US20050072786A1 - Hydrogen storage container - Google Patents
Hydrogen storage container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050072786A1 US20050072786A1 US10/836,992 US83699204A US2005072786A1 US 20050072786 A1 US20050072786 A1 US 20050072786A1 US 83699204 A US83699204 A US 83699204A US 2005072786 A1 US2005072786 A1 US 2005072786A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- container
- liner
- metallic particles
- space
- storage space
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C11/00—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels
- F17C11/005—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels for hydrogen
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C11/00—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels
- F17C11/002—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels for acetylene
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C11/00—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels
- F17C11/007—Use of gas-solvents or gas-sorbents in vessels for hydrocarbon gases, such as methane or natural gas, propane, butane or mixtures thereof [LPG]
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2209/00—Vessel construction, in particular methods of manufacturing
- F17C2209/21—Shaping processes
- F17C2209/2154—Winding
- F17C2209/2163—Winding with a mandrel
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/32—Hydrogen storage
Definitions
- the present invention relates to hydrogen storage containers and, particularly, to containers for containing metallic particles capable of forming metal hydrides.
- Metal hydrides in the form of metallic particles, are used to store hydrogen in many different sizes and shaped containers.
- the metal hydride and, consequently, the container needs to be cooled or heated.
- the inside of the container requires efficient heat exchange means to improve the charging/discharging kinetics.
- the present invention provides a container configured for containing metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container such that a void space is provided between the liner and the inner surface, wherein the liner engages the inner surface to substantially prevent ingress of metallic particles, when the metallic particles are contained in the container, into the void space.
- the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including a container space and an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container space and engaging the inner surface for defining (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, wherein, when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space, the engagement of the liner to the inner surface limits ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space.
- the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least metallic particles and gaseous hydrogen, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including a container space and an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container such that a void space is provided between the liner and the inner surface, wherein the liner engages the inner surface to limit ingress of metallic particles, when the metallic particles are contained in the container, into the void space.
- the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least gaseous hydrogen and metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container defining a container space and including an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container space and engaging the inner surface for defining (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, wherein, when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space, the engagement of the liner to the inner surface substantially prevents ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is sufficiently flexible to deform in response to the expansion of the metallic particles.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is shaped to define (i) a storage space configured to contain metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of the hydrogen.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner bears against the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner abuts the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is urged against the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is sufficiently resilient such that the liner has a tendency to reverse at least a portion of the deformation in response to discharging of hydrogen from the metallic particles.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the container includes a sidewall and an axis, the sidewall defining at least a portion of the inner surface and being spaced apart from and extending 360° about the axis in a plane, and wherein at least a portion of the liner is disposed between the sidewall and the axis and extends 360° about the axis in the plane.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the at least a portion of the liner opposes the sidewall.
- the present invention provides the container wherein at least a portion of the void space is disposed between the sidewall and the at least a portion of the liner.
- the present invention provides the container wherein each of the sidewall and the liner is substantially tubular.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner includes corrugations defined by alternating ridges and grooves, each of the ridges and grooves extending transversely relative to the plane.
- the present invention provides the container wherein at least one of the ridges is configured to contact the sidewall when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space.
- the present invention provides the container further comprising a thermally conductive structure disposed in the storage space and in contact with the liner and configured for effecting heat transfer between the metallic particles and the liner.
- the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is stiffer than the container.
- the present invention additionally provides a method of assembling a storage system for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, inserting a magnetically responsive liner into the container space through the inlet, and applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- the present invention provides the method further comprising the step of inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet when the magnetic force is acting on the liner.
- the present invention provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, inserting a magnetically responsive liner into the container space through the inlet, applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container, when the magnetic force is acting on the liner, inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet so as to urge the liner into engagement with the inner surface so as to define (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, and terminating the application of the magnetic force, and inserting a plurality of metallic particles into the storage space.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- the present invention provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, rolling a magnetically responsive liner about a mandrel so that the liner assumes a spiral configuration about the mandrel, when the liner is rolled about the mandrel, inserting the liner into the container space through the inlet, releasing the liner from the mandrel, removing the mandrel from the container space through the inlet, and applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- the present invention provides the method further comprising the step of inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet when the magnetic force is acting on the liner.
- the present invention also provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, rolling a magnetically responsive liner about a mandrel so that the liner assumes a spiral configuration about the mandrel, when the liner is rolled about the mandrel inserting the liner into the container space through the inlet, releasing the liner from the mandrel, removing the mandrel from the container space through the inlet, applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container, when the magnetic force is acting on the liner, inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet so as to urge the liner into engagement with the inner surface so as to define (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, terminating the application of the magnetic force, and inserting a pluralit
- the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a container of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a sectional side elevation view of the container in FIG. 1 , before the metallic particles have been inserted, and with the liner corrugations removed for purposes of clarity;
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional plan view of the container, taken along lines A-A in FIG. 2 , after metallic particles have been inserted;
- FIGS. 4 a and 4 b are cross-sectional plan views of the container, taken along lines A-A and C-C, respectively, in FIG. 2 , before the metallic particles have been inserted;
- FIG. 5 is a top-perspective view of the liner, in an “unrolled condition”, of an embodiment of the container assembled according to a method illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15 ;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the liner of the container illustrated in FIG. 4 , taken between the lips of the liner;
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional plan view of the container illustrated in FIG. 2 , where metallic particles have been inserted and charged;
- FIG. 8 illustrates a typical valving arrangement for the container of the present invention
- FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the container of the present invention immersed in a liquid bath for heat transfer
- FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the container of the present invention where the necessary heat transfer is effected by air flow generated by a mechanical fan;
- FIGS. 11 to 15 are schematic illustrations of a method of assembling an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of an apparatus for applying magnetic forces during the assembly of an embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the method illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15 ;
- FIG. 17 is a top sectional plan view of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 18 is a sectional elevation view of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 16 , taken along lines A-A;
- FIGS. 19A and 19 b are cross-sectional plan views of another embodiment of the container, taken along lines A-A and C-C, respectively, in FIG. 2 , before the metallic particles have been inserted.
- the present invention provides a container 10 for containing metallic particles 12 capable of forming metal hydrides.
- the interior space 20 of the container 10 receives metallic particles 12 capable of forming metal hydrides.
- the metallic particles 12 are in the form of a powder.
- An example of a suitable particle size of the powder is within the range of one micron to 3000 microns.
- the metallic particles 12 must be capable of absorbing hydrogen (also known as “charging”) to effect storage of hydrogen in the form of a metal hydride.
- such metallic particles 12 after having absorbed hydrogen, (in the form of a metal hydride) must be capable of desorbing hydrogen (also known as “discharging”) upon demand from an unit operation, such as when required for use as a fuel in a fuel cell or in an internal combustion engine.
- the metallic particles 12 expand, and thereby increase the volume occupied.
