Ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel

An ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel is disclosed. The The ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a primary bunker arm configured to physically support a fluid delivery system across a first distance between a bunker vessel and a receiving vessel. Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a secondary bunker arm configured to physically support the fluid delivery system to facilitates a second relative motion between the bunker vessel and the receiving vessel. Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a motion control system configured to coordinate movements of the primary bunker arm and the secondary bunker arm. The fluid control system comprises a connection assembly configured to make a final connection between the ammonia bunker delivery system and the bunker flange of the receiving vessel based on the sensor input.

FIELD OF INVENTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a fuel transferring system and more particularly relates to an ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel.

BACKGROUND

Fuel oil bunkering is a critical operation on board ships which requires receiving oil safely into the ship's tanks without causing an overflow of oil. In the process of transferring the fuel oil, two adjacent ships are positioned alongside to each other for supply of fuel oil from one ship to another ship. Conventionally, the fuel oil bunkering process is not safe and consumes a lot of time in transferring ammonia bunker fuel from one ship to another. Further, the conventional solutions require manual efforts from crews causing fatigue to the crews. Furthermore, the conventional solutions also possess a huge risk to the crews as it is risky to manually perform the processes associated with the fuel oil bunkering.

Hence, there is a need for an ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel, in order to address the aforementioned issues.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, an ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel is disclosed. The ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a primary bunker arm configured to physically support a fluid delivery system across a first distance between a bunker vessel and a receiving vessel. The primary bunker arm facilitates a first relative motion between the bunker vessel and the receiving vessel. Further, the primary bunker arm comprises a pedestal configured to provide a plurality of motions via a set of hydraulic actuators. The pedestal is sized to physically support static and dynamic loads from a rest of the ammonia bunker delivery system. The primary bunker arm also includes a knuckle boom attached to an end of a main boom via a pivot joint that facilitates free rotation on a vertical plane. The set of hydraulic actuators are used to rotate the knuckle boom around an axis of the pivot joint connection with a main boom. Furthermore, the ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a secondary bunker arm configured to physically support the fluid delivery system to facilitates a second relative motion between the bunker vessel and the receiving vessel. The secondary bunker arm is configured to make a physical connection to a bunker flange of the receiving vessel. The secondary bunker arm comprises a manipulator arm configured to be used in an outdoor and marine environment. The manipulator arm corresponds to a standard 6-axis industrial robotic arm. Further, the secondary bunker arm comprises a tool interface attached to a wrist end of the manipulator arm via a plurality of bolts. The tool interface is configured to provide a mechanical connection to a connection assembly. Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system comprises a motion control system configured to coordinate movements of the primary bunker arm and the secondary bunker arm. The motion control system comprises a connection sensor array comprising two sets of sensors mounted on opposite sides of each other at a hose-end of the connection assembly. The two sets of sensors are configured to determine a precise position of the bunker flange relative to the connection assembly. The two sets of sensors are connected to motion controllers via a set of fiber optic cables. The motion control system also comprises a primary motion controller comprising a set of computers configured to model an environment associated with the bunker vessel, the bunker delivery system, and the receiving vessel based on sensor input captured by a plurality of sensor arrays and the determined precise position. The primary controller is configured to determine an optimal position a set of elements of the ammonia bunker delivery system, and send signals to all actuators of the ammonia bunker delivery system for moving the set of elements based on a result of modelling the environment. Furthermore, the ammonia bunker delivery system also comprises a fluid control system configured to contain and control a flow of ammonia bunker fuel from the bunker vessel to the receiving vessel. The fluid control system comprises a connection assembly configured to make a final connection between the ammonia bunker delivery system and the bunker flange of the receiving vessel based on the sensor input.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1Ais a sectional view of an ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further,FIG.1Bis a plan view of the ammonia bunker delivery system for transferring of the ammonia bunker fuel, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity,FIG.1AandFIG.1Bhave been explained together.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia bunker delivery system102comprises a primary bunker arm configured to physically support a fluid delivery system across a first distance between a bunker vessel104and a receiving vessel106. The primary bunker arm facilitates a first relative motion between the bunker vessel104and the receiving vessel106. The first relative motion facilitates majority of the motion between the bunker vessel104and the receiving vessel106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid delivery system corresponds to one or more pipes used to transfer ammonia bunker fuel. The design and function of the primary bunker arm is based on an existing motion compensating crane. For example, the cranes may be BM-T40 from Barge Master and lines from SMST and MacGregor.

