U.S. patent application number 09/951590 was filed with the patent office on 2003-03-13 for containment for dispensers.
This patent application is currently assigned to S. Bravo Systems, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bravo, Sergio M., Mukai, Don K..
Application Number | 20030047212 09/951590 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25491875 |
Filed Date | 2003-03-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030047212 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bravo, Sergio M. ; et
al. |
March 13, 2003 |
Containment for dispensers
Abstract
A sump for inhibiting leakage of liquid includes a double wall
for at least part of the sump, and an interstitial space between
the double wall. An indicator liquid is located in the space, and a
sensor is in fluid communication with the space such that a change
in the pressure or liquid level in the interstitial space causes
the sensor to indicate leakage into or from the interstitial space.
The double wall includes a base, a wall directed upwardly from the
base of the sump, and the upwardly directed wall includes an
angular portion being directed at an angle from the base greater
than 90 degrees relative to the base. A remote location of that
portion is connected with a substantially upright wall portion for
the sump. An aperture for an electrical conduit is located in the
angular portion.
Inventors: |
Bravo, Sergio M.; (Los
Alamitos, CA) ; Mukai, Don K.; (Pasadena,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OPPENHEIMER WOLFF & DONNELLY LLP
38TH FLOOR
2029 CENTURY PARK EAST
LOS ANGELES
CA
90067-3024
US
|
Assignee: |
S. Bravo Systems, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
25491875 |
Appl. No.: |
09/951590 |
Filed: |
September 12, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
137/312 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 137/5762 20150401;
G01M 3/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
137/312 |
International
Class: |
B65B 001/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A sump comprising: a base; a wall directed upwardly from the
base of the sump towards a top thereby forming a cavity; and the
upwardly directed wall including an angular portion being directed
at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees relative to the
base and a remote location of that portion being connected with an
substantially upright wall portion for the sump.
2. A sump as claimed in claim 1 wherein the angular portion
extending between the base and the substantially upright wall
portion extends at about 135 degrees relative to the base and at
about 135 degrees relative to an upright wall of the sump.
3. A sump as claimed in claim 2 including an aperture through the
angular portion.
4. A sump as claimed in claim 3 wherein the aperture includes a
fitting for receiving a conduit, the conduit being directed
substantially at right angles to the angular portion and the
conduit including a bend within the sump, the bend being for
directing the conduit substantially upwardly and parallel to a
upright wall of the sump.
5. A sump as claimed in claim 3 including a bend in the conduit,
the bend being in a position removed from the fitting and outwardly
located relative to the sump such that the conduit portion after
the bend is directed substantially parallel to the base of the
sump.
6. A sump as claimed in claim 4 including a bend in the conduit,
the bend being in a position removed from the fitting and outwardly
located relative to the sump such that the conduit is directed
substantially parallel to the base of the sump.
7. A sump as claimed in claim 4 wherein the conduit is integral and
continuous between a position removed from the sump and crossing
through an aperture in the sump and upwardly in the sump.
8. A sump as claimed in claim 1 wherein the cross section of the
sump viewed from the top is substantially rectangular.
9. A sump as claimed in claim 1 wherein an end view of the sump
includes a substantially horizontal top, a vertical side wall, the
base extending substantially parallel to the top and for a distance
partially equal to the distance of the top, and the angular portion
extends upwardly to a line about equal to the end of the top, and a
vertically directed relatively shorter upwardly directed wall
extending between the end of the top and the end of the angular
portion remote from the base.
10. A sump as claimed in claim 1 including at least one aperture in
the upright wall, the aperture being to receive a pipe containing
fluid and for directing the pipe through the sump wall and upwardly
to a position above the sump, the upright wall being the wall not
directly connected to the angular portion of the sump.
11. A sump as claimed in claim 10 including an aperture in the
angular portion, the aperture being in a position relatively closer
to the upright wall connected to the angular portion than to the
position of joinder of the angular portion with the base.
12. A sump as claimed in claim 1 wherein at least one of the base
or the wall of the sump is formed by at least two elements and
include said interstitial space between the two elements.
13. A sump as claimed in claim 1 including a mouth of the sump at
the top, the mouth being for receiving a gasoline dispenser and
means for passage through the sump of one or more pipes connecting
the gasoline dispenser with the environment outside of the
sump.
14. A sump as claimed in claim 13 wherein one pipe is for directing
gasoline from an environment outside of the sump through the sump
and to the dispenser and including a conduit for directing
electrical conductors from an environment outside of the sump
through the sump to the dispenser.
15. A sump as claimed in claim 14 wherein the gasoline pipe
includes a portion vertically directed through the sump, and an
elbow to direct the pipe horizontally, and a connector through a
upright wall of the sump to connect with the elbow, the connector
being directed outside of the sump for connection to the
environment beyond the sump.
16. A sump as claimed in claim 15 wherein the electrical conduit
includes a vertically directed portion, a portion angled at about
135 degrees relative to the vertical portion and passing through an
aperture in the angular portion of the sump, and a further bend in
the conduit of about 135 degrees at a position remote and outside
of the sump, the conduit being for directing electrical conductors
from outside of the sump through the sump and above the sump.
17. A sump comprising: a base; a wall directed upwardly from the
base of the sump towards a top thereby forming a cavity; the
upwardly directed wall including an angular portion being directed
at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees relative to the
base and a remote location of that portion being connected with an
substantially upright wall portion for the sump, and a mouth of the
sump at the top, the mouth being for receiving a gasoline dispenser
and means for passage through the sump of one or more pipes
connecting the gasoline dispenser with the environment outside of
the sump.
18. A sump as claimed in claim 17 wherein the angular portion
extending between the base and the substantially upright wall
portion extends at about 135 degrees relative to the base and at
about 135 degrees relative to an upright wall of the sump; and an
aperture through the angular portion, and the aperture being for
receiving a fitting for receiving a conduit, the conduit being
directed substantially at right angles to the angular portion.
19. A sump as claimed in claim 18 including bends in the conduit,
the bends being at positions removed from the fitting.
