Degassing elements, degassing modules, and liquid degassing methods

Abstract

[Problem] High degassing efficiency and improved maintainability. [Solution] The degassing element 2 is fixed to the liquid flow tube 21 by means of a liquid flow tube 21, a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and a suction tube 23 opening at the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b. In the degassing module 1, the degassing element 2 is housed in the outer shell 3. The liquid flow tube 21 is blocked by the end baffle 4 at the first element end 2a. The hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 are connected by a first end-connecting space forming portion 5 connected to the first element end 2a. The area inside the outer shell 3 is divided into an inner area R1 and an outer area R2 by a partition portion 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to degassing elements, degassing modules, and methods for degassing liquids. Prior Technology

[0002] Previously, a degassing module using a degassing element having a plurality of hollow filament membranes to degas liquids was known. Also, a degassing module having a plurality of degassing elements connected to accommodate large-scale or high-flow-rate applications was known (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 067512 Summary of the Invention

[0004] [The problem that the invention aims to solve] In recent years, efforts to mitigate climate change have focused on reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, in the atmosphere. One approach is to explore methods for removing or recovering carbon dioxide from seawater. Since seawater contains a significant amount of carbon dioxide, it is conceivable that reducing its concentration could lead to a reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

[0005] Liquid degassing is mostly performed using sweep mode. In sweep mode, liquid is supplied to the outside of the hollow fiber membrane, and sweep gas flows through the membrane to degas the liquid. However, for high-concentration degassing of gas from liquid, vacuum mode is effective. Vacuum mode degassing is achieved by supplying liquid to the outside of the hollow fiber membrane, creating a vacuum within the membrane. In vacuum mode, because the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the hollow fiber membrane is greater than in sweep mode, more gas permeates through the membrane compared to sweep mode.

[0006] Here, the hollow fiber membrane is elongated (thin and long) to increase the membrane area (contact area with the liquid), resulting in high pressure loss of the fluid flowing inside the hollow fiber membrane. Therefore, in the past, when using degassing modules and vacuum mode to degas the liquid, it was necessary to draw the inside of the hollow fiber membrane from both ends of the degassing element in order to efficiently draw it in. However, if the inside of the hollow fiber membrane is drawn from both sides of the degassing element, the structure around the degassing element in the degassing module becomes more complex. Therefore, the assembly and disassembly of the degassing module become more difficult, and the maintainability of the degassing module deteriorates. Moreover, if multiple degassing elements are connected in series to degas large volumes of seawater, the structure around the degassing elements in the degassing module becomes even more complex.

[0007] Therefore, the subject of this disclosure is to provide a degassing element, a degassing module, and a liquid degassing method that have high degassing efficiency and improved maintainability. [Methods used to solve problems]

[0008] [1] The degassing element disclosed herein comprises: A liquid flow tube has multiple openings that extend in the direction of extension. A plurality of hollow fiber membranes are arranged around the liquid flow tube in such a way that they extend along the liquid flow tube and cover the plurality of openings; The suction tube extends along the liquid flow tube; The first fixing part, located at the end in the first extending direction, i.e., the end of the first element, fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the suction tube to the liquid flow tube by sealing the liquid flow tube, the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the suction tube while keeping the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the hollow portions of the suction tube open. The first extending direction is one of the extending directions. The second fixing part, located at the end of the second extension direction, that is, the end of the second element, fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the suction tube to the liquid flow tube by sealing the liquid flow tube, the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the suction tube and opening the hollow part of the liquid flow tube, the hollow part of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow part of the suction tube. The second extension direction is the opposite direction to the first extension direction of the extension direction.