Further, the primary bunker fuel comprises a pedestal108configured to provide a plurality of motions via a set of hydraulic actuators. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pedestal108is made of steel and is securely attached to a deck structure of the bunkering vessel. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of motions corresponds to a 3-axis motion compensation including rill, pitch and heave. The pedestal108is sized to physically support static and dynamic loads from a rest of the ammonia bunker delivery system102.

Furthermore, the primary bunker arm includes a Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)110securely attached to a deck structure of the bunkering vessel adjacent to the pedestal108. The HPU110uses a marine-grade material and is configured to supply hydraulic power to the primary bunker arm. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the HPU110is driven by a set of electric pumps. The set of electric pumps receive power from a grid of the bunker vessel104and backed-up by a set of emergency batteries associated with a safety system.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the primary bunker arm includes the main boom112attached to the pedestal108via a joint point that facilitates free rotation on a vertical plane. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the main boom112is made of steel. The set of hydraulic actuators are used to rotate the main boom112around an axis of a pivot joint connection with the pedestal108.

Further, the primary bunker arm includes a knuckle boom114attached to an end of a main boom112via a pivot joint that facilitates free rotation on a vertical plane. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of hydraulic actuators are used to rotate the knuckle boom114around an axis of the pivot joint connection with a main boom112. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the knuckle boom114is made of steel.

Furthermore, the primary bunker arm includes a primary wrist116attached to an end of the knuckle boom114via a pivot joint that facilitates a free rotation on the vertical plane. The primary arm is made of steel. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of hydraulic actuators are used to rotate the primary wrist116around the axis of the pivot joint connection with the knuckle boom114. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the primary wrist116corresponds to a short boom segment configured to orient a secondary arm interface118.

The primary arm includes a secondary arm interface118attached to an end of a primary wrist116via the plurality of bolts. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the secondary arm interface118is made of steel and marine-grade materials. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the secondary arm interface118provides mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic connections to the secondary bunker arm.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the primary bunker arm is designed to support the secondary bunker arm i.e., nearly 3,000 kg, the connection hose segment148i.e., nearly 200 kg, and the connection assembly150i.e., nearly 200 kg at a maximum outreach of 45 meters under static and dynamic loads. Further, structural material used in the entire primary bunker arm is of high strength to minimize weight and suitable for low temperature liquids. For example, the structural material may be A537 Grade B Carbon Steel.

Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system102includes a secondary bunker arm configured to physically support the fluid delivery system to facilitates a second relative motion between the bunker vessel104and the receiving vessel106. The secondary bunker arm is configured to make a physical connection to a bunker flange of the receiving vessel106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first distance is more as compared to the second distance. Further, the second relative motion facilitates a remaining motion between the bunker vessel104and the receiving vessel106.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the design and function of the secondary bunker arm is based on existing industrial robot arms. For example, these robot arms are KR FORTEC ultra from Kuka, the UP400RD II from Yaskawa, and the IRB 8700 from ABB.

The secondary bunker arm includes a manipulator arm120configured to be used in an outdoor and marine environment, such as IP67. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the manipulator arm120corresponds to a standard 6-axis industrial robotic arm.

Further, the secondary arm includes a tool interface122attached to a wrist end of the manipulator arm120via the plurality of bolts. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the tool interface122is made of the steel and the marine-grade material. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the tool interface122is configured to provide a mechanical connection to a connection assembly150.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the secondary bunker arm is designed to support the connection hose segment148i.e., nearly 200 kg and the connection assembly150i.e., nearly 200 kg at a maximum outreach of 4 meters under static and dynamic loads. Further, the secondary bunker arm is having the ability to hold the connection assembly150within +/−5 mm relative to the bunker flange when operating within the overall system's operational envelope. When connected via the connection assembly150to the bunker flange, the secondary bunker arm may support the connection assembly150, such that the secondary bunker arm exerts no more than 200 newtons of axial force, no more than 200 Newtons of sheer force, and no more than 200 newton-meters of torsion force on the bunker flange.