20. A sump as claimed in claim 18 wherein the conduit is integral
and continuous between a position removed from the sump and
crossing through an aperture in the sump and upwardly in the
sump.
21. A sump as claimed in claim 17 wherein the cross section of the
sump viewed from the top is substantially rectangular, and wherein
an end view of the sump includes a substantially horizontal top, a
vertical side wall, the base extending substantially parallel to
the top and for a distance partially equal to the distance of the
top, and the angular portion extends upwardly to a line about equal
to the end of the top, and a vertically directed relatively shorter
upwardly directed wall extending between the end of the top and the
end of the angular portion remote from the base.
22. A sump as claimed in claim 17 including at least one aperture
in the upright wall, the aperture being to receive a pipe
containing fluid and for directing the pipe through the sump wall
and upwardly to a position above the sump, the upright wall being
the wall not directly connected to the angular portion of the
sump.
23. A sump as claimed in claim 17 including an aperture in the
angular portion, the aperture being in a position relatively closer
to the upright wall connected to the angular portion than to the
position of joinder of the angular portion with the base.
24. A sump as claimed in claim 17 wherein one pipe is for directing
gasoline from an environment outside of the sump through the sump
and to the dispenser and including a conduit for directing
electrical conductors from an environment outside of the sump
through the sump to the dispenser, and wherein the gasoline pipe
includes a portion vertically directed through the sump, and an
elbow to direct the pipe horizontally, and a connector through a
upright wall of the sump to connect with the elbow, the connector
being directed outside of the sump for connection to the
environment beyond the sump.
25. A sump as claimed in claim 24 wherein the electrical conduit
includes a vertically directed portion, a portion angled at about
135 degrees relative to the vertical portion and passing through an
aperture in the angular portion of the sump, and a further bend in
the conduit of about 135 degrees at a position remote and outside
of the sump, the conduit being for directing electrical conductors
from outside of the sump through the sump and above the sump.
26. A sump comprising: a base; a wall directed upwardly from the
base of the sump towards a top thereby forming a cavity; the
upwardly directed wall including an angular portion being directed
at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees relative to the
base and a remote location of that portion being connected with an
substantially upright wall portion for the sump; a mouth of the
sump at the top, the mouth being for receiving a gasoline dispenser
and means for passage through the sump of one or more pipes
connecting the gasoline dispenser with the environment outside of
the sump; and an aperture through the angular portion, and the
aperture being for receiving a fitting for receiving a conduit, the
conduit being directed substantially at right angles to the angular
portion, and bends in the conduit, the bends being at positions
removed from the fitting.
27. A sump as claimed in claim 26 wherein the angular portion
extending between the base and the substantially upright wall
portion extends at about 135 degrees relative to the base and at
about 135 degrees relative to an upright wall of the sump,
28. A sump as claimed in claim 26 wherein the conduit is integral
and continuous between a position removed from the sump and
crossing through an aperture in the sump and upwardly in the
sump.
29. A sump as claimed in claim 26 including at least one aperture
in the upright wall, the aperture being to receive a pipe
containing fluid and for directing the pipe through the sump wall
and upwardly to a position above the sump, the upright wall being
the wall not directly connected to the angular portion of the sump,
and an aperture in the angular portion, the aperture being in a
position relatively closer to the upright wall connected to the
angular portion than to the position of joinder of the angular
portion with the base.
30. A sump for location below a ground level and for cooperation
with a tank sump for storing gasoline for subsequent delivery to a
gasoline dispenser comprising: a base; a wall directed upwardly
from the base of the sump towards a top thereby forming a cavity;
and the base being for location on a tank sump collar, the collar
giving access to tank sump for storing gasoline.
31. A sump as claimed in claim 31 wherein at least one of the base
or the wall of the sump is formed by at least two elements and
includes said interstitial space between the two elements.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application relates to U.S. patent application Ser. No.
______ (Attorney Docket No. 21389-11), entitled "DISPENSER
CONTAINMENT", filed contemporaneously with this application. The
contents of that application are incorporated by reference
herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to sumps to contain leakages. In
particular the invention is directed to containing leakages of
toxic liquids, such as petroleum or other oil based products. A
particular application of the technology of the invention relates
to protecting the environment from gasoline spills at locations
where consumers obtain gasoline at dispensers, pumps and the
like.
[0003] Current requirements are for periodic testing of leakage
around gasoline dispensers at consumer gasoline stations. This
means that leakage could occur in between the periods of testing
thereby increasing the oil company's potential liabilities. A
reason why current dispenser containment designs can not be tested
continuously is because the inside of a dispenser containment box
or sump can not be filled with liquid. The liquid would most likely
rust the many components inside the box, and the regulatory
agencies do not allow standing fluid and the manufacturers do not
allow for the kind of weight that would expose the dispenser
sump.
[0004] Visual inspections to see whether the dispenser sump is
leaking is impossible. Also it is desirable to change to requiring
a higher form of secondary containment and/or monitoring of liquid.
A pipe containing the liquid is termed the first form of
containment and the wall of the sump is called the second form of
containment.
[0005] Presently there are no regulations that require a tertiary
form of containment or a monitoring of the integrity of the
secondary or tertiary form of containment. This may change if a
product, method or system is introduced in the industry with a
higher degrees of integrity and protection against leakage than the
presently known and used systems, methods and products. The present
invention is directed to providing that higher degree or level of
containment.
[0006] Testing in California for gasoline station secondary systems
is to be at initial installation, six months later and every 3
years thereafter. The problem that everyone in the industry faces
is how to verify that the system is not leaking. If there is
leakage, there is a need to easily trouble shoot to identify where
the leakage problem is located. At initial installation of a sump
with dispenser, testing is easily accomplished by visually
inspecting the box from the outside prior to cementing over the
entire job-site. The problem now faced by the industry, as a whole
is how do you test secondary containment as simply, reliably
without major cost to the end user.
[0007] The most commonly used method in the industry is to test the
dispenser containment with water filling the containment sump up
and utilizing very sensitive float sensors to speed up the test.