[0009] In this degassing element, a plurality of hollow filament membranes extending along the liquid flow tube are arranged around the liquid flow tube in a manner that covers a plurality of openings. Therefore, when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are attracted while liquid is supplied to the liquid flow tube, the liquid system flows out from the outside of the liquid flow tube through the plurality of openings and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes, thereby being degassed. Here, the degassing element includes a suction tube extending along the liquid flow tube. Furthermore, the first fixing part located at the end of the first element fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the suction tube to the liquid flow tube in a manner that seals the liquid flow tube, the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the suction tube while leaving the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the hollow portions of the suction tube open. Furthermore, the second fixing part located at the end of the second element is used to fix the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the suction tube to the liquid flow tube by sealing the liquid flow tube, the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the suction tube while keeping the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube, the plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the suction tube open. Therefore, at either the end of the first element or the end of the second element, the openings of the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes communicate with the openings of the hollow portions of the suction tube, allowing the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the suction tube to be drawn from either the other end of the first element or the second element. Thus, by means of the suction force transmitted to the hollow portion of the suction tube, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are drawn from both sides of the second element end side and the first element end side. That is, even if suction ports for drawing the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are not provided at both the end of the first element and the end of the second element, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be drawn from both ends in the extending direction. This simplifies the construction of degassing modules that use degassing elements, resulting in high degassing efficiency and improved maintainability.

[0010] [2] In the degassing element described in [1] above, the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the suction tube can also be greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this degassing element, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the suction tube is greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes, the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portion of the suction tube can be less than the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this way, when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are connected to the hollow portion of the suction tube at either end of the first element end or the second element end, and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube are attracted at either end of the first element end or the second element end, it becomes easier to attract the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes from either end of the first element end or the second element end. In addition, since the shape of the suction tube is not as restricted as that of multiple hollow filament membranes, it is easy to make the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow part of the suction tube larger than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow parts of multiple hollow filament membranes.

[0011] [3] As described in [1] or [2] above, the suction tube may also be disposed on the outside of the plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this degassing element, since the suction tube is disposed on the outside of the plurality of hollow filament membranes, it becomes easier to arrange the plurality of hollow filament membranes around the liquid flow tube, and the degassing of the liquid can be prevented from being obstructed by the suction tube.

[0012] [4] As described in [1] above, the degassing element may also have a plurality of suction tubes. In this degassing element, since it has a plurality of suction tubes, it is easier to transmit the suction force.

[0013] [5] In the degassing element described above [4], the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes can also be greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this degassing element, since the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes is greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes, the pressure loss caused by the suction of the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes can be less than the pressure loss caused by the suction of the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this way, when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are connected to the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes at either end of the first element end or the second element end, and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes are attracted at either end of the first element end or the second element end, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be easily attracted from either end of the first element end or the second element end.

[0014] [6] As described in [4] or [5] above, the degassing element may also have a plurality of suction tubes arranged around a plurality of hollow filament membranes. In this degassing element, since the plurality of suction tubes are arranged around a plurality of hollow filament membranes, it becomes easier to arrange the plurality of hollow filament membranes around the liquid flow tube, and the degassing of the liquid can be prevented from being obstructed by the plurality of suction tubes.

[0015] [7] As described in [6] above, the degassing element may also have a plurality of suction tubes arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the liquid flow tube. In this degassing element, the plurality of suction tubes are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the liquid flow tube. Therefore, when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are connected to the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes at either end of the first element or the second element, the deviation in degassing performance between the plurality of hollow filament membranes is reduced when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the plurality of suction tubes are attracted at either end of the first element or the second element.

[0016] [8] The degassing element described in any of [1] to [7] above may further include an intermediate baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube in the middle of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element. In this degassing element, the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube is blocked by the intermediate baffle in the middle of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element. Therefore, the liquid supplied to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube can flow from a plurality of openings to the outside of the liquid flow tube on the upstream side of the intermediate baffle, come into contact with a plurality of hollow filament membranes, and then return to the liquid flow tube from a plurality of openings on the downstream side of the intermediate baffle. In this way, the contact time between the liquid and the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be extended.