- the metallic particles 12 contract, and thereby reduce the volume occupied. It is understood that not all of the metallic particles 12 must have necessarily absorbed hydrogen to their maximum capacity in order for the metallic particles 12 contained in the container 10 to be described as being “charged”. It is also understood that, once charged, not all of the previously absorbed hydrogen must have necessarily been desorbed in order for the metallic particles 12 contained in the container 10 to be described as being “discharged”. Charging of the metallic particles 12 with hydrogen is an exothermic process. In contrast, discharging of the absorbed hydrogen from the metallic particle 12 is an endothermic process.
- Absorption of hydrogen by the metallic particles 12 refers to the association of hydrogen with the metallic particles 12 .
- Possible mechanisms for association include: dissolution, covalent bonding, or ionic bonding.
- Dissolution describes the process where a hydrogen atom is incorporated in the voids of a lattice structure of a metal or intermetallic alloy.
- metal hydrides include vanadium hydrides, titanium hydrides, and hydrides of vanadium-titanium alloys.
- An example of a covalently bonded hydride is magnesium hydride.
- Examples of ionically bonded hydrides are sodium hydride and potassium hydride.
- Complex hydrides are metal hydrides which exhibit bonding between a metalloid atom and an hydrogen atom which is characterized as being partially covalent and partially ionic. Examples include sodium alanate and lithium alanate.
- the container 10 includes an inner surface 16 defining a container space 20 having a container volume.
- the inner surface 16 includes a first end 161 , a second end 162 , and a substantially tubular sidewall 163 extending between the first and second ends 161 , 162 and also extending 360° about an axis 11 of the container.
- the first end 161 includes a rounded shoulder 169 extending from the sidewall 163 and terminating at a nozzle 24 which defines an aperture 241 .
- the aperture 241 effects fluid communication between the container space 20 and the exterior of the container 10 (such as a downstream operation, for example, a fuel cell or internal combustion engine, so long as such unit operation is suitably fluidly coupled to the aperture 241 ).
- the aperture 241 functions as an inlet during charging, and as an outlet during discharging. Fluid communication through the aperture 241 is selectively controlled by a valve 300 coupled to the nozzle 24 .
- the valve 300 is operable between open and closed conditions to respectively effect and seal the fluid communication.
- the second end 162 extends from the sidewall 163 and is closed.
- a resilient liner 22 is disposed in the container 10 .
- a void space 202 is provided between the liner and the inner surface 16 to accommodate expansion of the metallic particles 12 as is further described herein.
- the liner 22 defines a storage space 201 in the container space 20 .
- the storage space 201 is configured to contain the metallic particles 12 .
- the disposition of the metallic particles 12 typically extends up to the rounded shoulder 169 and up to the nozzle 24 .
- the void space 202 is provided in the container space 20 and between the liner 22 and the inner surface 16 .
- the void space 202 does not contain the metallic particles 12 .
- the void space 202 has a void space volume to accommodate displacement of the liner 22 , as will be described hereafter. It is understood that the void space 202 does not merely refer to spaces between tightly packed metallic particles 12 .
- the liner 22 engages or abuts the inner surface 16 to define the void space 202 and limit ingress of the metallic particles 12 into the void space 202 from the storage space 201 .
- the liner 22 is urged into contact with (or bears against) the inner surface 16 to define the void space 202 and limit the above-described ingress into the void space 202 .
- the first end 221 of the liner 22 bears against the second end 162 of the container, and a second end 222 of the liner 22 bears against the sidewall 163 or the shoulder 169 , and thereby define the void space 202 .
- the engagement or abutment of the liner 22 with the inner surface 16 does not necessarily completely prevent ingress of metallic particles 12 into the space between the liner 22 and the inner surface 16 , although such ingress is prevented over discrete intervals of time. Ingress of very small quantities of the metallic particles 12 may occur as a result of the liner 22 becoming temporarily displaced from the inner surface 16 , thereby providing a passage through which the metallic particles 12 can migrate into the void space 202 from the storage space 201 . Relatively insignificant ingress may also occur in the case where an embodiment of the container 10 is manufactured in accordance with the method described below and illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15 .
- the space between the liner 22 and the inner surface 16 may not necessarily consist entirely of the void space 202 . Also, it is understood that the fraction of the space between the liner 22 and the inner surface 16 consisting of the void space 202 may become smaller in volume during use of the container 10 , due to periodic ingress of the metallic particles 12 . In this respect, engagement or abutment of the liner 22 with the inner surface 16 is said to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles 12 from the storage space 201 and into the void space 202 .
- the void space 202 does not contain any metallic particles 12 , the void space 202 offers relatively little resistance to any displacement of the liner 22 towards the inner surface 16 in response to forces being imparted by the metallic particles 12 on the liner 22 .
- the void space 202 facilitates such displacement of the liner 22 so as to, at least in part, insulate the container 10 from such forces and the mechanical stresses the container 10 would otherwise experience.
- Such forces can arise by virtue of expansion of the metallic particles 12 due to the charging with hydrogen. This is aggravated by a localized increase in packing density of the metallic particles 12 arising from decrepitation of the metallic particles 12 (metallic particles 12 are pulverized, resulting in size reduction of the metallic particles 12 ) and concentration thereof.
- the liner 22 must not necessarily return to its exact original condition once the metallic particles contract upon the discharging of the hydrogen.
- the space 202 contracts in response to forces imparted by the metallic particles 12 on the liner 22 . This is because the metallic particles 12 expand upon absorption of hydrogen, causing the liner 22 to deform and become displaced in closer proximity to the inner surface 16 . With an increase in packing density, the available space between the metallic particles 12 , for accommodating the expansion of the metallic particles 12 , decreases, resulting in stress being applied to the liner 22 . Such stress is at least partially relieved by (i) elastic deformation of the liner 22 , and (ii) distribution of stress by the liner 22 . While the metallic particles 12 are being discharged (i.e.
- the metallic particles 12 contract in volume, thereby relieving at least some of the forces that would have been previously being imparted by the metallic particles 12 while the metallic particles 12 were in a charged state.
- the liner 22 reverses at least a portion of its deformation (that is, deformation resulting from the previous charging of the metallic particles 12 ) during discharging.
- the liner 22 is disposed in the interior space 20 such that at least a portion of the void space 202 is disposed between the sidewall 163 and at least a portion of the liner 22 .
- the liner 22 has a substantially tubular form.
- the liner 22 is disposed between the sidewall 163 and the axis 11 of the container 10 and extends 360° about the axis 11 . At least a portion of the liner 22 opposes a sidewall 163 .
- the sidewall 163 extends 360° about the axis 11 in a plane 13 perpendicular to the axis 11 , and at least a portion of the liner 22 is disposed between the sidewall 163 and the axis 11 and extends 360° about the axis 11 in the plane 13 .
- the liner 22 when disposed in the container space 20 , the liner 22 includes a sidewall 223 defining corrugations 2202 .