This involves filling a dispenser sump up with as much as 50 to 60
gallons of water. Should a leak be found the most time consuming
issue is then locating the leak that can not be viewed from the
outside of the sump since the containment unit is buried in under
concrete. Finding and repairing a leak is the most time consuming
and costly part of the tests. In addition, the water used must then
be removed and treated as a hazardous material adding to the cost
and complicates the process of testing.
[0008] Other methods of testing that have been considered were
vacuum and pressure testing of dispenser containment which are not
practical in dispenser containment because of the pipe extending
upwards through the opening within the dispenser. The only way to
pressurize a conventional dispenser sump is to remove the dispenser
which costs over $1,000 per dispenser and the shutdown of the
station.
[0009] Unlike dispenser sumps, tank sumps can be tested under
vacuum and pressure because every part contained within a tank sump
can be covered without cost. The test is subject to a much more
stringent requirement since air can find much smaller leaks
involving electrical wiring leaks and smaller cracks in the sump or
its accessories. Air testing usually results in finding leaks in
areas that are typically not required to tested by regulators.
[0010] The present invention is directed to providing a tertiary
form of containment and/or providing a simplified means of
monitoring substantially easily and/or relatively continuously the
second form of containment.
[0011] Another issue relating to sumps, revolves around the need
for the piping containing electrical lines into a hazardous
material area to be buried 24" below a concrete surface and the
pipe must be made of a continuous run or rigid steel conduit. As a
result, the electrical fittings are the most commonly damaged
fitting. Even flexible fittings are often bent beyond the
recommended entry angle 15 degrees maximum.
[0012] Typically, the worst situation is when an electrician needs
to run conduit to the side closest to inside of a dispenser
containment wall. In addition, a typical 90 degrees minimum bend
radius may only be 8 inches. To compensate for inability to bring
an electrical conduit close to the wall the electrical contractor
often over-loops the conduit by 110 degrees and return it back by
20 degrees to align the conduit with the dispenser above the sump.
This typically is a very inaccurate method, which then leads the
electrical contractor to abuse the penetration fitting to
compensate. This leads to failure of a fitting. An easier method
would be to bring the conduit through the bottom of the sump as in
shallow pans, which alleviate stress to the fittings. However, this
also leaves the fitting on a bottom of a sump exposed to fuels that
may breakdown the seals leading to an earlier failure.
[0013] The invention is also directed to having an improved
technique for passing piping and conduits into and through a sump
wall and to retain integrity and alignment with a dispenser above
the sump.
[0014] These objects and other objects of the invention are
achieved by the invention in the manner set out below.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] According to the invention, there is provided a sump for
inhibiting leakage of liquid contained therein. There is a double
wall for at least part of the sump. The sump defines a cavity for
containing liquid. There is an interstitial space between the
double wall. An indicator liquid is located in the space.
[0016] A sensor is in fluid communication with the interstitial
space such that a change in the pressure or liquid level in the
interstitial space causes the sensor to indicate leakage into or
from the interstitial space.
[0017] Also according to the invention the sump includes a base,
and a wall directed upwardly from the base of the sump towards the
top, thereby forming a cavity for liquid.
[0018] An angular portion of the upwardly directed wall is directed
at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees and a remote
location of that angular portion is connected with an upright wall
to the sump.
[0019] According to the invention there is provided a system of
dispenser containment utilizing a primary, namely an inner, and a
secondary, namely an outer, wall. An interstitial space between the
two walls traps an interstitial fluid to test the integrity of the
dispenser containment and the fittings that pass through the
walls.
[0020] Preferably a minimized quantity of fluid is located in the
interstitial space. This is achieved by retaining the interstitial
space as relatively small as possible. This makes the change in the
liquid level in the space enhance changes in the level to find
small leaks quickly.
[0021] In large dispenser sumps {fraction (1/10)} of a gallon
change allows one to visually see a change of 1" in the level of a
manometer or electronic sensor associated in fluid connection with
liquid in the interstitial space. The interstitial test fluid is
permanently left inside the interstitial space thereby eliminating
the need and cost to treat hazardous material cost and virtually
eliminating the dispenser containment tests.
[0022] Preferably, a manometer is employed. The manometer can be
used to identify the height at which a leak can occur. This reduces
the time to trouble shoot. The manometer can be used to measure
small volume changes either visually or through electronic float
sensors. The visual inspections are performed without the
introduction of any water inside of the dispenser sump. The
manometer can permit for visual or electronic monitoring on an
intermittent basis or on a continuously basis. Manometers are also
preferred because the amount hydraulic pressure is relatively
limited by the height over the lowest point.
[0023] The manometer is removable because the manometer may be
damaged and require to be replaced. Plastic is a preferred material
because if during the installation a pipe wrench hit the tubing,
the manometer may break before causing damage to the more expensive
containment sump.
[0024] The manometer placement at the lower part of the sump is
preferred. Testing of the sump with air pressure or vacuum or even
helium requires the interstitial fluid must be removed first from
the lowest point in the dispenser containment interstitial. Once
removed, the alternative tests are helpful in pinpointing leaks
within the sump.
[0025] The secondary wall, namely the outer wall, also allows
relatively easier trouble shooting using a variety of methods such
as manometer measurement, or pressure/vacuum or helium
measurement.
[0026] Should a sump box leak somewhere on the outside it is likely
there was no release of gasoline to the ground because of the
redundant seals in a double wall dispenser containment. Repair to
dispenser sump's fittings is a common problem and is easily
repaired inside dispenser containment with the present
invention.
[0027] Brine or Propylene Glycol solution is the preferred
interstitial fluid because of the reduced likelihood of damaging
effects of liquid freezing, namely expanding, within the
interstitial of double wall dispenser containment and it is
non-toxic. When filling the dispenser containment with brine
solution as purging air from the upper extremity is effected. A
breathing hole allows air to escape and allows the brine to
completely fill the interstitial space. The purging of air prevents
volume fluctuations due to air temperature fluctuations. This helps
minimize false alarms especially on double wall dispenser
containment with electronic level detectors.
[0028] A breather hole may need to be open because it will show
leakage better. In other cases, the hole is closed to ensure a more
redundantly sealed system.