[0017] [9] The degassing module system disclosed herein possesses: Degassing elements as described in any of [1] to [8] above; The outer casing houses the degassing element; The first end connects to the space forming part and is connected to the end of the first element; and The partition divides the area inside the outer shell into an inner region containing a hollow section with multiple hollow filament membranes and a hollow section containing a suction tube, and an outer region containing a hollow section containing a liquid flow tube, using multiple hollow filament membranes as boundaries. The first-end connecting space forming part system forms a first-end connecting space that connects the hollow parts of a plurality of hollow filament membranes with the hollow part of the suction tube. The casing has: A liquid supply port, used to supply liquid to the hollow part of the liquid flow tube; A liquid outlet is used to discharge liquid flowing from a liquid flow pipe; and Aspiration port, used to draw in the internal area.

[0018] In this degassing module, the partition divides the area within the outer shell into an inner region containing the hollow portions of the multiple hollow filaments and the hollow portion of the suction tube, and an outer region containing the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube, with the multiple hollow filaments as boundaries. The outer shell has: a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube; a liquid discharge port for discharging liquid flowing out of the liquid flow tube; and a suction port for suctioning the inner region. Furthermore, a first end-connecting space forming portion connected to the end of the first element forms a first end-connecting space that connects the hollow portions of the multiple hollow filaments with the hollow portion of the suction tube. Therefore, when suction is applied through the suction port, the suction force is transmitted from the hollow portion of the suction tube to the first end-connecting space, thereby attracting the hollow portions of the multiple hollow filaments from both sides of the second element end side and the first element end side. That is, even without suction ports for attracting the hollow portions of multiple hollow filament membranes at both the ends of the first and second elements, the hollow portions of multiple hollow filament membranes can be attracted from both ends in the extending direction. This simplifies the construction of the degassing module, thereby improving maintainability while maintaining high degassing efficiency.

[0019]

[10] As described in [9] above, the liquid supply port can also be connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the second extension direction. In this degassing module, since the liquid supply port is connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the second extension direction, liquid can be supplied to the hollow part of the liquid flow pipe by supplying liquid to the liquid supply port.

[0020]

[11] As described in [9] or

[10] above, the degassing module may further include an end baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube at the end of the first element of the degassing element. In this degassing module, since the end baffle blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube at the end of the first element, when liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid is supplied to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube, flows out from the plurality of openings to the outside of the liquid flow tube, and is degassed by contact with the plurality of hollow filaments. Then, the liquid degassed by contact with the plurality of hollow filaments does not return to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube, but is discharged from the liquid outlet. That is, the liquid does not flow in the direction that presses the plurality of hollow filaments against the liquid flow tube, but flows in the direction that separates the plurality of hollow filaments from the liquid flow tube. In this way, since the increase in pressure loss when the liquid passes through the plurality of hollow filaments can be suppressed, the decrease in liquid flow rate can be suppressed. As a result, for example, a device with relatively low output can be used as a liquid supply device to supply liquid to the degassing module.

[0021]

[12] As described in

[11] above, the degassing module can also seal the space between the second fixing part and the outer shell. In this degassing module, since the spacer seals the space between the second fixing part and the outer shell, it can be easily configured to be divided into an inner area and an outer area.

[0022]

[13] As described in

[11] or

[12] above, the degassing module may also have a second end-connecting space formed on the second extension direction side of the degassing element, which communicates with the hollow portions of a plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube; the suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end-connecting space. In this degassing module, on the second extension direction side of the degassing element, a second end-connecting space is formed, which communicates with the hollow portions of a plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube, and the suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end-connecting space. Therefore, it is easy to construct a system that draws the hollow portions of a plurality of hollow filament membranes from the suction port.

[0023]

[14] As described in

[13] above, the degassing module may also have an intermediate baffle, which blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube in the middle of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element. In this degassing module, the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube is blocked by the intermediate baffle in the middle of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element. Therefore, the liquid supplied from the liquid supply port to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube is prevented from flowing in the extending direction by the intermediate baffle. So, on the upstream side of the intermediate baffle, it flows out from the outside of the liquid flow tube through a plurality of openings, contacts a plurality of hollow filament membranes and is degassed, and on the downstream side of the intermediate baffle, it returns to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube. In this way, the contact time between the liquid and the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be extended.