Furthermore, the ammonia bunker delivery system102includes a motion control system configured to coordinate movements of the primary bunker arm and the secondary bunker arm. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the motion control system includes the plurality of sensor arrays positioned on the bunker vessel104and the bunker arm configured to create a detailed and real-time digital model of a physical environment inclusive of the bunker vessel104, the ammonia bunker delivery system102, and the receiving vessel106. Further, a set of programs use the created detailed and real-time digital model to orchestrate a movement of the primary bunker arm and the secondary bunker arm to reduce a relative motion between the connection assembly150and the bunker flange to within 5 mm.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, overall motion control is accomplished via the dynamic position system of the bunker vessel including three of the aforementioned-components working in collaboration. The bunkering vessel is assumed to be equipped with a dynamic positioning system capable of target-following (example: Kongsberg). Therefore, the bunker vessel's DP system provides the first tier of motion compensation by controlling the position of the bunker vessel in the horizontal plane (i.e. surge, sway and yaw) relative to the receiving vessel. Further, the relative position keeping capability is expected to be +/−3 degrees of yaw and +/−5 meters of surge and sway.

Further, the Pedestal provides motion compensation on three additional axes (pitch, roll, and heave). Conventionally available motion compensating pedestals installed on offshore supply vessels can typically compensate for motions between the vessel and a fixed platform in conditions with a significant wave height of up to 3 meters and wave periods between 4-18 seconds.

Furthermore, the primary bunker arm provides motion compensation on three axes (roll, sway, and heave) via articulation of the main boom, knuckle boom114, and primary wrist116at their respective joints and partial compensation for surge and yaw via slewing of the pedestal turret. The design objective is for the first three tiers of motion compensation (i.e. DP vessel, pedestal, primary bunker arm) to be capable of maintaining the position of the secondary arm interface relative to the receiving vessel's bunker flange within +/−1.0 meters at significant wave heights in head or following seas up to 4 meters.

Further, the secondary bunker arm provides the fourth and final tier of motion compensation and may have a range of movement on all six axes with high precision. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the design operating envelope is explained in further paragraphs by usingFIG.2.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of sensor arrays includes a forward sensor array124, an aft sensor array126, the primary arm sensor array128, and a connection sensor array130. The forward sensor array124includes a set of sensors mounted on a mast that is attached to a deck structure of the bunker vessel10430 m forward of the bunker arm pedestal108. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of sensors are connected to the motion controllers via fiber optic cables. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of sensors include cameras, radar, LIDAR, and the like.

Further, the aft sensor array126includes the set of sensors mounted on a mast that is attached to the deck structure of the bunker vessel10430 m aft of the bunker arm pedestal108. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of sensors are connected to the motion controllers via the fiber optic cables.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the primary bunker includes a pedestal turret located atop the pedestal. The pedestal turret facilitates rotation on the horizontal plane (i.e. slewing) driven by redundant hydraulic worm gear drives. Further, the pedestal Turret incorporates an enclosure and controls for manual operation of the primary bunker arm. However, the primary bunker arm may be operated remotely during normal operations.

Furthermore, the primary arm sensor array128includes the set of sensors mounted on a short base that is attached to the end of the main boom112above the pivot joint, and wherein the set of sensors are connected to the motion controllers via the fiber optic cables.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connection sensor array130includes two sets of sensors mounted on opposite sides of each other at a hose-end of the connection assembly150. The two sets of sensors are configured to determine a precise position of the bunker flange relative to the connection assembly150. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of sensors include cameras, radar, LIDAR, and the like. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the two sets of sensors are connected to motion controllers via a set of fiber optic cables.

Further, the motion control system includes a primary motion controller132physically located on the bridge of the bunker vessel104. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the primary motion controller132includes a set of computers configured to model an environment associated with the bunker vessel104, the bunker delivery system, and the receiving vessel106based on sensor input captured by a plurality of sensor arrays and the determined precise position. Furthermore, the primary controller is configured to determine an optimal position a set of elements of the ammonia bunker delivery system102, and send signals to all actuators of the ammonia bunker delivery system102for moving the set of elements based on a result of modeling the environment.