[0029] The configuration of container on the sump box with an
angular portion has an internal angular relationship with adjacent
walls on either side of about 135 degrees and has advantages. This
degrees relationship is akin to an outside angular relationship of
45 degrees angle at the bottom of the sump box and the upright of
the sump box. This relationship has valuable beneficial advantages
to an electrical contractor fitting electrical conductors and pipes
in and through the sump box.
[0030] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed
description of the preferred embodiments which makes reference to
several drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a sump illustrating the
double wall interstitial space manometer connected with the
interstitial space, the gas line or pipe in and out of the sump and
the electrical conduit in and out of the sump.
[0032] FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectional view showing the double wall
and the interstitial space.
[0033] FIG. 3 is a prior art representation of a sump embedded in
concrete, the sump being single walled and having an electrical
conduit arcing from outside the sump, through the sump and into the
body of the sump.
[0034] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a different prior art
configuration of a sump buried in concrete, the sump being single
walled, and having two other configurations of an electrical
conduit entering the sump from outside, the conduit passing through
a fitting and arcing upwardly in the sump.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a representation of a fitting passing through the
double wall of a sump, the fitting being for receiving a gas
line.
[0036] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional representation of a fitting
passing through a double wall sump, the fitting being for passage
of an electrical conduit.
[0037] FIG. 7 is a representation of an interstitial wall fluidly
connected with a column and having a sensor in the column to
determine variations of liquid pressure or volume in the
interstitial space, the sensor being connected with an
indicator.
[0038] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the sump showing
the interstitial wall, three parts for three different gas lines to
enter the sump, and a manometer located at one end of the sump.
[0039] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the sump as viewed from
the top showing three gasoline inlets, three gasoline outlets, and
two apertures for receiving electrical conduits and a test
manometer located toward one side of the sump.
[0040] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a tank sump according
to the prior art.
[0041] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a tank sump with a
bottom for containment
[0042] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a tank sump with a
double wall and bottom and interstitial space for containment.
[0043] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of a sump showing the
interstitial wall, one port for a gas line to enter the sump, an
electronic float sensor with a manometer located at one end of the
sump, and an electronic sensor for secondary containment.
[0044] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of part of a sump
showing the interstitial wall, a float sensor with a manometer, and
a mechanical linkage between the sensor and a valve for operating
the shut off valve.
[0045] FIG. 15 is a different version of monitor with the sump.
[0046] FIG. 16 is a version of monitor outside the sump.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0047] In the following description of the preferred embodiments
reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form the part
thereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration of specific
embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
and functional changes may be made without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0048] A sump for inhibiting leakage of liquid contained therein
comprises a double wall for at least part of the sump. The sump
defines a cavity for containing liquid. There is an interstitial
space between the double wall and there is a fluid in the
interstitial space. A sensor is in fluid communication with the
fluid in the interstitial space such that a change in the condition
of the fluid in the interstitial space causes the sensor to
indicate leakage into or from the interstitial space.
[0049] There are means for locating a gasoline dispenser above the
sump, the sump being for containing liquid leaking from at least
one of the dispenser or a pipe directed from a source of gasoline
to the gasoline dispenser and the pipe being directed at least
partly through the sump in its connection between the source and
the dispenser.
[0050] The sensor is a manometer, and the manometer is selectively
mounted in the cavity within an inner wall of the double walls and
wherein the manometer is in fluid communication with the
interstitial space. An indictor fluid is a liquid, and the
indicator liquid is preferably brine, the brine being selectively
colored. The brine extends from the interstitial space into a
manometer. The manometer is mounted at the base of the sump and is
directed substantially vertically within the sump, and the
manometer includes a substantially transparent column whereby the
brine level can be sensed.
[0051] There is a measure mounted in adjacency with the manometer
column such that changes in the liquid level in the manometer can
be detected against a measuring scale. The manometer is separable
from the sump, separation being effected by releasing a mounting
element. The mounting element is located with the base of the sump
and extends between an inner wall through the interstitial space
and to an outer wall of the sump. The manometer column is made of
plastic.
[0052] The interstitial space is retained relatively small thereby
to permit a relatively small quantity of interstitial fluid to be
contained therein such that relatively small changes in fluid
condition in the interstitial space. Such changes are affected
either by the ingress of fluid from the cavity through an inner
wall to the interstitial space or the egress of fluid from an outer
wall to an area surrounding the outer wall. This makes it
relatively easily detected by changes reflected in the
manometer.
[0053] The interstitial space includes bridges, the bridges
selectively being formed by fiberglass and the bridges acting to
provide enhanced strength collectively to inner and outer walls of
the sump. The outer wall of the interstitial space extends in
height up at least up to one-half the height of an inner wall of
the sump. The outer wall extends to a height above the level of a
fitting for located tubing passing through the outer wall and the
inner wall of the sump wall.
[0054] A breathing hole can be located towards the upper limit of
the interstitial space, the breathing hole permitting purging of
air relative to the interstitial space, thereby to minimize volume
fluctuations in fluid level in the interstitial space due to
temperature differences.
[0055] The double wall includes a base, a wall directed upwardly
from the base of the sump towards the top thereby forming a cavity
for liquid, and the upwardly directed wall includes an angular
portion being directed at an angle from the base greater than 90
degrees relative to the base and a remote location of that portion
being connected with a substantially upright wall portion for the
sump. The angular portion extending between the base and the
substantially upright wall portion extends at about 135 degrees
relative to the base and at about 135 degrees relative to an
upright wall of the sump. The sump is essentially four sided,
namely a base, a first upright wall, a second upright wall, and the
angular portion between the base and one of the upright walls.
[0056] There is an aperture through the angular portion. The
aperture includes a fitting for receiving a conduit, the conduit
being directed substantially at right angles to the angular
portion. The conduit includes a bend within the sump, the bend
being for directing the conduit substantially upwardly and parallel
to a upright wall of the sump. There is also a bend in the conduit
in a position removed from the fitting and outwardly located
relative to the sump such that the conduit portion after the bend
is directed substantially parallel to the base of the sump. The
bend in the conduit in a position removed from the fitting and
outwardly located relative to the sump is such that the conduit is
directed substantially parallel to the base of the sump. The
conduit is integral and continuous between a position removed from
the sump and crosses through an aperture in the sump and upwardly
in the sump.