[0024]

[15] As described in

[14] above, the degassing module may also include: a first sealing part that seals between the first fixing part and the outer shell; and a second sealing part that seals between the second fixing part and the outer shell. In this degassing module, since the partition has a first sealing part that seals between the first fixing part and the outer shell, and a second sealing part that seals between the second fixing part and the outer shell, it is easy to construct a partition between the inner and outer regions.

[0025]

[16] As in the degassing module described in

[14] or

[15] above, the liquid outlet can also be connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the first extending direction. In this degassing module, since the liquid outlet is connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the first extending direction, the liquid flowing to the outside of the liquid flow pipe from the plurality of openings can return to the hollow part of the liquid flow pipe from the plurality of openings and then be discharged from the liquid outlet.

[0026]

[17] As described in [9] above, the degassing module may also have a plurality of degassing elements; the plurality of degassing elements are arranged in the extension direction; between adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the suction tubes are interconnected, and the hollow portions of the liquid flow tubes are interconnected.

[0027] In this degassing module, a plurality of degassing elements are arranged in the extending direction. Between adjacent degassing elements in the extending direction, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the suction tubes are interconnected, as are the hollow portions of the liquid flow tubes. Therefore, when the suction port is activated, the suction force is transmitted through the hollow portions of the suction tubes of the plurality of degassing elements to the first end communication space, and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the plurality of degassing elements are attracted from both sides of the second element end side of the second-end degassing element and the first element end side of the first-end degassing element. That is, even if suction ports for attracting the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes are not provided at both the first and second element ends of each degassing element, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be attracted from both ends in the extending direction. This simplifies the structure of the degassing module. Furthermore, since a large flow rate of the liquid to be degassed can be achieved, it is particularly suitable for situations where seawater is used as a liquid for degassing.

[0028]

[18] As described in

[17] above, the liquid supply port can also be connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the second extension direction of the second end degassing element located at the second extension direction end of the plurality of degassing elements. In this degassing module, since the liquid supply port is connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe in the second extension direction of the second end degassing element, it is easy to configure the liquid supply from the liquid supply port to the liquid flow pipe.

[0029]

[19] As described in

[17] or

[18] above, the degassing module may further include an element connection portion in which the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element are separately arranged in the extension direction. The first-side degassing element is located on the first extension direction side among the adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction, and the second-side degassing element is located on the second extension direction side among the adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction. The element connection portion forms an intermediate connecting space and an intermediate liquid flow path. The intermediate connecting space is connected to the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the suction tube, and to the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments of the second-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the suction tube. The intermediate liquid flow path is connected to the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube of the second-side degassing element.

[0030] In this degassing module, the first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction side and the second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction side among adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction are separately arranged in the extension direction by element connecting portions. The element connecting portions form an intermediate connecting space and an intermediate liquid flow path. The intermediate connecting space is connected to the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tube of the first-side degassing element, and to the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tube of the second-side degassing element. The intermediate liquid flow path is connected to the hollow portions of the liquid flow tubes of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the liquid flow tubes of the second-side degassing element. Therefore, between adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction, the attraction forces acting on the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tubes can be mutually transferred, and liquid flow can be allowed. Furthermore, when the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the second-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the suction tube are drawn from the suction port, the suction force is transmitted through the hollow portions of the suction tubes of the plurality of degassing elements to the intermediate connecting space and the first-end connecting space. In this way, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the plurality of degassing elements can be drawn from both sides of the second element end side of the second-end degassing element and the first element end side of the first-end degassing element.