Furthermore, the motion control system includes a secondary motion controller134configured to serves as a backup to the primary motion controller132. The secondary motion controller134is identical to the primary motion controller132. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second motion controller is physically located in a garage154.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the motion control system includes a receptor assembly135consisting of a set of laser reflectors, radar reflectors, visual targets, accelerometers, wireless transmitter, and a connection receptacle for hardwire communications. The receptor assembly135is securely clamped to the receiving vessel's bunker flange and provides a clean target for the bunker vessel's sensors to reference. Further, the accelerometers in the receptor assembly135accurately record the motion of the bunker flange before and during connection and transmit this data to the bunker vessel's motion control system via the wireless transmitter. Furthermore, the connection receptacles provide a hardwire (fiber optic) connection between the receiving vessel's and bunker vessel's ESD systems.

Further, in addition to modelling the current environment and controlling the real-time motions of the overall system, one or more programs running on the motion controller may also model the predicted future relative motions of the vessels. The predictive model may be used in two ways. Firstly, the predictive model may be used to refine and smooth the movement of the overall system. Secondly, the predictive model may be used to proactively trigger an emergency shutdown. For example, when the predictive model indicates that the probability of exceeding the operating envelope is over a certain limit, an emergency shutdown may be initiated before the operating envelope is actually exceeded.

The ammonia bunker delivery system102includes a fluid control system configured to contain and control a flow of ammonia bunker fuel from the bunker vessel104to the receiving vessel106. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid control system includes a plurality of pipes, a set of hoses, a plurality of valves, a plurality of pumps that connect the bunker vessel104's cargo manifold156to a receiving ship's bunker flange. The ammonia bunker delivery system102is designed to operate downstream of the bunker vessel104's cargo manifold156for allowing the bunker delivery system to leverage existing capabilities of an ammonia carrier with respect to cargo transfer. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia bunker delivery system102augments this capability as required i.e., a supplemental booster pump.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the material used for the pipe, fittings, and valves may be suitable for low temperature liquids (including anhydrous ammonia). For example, ASTM A333 Grade 6 Steel pipe, with ASTM A420 Grade WPL-6 fittings, and ASTM A352 Grade LCC valves.

Further, all bunker supply pipes may be double-wall vacuum jacketed and designed for dual containment. That is, the outer jacket may be sized to withstand the full system design pressure and temperature. As depicted inFIG.4, pressure measurement and gas detection instrumentation may be provided for both the inner supply pipe and the outer annulus. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the vacuum jacketed piping is primarily used to provide an extra layer of protection by helping contain internal leaks and by helping shield the inner pipe from the external damage. However, additional benefits include faster cool down time, lower thermal loss during transfer, and higher durability relative to single wall, insulated pipes.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid control system includes a bunker delivery manifold136, a deck supply pipe138, one or more booster pumps140, a bunker supply preparation room142, a supply hose segment144, a boom supply pipe146, a connection hose management and the connection assembly150. The bunker delivery manifold136is a steel pipe and valve assembly designed as an additional attachment to the bunker vessel104's existing cargo manifold156. Further, the bunker delivery manifold136is attached to each of the bunker vessel104's cargo manifold flanges via the set of bolts and supported by insulated steel supports attached to the deck structure. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a valve at each cargo flange connection routes the fluid into one of the ammonia bunker delivery system102or straight through to a secondary cargo flange. Further, each segment of the bunker delivery manifold136connects to a cargo flange may have a corresponding pass-through to a secondary cargo flange and a branch to the deck supply pipe. Furthermore, valves are located to allow isolation of the secondary cargo flanges during bunkering operations and isolation of the bunker delivery system during cargo operations. The valves are locked closed to prevent inadvertent opening while cargo or bunkering operations are underway.

Further, the deck supply pipe138is a double-walled steel pipe connecting the bunker delivery manifold136to the one or more booster pumps140. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the deck supply pipe is a section of the pipe connecting the bunker delivery manifold to the equipment in the bunker supply preparation rooms. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pipe is sized to support the maximum bunkering rate of prospective receiving vessel106. The pipe is supported by insulated steel supports attached to the deck structure.

The one or more booster pumps140are provided to augment the bunker vessel104's cargo pumps as required. Furthermore, the one or more booster pumps140is sized to support the maximum bunkering rate of prospective receiving vessel106. Further, piping and valves within the bunker supply preparation room may allow the one or more booster pumps to be isolated and bypassed when not in use. The booster pumps may be driven by certified safe electric motors located adjacent to the pumps.