[0057] The cross section of the sump viewed from the top is
substantially rectangular. An end view of the sump includes a
substantially horizontal top, a vertical side wall, the base
extending substantially parallel to the top and for a distance
partially equal to the distance of the top. The angular portion
extends upwardly to a line about equal to the end of the top, and
there is a vertically directed relatively shorter upwardly directed
wall extending between the end of the top and the end of the
angular portion remote from the base.
[0058] There is at least one aperture in the upright wall. The
aperture is to receive a pipe containing fluid and for directing
the pipe through the sump wall and upwardly to a position above the
sump, the upright wall being the wall not directly connected to the
angular portion of the sump.
[0059] There is also an aperture in the angular portion, the
aperture being in a position relatively closer to the upright wall
connected to the angular portion than to the position of joinder of
the angular portion with the base.
[0060] The sump includes a mouth at the top, the mouth being for
receiving a gasoline dispenser and means for passage through the
sump of one or more pipes connecting the gasoline dispenser with
the environment outside of the sump. One pipe is for directing
gasoline from an environment outside of the sump through the sump
and to the dispenser and including a conduit for directing
electrical conductors from an environment outside of the sump
through the sump to the dispenser.
[0061] The electrical conduit includes a vertically directed
portion, a portion angled at about 135 degrees relative to the
vertical portion and passing through an aperture in the angular
portion of the sump, and a further bend in the conduit of about 135
degrees at a position remote and outside of the sump, the conduit
being for directing electrical conductors from outside of the sump
through the sump and above the sump.
[0062] A sump 10 for inhibiting the leakage of liquid from the sump
includes an inner wall 12 and an outer wall 14. Between these walls
12 and 14 there is an interstitial spatial member 16. The outer
wall 14 can be formed of a suitable metal. The inner wall 12 can be
of a fiberglass or other material or vice versa or both can be of
fiberglass or other suitable synthetic material. The interstitial
space 16 forms bridges of fiberglass between the walls 12 and 14
and thereby provides extra reinforcing to the walls such that
pressure or vacuum applied to the inside of the sump on wall 12 or
pressure or vacuum applied on the outside of wall 12 or the outside
of wall 16 reacts against the interstitial space. The topmost
portion of wall 12 above the joined a part 18 between the two walls
acts to receive a fitting 20 for receiving a dispenser 22. The
dispenser 22 can be for receiving gasoline from a central reservoir
and dispensing that to vehicles.
[0063] With reference to FIG. 5, they can be seen in aperture 24 in
the walls 12 interstitial space 16 and wall 14. The aperture 24
receives a fitting 26 which has an outside component 28 and an
internal component 30. The outside component 28 and internal
component 30 are joined together by means of multiple walls which
are arranged circumferentially around the aperture 24. The bolts 32
pass through apertures formed around the main aperture 24.
Tightening of the bolts 32 causes the fittings 26 and 30 to be
drawn tightly together and thus form an effective seal around the
aperture 24. The members 26 and 30 have lateral flange-like
elements 34 and 36, respectively, to affect the seal against the
outer wall 14 and the inner wall 12 as indicated. Through the bore
38 passes a gasoline pipe 40. The gasoline pipe 40 is directed
transversely or horizontally as shown in FIG. 1.
[0064] Around the outside of the pipe 40 there is another secondary
pipe 140 which is engagement with the seals 34 and 36. Between the
inside of the fitting 26 and the outside of the pipe 40 there is
communication with the interstitial space 16 so that fluid from the
space 16 fills that space 142. Thus leakage in the seals 34 and 36
can be determined by changes in the interstitial space 16.
[0065] There is an elbow 42 within the sump 10 which turns the
gasoline pipe upwardly and this is connected with a flexible
coupling 44 which is in turn connected to an upwardly directed pipe
46 which exits the fitting 20 and is directed towards the dispenser
22.
[0066] On a different wall of the sump 10, namely an angular
projection wall 48 there is a second aperture 50. The left-hand
wall 18 is connected with a base portion 52 which is then angularly
connected at about 135 degrees with the angular projection 48 of
the sump 10. The end remote from the base 52 of the angular portion
48 is connected with the upright wall on the right-hand side of the
sump. The angular interior engagement of the right-hand upwardly
directed wall and the angular portion 48 is also about 135
degrees.
[0067] The aperture 50 is located in the angular portion 48 at a
position closer to the right-hand upwardly directed wall of the
sump. In this fashion, the aperture 24 is fairly far removed from
the aperture 50, but still at a location sufficient that the
apertures can receive the appropriate conduits or pipes or
fittings.
[0068] As described in the embodiment, the sump is shown with the
aperture 24 in the left-hand wall and the aperture 50 in the
angular portion. In other embodiments, the mirror arrangement can
be provided such that the right-hand wall can be the elongated
wall, the base 252 can extend transversely and the angular portion
48 can be directed from the base to a shorter left-hand wall. This
would depend on different configurations. In yet other forms of the
invention instead of the substantially right angular configuration
illustrated different shapes of sump can be provided. As shown in
FIG. 10, the cross section of the sump 10 from the top is
substantially right angular. In other configurations, the sump
could be substantially circular.
[0069] While the specification describes particular embodiments of
the present invention, those of ordinary skill can devise
variations of the present invention without departing from the
inventive concept.
[0070] The aperture 50 receives a two-component fitting 52 and 54.