- the corrugations 2202 are defined by alternating ridges 2204 and grooves 2206 , each of the ridges 2204 and grooves 2206 extending transversely relative to the plane 13 .
- the ridges 2204 contact the sidewall 163 when the liner 22 is disposed in the container space 20 of the container 10 , thereby improving thermal communication and heat transfer between the metallic particles 12 and the sidewall 163 .
- the corrugations 2206 allow for space between the inner wall 16 and the liner 22 when the liner 22 is disposed in the container space 20 .
- the metallic particles 12 Upon expansion of the metallic particles 12 , the metallic particles 12 apply a force to the liner 22 , causing the corrugations 2206 to flatten out (see FIG. 7 ).
- each of the first and second ends 221 , 222 of the liner 22 includes respective lips 224 a , 224 b projecting radially outwards from and extending about the perimeter of the liner sidewall 223 .
- the lips 224 a , 224 b contact the inner surface 16 and effect the engagement or bearing of the liner 22 against the inner surface 16 for effecting the definition of the void space 202 .
- the engagement of the lips 224 a , 224 b with inner surface 16 substantially prevents ingress of the metallic particles 12 from the storage space 201 to the void space 202 in the manner described above.
- the liner 22 is constructed of spring steel (low carbon steel) SAE 1010 (having a tensile strength of 50-60 ksi, a yield strength of 30-40 ksi, a modulus of elasticity of about 29,000,000 psi, and a modulus of rigidity of about 11,000,000 psi). Owing to a combination of these features, including the corrugations 202 , and geometry, the liner 22 is configured to facilitate stress distribution within the container 10 (relative to the case where there is no liner 22 ).
- the nozzle 24 is configured for fluid coupling to a conduit for effecting delivery of hydrogen being discharged from the metallic particles 12 from within the container space 20 to a downstream operation, such as a fuel cell or an internal combustion engine.
- the conduit also facilitates supply of hydrogen to the container 10 to effect charging of the metallic particles 12 .
- FIG. 8 illustrates a typical valving arrangement for the container 10 .
- a valve 300 is mounted to the nozzle 24 to effect control of fluid communication between the storage space 201 and a downstream operation or a source of hydrogen supply.
- a filter element is provided including a 316 L stainless steel solid sintered filter. The filter element functions as a retainer for retaining the metallic particles 12 in the space 20 .
- Heat is imparted to and dissipated from the container 10 by contacting the container 10 with a fluid (liquid or gas, such as water or ambient air) which acts as a heat sink or heat source as required.
- a fluid liquid or gas, such as water or ambient air
- the container 10 must be cooled to effect charging, and must be heated to effect discharging.
- FIG. 9 illustrates the container 10 immersed in a liquid bath 400 to effect the necessary heat transfer.
- FIG. 10 illustrates the necessary heat transfer to and from the container 10 being effected by airflow, the airflow being generated by a mechanical fan 500 and then being directed across a heat transfer medium 510 (such as piping containing heating or cooling fluid) before contacting the exterior surface of the container 10 .
- a heat transfer medium 510 such as piping containing heating or cooling fluid
- a structure 18 is disposed in the space 201 and is configured to effect or improve thermal communication between the inner surface 16 and the metallic particles 12 disposed within the storage space 201 .
- the structure 18 includes a plurality of elongated aluminum tubes 30 .
- the tubes 30 extend from the second end 162 of the container 10 and terminate just below the first end 161 .
- the tubes 30 are isolated from the inner surface 16 by the liner 22 , and thermally communicate with the inner surface 16 through the liner 22 .
- the metallic particles 12 occupy the space within the tubes 30 as well as the space between the tubes 30 .
- the metallic particles 12 also occupy the space within the first end 161 of the container 10 .
- the tubes 30 are tightly packed and in direct physical contact with the liner 22 to facilitate heat transfer between the liner 22 and the metallic particles 12 .
- the tightly packed configuration of the tubes 30 urges the liner 22 , and particularly the lips 224 a , 224 b , into contact engagement with the inner surface 16 .
- the tubes 30 play a role in containing a portion of the expansion forces of the expanding metallic particles 12 , thereby reducing stresses on the liner 22 and, thus, the container 10 .
- the tubes reduce the influence of the expanding metallic particles 12 on the container 10 .
- the tubes 30 also play a role in limiting the creation of differences in localized packing density of the metallic particles 12 within the storage space 201 . This is because the tubes 30 function as physical barriers, limiting migration of the metallic particles.
- each of the tubes 30 can include a plurality of very small apertures or perforations 301 .
- these apertures or perforations have a maximum diameter of ⁇ fraction (1/32) ⁇ ′′ or smaller.
- Such apertures are small enough to allow the migration of the hydrogen gas, but prevent the metallic particles 12 within the tubes 30 from migrating outside of the tubes 30 and thereby exerting additional forces on adjacent materials or surfaces during expansion.
- At least one of the plurality of tubes 30 can be in the form of a solid sintered filter cylinder that would provide a permeable solid to assist in the absorption and desorption of hydrogen gas while not allowing the migration of metallic particles 12 .
- the solid sintered filter cylinder comprises 316 L stainless steel.
- At least one of the plurality of tubes 30 includes a fluid passage tube 3001 disposed within the at least one tube 30 in a substantially concentric relationship relative to the at least one tube 30 .
- the fluid passage tube 3001 contains substantially no metallic particles 12 .
- the metallic particles 12 occupy the space 3003 between the tubes 30 and 3001 .
- the fluid passage tube 3001 extends substantially along the complete length of the tube 30 .
- the fluid passage tube 3001 is configured to provide a relatively low pressure fluid passage for effecting communication of hydrogen gas between the aperture 241 and at least the metallic particles 12 between the tubes 30 and 3001 .
- a method of assembling an embodiment of the container 10 will now be described.
- a container 10 is provided, having a length of 355 mm defined by the distance between its terminal ends identified by reference numerals 101 , 102 in FIG. 2 , an outside maximum diameter of 89 mm, and a wall thickness of 3.68 mm, and is constructed of aluminum SAE 6061-T6.
- the liner 22 is then inserted into the container space 20 through the aperture 241 of the nozzle 24 .
- the liner 22 is provided in the form of a 273 mm ⁇ 268 mm sheet having a thickness of 0.15 mm, for co-operation with the container 10 having the dimensions described above.
- the liner 22 is further defined by first and second side edges 225 , 226 . Lips 224 a , 224 b are formed at the first and second ends 161 , 162 , respectively, without corrugations.
- the liner 22 is constructed of spring steel (low carbon steel) SAE 1010.
- one of the side edges 225 , 226 of the liner 22 is inserted into a groove 702 provided in a mandrel 700 .
- the liner 22 is then tightly rolled around the mandrel 700 by hand by a human operator.
- the mandrel 700 is in the form of a rod-like structure with a cylindrical surface and functions as a means for facilitating rolling of the liner 22 .
- the liner 22 is manipulated to effect overlap of the first and second side edges 225 , 226 .