Furthermore, the bunker supply preparation room142provides an enclosed space for housing and maintaining the one or more booster pumps140and an additional equipment. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the additional equipment includes emergency shutoff valves, mass flowmeters, and sampling valves. The fire booster pump is also located in this space. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the space may be designed to meet or exceed the requirements set forth in the IGC and SOLAS (II-2/9.2.4 and II-2/4.5.10). The design and safety features for the enclosed space are similar to features of fuel preparation rooms for ammonia-fueled vessels.

Further, the supply hose segment144is a flexible length of hose connecting a rigid piping inside the bunker supply preparation room142with the ship-end of a boom supply pipe146located at the top of the pedestal108. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hose is flexible to accommodate the relative motion between the pedestal108and the equipment fixed to the deck structure of the bunker vessel104as well as rotation of the turret. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the swivel joints at both ends of the supply hose segment alleviate torsion stress on the hose. A diagram depicting this arrangement is provided inFIG.4. The hose is suitable for transferring liquid ammonia at up to 25 bar (Example: COMPOTEC CRYOTEC 660).

Furthermore, the boom supply pipe146is a double-walled steel pipe connecting the supply hose segment144to the connection hose segment148. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the boom supply pipe146is physically supported by the main boom112and the knuckle boom structures. Further, a set of swivel joints are located at pivot points on the bunker arm to facilitate the boom supply pipe146to articulate with the bunker arm's movement. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the location of swivel joints is depicted inFIG.4. Swivel joints may use twin tracks of bearings and use low temperature rated steel. For example: Emco Wheaton D1010. Further, the pipe supports attaching the boom supply pipe to the boom structure may be insulated to help provide thermal isolation of the pipe and fuel being transferred.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid control system includes a supply line for inert gas (Nitrogen) may run parallel to the boom supply pipe to supply inert gas for purging. Inert gas for the bunker delivery system may be supplied by the bunker vessel's inert gas generation plant. The logical design and location of connections and valves are depicted inFIG.3. For simplicity, the inert gas supply line is not shown inFIG.4. However, a similar design and path can be used as the bunker supply line.

Further, the fluid control system includes a vapor recovery line to connect the bunker vessel's cargo vapor recovery system with the receiving vessel's fuel vapor recovery system. The logical design and location of connections and valves are depicted inFIG.3. For simplicity, the vapor recovery line is not shown inFIG.4. However, a similar design and path may be used as the bunker supply line. The fluid control system also includes a valve located near the outboard end of the knuckle boom114to serve as a secondary ESD valve. This valve is provided to offer redundancy of the primary ESD valve at the cargo manifold and to help mitigate surge pressure on ESD activation.

Furthermore, the fluid control system includes a valve located at the base of the pedestal turret designed and configured to physically close whenever the turret and boom are slewed back towards the stowing position. This is meant to further ensure that no liquid or vapor from the cargo system can physically flow to the bunker arm when it is in its stowed position.

The connection hose segment148is a flexible length of hose connecting the boom-end of the boom supply pipe146with the connection assembly150. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hose is flexible to accommodate the full range of motion of the secondary bunker arm. The hose is suitable for transferring liquid ammonia at up to 25 bar (Example: COMPOTEC CRYOTEC 660).

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connection assembly150is configured to make a final connection between the ammonia bunker delivery system102and the bunker flange of the receiving vessel106based on the sensor input. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connection assembly150of a set of sizes is available and is fitted based on the receiving vessel106specifications. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connection assembly150includes an adapter, an Emergency Release Coupling (ERC), a mass flowmeter, and a hydraulic QC/DC.

The adapter adapts a size of the connection hose segment148to the size of the bunker flange. Further, the ERC coupling is calibrated to automatically separate when allowable stress is exceeded and cutting off fluid flow on both sides of the coupling. For example, emergency release coupler from SVT GmbH. Furthermore, the mass flowmeter is for accurate measurement of the quantity of fuel delivered. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hydraulically powered dry quick connect/disconnect is for making a secure and remotely activated connection to the bunker flange.

