Using Advanced Fuel Control System Algorithms to Reduce Tank Top Cracking on CG Class Ships

摘要

CG-47 Class ships have a history of tank top cracking with their compensated fuel storage tanks. Compensated fuel tanks are tanks that are always completely filled with a mixture of fuel and seawater. Due to the head pressure of the fuel/seawater, the tanks are also constantly under pressure. When the ships refuel, this pressure increases depending on the flow rate of the fuel going into the tanks. The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether pressure from refueling operations can be a contributing factor for CG-47 Class fuel storage tank cracking. The CG-47 Class has a control system that is used to monitor and control fuel levels and tank pressures during a refueling. The paper will compare the current CG-47 Class fuel control system design to other Navy class ships compensated system designs, specifically DDG, LHA and LHD Class ships. It will address current refueling procedures and look at data that was gathered from fueling operations. The paper will look at potential future control system components and refueling algorithms that can be used to reduce the chances of future tank top cracking and will also look at the impact on the ship refueling process. Recommendations to prevent fuel storage tank over-pressurization and improve fuel fill time will also be presented.