The component fitting 52 is located adjacent to the outside wall 14
and the component fitting 54 is located adjacent to the inside wall
14. The interstitial space is located between the walls 12 and 14.
An array of walls 56 are located circumferentially around the
aperture 50 and typing done off the balls causes the components 52
and 54 to be pulled together and thereby effect a seal with sealing
portions 58 and 60 which are respectively pulled tight adjacent to
the inside wall 12 and the outside wall 14 of the sump. A bolt 62
is located through the fitting 52 and 54 and this receives in a
tight relationship a conduit 64. The conduit 64 includes an inlet
portion 66 which is substantially horizontally directed a portion
68 which is substantially bent to be 135 degrees relative to the
line of the inlet portion 66 and a portion 70 which is also at
about 135 degrees relative to the line of the conduit 68. With this
construct conduit portion 68 penetrates the aperture 50
substantially at right angles to the aperture. The fitting 52 and
54 have circular clips 72 externally and 74 internally which
secures tightly the conduit portion 68 with the fitting 52, 54 so
that no leakage can occur between the sump 10 and the external
portion through the fittings 52, 54.
[0071] The fitting 52 and 54 has raised shoulders 152 and 154 which
are not in contact with the conduit 64. Interstitial fluid from the
interstitial space 16 can enter the space 156 formed by the
shoulders 152 and 154. The space 156 also extends in part between
the fittings 52 and 54.
[0072] Similarly, the pipe 40 for gasoline which passes through the
fitting 26 has one or more circular clips 74 on the outside and 78
on the inside for sealingly engaging the conduit 40 such that no
leakage can occur between the conduit 40 through the fitting
26.
[0073] With this configuration, the upright portion 70 of the
conduit 64 is retained relatively close to the right-hand upward
wall 12 and is as far removed as relatively possible from the
gasoline conduits 40, 42, 44 and 46. The relationship of the
portion 68 penetrating the fitting 52 and 54 in a right angular
fashion is arranged so that no undue pressure is placed due to
angular displacement on the members of the fitting 52 and 54. Thus,
there is no impairment of the sealing quantities of the fitting 52
and 54.
[0074] Mounted on the base portion 252 of the sump is a manometer
column 80 which is in fluid communication with the interstitial
space 16. A suitable anchorage 82 below the base portion 252 which
cooperates with a mounting ring 84 affects positive location of the
manometer on the base 252 of the sump. The manometer column 80 is a
sealed glass or plastic container and as such as responsive to the
changes in liquid level in the interstitial space in a manner which
is more fully described below. Mounted towards the upper portion of
the manometer column 80 is a scale or reading element 84 which has
a rule or measure 18 which is substantially directed parallel to
other measuring lines 86 at the top of the column 80.
[0075] As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the manometer column 80 is
located towards the end wall 86 of the sump 10. The gasoline
apertures 24 and their pipes and conduits are located towards the
end wall 88 of the sump 10. The apertures 50 for the electrical
conduit are spaced along the length 90 of the long walls of the
sump such that each of the apertures is about 1/4 of the distance
from the ends 88 and 86, respectively.
[0076] The interstitial space 16 is filled with a brine fluid which
enters the wall 92 of the column 80 and can be seen in FIG. 1. One
or more apertures can be provided to the interstitial space to
permit air to bleed from the interstitial space as necessary. Any
leakage in the wall 12 into the interstitial space 16 or leakage in
the wall 14 from the interstitial space causes the liquid level of
the brine in the interstitial space to change. Those changes are
reflected in the change in the height of the liquid in column 92 of
the manometer 80. This can easily be read on the scale 84 of the
manometer. The bleed holes would be located near the top of the
interstitial space are necessary to remove air from the
interstitial space. Once the interstitial is filled with fluid the
variance of pressure or volume due to temperature change will be
negligible so that changes in the level in the column 92 are not
dependent on the temperature.
[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 7, there is a different configuration
wherein the column 80 includes a sensor 94 which is electrically
connected through line 96 with an indicator 98. This indication
means permits for electronic sensing of the changes of the liquid
level of pressure in the column 80.
[0078] The configuration for the electrical conduit 64 provides for
a cleaner and more effective arrangement than prior art
configurations. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, there are two
prior art configurations for an elliptical conduit 100 entering a
sump 102. A sump 102 is buried in a concrete island 104 which
normally mounts a dispenser 106. The regulations require that the
conduit be a fixed distance below the surface level 108 of the
concrete of the road surface 110 or the top of the island 104. For
this reason, the conduit 100 conventionally has a first 90 degrees
angle 112 which turns the conduit from a horizontal direction 114
to a substantially perpendicular direction 116. There is a second
bend 118 in the conduit to have a horizontal portion 120 which
passes through a fitting 122 in the side wall 124 of the sump.
There is then a further 90 degrees bend 126 in the conduit which
then turns the conduit to be directed upwardly 128 in the sump. The
fitting 122 in this configuration acts with integrity, however, the
distance 130 between the upright portion 128 and the wall 124 is
substantially extended longer than is ideal. This places the
upright column 128 in the sump portion relatively too close to
gasoline tanks. The requirements are that the conduit 100 be an
integral member without any brakes such that there is safety in the
electrical leads directed through the ball of the conduit 100.
[0079] In FIG. 4 there is a different prior art configuration which
shows a conduit 150 being directed through substantially the same
angular configuration as shown in FIG. 3. However, in order to keep
the distance 152 at a minimum such that the upright portion 154 is
closely located to the wall 156 the angulation bend 158 is
relatively more tightly configured. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the
bend interacts with the end portion 160 of the fitting 162 with an
interference effect. This causes the fitting portion 160 to be
distorted and to be damaged and thereby not operate efficiently.
Additionally as shown, there can be a space 164 between the
electrical conduit 150 when it passes through the fitting 160. This
is not a desirable configuration. And yet in no different prior art
form there is a conduit 170 which transverses horizontally below
the sump 102 and enters the sump through a base wall 172 after
making a single right angular bend 174. While this configuration
would be acceptable in the sense of preventing leakage between the
fitting 176 and the conduit 174, it is undesirable to have the
aperture 178 in the base 172 of the sump since this could promote
leakage which otherwise would not occur if the aperture were not in
the base.
[0080] The configuration as illustrated in FIG. 1 shows that the
upright portion 70 of the electrical conduit is more closely
related to the upright wall 12 and adequately spaced from the
gasoline upright portions 44 and 46. Also, by having the
appropriate bends in the conduit 64 the portion 68 passes at right
angularly through the angular portion 48 so that the fitting 52 and
54 is not impaired or is maintained with integrity around the
portion 68. The arrangement of having the angular portion 48
interact with the fittings 52 and 54 and the conduit 64 bent into
the three portions 66, 68 and 70 in the manner illustrated in FIG.