Further, the fluid control system includes a siphon drain. The siphon drain is a sub-system responsible for collecting any trapped liquid and vapor volume between the control valve at the end of the knuckle boom114and the receiving vessel's bunker manifold valve. The siphon drain includes a containment vessel, hydraulically powered vacuum pump, and associated piping and valves and is physically located near the outboard end of the knuckle boom114.

In order to expedite the bunkering process and simplify coordination with the receiving vessel106, the system is designed to handle all of the draining and purging of all volume outboard of the receiving vessel's bunker manifold valve. Accordingly, the actions and responsibility for making a safe disconnection rest with the bunkering vessel. The receiving vessel106is then only responsible for draining and purging its own bunker manifold. Further, the system is designed to allow draining and purging of the volume between the control valve at the end of the knuckle boom114and the receiving vessel's bunker manifold valve rapidly, such that a safe disconnection can be made within 5-10 seconds after all valves are closed.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia bunker delivery system102includes a safety system configured to augment the safety features built into other systems and provide an active mitigation in the event of ammonia release. The safety system includes a connection water nozzle152which is a remotely operated, variable jet nozzle capable of creating a wide mist curtain or directed stream of water. In an event of emergency release or upon detection of unsafe levels of ammonia, the mist curtain mode is automatically activated. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, water is supplied via a hose and pipe systems running parallel to the hoses and piping of the fluid control system.

Further, the connection water spray system includes four sets of remotely operated water spray nozzles. The first two sets of nozzles are located on both sides (left and right) of the connection assembly150. The second two sets of nozzles are located on both sides (left and right) of the primary wrist116. Further, water for the spray system is supplied by the bunker vessel's main fire system via pipes and hoses following a similar path and arrangement as the fluid control system. The sets of nozzles at the connection assembly150and the primary wrist116may be supplied by separate supply lines running on opposite sides of the bunker arm. In the event of an emergency breakaway upon detection of fire or upon detection of unsafe levels of ammonia in the connection area, the system may automatically activate and create spheres of mist capable of enveloping the bunker station, connection area, secondary arm area, and the outboard portion of the knuckle boom114.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the safety system includes a connection fire suppression system that uses a dry chemical powder as the fire suppression medium and compressed nitrogen gas as the propellant. Further, tanks for the dry chemical powder and compressed nitrogen are located near the outboard end of the knuckle boom and connected to the connection assembly150via flexible hoses. Furthermore, two nozzles on the connection assembly150direct powder towards the connection area and a bunker station158.

Furthermore, the safety system includes a fire booster pump. The fire booster pump is an electrically driven centrifugal pump provided as a safeguard in case of low or loss of pressure from the bunker vessel's main fire system. The fire booster pump may be located in the bunker supply preparation room.

The safety system further includes a set of emergency batteries to provide backup power to the bunker delivery system102in the event of loss or interruption in power from the bunker vessel's main grid. The set of emergency batteries may be sized to be able to provide full power to the bunker delivery system's hydraulics, sensors, and fire booster pump for at least 30 minutes. Further, the set of emergency batteries and associated switchboard may be located in a dedicated enclosure adjacent to the HPU110.

Further, the ammonia bunker delivery includes a garage154to provides a sheltered space for storing and maintaining the secondary bunker arm and connection assemblies when not in use.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a set of sliding doors at the forward end of the garage154is open to allow the secondary bunker arm and attached connection assembly150to be positioned inside the garage154. When the set of sliding doors are closed, the set of sliding doors provide a weather-tight seal at the primary wrist116of the bunker arm. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a maintenance is performed on the secondary bunker arm and the connection assembly150without the requirement to remove the secondary bunker arm and the connection assembly150from the primary bunker arm. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the space is designated as a cargo machinery space and is designed to meet or exceed the requirements set forth in the IGC (Section 3.3) and SOLAS (II-2/9.2.4 and II-2/4.5.10).

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the bunker vessel104includes a cargo manifold156. Further, the receiving vessel106includes a bunker station158and one or more bunker flanges160i.e., the bunker vessel104's one or more bunker flanges160for receiving the ammonia bunker fuel. Further, the receiving vessel106includes an RV bunker manifold ESD valve and an RV ESD interface. The RV bunker manifold ESD valve is located on the bunker manifold inboard of the bunker flange. Further, the TV ESD interface is a fibre optic connection interface to the receiving vessel's ESD system.