- the liner 22 is manipulated into a spiral configuration and maintains overlap of the first and second side edges 225 , 266 as the liner 22 becomes positioned in the container 10 in the manner described below.
- the mandrel 700 With the liner 22 tightly wound around the mandrel 700 and maintained (i.e. pressed) in this condition by the hand of a human operator, the mandrel 700 , with the liner 22 , is inserted into the container space 20 through the nozzle 24 . Once approximately 50% of the length of the liner 22 has been inserted through the nozzle 24 , forces applied to maintain the liner 22 in a rolled condition against the mandrel 700 can be released as, in this position, the liner is not capable of becoming released from within the container space 20 upon the release of the liner 22 from the mandrel 700 .
- the liner 22 assumes a radially expanded condition about the mandrel 700 ( FIG. 13 ).
- the mandrel 700 is then removed from the container space 20 through the nozzle 24 .
- the liner 22 is pushed into the container space 20 (see FIG. 14 ), and expands further in the radial direction once not constrained by the nozzle 24 .
- FIGS. 16-18 An apparatus 600 for applying the above-described magnetic forces is illustrated in FIGS. 16-18 .
- the apparatus 600 is a plastic tube 602 of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene defining a passage 604 for receiving the container 10 .
- the tube 602 has a length of 311 mm, an outside diameter of 162 mm, and an inside diameter of 89 mm, to accommodate an embodiment of the system 8 being assembled in accordance with the method presently being described.
- Recesses 606 are provided in the exterior surface of the plastic tube for receiving magnetic material 608 .
- Magnetic material 608 is provided for effecting the above-described magnetic force.
- An example of suitable magnetic material 608 is a rare earth magnetic (neodymium iron boron) manufactured by Dura Magnetics, Inc.
- the magnetic forces imparted by the magnetic material 608 urge the liner 22 against the inner surface 16 of the container 10 .
- the tubes 30 are inserted into the container space 20 through the nozzle 24 .
- twenty-eight tubes 30 are inserted into the container space 20 .
- tubes 30 are disposed in a tightly packed configuration and are pressing liner 22 against the inner surface 16 of the container 10 .
- the magnetic force being applied by the magnetic material 608 is no longer required to urge the liner 22 against the inner surface 16 and thereby effect its disposition against the inner wall 16 (i.e., bearing of the lips 224 a , 224 b against the inner wall 16 ).
- the container 10 can now be removed from within the passage 604 of the plastic tube 302 .
- the lips 224 a , 224 b of the liner 22 engage the inner surface 16 for (i) defining a storage space 201 configured to contain the metallic particles 12 and also (ii) for defining a void space 202 configured to contract as the metallic particles 12 expand upon absorption of hydrogen, such that the engagement of the liner 22 to the inner surface 16 substantially prevents or limits ingress of the metallic particles 12 into the void space 202 from the storage space 201 .
- an embodiment of the container 10 assembled in accordance with the just described method substantially assumes the condition illustrated in FIG. 2 . While the liner 22 is in this condition, the storage space 201 of the container 10 is filled with the metallic particles 12 through the nozzle 24 . The container 10 continues to be filled with the metallic particles 12 until the level of the metallic particles 12 in the storage space 12 reaches the nozzle 24 .
- the engagement of the liner 22 to the inner surface 16 substantially prevents ingress of the metallic particles into the void space 202 and does not completely prevent ingress into the void space 202 .
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to hydrogen storage containers and, particularly, to containers for containing metallic particles capable of forming metal hydrides.
- Metal hydrides, in the form of metallic particles, are used to store hydrogen in many different sizes and shaped containers. In order to facilitate the charging and discharging of the hydrogen, the metal hydride and, consequently, the container, needs to be cooled or heated. To facilitate good performance of the container (desorption rate, filling time, etc.), the inside of the container requires efficient heat exchange means to improve the charging/discharging kinetics.
- Repeated absorption and desorption cycles typically result in the decrepitation of the metal hydride particles. By virtue of the decrepitation, a localized increase in packing fraction of the metallic particles is observed. Such increase in packing fraction, coupled with particle expansion during absorption, potentially creates localized stresses on the container. It is desirable to have means inside the container to absorb part of this volumetric expansion so that stress on the container is mitigated or avoided.
- The present invention provides a container configured for containing metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container such that a void space is provided between the liner and the inner surface, wherein the liner engages the inner surface to substantially prevent ingress of metallic particles, when the metallic particles are contained in the container, into the void space.
- In another broad aspect, the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including a container space and an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container space and engaging the inner surface for defining (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, wherein, when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space, the engagement of the liner to the inner surface limits ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space.
- In a further broad aspect, the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least metallic particles and gaseous hydrogen, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container including a container space and an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container such that a void space is provided between the liner and the inner surface, wherein the liner engages the inner surface to limit ingress of metallic particles, when the metallic particles are contained in the container, into the void space.
- In a further broad aspect, the present invention provides a container configured for containing at least gaseous hydrogen and metallic particles, the metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen such that the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, the container defining a container space and including an inner surface, comprising a liner disposed within the container space and engaging the inner surface for defining (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, wherein, when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space, the engagement of the liner to the inner surface substantially prevents ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space.
- In one aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is sufficiently flexible to deform in response to the expansion of the metallic particles.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is shaped to define (i) a storage space configured to contain metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of the hydrogen.
- In yet another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner bears against the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- In a further aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner abuts the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is urged against the wall to substantially prevent or limit ingress of the metallic particles into the void space from the storage space when the storage space contains the metallic particles.
- In yet another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is sufficiently resilient such that the liner has a tendency to reverse at least a portion of the deformation in response to discharging of hydrogen from the metallic particles.
- In a further aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the container includes a sidewall and an axis, the sidewall defining at least a portion of the inner surface and being spaced apart from and extending 360° about the axis in a plane, and wherein at least a portion of the liner is disposed between the sidewall and the axis and extends 360° about the axis in the plane.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the at least a portion of the liner opposes the sidewall.
- In yet another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein at least a portion of the void space is disposed between the sidewall and the at least a portion of the liner.
- In a further aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein each of the sidewall and the liner is substantially tubular.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner includes corrugations defined by alternating ridges and grooves, each of the ridges and grooves extending transversely relative to the plane.
- In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein at least one of the ridges is configured to contact the sidewall when the metallic particles are contained in the storage space.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the container further comprising a thermally conductive structure disposed in the storage space and in contact with the liner and configured for effecting heat transfer between the metallic particles and the liner.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the container wherein the liner is stiffer than the container.
- The present invention additionally provides a method of assembling a storage system for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, inserting a magnetically responsive liner into the container space through the inlet, and applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method further comprising the step of inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet when the magnetic force is acting on the liner.
- In another broad aspect, the present invention provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, inserting a magnetically responsive liner into the container space through the inlet, applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container, when the magnetic force is acting on the liner, inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet so as to urge the liner into engagement with the inner surface so as to define (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, and terminating the application of the magnetic force, and inserting a plurality of metallic particles into the storage space.
