Buffer tank
Buffer tank protection with nitrogen
Buffer tanks are an important part of a greenhouse heating system in horticulture and of a geothermal heating system. Proper protection of these heat storage tanks against leakage, explosion and corrosion ensures a longer service life and guarantees business continuity. Nitrogen offers a solution for protecting buffer tanks from the inside.
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Risks of rust and pressure differences in buffer tanks
Buffer tanks are designed for long-term use, but are exposed to various risks, including rusting and pressure variations. Rust forms when the tank comes into contact with oxygen and moisture, leading to damage. In addition, temperature changes and varying water levels cause pressure differences in the tank. These pressure differences can lead to a vacuum or overpressure, resulting in the risk of implosion or explosion of the tank. Such problems not only cause damage to the buffer tank itself, but also compromise the safety of the entire system.
Presscon offers various products and solutions to effectively protect buffer tanks from these hazards. We specialize in the design, construction and maintenance of nitrogen expansion systems and pressure control systems specifically designed to protect buffer tanks.
Protection of buffer tanks by pressure control
Central heating systems in the horticultural industry store their heat in a vertical or horizontal buffer tank. Buffer tanks are not completely filled with water, but there is an expansion space above the water. In a vertical buffer tank, this space is directly above the water in the tank. In a horizontal heat storage tank, the expansion space is also directly above the water in the heat storage tank, but it may also be located in a separate expansion tank.
The expansion chamber is designed to give the water in the central heating system room to expand and contract as it warms or cools. In this process, the pressure in the expansion chamber also changes.
Vernit and Hornit expansion system
Our VERNIT or HORNIT expansion system monitors the pressure in the expansion chamber. If the pressure is too high, a pressure relief valve allows the extra air to escape. If the pressure is too low, the VERNIT or HORNIT expansion system delivers nitrogen to re-pressurize the expansion chamber.
The nitrogen generator of the VERNIT HORNIT expansion system delivers an air mixture with a nitrogen concentration of 99.0 vol. % N2. The system uses nitrogen because it is an inert gas. Inert gas has the property of preventing rust at high concentration. The VERNIT HORNIT expansion system always ensures that a blanket of nitrogen is present in the expansion chamber within the buffer tank and that it is maintained at a constant overpressure.
Our expansion systems
We make our expansion system in two different types:
Both systems consist of a nitrogen generator with a compressed air compressor, a set of pressure sensors that measure the water level and pressure at the top of a buffer tank, and a control module that controls the nitrogen generator.
- VERNIT, the expansion system regulates the pressure of the nitrogen blanket in the vertical heat storage tank.
- HORNIT, the expansion system regulates the total system pressure in a horizontal heat storage tank. This is done directly or through an external expansion vessel.
Both systems consist of a nitrogen generator with a compressed air compressor, a set of pressure sensors that measure the water level and pressure at the top of a buffer tank, and a control module that controls the nitrogen generator.
- Monitor and control air pressure
- Keeps the pressure constant
- Efficient nitrogen cap
- Measure water levels
- ELC - SLC buffer tank measurement
- PLUG & PLAY installation
- Monitor and control air pressure
- Keeps the pressure constant
- Efficient nitrogen cap
- Measure water levels
- Adjustable to desired blow-off pressure
- Overpressure protection
- Protection against negative pressure (vacuum)
- Suitable for vertical buffer tanks
- Custom development possible
- Working pressure valve for constant pressure
- Moves heat between storage tanks
- Ensures equal mass in storage tanks
- Can determine fluid direction
Control water level of buffer tanks
In addition to pressure management of the nitrogen blanket, the VERNIT HORNIT expansion system is also a monitoring device for the water level in the buffer tank. By using pressure sensors, the system determines the height of the water level. When the water level is too high or too low, the VERNIT HORNIT expansion system gives the appropriate error or alarm message and can send a stop signal to other relevant devices.
Water level monitoring is important for maintaining the buffer tank. It prevents the water level from getting too high and damaging the buffer tank roof. It also prevents the water level from getting too low, leading to air in the heat supply spray tube and in the central heating network.
These are important features for maintaining the buffer tank and maintaining the central heating system.
Pressure relief valves
In addition to protection against rust, pressure control in a buffer tank is critical to the safety and functionality of the system. Pressure differences can occur due to fluctuations in temperature or changes in the water level in the tank. This leads to dangerous situations such as vacuum formation or overpressure, which can damage or even burst the tank.
Presscon offers several products specifically designed for buffer tank pressure control. Over- and under-pressurizers ensure that the pressure in the tank is kept constant. When a vacuum threatens, a valve automatically opens to admit outside air, restoring pressure in the tank.
Conversely, if overpressure occurs, excess nitrogen will escape from the tank, normalizing the pressure in the buffer tank. These systems are suitable for both vertical and horizontal tanks and can be easily installed regardless of the size, insulation or specifications of the tank and connections.
The Presscon PV-Series vacuum overpressure protectors provide protection for your vertical buffer tank from overpressure and vacuum. The vacuum protector is placed on the roof of the vertical buffer tank and ensures that the buffer tank is protected from vacuum and from overpressure. These systems are suitable for tanks with capacities ranging from a few to thousands of liters.
Advanced monitoring and leak detection
For maximum safety and control, the pressure and water levels in the buffer tank can be continuously monitored. Presscon offers advanced monitoring solutions that allow you to remotely control the pressure and water level in the tank. Sensors continuously measure nitrogen pressure and water level in the buffer tank. This is also applicable when using boilers and other related products.
Anomalies, such as a leak in the tank, immediately generate an alarm that can be linked to a central computer. This system makes it possible to intervene quickly before damage occurs, extending the life of the tank and ensuring business continuity.
Conclusion
A buffer tank is an essential product in various industrial and agricultural applications. It is essential that these tanks be effectively protected against corrosion, pressure variations and other hazards that can affect the safety and life of the tank. Presscon offers a wide range of specialized products and solutions designed to protect buffer tanks and increase their efficiency.
With innovative technologies such as nitrogen expansion systems, overpressure and underpressure protectors, and advanced monitoring, companies can rely on the durability and safety of their storage systems. Whether it is a buffer tank for storing hot water, oil or other liquids, Presscon has the expertise and products to meet any challenge and provide a customized solution. This includes the protection and optimization of systems in combination with a heat pump, where the right selection of products is crucial for efficient operation.
In addition, these systems can be used to safely store liquids and control the discharge of excess pressure. This helps prevent stored liquids and gases from damaging the buffer tank or interfering with its operation.