1 permits for easy installation of the electrical conduit system in
the sump in a manner which does not impact the integrity of the
assembly and construct of the sump 10.
[0081] Many other examples of the invention exist each differing
from the other in matters of details only. The invention is not to
be limited by the preferred embodiment.
[0082] In some of the preferred embodiments, the fittings for
receiving the gasoline pipes and electrical conduits are
constructed partly of metal and/or flexible materials such as a
suitable plastic or rubber. In other forms of the invention, the
manometer column may be made of a more rigid material such as to be
less breakable. A suitable seal is provided at the base of the
manometer or other indicator of the liquid relationship in the
interstitial space so as to provide integrity with the interstitial
space and not permit leakage between the interstitial space and the
manometer. The manometer may be located at different suitable
positions inside the sump and in alternative configurations may be
provided externally to the interstitial space or sump. In different
forms of the invention, different configurations make up the
interstitial space. Fiberglass is provided to form the reinforcing
construct. In the interstitial space different formations may be
provided. One or other or both of the walls of the sump can be
formed of metal, fiberglass or other suitable material as required.
Different sensor devices can be used to determine changes in the
characteristics of the fluid in the interstitial space.
[0083] Moreover, different shapes of sump can be used and it can
have applications in configurations unrelated to dispenses.
Accordingly, the sump configuration can be used for determining the
change of liquid in any reservoir and for this purpose, the
interstitial space in at least part of a double wall configuration
of the sump or reservoir can be used as part of the monitoring
means when that interstitial space between the double wall of a
reservoir is connected with a sensor to determine changes of liquid
level or liquid condition in the interstitial space.
[0084] The double walls adds a redundancy protection against the
release of petroleum products. In addition, the fiberglass process
in the interstitial space bridges across the two walls to increase
the wall strength. This strengthening of walls means less material
per dispenser containment, and is a cost saving. Wall strength is
beneficial in preventing the dispenser sump walls from deforming or
cracking due to the loading from the back filling of the pea
gravel. In addition, with this structural integrity one can also
introduce pressure or vacuum to the two walls to check the
integrity of the dispenser containment to quickly verify within the
factory environment. Prior to this verification of sump tightness
required filling dispenser sump with liquid which is a time
consuming process.
[0085] The invented dispenser containment with two walls means the
exterior is a form of tertiary containment. Where the primary wall
is the pipe that carries product, the secondary is the inside wall
and the tertiary wall is the exterior.
[0086] This double wall sump box allows one to know if a box is
leaking. The continuous test lowers the risk of release to the
environment perhaps saving oil companies from higher liability
insurance. In tertiary containment with monitoring system one can
actually know if one of the walls has been compromised. Prior to
this containment it was unknown whether the containment box was
liquid tight and if there was any release of petroleum product.
[0087] Monitoring can be integrated with the piping systems to
create a single monitor system to check dispenser containment,
piping systems and tank sump. The monitor can be placed in the
dispenser containment because it is normally the highest point,
hydraulically, on a piping system. The monitor of the various
components of the system can be individual because testing or
monitoring are easier to trouble shoot if the systems are
independent.
[0088] Is it also possible to introduce other fluids into the
interstitial space. Currently, most studies indicate some the
contamination may be occurring under gasoline stations is happening
through permeation. To prevent this a non-toxic additive to the
brine or completely different fluid that breaks down harmful
constituents of gasoline such as MTBE methyl-tert-Butyl-ether into
biodegradable solutions or chemically bonds to make MTBE to large
of a molecule to permeate through the fiberglass/plastic wall. The
interstitial space can be utilized as the barrier or intermediary
to prevent further contamination of soils. A double penetration
fitting is required for a double wall dispenser containment.
[0089] The 45 degrees bottom allows the electrical fittings to be
away from continuous exposure and allows an installer to run
conduit on the same side of the box's entry fitting without
stressing the fitting. The added benefit is the 45 sump bottom
reduces the added bends to conduit that most deep boxes require.
This reduction in bends reduces labor and allows one to run wiring
easier through the conduits.
[0090] Although the invention is being described with regard to a
sump which is normally located below ground level, the application
of the invention could be with regard to sumps which are above
ground and are for containing liquid. The height of the double wall
of the sump can vary. In most cases, there is a double wall base
with interstitial spaces and the interstitial spaces in the base
are formed with fluid connection with interstitial spaces in the
walls. In some cases, the base may be totally solid and the double
walls with interstitial spaces can be otherwise bound or formed in
a rigid anchoring means to the base. The double wall of the
interstitial space on the walls alone in that embodiment is
connected with the measuring means to determine the change of
liquid condition and/or level in the interstitial space in the
walls.
[0091] The manometer 600 can manifest itself in other forms where
the area to monitor can be void of interstitial fluid. This means
actual fluid influx is necessary to detect problems. Since this
method is at the lowest point 601 on the sump, this may be
difficult to visually see. The manometer 600 may be an integral
part of the sump forming the interstitial space and point of
monitor, and a cap 602 can be used to ensure that elements
associated with the manometer device 600 are kept essentially dry.
As seen in FIG. 15 the air purge point 603 is towards the top of
the interstitial space and is directed inwardly into the cavity 10.
There can be an electronic sensor 604 for measuring any fluid
changes in the cavity of the sump. Within the manometer type
device, namely a device which has solid opaque walls there can be
an electronic connection 605 to a remote module associated with an
electronic float sensor 606 located at the low point in and/or
about the sump. The integral monitor point may provide better
protection against damage and an alternative means of
testing/trouble shooting the secondary/tertiary without removing an
interstitial fluid.