- In this respect, in one aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- In yet another broad aspect, the present invention provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, rolling a magnetically responsive liner about a mandrel so that the liner assumes a spiral configuration about the mandrel, when the liner is rolled about the mandrel, inserting the liner into the container space through the inlet, releasing the liner from the mandrel, removing the mandrel from the container space through the inlet, and applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- In this respect, in one aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method further comprising the step of inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet when the magnetic force is acting on the liner.
- The present invention also provides a method of assembling a container for containing metallic particles capable of absorbing hydrogen to become charged with hydrogen comprising providing a container including an inlet and an inner surface defining a container space, rolling a magnetically responsive liner about a mandrel so that the liner assumes a spiral configuration about the mandrel, when the liner is rolled about the mandrel inserting the liner into the container space through the inlet, releasing the liner from the mandrel, removing the mandrel from the container space through the inlet, applying a magnetic force sufficient to urge the liner against the inner surface of the container, when the magnetic force is acting on the liner, inserting a plurality of tubes into the container space through the inlet so as to urge the liner into engagement with the inner surface so as to define (i) a storage space configured to contain the metallic particles and (ii) a void space configured to contract as the metallic particles expand upon the absorption of hydrogen, terminating the application of the magnetic force, and inserting a plurality of metallic particles into the storage space.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the magnetic force is generated externally of the container.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides the method wherein the liner being inserted into the container space has a spiral configuration, and the application of the magnetic force effects expansion of the liner from the spiral configuration.
- This invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a container of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a sectional side elevation view of the container inFIG. 1 , before the metallic particles have been inserted, and with the liner corrugations removed for purposes of clarity; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional plan view of the container, taken along lines A-A inFIG. 2 , after metallic particles have been inserted; -
FIGS. 4 a and 4 b are cross-sectional plan views of the container, taken along lines A-A and C-C, respectively, inFIG. 2 , before the metallic particles have been inserted; -
FIG. 5 is a top-perspective view of the liner, in an “unrolled condition”, of an embodiment of the container assembled according to a method illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the liner of the container illustrated inFIG. 4 , taken between the lips of the liner; -
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional plan view of the container illustrated inFIG. 2 , where metallic particles have been inserted and charged; -
FIG. 8 illustrates a typical valving arrangement for the container of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the container of the present invention immersed in a liquid bath for heat transfer; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the container of the present invention where the necessary heat transfer is effected by air flow generated by a mechanical fan; and - FIGS. 11 to 15 are schematic illustrations of a method of assembling an embodiment of the present invention;
-
FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of an apparatus for applying magnetic forces during the assembly of an embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the method illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15; -
FIG. 17 is a top sectional plan view of the apparatus illustrated inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a sectional elevation view of the apparatus illustrated inFIG. 16 , taken along lines A-A; and -
FIGS. 19A and 19 b are cross-sectional plan views of another embodiment of the container, taken along lines A-A and C-C, respectively, inFIG. 2 , before the metallic particles have been inserted. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the present invention provides acontainer 10 for containingmetallic particles 12 capable of forming metal hydrides. - The
interior space 20 of thecontainer 10 receivesmetallic particles 12 capable of forming metal hydrides. Themetallic particles 12 are in the form of a powder. An example of a suitable particle size of the powder is within the range of one micron to 3000 microns. Themetallic particles 12 must be capable of absorbing hydrogen (also known as “charging”) to effect storage of hydrogen in the form of a metal hydride. Further, suchmetallic particles 12, after having absorbed hydrogen, (in the form of a metal hydride) must be capable of desorbing hydrogen (also known as “discharging”) upon demand from an unit operation, such as when required for use as a fuel in a fuel cell or in an internal combustion engine. Upon absorbing hydrogen, themetallic particles 12 expand, and thereby increase the volume occupied. During desorption, themetallic particles 12 contract, and thereby reduce the volume occupied. It is understood that not all of themetallic particles 12 must have necessarily absorbed hydrogen to their maximum capacity in order for themetallic particles 12 contained in thecontainer 10 to be described as being “charged”. It is also understood that, once charged, not all of the previously absorbed hydrogen must have necessarily been desorbed in order for themetallic particles 12 contained in thecontainer 10 to be described as being “discharged”. Charging of themetallic particles 12 with hydrogen is an exothermic process. In contrast, discharging of the absorbed hydrogen from themetallic particle 12 is an endothermic process. - Absorption of hydrogen by the
metallic particles 12 refers to the association of hydrogen with themetallic particles 12. Possible mechanisms for association include: dissolution, covalent bonding, or ionic bonding. Dissolution describes the process where a hydrogen atom is incorporated in the voids of a lattice structure of a metal or intermetallic alloy. Examples of such metal hydrides include vanadium hydrides, titanium hydrides, and hydrides of vanadium-titanium alloys. An example of a covalently bonded hydride is magnesium hydride. Examples of ionically bonded hydrides are sodium hydride and potassium hydride. Complex hydrides are metal hydrides which exhibit bonding between a metalloid atom and an hydrogen atom which is characterized as being partially covalent and partially ionic. Examples include sodium alanate and lithium alanate. - The
container 10 includes aninner surface 16 defining acontainer space 20 having a container volume. Theinner surface 16 includes afirst end 161, asecond end 162, and a substantiallytubular sidewall 163 extending between the first and second ends 161, 162 and also extending 360° about anaxis 11 of the container. Thefirst end 161 includes arounded shoulder 169 extending from thesidewall 163 and terminating at anozzle 24 which defines anaperture 241. Theaperture 241 effects fluid communication between thecontainer space 20 and the exterior of the container 10 (such as a downstream operation, for example, a fuel cell or internal combustion engine, so long as such unit operation is suitably fluidly coupled to the aperture 241). Theaperture 241 functions as an inlet during charging, and as an outlet during discharging. Fluid communication through theaperture 241 is selectively controlled by avalve 300 coupled to thenozzle 24. Thevalve 300 is operable between open and closed conditions to respectively effect and seal the fluid communication. Thesecond end 162 extends from thesidewall 163 and is closed. - A
