Boil-off characteristics of various cryogenic fluids in a cargo containment system

The boil-off rate is a critical factor that affects the efficiency and safety of transportation and storage of cryogenic fluids, and it is affected by both the thermophysical properties of the fluid and the filling ratio of a cryogenic tank. In this study, a laboratory-scale model of a cryogenic tank in a cargo containment system was chosen to quantitatively compare and analyze the boil-off characteristics of various cryogenic fluids. The numerical model was validated against experimental data for nitrogen, and additional numerical analyses were performed for methane, oxygen, argon, and hydrogen. Based on the numerical analysis, key parameters affecting the boil-off characteristics of cryogenic fluids were identified. The analysis revealed that the temperature difference between ambient and saturation temperatures of the fluid, together with the filling ratio, governs the heat ingress, while the thermal conductivity also influences the temperature distribution in the vapor region. In addition, the BOR and boil-off time were found to be strongly dependent on volumetric latent heat. The results of this study can offer insights into the distinct boil-off characteristics of each cryogenic fluid and provide essential reference data for the design and optimization of systems for the transportation and storage of cryogenic fluids. • Boil-off characteristics of cryogenic fluids analyzed through numerical simulations • The numerical model was validated against experimental data for nitrogen. • Heat ingress governed by temperature difference and filling ratio. • Thermal conductivity influences temperature distribution in vapor region • BOR and boil-off time are strongly dependent on volumetric latent heat.