[0031]

[20] As described in

[19] above, the component connecting part may also include: a connecting cover, a second fixing part connected to the first degassing element and a first fixing part connected to the second degassing element to cover the space between the first degassing element and the second degassing element; and a connecting pipe, connecting the liquid flow pipe of the first degassing element and the liquid flow pipe of the second degassing element. In this degassing module, the component connecting part includes: a connecting cover, a second fixing part connected to the first degassing element and a first fixing part connected to the second degassing element to cover the space between the first degassing element and the second degassing element; and a connecting pipe, connecting the liquid flow pipe of the first degassing element and the liquid flow pipe of the second degassing element. Therefore, it can be easily configured such that the hollow portions of a plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portions of the suction tubes are interconnected between the first degassing element and the second degassing element, and the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipes can circulate with each other.

[0032]

[21] As in the degassing module described in

[19] or

[20] above, the suction port can also be connected to the component connection part and communicate with the intermediate communication space. In this degassing module, the suction port is connected to the component connection part and communicates with the intermediate communication space, so the exhaust path length of the gas passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be shortened. In this way, high degassing efficiency can be obtained.

[0033]

[22] The degassing module of any of

[17] to

[21] above may further include an end baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction end of the plurality of degassing elements; the first end communication space forming part is connected to the end of the first element of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction end of the plurality of degassing elements; the first end communication space connects the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments of the first end degassing element with the hollow portion of the suction tube of the first end degassing element; a second end communication space is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element located at the second extension direction end of the plurality of degassing elements, which communicates with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portion of the suction tube; the suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space.

[0034] In this degassing module, the end baffle blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube of the first end degassing element. Furthermore, the first end connecting space forming part is connected to the first element end of the first end degassing element, and the first end connecting space connects the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments of the first end degassing element with the hollow portion of the suction tube of the first end degassing element. Therefore, when liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid system is supplied to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube in the plurality of degassing units, flows out from the outside of the liquid flow tube through the plurality of openings, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filaments to be degassed. Then, the liquid degassed by contact with the plurality of hollow filaments does not return to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube, but is discharged from the liquid outlet. Furthermore, in this degassing module, a second end communication space is formed on the second extending direction side of the second end degassing element, which communicates with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube. The suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space. Therefore, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the plurality of degassing elements can be attracted from both sides of the second element end side of the second end degassing element and the first element end side of the first end degassing element.

[0035]

[23] In the degassing module described in

[22] above, the outer shell may also have a first end suction port that is connected to and communicates with the first end communication space forming portion. In this degassing module, since the outer shell has a first end suction port that is connected to and communicates with the first end communication space forming portion, a high degassing efficiency can be obtained. Moreover, since the exhaust path length of the gas passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes can be shortened, an even higher degassing efficiency can be obtained.

[0036]

[24] As in the degassing module described in

[22] or

[23] above, the partition can also seal the second fixing part of the second end degassing element with the outer shell. In this degassing module, since the partition seals the second fixing part of the second end degassing element with the outer shell, it is easy to form a partition between the inner and outer regions.

[0037]

[25] As described in any of

[17] to

[21] above, each of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements may have an intermediate baffle, which blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube in the middle of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element; The first end connecting space forming part is connected to the end of the first element of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction end among the plurality of degassing elements; The first-end connecting space connects the hollow portions of the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the first-end degassing element to the hollow portions of the suction tubes of the first-end degassing element; In the plurality of degassing elements, on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element located at the second extension direction end, a second end communication space is formed that communicates with the hollow portion of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube; The aforementioned suction port is adjacent to and connected to the aforementioned second-end connecting space.

[0038] In this degassing module, each of the plurality of degassing elements has an intermediate baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube in the middle of the element between the ends of the first and second elements. Furthermore, a first end-connecting space is formed and connected to the first end of the first degassing element, connecting the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow membranes of the first degassing element to the hollow portion of the suction tube of the first degassing element. Therefore, in each degassing element, the liquid supplied to the liquid supply port is prevented from flowing in the extending direction by the intermediate baffle. Upstream of the intermediate baffle, the liquid flows out from the outside of the liquid flow tube through the plurality of openings, contacts the plurality of hollow membranes, and is degassed. Downstream of the intermediate baffle, the liquid returns to the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube. This prolongs the contact time between the liquid and the plurality of hollow membranes. Furthermore, in this degassing module, a second end communication space is formed on the second extending direction side of the second end degassing element, which communicates with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes and the hollow portion of the suction tube. The suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space. Therefore, the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filament membranes of the plurality of degassing elements can be attracted from both sides of the second element end side of the second end degassing element and the first element end side of the first end degassing element.