resilient liner 22 is disposed in thecontainer 10. Avoid space 202 is provided between the liner and theinner surface 16 to accommodate expansion of themetallic particles 12 as is further described herein. Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4 , theliner 22 defines astorage space 201 in thecontainer space 20. Thestorage space 201 is configured to contain themetallic particles 12. The disposition of themetallic particles 12 typically extends up to therounded shoulder 169 and up to thenozzle 24. Thevoid space 202 is provided in thecontainer space 20 and between theliner 22 and theinner surface 16. Thevoid space 202 does not contain themetallic particles 12. Thevoid space 202 has a void space volume to accommodate displacement of theliner 22, as will be described hereafter. It is understood that thevoid space 202 does not merely refer to spaces between tightly packedmetallic particles 12. - The
liner 22 engages or abuts theinner surface 16 to define thevoid space 202 and limit ingress of themetallic particles 12 into thevoid space 202 from thestorage space 201. In this respect, theliner 22 is urged into contact with (or bears against) theinner surface 16 to define thevoid space 202 and limit the above-described ingress into thevoid space 202. Thefirst end 221 of theliner 22 bears against thesecond end 162 of the container, and asecond end 222 of theliner 22 bears against thesidewall 163 or theshoulder 169, and thereby define thevoid space 202. - It is understood that the engagement or abutment of the
liner 22 with theinner surface 16 does not necessarily completely prevent ingress ofmetallic particles 12 into the space between theliner 22 and theinner surface 16, although such ingress is prevented over discrete intervals of time. Ingress of very small quantities of themetallic particles 12 may occur as a result of theliner 22 becoming temporarily displaced from theinner surface 16, thereby providing a passage through which themetallic particles 12 can migrate into thevoid space 202 from thestorage space 201. Relatively insignificant ingress may also occur in the case where an embodiment of thecontainer 10 is manufactured in accordance with the method described below and illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15. In this respect, the space between theliner 22 and theinner surface 16 may not necessarily consist entirely of thevoid space 202. Also, it is understood that the fraction of the space between theliner 22 and theinner surface 16 consisting of thevoid space 202 may become smaller in volume during use of thecontainer 10, due to periodic ingress of themetallic particles 12. In this respect, engagement or abutment of theliner 22 with theinner surface 16 is said to substantially prevent or limit ingress of themetallic particles 12 from thestorage space 201 and into thevoid space 202. - Because the
void space 202 does not contain anymetallic particles 12, thevoid space 202 offers relatively little resistance to any displacement of theliner 22 towards theinner surface 16 in response to forces being imparted by themetallic particles 12 on theliner 22. In this respect, thevoid space 202 facilitates such displacement of theliner 22 so as to, at least in part, insulate thecontainer 10 from such forces and the mechanical stresses thecontainer 10 would otherwise experience. Such forces can arise by virtue of expansion of themetallic particles 12 due to the charging with hydrogen. This is aggravated by a localized increase in packing density of themetallic particles 12 arising from decrepitation of the metallic particles 12 (metallic particles 12 are pulverized, resulting in size reduction of the metallic particles 12) and concentration thereof. It is further understood that, although resilient, theliner 22 must not necessarily return to its exact original condition once the metallic particles contract upon the discharging of the hydrogen. - While the
metallic particles 12 are being charged (i.e. during absorption of hydrogen), thespace 202 contracts in response to forces imparted by themetallic particles 12 on theliner 22. This is because themetallic particles 12 expand upon absorption of hydrogen, causing theliner 22 to deform and become displaced in closer proximity to theinner surface 16. With an increase in packing density, the available space between themetallic particles 12, for accommodating the expansion of themetallic particles 12, decreases, resulting in stress being applied to theliner 22. Such stress is at least partially relieved by (i) elastic deformation of theliner 22, and (ii) distribution of stress by theliner 22. While themetallic particles 12 are being discharged (i.e. during desorption of hydrogen), themetallic particles 12 contract in volume, thereby relieving at least some of the forces that would have been previously being imparted by themetallic particles 12 while themetallic particles 12 were in a charged state. As a result, and owing to its resiliency, theliner 22 reverses at least a portion of its deformation (that is, deformation resulting from the previous charging of the metallic particles 12) during discharging. - The
liner 22 is disposed in theinterior space 20 such that at least a portion of thevoid space 202 is disposed between thesidewall 163 and at least a portion of theliner 22. In the embodiment illustrated, theliner 22 has a substantially tubular form. In this respect, theliner 22 is disposed between thesidewall 163 and theaxis 11 of thecontainer 10 and extends 360° about theaxis 11. At least a portion of theliner 22 opposes asidewall 163. In this respect, thesidewall 163 extends 360° about theaxis 11 in aplane 13 perpendicular to theaxis 11, and at least a portion of theliner 22 is disposed between thesidewall 163 and theaxis 11 and extends 360° about theaxis 11 in theplane 13. - Referring to
FIGS. 1, 2 , and 6, in the embodiment illustrated, when disposed in thecontainer space 20, theliner 22 includes asidewall 223 definingcorrugations 2202. Thecorrugations 2202 are defined by alternatingridges 2204 andgrooves 2206, each of theridges 2204 andgrooves 2206 extending transversely relative to theplane 13. Theridges 2204 contact thesidewall 163 when theliner 22 is disposed in thecontainer space 20 of thecontainer 10, thereby improving thermal communication and heat transfer between themetallic particles 12 and thesidewall 163. Thecorrugations 2206 allow for space between theinner wall 16 and theliner 22 when theliner 22 is disposed in thecontainer space 20. Upon expansion of themetallic particles 12, themetallic particles 12 apply a force to theliner 22, causing thecorrugations 2206 to flatten out (seeFIG. 7 ). - Referring to
FIGS. 1, 4 a and 4 b, to bear against thecontainer sidewall 163 or theshoulder 169, each of the first and second ends 221, 222 of theliner 22 includesrespective lips liner sidewall 223. Thelips inner surface 16 and effect the engagement or bearing of theliner 22 against theinner surface 16 for effecting the definition of thevoid space 202. The engagement of thelips inner surface 16 substantially prevents ingress of themetallic particles 12 from thestorage space 201 to thevoid space 202 in the manner described above. - The
liner 22 is constructed of spring steel (low carbon steel) SAE 1010 (having a tensile strength of 50-60 ksi, a yield strength of 30-40 ksi, a modulus of elasticity of about 29,000,000 psi, and a modulus of rigidity of about 11,000,000 psi). Owing to a combination of these features, including thecorrugations 202, and geometry, theliner 22 is configured to facilitate stress distribution within the container 10 (relative to the case where there is no liner 22). - The
