Multi-Product Tank

Abstract

A means of storing multiple bulk liquids inside one storage tank which involves the installation of flexible internal tank(s) where such internal tank(s) comprise at least partially rigid end caps ( 12 ) and flexible membrane side walls ( 14 ), and/or internal bladders ( 15 ). Theses internal tanks and/or bladders are compatible with physical conditions of large bulk storage tanks ans potentially capable of storing thousand of tons. The development of multi-product tanks allows tank-farm operators great flexibility in the logistical operation of storing a range of incompatible liquids, and avoids exhaustive tank clean out procedures that are normally required when switching large tanks from one product to another product, especially where incompatible specifications are intolerant of cross-contamination.

1 . A multi-product storage tank comprising:
 (a) a first tank shell comprising a bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom thereby adapting the shell to contain liquid;   (b) a second tank disposed within the first tank wherein the second tank comprises at least one partially rigid end cap and flexible, fluid-tight, membrane side wall attached to the end cap thereby defining a first space between the first tank shell and the second tank wherein a first liquid can be stored in isolation from the contents at the second tank.   
   
   
       2 . The multi-product tank of  claim 1 , wherein the second tank comprises two end caps where one or both of the end caps comprises a rigid outer annulus. 
   
   
       3 . The multi-product tank of  claim 1 , wherein the second tank is restrained from direct contact with the side wall of the first tank shell. 
   
   
       4 . The multi-product tank of  claim 1 , wherein the second tank is disposed within a porous and or flexible support means positioned between the second inner tank and the side well of the first tank shell, wherein the support means is adapted to restrain the second tank from direst contact with the side wall of the first tank shell. 
   
   
       5 . The multi-product tank of  claim 1 , wherein the second tank has its attitude monitored and adjusted to ensure stable floating dynamics. 
   
   
       6 . A multi-product storage tank comprising:
 (a) a first tank shell comprising a bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom thereby adapting the shell to contain a first liquid;   (b) a support means disposed within the tank shell and fixed to the tank shell; and   (c) a flexible, fluid-tight bladder disposed within the support means, wherein the flexile bladder is adapted to storing a second liquid, thereby defining a first space between the first tank shell and the flexible bladder wherein a first liquid can be stored in isolation from the contents of the bladder.   
   
   
       7 . The multi-product tank of  claim 6  wherein the tank further comprises wireless sensors capable of monitoring the position or orientation of the bladder. 
   
   
       8 . The multi-product tank of  claim 6 , wherein the tank further comprises buoyancy adjusting devices attached to bladder or any piping associated with the bladder. 
   
   
       9 . The multi-product tank of  claim 6  wherein the support means comprises a ridged porous wall. 
   
   
       10 . The multi-product tank of  claim 6  wherein the support means comprises a flexible wall.