Optimization approach of insulation thickness of non-vacuum cryogenic storage tank

Abstract

Cryogenic insulation systems, with proper materials selection and execution, can offer the highest levels of thermal performance. Insulations are listed in order of increasing performance and, generally, in order of increasing cost. The specific insulation to be used for a particular application is determined through a compromise between cost, ease of application and the effectiveness of the insulation. Consequently, materials, representative test conditions, and engineering approach for the particular application are crucial to achieve the optimum result. The present work is based on energy cost balance for optimizing the thickness of insulated chambers, using foamed or multi layered cryogenic shell. The considered insulation is a uniformly applied outer layer whose thickness varies with the initial and boundary conditions of the studied vessel under steady-state radial heat transfer. An expression of the optimal insulation thickness derived from the total cost function and depending on the geometrical parameters of the container is presented.