Numerical study of the effect of sloshing on the properties of fluids in tanks of liquid hydrogen carriers

The challenges posed by the low boiling point and limited latent heat of vaporization (LHV) are prominent during the sea transportation of liquid hydrogen. To comprehend the dynamics of liquid hydrogen in storage tanks under varying sloshing conditions, this study develops a three-dimensional numerical model using the volume-of-fluid (VOF) method. The investigation focuses on the effects of sloshing frequency and amplitude on the distribution of liquid and gas phases, along with associated temperature field changes. The study's findings reveal that brief periods of sloshing result in a decrease in temperature and pressure within the liquid hydrogen storage tanks, enhancing their safety. However, higher oscillation frequencies and amplitudes can significantly impact the movement of liquid hydrogen within the tank, inducing interface instability and thereby jeopardizing the normal navigation of liquid hydrogen carriers.