[0039]

[26] As described in

[25] above, the degassing module may also include: a first sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the first degassing element located on the first extension direction side among the adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction and the outer shell; a second sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the first degassing element and the outer shell; a third sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the second degassing element located on the second extension direction side among the adjacent degassing elements in the extension direction and the outer shell; and a fourth sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the second degassing element and the outer shell. In this degassing module, since the separating portion has a first sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the first degassing element and the outer shell, a second sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the first degassing element and the outer shell, a third sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the second degassing element and the outer shell, and a fourth sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the second degassing element and the outer shell, it is easy to construct a separation between the inner and outer regions.

[0040]

[27] In the degassing module of

[25] or

[26] , the liquid outlet can also be connected to the end of the liquid flow tube in the first extension direction of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction end of the plurality of degassing elements. In this degassing module, since the liquid outlet is connected to the end of the liquid flow tube in the first extension direction of the first end degassing element, the liquid flowing out from the outside of the liquid flow tube from the plurality of openings can return to the hollow part of the liquid flow tube from the plurality of openings and then be discharged from the liquid outlet.

[0041]

[28] As described in any of [9] to

[27] above, the degassing module may also have the following features: a cylindrical portion for housing the degassing element; a first cover portion connected to one end of the cylindrical portion and having a liquid outlet; and a second cover portion connected to the end of the cylindrical portion opposite to the first cover portion and having a liquid supply port; and at least one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion having a suction port. In this degassing module, the housing has a cylindrical portion for housing the degassing element, a first cover portion connected to one end of the cylindrical portion and having a liquid outlet, and a second cover portion connected to the end of the cylindrical portion opposite to the first cover portion and having a liquid supply port, and at least one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion has a suction port. Therefore, the degassing module can be easily manufactured.

[0042]

[29] The liquid degassing method disclosed herein is a method of degassing liquid using a degassing module as described in any of [9] to

[28] above, wherein the suction port of the degassing module is aspirated and the liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port of the degassing module.

[0043] In the liquid degassing method, when the suction port is aspirated in any of the above-mentioned degassing modules, the suction force is transmitted to the first end communication space through the hollow portion of the suction tube, thereby attracting the hollow portions of a plurality of hollow filament membranes from both sides of the second element end side and the first element end side. Furthermore, by supplying liquid to the liquid supply port, the liquid can flow out from the outside of the liquid flow tube through a plurality of openings, contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes for degassing, and then being discharged from the liquid outlet. [Invention Benefits]

[0044] According to this disclosure, maintainability can be improved while maintaining high degassing efficiency. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of the degassing element in the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of line III-III shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of line IV-IV shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the second embodiment. Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 11. Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the third embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 13. Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the fourth embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 15. Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the fifth embodiment. Figure 18 is a schematic front view of the degassing element in the second embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the XIX-XIX line shown in Figure 18. Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 18. Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the sixth embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module in the seventh embodiment. Figure 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 26. Implementation

[0046] [The form in which the invention is carried out] The following description, with reference to the drawings, explains the degassing element, degassing module, and liquid degassing method of the embodiments. Furthermore, throughout the drawings, identical or equivalent parts are labeled with the same symbols, and repeated explanations are omitted.

[0047] [Degassing element in the first embodiment] Figure 1 is a schematic front view of the degassing element of the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line III-III shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line IV-IV shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the degassing element 2 of this embodiment is used to degas liquid L, for example, it is used in the degassing module described later. Liquid L is not particularly limited, for example: water such as seawater, beverage water, pure water, ultrapure water, etc.; aqueous solutions containing ammonium sulfate, surfactants, etc.; organic solvents such as alcohols and hydrocarbons; ionic liquids, etc. The degassing element 2 includes: a liquid flow tube 21, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, a plurality of suction tubes 23, a first fixing part 24, and a second fixing part 25.