In operation, the transfer of bunker fuel is stopped either by normal operating procedure or by ESD initiation. Further, the valves at the receiving vessel's bunker manifold and at the outboard end of the system's knuckle boom are confirmed closed. Furthermore, the siphon drain sub-system is activated by opening the inlet valve to the siphon drain at the outboard end of the knuckle boom, and simultaneously opening the inert gas injection valve at the connection assembly150. When the siphon drain sub-system fails, the system may use traditional means of draining and purging (e.g. using nitrogen injected at the main boom/knuckle boom joint to drain and purge liquid through the receiving vessel's bunker manifold). Further, liquid and vapor is removed from the pipe and hose section between the receiving vessel's bunker manifold valve and the last closed valve on the knuckle boom via a combination of the pressure differential between the siphon drain sub-system's containment vessel and the bunker supply pipe/hose segment, and the pressurized inert gas (N2) injected at the connection assembly.

Further, a check valve at the inlet to the siphon drain system ensures no liquid or vapor backflow into the bunker supply hose/pipe segment. Furthermore, once pressure is nearly equalized between the inert gas injection line and the siphon drain, the inert gas valve and siphon drain valve are both closed. The system may be sized, such that the siphon drain may accept enough liquid, ammonia vapor, and inert gas. The siphon drain may accept enough liquid, ammonia vapor, and inert gas, such that concentrations of ammonia within the bunker supply pipe/hose segment are reduced to safe limits (a rough estimate is approximately five times the volume of the bunker supply pipe/hose segment). Furthermore, the measurement of the gas in the bunker supply pipe/hose segment is made to confirm that the concentration of ammonia vapor is within safe limits. If the concentration of ammonia vapor is not within the safe limits, the receiving vessel's bunker manifold valves may be opened, additional inert gas may be injected at the connection assembly, and vapor may be purged to the receiving vessel until a safe limit is reached.

Furthermore, the hydraulic QC/DC disconnects from the receiving vessel's bunker flange and the bunker arm is retracted. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, draining and purging of the remainder of the system including the siphon drain may be done by raising the bunker arm, such that the primary wrist116is at the apex and forcing liquid and vapor contents back to the bunker vessel's cargo tanks via the force of gravity and inert gas injection.

FIG.2is a plan view of an operative envelope, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As depicted,202represents an emergency disconnection envelope,204represents an emergency shutdown envelope, and206represents the operating envelope,208represents a static waterline, and210represents a bunker vessel.

FIG.3is a logical schematic diagram300of a fluid control system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As depicted, the logical schematic diagram includes the bunker vessel cargo system, the bunker delivery manifold and deck piping, the bunker supply preparation room, the pedestal, the turret, the main boom, the knuckle boom, the secondary arm, the connection assembly, the receiving vessel fuel system, and the like.

FIG.4is a schematic diagram of a bunker supply pipe and hose detail at pedestal and boom, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As depicted,402represents a plan view,404represents a section view, and406represents another section view.408represents the swivel joint aligned with axis of the main boom pivot joint. Further,410represents pipe supports.412represents boom supply pipe,414represents the main boom,416represents the main boom pivot,418represents the sewing turntable with open centre, and420represents the pipe supports attached to rotating turret.

Further,422represents the pipe supports of the section view,424represents the pedestal turret,426represents the slewing safety valve,428represents the swivel joint aligned with slewing axis,430represents the supply hose segment in helical arrangement,432represents the pedestal, and434the swivel joint along with the sewed axis, and436represents the pipe supports.

Furthermore,438represents the swivel joint aligned with axis of the main boom pivot joint.440represents the pipe supports,442represents the pipe support structure,444represents the swivel joints aligned with slewing axis, and446represents to bunker supply preparation room.