nozzle 24 is configured for fluid coupling to a conduit for effecting delivery of hydrogen being discharged from themetallic particles 12 from within thecontainer space 20 to a downstream operation, such as a fuel cell or an internal combustion engine. The conduit also facilitates supply of hydrogen to thecontainer 10 to effect charging of themetallic particles 12.FIG. 8 illustrates a typical valving arrangement for thecontainer 10. Avalve 300 is mounted to thenozzle 24 to effect control of fluid communication between thestorage space 201 and a downstream operation or a source of hydrogen supply. Additionally, disposed in thenozzle 24 between thevalve 300 and theinterior space 20, a filter element is provided including a 316 L stainless steel solid sintered filter. The filter element functions as a retainer for retaining themetallic particles 12 in thespace 20. - Heat is imparted to and dissipated from the
container 10 by contacting thecontainer 10 with a fluid (liquid or gas, such as water or ambient air) which acts as a heat sink or heat source as required. Thecontainer 10 must be cooled to effect charging, and must be heated to effect discharging.FIG. 9 illustrates thecontainer 10 immersed in aliquid bath 400 to effect the necessary heat transfer.FIG. 10 illustrates the necessary heat transfer to and from thecontainer 10 being effected by airflow, the airflow being generated by amechanical fan 500 and then being directed across a heat transfer medium 510 (such as piping containing heating or cooling fluid) before contacting the exterior surface of thecontainer 10. - Referring to
FIGS. 2, 3 , 4 a and 4 b, astructure 18 is disposed in thespace 201 and is configured to effect or improve thermal communication between theinner surface 16 and themetallic particles 12 disposed within thestorage space 201. Thestructure 18 includes a plurality ofelongated aluminum tubes 30. Thetubes 30 extend from thesecond end 162 of thecontainer 10 and terminate just below thefirst end 161. Thetubes 30 are isolated from theinner surface 16 by theliner 22, and thermally communicate with theinner surface 16 through theliner 22. In relation to thetubes 30, themetallic particles 12 occupy the space within thetubes 30 as well as the space between thetubes 30. Themetallic particles 12 also occupy the space within thefirst end 161 of thecontainer 10. To facilitate heat transfer between themetallic particles 12 and theinner wall 16, thetubes 30 are tightly packed and in direct physical contact with theliner 22 to facilitate heat transfer between theliner 22 and themetallic particles 12. The tightly packed configuration of thetubes 30 urges theliner 22, and particularly thelips inner surface 16. - The
tubes 30 play a role in containing a portion of the expansion forces of the expandingmetallic particles 12, thereby reducing stresses on theliner 22 and, thus, thecontainer 10. In this respect, the tubes reduce the influence of the expandingmetallic particles 12 on thecontainer 10. - The
tubes 30 also play a role in limiting the creation of differences in localized packing density of themetallic particles 12 within thestorage space 201. This is because thetubes 30 function as physical barriers, limiting migration of the metallic particles. - To facilitate migration of hydrogen gas during charging and discharging, each of the
tubes 30 can include a plurality of very small apertures orperforations 301. Preferably, these apertures or perforations have a maximum diameter of {fraction (1/32)}″ or smaller. Such apertures are small enough to allow the migration of the hydrogen gas, but prevent themetallic particles 12 within thetubes 30 from migrating outside of thetubes 30 and thereby exerting additional forces on adjacent materials or surfaces during expansion. - At least one of the plurality of
tubes 30 can be in the form of a solid sintered filter cylinder that would provide a permeable solid to assist in the absorption and desorption of hydrogen gas while not allowing the migration ofmetallic particles 12. In one embodiment, the solid sintered filter cylinder comprises 316 L stainless steel. - Referring to
FIGS. 19 a and 19 b, in one embodiment, at least one of the plurality oftubes 30 includes afluid passage tube 3001 disposed within the at least onetube 30 in a substantially concentric relationship relative to the at least onetube 30. Thefluid passage tube 3001 contains substantially nometallic particles 12. Themetallic particles 12 occupy thespace 3003 between thetubes fluid passage tube 3001 extends substantially along the complete length of thetube 30. Thefluid passage tube 3001 is configured to provide a relatively low pressure fluid passage for effecting communication of hydrogen gas between theaperture 241 and at least themetallic particles 12 between thetubes - A method of assembling an embodiment of the
container 10 will now be described. Acontainer 10 is provided, having a length of 355 mm defined by the distance between its terminal ends identified by reference numerals 101, 102 inFIG. 2 , an outside maximum diameter of 89 mm, and a wall thickness of 3.68 mm, and is constructed of aluminum SAE 6061-T6. Theliner 22 is then inserted into thecontainer space 20 through theaperture 241 of thenozzle 24. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , theliner 22 is provided in the form of a 273 mm×268 mm sheet having a thickness of 0.15 mm, for co-operation with thecontainer 10 having the dimensions described above. Theliner 22 is further defined by first and second side edges 225, 226.Lips liner 22 is constructed of spring steel (low carbon steel) SAE 1010. - Referring to
FIG. 11 , to enable the liner to be inserted, one of the side edges 225, 226 of theliner 22 is inserted into agroove 702 provided in amandrel 700. With one of the side edges 225 or 226 disposed in thegroove 702, theliner 22 is then tightly rolled around themandrel 700 by hand by a human operator. Themandrel 700 is in the form of a rod-like structure with a cylindrical surface and functions as a means for facilitating rolling of theliner 22. By rolling theliner 22 around themandrel 400, theliner 22 is manipulated to effect overlap of the first and second side edges 225, 226. Preferably, theliner 22 is manipulated into a spiral configuration and maintains overlap of the first and second side edges 225, 266 as theliner 22 becomes positioned in thecontainer 10 in the manner described below. - Referring to
FIG. 12 , with theliner 22 tightly wound around themandrel 700 and maintained (i.e. pressed) in this condition by the hand of a human operator, themandrel 700, with theliner 22, is inserted into thecontainer space 20 through thenozzle 24. Once approximately 50% of the length of theliner 22 has been inserted through thenozzle 24, forces applied to maintain theliner 22 in a rolled condition against themandrel 700 can be released as, in this position, the liner is not capable of becoming released from within thecontainer space 20 upon the release of theliner 22 from themandrel 700. Once the above-described forces maintaining theliner 22 rolled against themandrel 700 are removed, theliner 22 assumes a radially expanded condition about the mandrel 700 (FIG. 13 ). Themandrel 700 is then removed from thecontainer space 20 through thenozzle 24. Theliner 22 is pushed into the container space 20 (seeFIG. 14 ), and expands further in the radial direction once not constrained by thenozzle 24. - With the
liner 22 disposed in thecontainer space 20, magnetic forces are applied to thecontainer 10 to effect positioning of the liner against theinner wall 16 of thecontainer 10. In this respect, the magnetic forces attract theliner 22 towards the inner wall 16 (seeFIG. 15 ). - An
apparatus 600 for applying the above-described magnetic forces is illustrated inFIGS. 16-18 . Theapparatus 600 is aplastic tube 602 of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene defining apassage 604 for receiving thecontainer 10. Thetube 602 has a length of 311 mm, an outside diameter of 162 mm, and an inside diameter of 89 mm, to accommodate an embodiment of the system 8 being assembled in accordance with the method presently being described.Recesses 606 are provided in the exterior surface of the plastic tube for receiving magnetic material 608. Magnetic material 608 is provided for effecting the above-described magnetic force. An example of suitable magnetic material 608 is a rare earth magnetic (neodymium iron boron) manufactured by Dura Magnetics, Inc. of Sylvania, Ohio, U.S.A. (see www.duramag.com). Once disposed in thepassage 604 of theplastic tube 602, the magnetic forces imparted by the magnetic material 608 urge theliner 22 against theinner surface 16 of thecontainer 10. - While the magnetic forces are continuing to be applied to the