[0092] Also the point of monitor may be completely exterior to the
containment in order to provide remote access. There should be no
interstitial fluid and a common low point from which a sensor must
monitor that there is no fluid influx implying a possible release
of product or water intrusion. This is shown further in FIG. 16,
the sensor device 700, which can optionally be contained in a
column 701, is retained dry under normal conditions, and any
leakage is transmitted to the sensor 702, which then transmits a
signal along line 703 to an electronic module.
[0093] The foregoing is a description of the preferred embodiments
of the invention has been presented for the purposes of
illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed.
[0094] Many modifications and variations are possible in light of
the above teaching.
[0095] In some cases there can be more components to the sump wall.
There can be more angular portions. They can be located on
different sides of the base. Each can have appropriate apertures.
In some cases the sump so formed is used without the interstitial
space and/or manometer measuring system. In other cases the
interstitial spaces and/or manometer system can be used without the
angular wall portion of the sump. The length of the angular portion
can vary, and is preferably sufficiently long to accommodate the
aperture and fitting and comfortably. The shortened upright portion
is about the same length as the length of the angular portion.
[0096] The manufacturing of double wall dispenser containment was
initially thought we would place a plastic mesh sandwich between to
create an interstitial space between fiberglass walls. Other
configurations are double wall plastic boxes. HDPE high-density
polyethylene boxes can be made in a double-wall configuration in
one mold component through a rotational molding process. These may
be less expensive methods of manufacture.
[0097] Other testing methodologies are pressure and/or vacuum.
However as already alluded to this can find leaks that may never
occur under normal working conditions. Helium is a relatively
expensive and specialized method of test.
[0098] The shapes or configurations to this double wall dispenser
containment are limitless. The most typical are rectangular,
however this concept can be readily applied to even cylindrical
shapes that are typically applied to tank sumps.
[0099] The manufacturing of double wall dispenser containment uses
a foam-core and/or fiberglass product to create the space between
the two walls.
[0100] FIGS. 10-12 show tank sumps that typically consist of large
diameter cylinders typically 42" and 48". These sumps 301, which
work with tanks 300, consist of multiple fiberglass assemblies that
require fiberglass field application to several of the sumps
assemblies or as each section connects requires a separate
assembly.
[0101] The invention provides for the use of sumps 301 with bottoms
302. The benefits of sumps having a bottom to the sump is to allow
better integrity of the containment sump because the sump need not
be fiberglass to tank for secondary containment. With a sump having
a bottom 302, the bottom edge is sealed. This type of vessel may
see high hydraulic forces. If the edges of a sump do not keep out
all the water from getting under the tank sump the water pressure
will seep under the bottom. Since the majority of installations of
tank sumps 300 are performed in the field the conditions and
installations lack the control that would ensure the bottom is
sealed properly. This makes tanks sump walls and bottoms critical
to handle large hydraulic forces.
[0102] The hydraulic force for water under the sump 301 is
equivalent to the pressure of the water, in high water conditions,
3 ft of water equals 1.3 pound of force per square inch multiplied
by area of sump. On a 48" diameter sump the force lifting a sump
upwards is 2352 pounds of force pushing on the bottom of a sump.
The tertiary wall design 303 has a double benefit to strengthen
walls of the base of a tank containment sump and allow testing and
monitoring of the sumps wall and fittings on the secondary and
tertiary walls. Reinforcement of walls become more critical for
these types of sumps with bottoms 302. A reinforced foam and/or
fiberglass interstitial spacing 304 is utilized.
[0103] FIG. 12 illustrates an interstitial wall structure for a
tank sump with a manometer 305 connected in fluid communication to
the interstitial structure 302. Also to avoid hydraulic forces
lifting the tank sump a foam 306 is injected between the tank
collar 307, tank 300 and bottom 302 of the tank sump 301. As the
foam bonds to the surface of the sump, tank and collar the forces
are directed horizontally. The horizontal force from all sides
would essentially cancel out itself since the force is pointing
inward as opposed to an upward lift.
[0104] Some variations of manometers/sensors which are part of the
invention are described below. A tertiary containment sump for
dispenser or tank sumps with interstitial 401 can be provided. A
manometer kit can be provided separately and be installable in the
field. Other variations permit filling the manometer and vent
liquid through a single fill point 402 probably at the highest
point in the tertiary containment sump. The filling of the
interstitial may be slowed and testing/trouble shooting using air
pressure or vacuum or helium is more difficult since the
interstitial is more difficult to drain.
[0105] Sensors and monitoring of dispenser containment ideally
requires a fail safe, fail to alarm, sensor or form of positive
shutdown to stop a leak that is detected inside the secondary
containment. In a tertiary contained dispenser containment the box
illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 such a system is provided. In FIG.
13 there is an electronic sensor 403 or mechanical system 404 to
control leaks inside the box.
[0106] In one preferred form of with this invention one can
visually test/and or monitor a sump. In another form of this
invention adopts electronic forms of monitoring/testing. One of the
walls may include sensors to relate a drop in the interstitial
fluid level or a change in the interstitial condition. In FIG. 14
the use of the manometer 502 in tertiary containment is adapted to
use the manometer fluid to mechanically trip or close a shear valve
503 to stop the leaking supply pipe. A designer can use the physics
of the hydraulic level dropping to actuate a mechanical device
501.
[0107] Many different types of sensors could be installed in the
manometer to continuously monitor the level. A sensor can use a
float to monitor whether the level has dropped below a specific
level. The sensor may be immersed in the interstitial fluid to
reduce false alarms by allowing for changes in level due to
expansion and contraction of air, shifting of pea gravel around the
tertiary containment, evaporation, and temperature changes in the
interstitial. Another reasons for immersion of the sensor is to
reduce the chances the float will not be exposed the elements that
can lead to the float getting frozen so it will not communicate an
alarm.
[0108] The sensors are ultimately connected to a module that
receives the sensor signal and utilizes that information to perform
an action, They will range from notifying, audibly or visually, the
user that the containment system lost in integrity of either
secondary/tertiary wall or shut off the power to the dispenser or
shut off tanks submersible pump that supplies the dispenser with
product.
[0109] While the specification describes particular embodiments of
the present invention, those of ordinary skill can devise
variations of the present invention without departing from the
inventive concept.
* * * * *