In operation, the preparation starts at least one week prior to first bunker delivery. The compatibility of the receiving vessel with the bunker delivery system may be assessed and confirmed. Further, during installation, the receptor assembly may be delivered to the receiving vessel and a test installation/removal may occur to confirm readiness. During training, the receiving vessel's crew may be trained on the bunker delivery procedure. Further, upon receipt of a request for services, a preliminary plan may be developed and agreed to. This plan may be based on the receiving vessel's existing voyage plan, anticipated conditions in the relevant delivery region(s), and other factors. The plan may include a proposed location for intercept, a detailed timeline of the operation, and responsibilities of the respective vessels. Furthermore, it may be confirmed that no modifications have been made to the receiving vessel's bunker system. At least 8 hours prior to intercept, the receiving vessel may install the receptor assembly on the bunker manifold and activate the transmitter. Motion telemetry of the receiving vessel's bunker flange may begin being transmitted to system and the bunker vessel's motion controller. Further, nearly 4 hours prior to intercept a final bunkering plan may be developed and agreed to. This plan may modify the preliminary plan, if needed, based on anticipated conditions and actual ship motions. Within approximately 5 nm, the bunker vessel may begin roughly matching the course and speed of the receiving vessel and may slowly close the distance. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, acquisition or lock is done. The connection may be physical connection or connection testing.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the emergency operations may be emergency shutdown, stop pumps, close valves on delivery system, close emergency valve on the connection assembly, purge from the connection assembly, disconnect from flange, arm automatically retracts away from receiving vessel, purge delivery system, and the like. In the event that normal procedures and emergency shutdown fail or fail to act in time, assume pumps are operating at maximum flow, ERC activates, ERC Valves close, ERC clamp is released, liquid between valves in the ERC is lost, and water curtain on the connector assembly automatically activates. Table 1 depicts events and response of the system to the events.

TABLE 1EventResponse/MitigationLoss of Containment(Leak, Rupture)What if motion compensation failsMotion compensation is accomplishedduring an active connection? (i.e.through three independent systemsmanual control of the system is(pedestal, main arm, secondary arm).available, but there is a partial orIf any one of these systems fails, ancomplete failure in the automatedemergency shutdown may be initiated.motion control system)Depending on the nature of the failureWhat if all control of the armand/or the relative motion of the shipsis lost?at the time of the failure, theemergency breakaway system mayactivate.Once disconnection is made, thebunker arm may move the bunkervessel away from the receiving vesseland ERC may automatically activate.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there are two failure categories i.e., loss of control (failure of the motion control system) and loss of containment (pipe leak/rupture, hose leak/rupture). For example, the loss of control failure may include mechanical failure, sensor failure, controller/software failure, such as connection, hardware, bug, hack, and the like. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the loss of containment may include deck pipe (leak, rupture), prep room, supply hose/pedestal, primary boom arm, secondary boom arm, the connection assembly, one or more modes of loss of control may potentially lead to loss of containment, such as boom slams into the receiving vessel and severs the supply pipe or hose. Further, additional mitigations to consider incorporating may include water spray and dry chemical in the pedestal, water spray and dry chemical in the bunker supply preparation room, water spray and dry chemical in the garage, water spray on exterior of pedestal, bunker supply prep room, HPU, and the emergency battery enclosure. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the safety barriers may include spill prevention barrier, immediate ignition barrier, dispersion prevention barrier, delayed ignition barrier, and the like. The spill prevention barrier provided by the bunker arm's gas detector provides redundancy with the receiving vessel's bunker station gas detector. That is, if the gas detector on the connection assembly fails, the gas detector on the receiving vessel may activate the linked ESD systems. The dispersion prevention barriers provided by the bunker arm have an overlapping coverage (i.e. redundancy) with the receiving vessel's water spray system in the bunker station.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide the ammonia bunker delivery system102for transferring of ammonia bunker fuel. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia bunker delivery system102enables the safe and expedient transfer of ammonia bunker fuel from one ship to another. Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system102minimizes risk to the crews and expedite bunkering. The ammonia bunker delivery system102is designed to be able to perform the entire bunkering procedure automatically, with human supervision and control happening in a safe and secure location. For example, ship's bridge or a dedicated control room. In addition to preparing the bunker station158to receive fuel (e.g. removing the bunker flange blank), the ammonia bunker delivery system102allows the crew to monitor the bunkering operation from a safe location.

Further, the ammonia bunker delivery system102expedites bunkering and enable automation by compensating for a wide range of relative motions between the bunkering vessel and the receiving vessel106. When installed on a vessel with dynamic positioning capability, the ammonia bunker delivery system102allows for bunkering to take place without the need for auxiliary tender vessels, fenders, or lines securing the vessels to each other.