am doing. I'm sure I'll have some other questions.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

21 Nov 16 18:23




LIQUID NITROGEN DEWAR TAYLOR-WHARTON 25 LD:





Valves:

• http://files.engineering.com/getfile.aspx?folder=b834ecac-6c38-4e54-9bdb-c5

CFI Cryofab Liquid Nitrogen UN Dewar Non-Magnetic 11/99:LIQUID NITROGEN DEWAR TAYLOR-WHARTON 25 LD:Valves:

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

21 Nov 16 18:25

• http://files.engineering.com/getfile.aspx?folder=dfdab892-a5ca-4cad-ac36-e2

I attached a pdf for the fill valve on my last post; and for the vent valve on this one. I'm guessing there's probably a better way to get this on here but here it is.

RE: Liquified Methane

LittleInch

(Petroleum)

22 Nov 16 09:09

I'm not qualified to say whether these second hand units are good enough for your use, but the key to me is doing something that means you aren't leaking explosive gas into a confined space. A little bit of N2, whilst it can be lethal in certain places if it pushes all the O2 out, won't explode - methane can.

Hence the design pressure of those containers is critical as any rise above the design pressure requires venting. If this pressure is quite low, then it won't take much of a rise in temperature to start venting when you're transporting or storing it as opposed to using the LNG.

Clearly all the connections and piping need to be suitable for cryogenic temperatures and insulated for personnel protection and to avoid lots of ice on small bore piping.

Be careful.

voltech,I'm not qualified to say whether these second hand units are good enough for your use, but the key to me is doing something that means you aren't leaking explosive gas into a confined space. A little bit of N2, whilst it can be lethal in certain places if it pushes all the O2 out, won't explode - methane can.Hence the design pressure of those containers is critical as any rise above the design pressure requires venting. If this pressure is quite low, then it won't take much of a rise in temperature to start venting when you're transporting or storing it as opposed to using the LNG.Clearly all the connections and piping need to be suitable for cryogenic temperatures and insulated for personnel protection and to avoid lots of ice on small bore piping.Be careful.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

22 Nov 16 16:52

I've been researching pipes/valves that are suitable for cryogenic liquids. From what I can tell, the pipes/fittings/valves/gauges on that cryofab tank are designed to work with LN2, so they should also work with LNG. My plan is to testablish the tank by filling it with LN2 and checking for leaks, and monitoring the boil off gas rate to make sure it's in spec. I will also do tests in the truck to see how the motion affects the boil off rate. If everything is in spec and no leaks are detected, I can drain the LN2, leaving only N2 gas inside which will be safe for filling with LNG.

One possibility for the vent gas is to run the vent tube to the engines intake manifold. Since I'm only transporting a small amount of LNG it shouldn't be producing a lot of gas, so it shouldn't choke off the engine. I wish I had a diesel-powered truck because the methane would actually increase the MPG. I'm trying to do some calculations to know roughly how much gas will be vented and if it will affect engine performance.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

22 Nov 16 16:55

One other thing, the tank will be transported in an open pick up truck bed and stored outside not in a confined space.

RE: Liquified Methane

LittleInch

(Petroleum)

22 Nov 16 17:40

Did you find out what the max pressure in the tank was?

That sounds like a good plan. You won't have much boil off if the tank is any good, but outside and a free vent is the best idea. Just make an outside shed for it at your lab / garage.Did you find out what the max pressure in the tank was?

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

22 Nov 16 23:54

I'm still trying to find the specs for the tank, I'll post it when I find them. I'm assuming the inner tank lining is stainless steel, once I get the specs I should know; anyone have any insight on this? I've looked at a chart that shows the psi required to hold LNG at a given temperature. If I remember correctly it can be as low as 4 psi up to 200-300 psi; lower the pressure, lower the temperature. From my understanding this basically means that at a lower pressure the boil off gas rate increases. I plan on working at a lower pressure because of safety. I'm studying what the lowest pressure with lowest boil off ratio is.

RE: Liquified Methane

stookeyfpe

(Specifier/Regulator)

6 Dec 16 13:39

Before you go deeper into this you should stop and review NFPA 52, Vehicular Natural Gas Fuel Systems Code. Your selected fueling connections don't comply with the standard and your selected containers have issues.

Good luck

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

7 Dec 16 19:31

Thank you for that, i'm reviewing the NFPA 52, lot's of information to digest. The main issues with the tanks is they were not originally built for this purpose. If I can't make the tank and connections up to code, or at least close to it, I won't go forward with this project until I know my system is good. I talked to a customer service rep from my closest LNG fueling station, Clean Energy, the station is open to the public 24/7, all that is needed is a CC. I was a little surprised, there is nobody to check and make sure your system is up to code, or any applications or inspections that are needed. My tank will be transported in a personal vehicle not a commercial one, does it still have to comply to the same standards because it is being transported across the highway? I'm trying to get some more answers on these questions. Unfortunately I haven't received any responses from a few of the companies I reached out to that specialize in LNG fuel systems. I'll keep updates here, i'm hopefully ordering the cryofab tank this week because they accepted my offer.

RE: Liquified Methane

voltech444

(Automotive)

(OP)

9 Dec 16 02:21
Link

I wanted to note in regards to that thread that LNG does not contain mercaptans. This is why a methane detection monitor is required for vehicles using LNG.

I wanted to post this link to a thread talking about this same issue:I wanted to note in regards to that thread that LNG does not contain mercaptans. This is why a methane detection monitor is required for vehicles using LNG.

RE: Liquified Methane

saplanti

(Mechanical)

9 Dec 16 04:32

I guess you need to determine the available LNG temperature and pressure from the refueling station first. Is the LNG in the cryogenic temperature with atmospheric pressure or at saturation temperature (for discussion say close to zero degree Celcius) and corresponding pressure. Then go for the required equipment probably in accordance with NFPA 52 as given above.

If you are refueling the bottle under pressure you cannot use an equipment with cryogenic temperature and atmospheric pressure. You need to sort out the process that you are going to follow. Without the process diagram you will hit the wall. Your process diagram should provide adequate equipment that the filling station will accept. Second; how and at what condition you are going to introduce the fuel into the engine? Liquid phase or gas phase? I would assume it is the gas phase at certain conditions. In case you have liquid cryogenic fluid how are you going to produce the gas, and at what condition? What kind of equipment do you need for the conversion to gas? How fast do you need to produce the gas, what the flow rate would be at what condition?

There are many question to answer. If you cannot answer some of those yourself no one would be able to answer your questions adequately. We can give our guesswork only. In the links that you provided Montemayor explains the terminology and the constraints that you need to consider as well.

If you are not able to get the answers yourself, I suggest you consider a consultant to do the job for you.

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