[0048] The liquid flow tube 21 is a cylindrical component extending in the extension direction D. One of the two directions of the extension direction D is called the first extension direction D1, and the other direction is called the second extension direction D2. In Figure 3, the upper part is the first extension direction D1, and the lower part is the second extension direction D2. The end of the degassing element 2 on the first extension direction D1 side is called the first element end 2a, and the end of the degassing element 2 on the second extension direction D2 side is called the second element end 2b.

[0049] The hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 is a flow path (inner flow path) for liquid L to flow through, and is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the liquid flow tube 21. The liquid flow tube 21 extends over the entire region of the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the liquid flow tube 21 extends from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2. The hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 is open in both the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. The opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the first element end 2a, that is, the opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 on the first extension direction D1 side, is called the first end liquid flow tube opening 21b. The opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the second element end 2b, that is, the opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 on the second extension direction D2 side, is called the second end liquid flow tube opening 21c. Furthermore, in the degassing element 2, no baffle or other components are provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 to prevent the liquid L from moving in the extension direction D.

[0050] A plurality of openings 21d are formed in the liquid flow tube 21. These openings 21d are separate from the first end liquid flow tube opening 21b and the second end liquid flow tube opening 21c, and are holes for discharging liquid L from the hollow portion 21a to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21. That is, the plurality of openings 21d are holes for discharging liquid L radially from the hollow portion 21a to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21. The plurality of openings 21d are formed on the peripheral wall of the liquid flow tube 21, so that the hollow portion 21a opens towards the outside of the liquid flow tube 21.

[0051] A plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are arranged around the liquid flow tube 21 in such a way that they extend along the liquid flow tube 21 and cover a plurality of openings 21d. The phrase "a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the liquid flow tube 21" means that, in the initial state (unused state) of the degassing element 2, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the extension direction D. The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 collectively form a generally cylindrical membrane bundle.

[0052] The plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are formed, for example, from a hollow filament membrane fabric (not shown) woven into a curtain shape. The hollow filament membrane fabric is a fabric woven from the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, which serve as weft yarns, and warp yarns (not shown). In the hollow filament membrane fabric, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are arranged in a curtain shape. Moreover, the hollow filament membrane fabric is wound around the liquid flow tube 21 in such a way that the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 extend in the extension direction D and cover the plurality of openings 21d.

[0053] The hollow portion 22a of the hollow fiber membrane 22 is a flow path (intramembrane flow path) for gas (gas) G to flow through, and is formed by the inner peripheral surface of the hollow fiber membrane 22. A plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend throughout the entire region of the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2. The hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are open in both the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. Furthermore, the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 refers to the hollow portion 22a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. The opening of the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 in the first element end 2a, that is, the opening of the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 on the first extension direction D1 side, is called the first end hollow fiber membrane opening 22b. The openings of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 in the end 2b of the second element, that is, the openings on the second extension direction D2 side of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, are called the second end hollow filament membrane openings 22c.

[0054] Hollow fiber membrane 22 is a hollow filamentous membrane through which gas G can pass but liquid L cannot. There are no particular limitations on the material, shape, or morphology of the hollow fiber membrane 22. Examples of materials for the hollow fiber membrane 22 include: polyolefin resins such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and polymethylpentene; silicone resins such as polydimethylsiloxane and its copolymers; and fluorine resins such as PTFE and polyvinylidene fluoride. Examples of membrane shapes (sidewall shapes) for the hollow fiber membrane 22 include: porous membranes, microporous membranes, and homogeneous membranes without porosity (non-porous membranes). Examples of membrane morphologies for the hollow fiber membrane 22 include: symmetrical membranes with a homogeneous overall chemical or physical structure (homogeneous membranes), and asymmetrical membranes with different chemical or physical structures depending on the membrane portion (heterogeneous membranes). Asymmetrical membranes (heterogeneous membranes) are membranes with a non-porous dense layer and a porous layer. In this case, the dense layer can also be formed anywhere in the membrane, such as on the surface or inside a porous membrane. Heterogeneous membranes also include composite membranes with different chemical structures and multilayer membranes with three-layer structures. Heterogeneous membranes using poly(4-methylpentene-1) resin are particularly advantageous due to their dense layer that blocks liquid L.

