Underground storage reservoir - for cold or hot products surrounded by parallel boreholes for circulating heat exchange medium

摘要

Gases or liquids, specially liquefied gases, can be stored underground in storage reservoirs at a temp. different from the ambient temp. Boreholes are drilled in the rock parallel to the insulating shell of the reservoir. A medium is circulated through these boreholes to stabilise the temp. by a heat exchange. This system is equally suitable for hot and cold prods. When liquefied petroleum or natural gas is stored, the stability and the sealing properties of the outer walls are improved and the sublimation of ice is controlled, thereby preventing damage to the all insulation. Any leakage losses can be recovered and safe storage conditions are maintained.