liner 22, thetubes 30 are inserted into thecontainer space 20 through thenozzle 24. With thecontainer 10 having the dimensions specified above, twenty-eighttubes 30, each having an outside diameter of 12.7 mm, a wall thickness of 0.8 mm, and a length of 263 mm, are inserted into thecontainer space 20. Once all of the thirty-onetubes 30 are disposed in thecontainer space 20,tubes 30 are disposed in a tightly packed configuration and are pressingliner 22 against theinner surface 16 of thecontainer 10. As a result, the magnetic force being applied by the magnetic material 608 is no longer required to urge theliner 22 against theinner surface 16 and thereby effect its disposition against the inner wall 16 (i.e., bearing of thelips container 10 can now be removed from within thepassage 604 of the plastic tube 302. - In this condition, the
lips liner 22 engage theinner surface 16 for (i) defining astorage space 201 configured to contain themetallic particles 12 and also (ii) for defining avoid space 202 configured to contract as themetallic particles 12 expand upon absorption of hydrogen, such that the engagement of theliner 22 to theinner surface 16 substantially prevents or limits ingress of themetallic particles 12 into thevoid space 202 from thestorage space 201. At this point, an embodiment of thecontainer 10 assembled in accordance with the just described method substantially assumes the condition illustrated inFIG. 2 . While theliner 22 is in this condition, thestorage space 201 of thecontainer 10 is filled with themetallic particles 12 through thenozzle 24. Thecontainer 10 continues to be filled with themetallic particles 12 until the level of themetallic particles 12 in thestorage space 12 reaches thenozzle 24. - It is understood that, by virtue of the assembly of an embodiment of the
container 10 by the method above-described, the engagement of theliner 22 to theinner surface 16 substantially prevents ingress of the metallic particles into thevoid space 202 and does not completely prevent ingress into thevoid space 202. This is because, even after thetubes 30 are inserted into thecontainer space 20 and thereby press against theliner 22, and particularly press the first and second ends 221, 222 against theinner surface 16 while simultaneously pressing portions of theliner 22 atopposite edges edges liner 22 and theinner surface 16 continue to exist and define a potential passage or passages for ingress ofmetallic particles 12 into thevoid space 202 from thestorage space 201. However, where themetallic particles 12 are sufficiently large (e.g. where 77% of themetallic particles 12 have a particle size greater than 150 microns, and more particularly where 20% are within the range of 1000 to 2800 microns, 23% are within the range of 500 to 1000 microns, 34% are within the range of 150 microns, and the remainder under 150 microns), such space or spaces, defined in an embodiment of thecontainer 10 created by the method described above, are sufficiently small so that any periodic ingress is relatively insignificant. In this respect, such ingress can also be characterized as being substantially prevented or limited. - Although the disclosure describes and illustrates preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these particular embodiments. Many variations and modifications may occur to those skilled in the art within the scope of the invention. For definition of the invention, reference is to be made to the appended claims.
Claims (61)
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US10/836,992 US20050072786A1 (en) | 2003-05-01 | 2004-04-30 | Hydrogen storage container |
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CA002427725A CA2427725A1 (en) | 2003-05-01 | 2003-05-01 | Hydrogen storage container |
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US50925603P | 2003-10-08 | 2003-10-08 | |
US10/836,992 US20050072786A1 (en) | 2003-05-01 | 2004-04-30 | Hydrogen storage container |
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US20050072786A1 true US20050072786A1 (en) | 2005-04-07 |
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US10/836,992 Abandoned US20050072786A1 (en) | 2003-05-01 | 2004-04-30 | Hydrogen storage container |
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US (1) | US20050072786A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1784571A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2427725A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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DE102006042456A1 (en) * | 2006-09-09 | 2008-03-27 | Volkswagen Ag | Metal hydride hydrogen reservoir, especially for fuel cell in automobile, comprises pressure-resistant storage container partially filled with metal hydride |
US20080283420A1 (en) * | 2005-09-15 | 2008-11-20 | Manbas Alpha Ab | Distributed Gas Storage |
US20090107853A1 (en) * | 2007-10-26 | 2009-04-30 | Ovonic Hydrogen Systems Llc | Hydrogen storage system |
FR3004515A1 (en) * | 2013-04-10 | 2014-10-17 | Ad Venta | CONSTRAINTS COMPENSATOR FOR HYDROGEN RESERVOIR BASED ON METAL HYDRIDE |
EP2660167B1 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2017-03-29 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Insert for container packaging |
FR3059080A1 (en) * | 2016-11-23 | 2018-05-25 | Commissariat A L'energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives | HYDROGEN STORAGE TANK IN THE FORM OF METAL HYDRIDE WITH IMPROVED POWDER CONFINEMENT |
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CN111156415B (en) * | 2019-12-30 | 2021-01-05 | 清华大学 | Hydrogen leakage adsorption system |
CN113669620B (en) * | 2021-07-21 | 2022-12-16 | 广东电网有限责任公司广州供电局 | Metal hydride hydrogen storage tank |
CN114060718A (en) * | 2021-11-26 | 2022-02-18 | 武汉氢能与燃料电池产业技术研究院有限公司 | Hydrogen-absorbing low-strain metal hydride hydrogen storage tank capable of realizing effective heat exchange |
CN114151723B (en) * | 2021-12-22 | 2023-01-03 | 氢华能源技术(武汉)有限公司 | Hydrogenation station based on solid hydrogen storage |
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Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080283420A1 (en) * | 2005-09-15 | 2008-11-20 | Manbas Alpha Ab | Distributed Gas Storage |
US8146735B2 (en) * | 2005-09-15 | 2012-04-03 | Manbas Alpha Ab | Distributed gas storage |
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EP2660167B1 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2017-03-29 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Insert for container packaging |
FR3004515A1 (en) * | 2013-04-10 | 2014-10-17 | Ad Venta | CONSTRAINTS COMPENSATOR FOR HYDROGEN RESERVOIR BASED ON METAL HYDRIDE |
FR3059080A1 (en) * | 2016-11-23 | 2018-05-25 | Commissariat A L'energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives | HYDROGEN STORAGE TANK IN THE FORM OF METAL HYDRIDE WITH IMPROVED POWDER CONFINEMENT |
WO2018096270A1 (en) * | 2016-11-23 | 2018-05-31 | Commissariat A L'energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives | Tank for storing hydrogen in the form of a metal hydride, offering improved powder containment |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CA2427725A1 (en) | 2004-11-01 |
CN1784571A (en) | 2006-06-07 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HERA, HYDROGEN STORAGE SYSTEMS INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GAGNON, FREDERIC;SCHULZ, ROBERT;LAROCHELLE, PATRICK;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:015539/0424;SIGNING DATES FROM 20040521 TO 20040714 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HERA, HYDROGEN STORAGE SYSTEMS INC., CANADA Free format text: ACCEPTANCE;ASSIGNORS:GAGNON, FREDERIC;SCHULZ, ROBERT;LAROCHELLE, PATRICK;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:016100/0257 Effective date: 20050214 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |