Store compressed natural gas in a stationary sphere
Offering a 48-in. inner diameter, freestanding spheres store compressed natural gas at refueling facilities. To manufacture the spheres, interior of two shells is sandblasted to create a smooth, corrosion-free surface. Halves are then welded together with more than 1 mile of steel wire, mounted on a base plate, topped with an ASME pressure-relief valve and fitted with a drain valve. Each sphere is examined by an ASME inspector and certified with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. According to the company, the spheres offer benefits over storage cylinders, such as a lower price, versatile design and fast delivery. Options range from skid-mounted or stacked configurations to custom sizes. Storage spheres for hydrogen, oxygen and other gases are available. Allied Equipment, Odessa, Texas