[0055] The outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 is not particularly limited. From the viewpoint of increasing the membrane area, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be set to, for example, 500 μm or less, preferably 350 μm or less, and even more preferably 250 μm or less. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing breakage, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be set to, for example, 50 μm or more, preferably 150 μm or more, and even more preferably 200 μm or more.

[0056] The suction tube 23 extends along the liquid flow tube 21. The term "suction tube 23 extends along the liquid flow tube 21" means that in the initial state (unused state) of the degassing element 2, the suction tube 23 extends along the extension direction D.

[0057] A plurality of suction tubes 23 are disposed on the outer side of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. The outer side of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 refers to the side of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 opposite to the liquid flow tube 21. That is, the plurality of suction tubes 23 are disposed around the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Furthermore, the plurality of suction tubes 23 are disposed at equal intervals along the circumference of the liquid flow tube 21.

[0058] The hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23 is a flow path (inner flow path) for gas G to pass through, and is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the suction tube 23. A plurality of suction tubes 23 extend over the entire region of the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the plurality of suction tubes 23 extend from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2. The hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 are open in both the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. Furthermore, the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 refers to the hollow portion 23a of each of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The opening of the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 in the first element end 2a, that is, the opening of the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 on the first extension direction D1 side, is called the first end suction tube opening 23b. The opening of the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 in the end 2b of the second element, that is, the opening of the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 on the side of the second extension direction D2, is called the second end suction tube opening 23c.

[0059] The total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 is larger than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. The cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion 23a of each suction tube 23 is the area of ​​the hollow portion 23a in a cross-section orthogonal to the central axis of each suction tube 23. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the hollow portions 23a of each suction tube 23. The cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion 22a of each hollow filament membrane 22 is the area of ​​the hollow portion 22a in a cross-section orthogonal to the central axis of each hollow filament membrane 22. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the hollow portions 22a of each hollow filament membrane 22.

[0060] The first fixing part 24 is located at the end 2a of the first element, and fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 to the liquid flow tube 21 by sealing the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23, and leaving the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 open. That is, the first fixing part 24 fixes the ends of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 on the first extension direction D1 side to the liquid flow tube 21. Moreover, the first fixing part 24 seals the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23. Furthermore, the first fixing part 24 is not provided in the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and the hollow part 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, thereby opening the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and the hollow part 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The first fixing part 24 is formed by, for example, resin.

[0061] The second fixing part 25 is located at the end 2b of the second element, and fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 to the liquid flow tube 21 by sealing the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23, and leaving the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 open. That is, the second fixing part 25 fixes the ends of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 on the second extension direction D2 side to the liquid flow tube 21. Moreover, the second fixing part 25 seals the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23. Furthermore, the second fixing part 25 is not provided in the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and the hollow part 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, thereby opening the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and the hollow part 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The second fixing part 25 is formed by, for example, resin.

[0062] In addition, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 are not covered by components such as the outer shell, and are exposed on the outside of the degassing element 2 between the first fixing part 24 and the second fixing part 25.

[0063] As explained above, in this embodiment of the degassing element 2, a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 extending along the liquid flow tube 21 are arranged around the liquid flow tube 21 in such a way that they cover a plurality of openings 21d. Therefore, when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are attracted and liquid L is supplied to the liquid flow tube 21, the liquid L is degassed by flowing out from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21 and contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Here, the degassing element 2 includes a plurality of suction tubes 23 extending along the liquid flow tube 21. Furthermore, the first fixing part 24 located at the end 2a of the first element fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 to the liquid flow tube 21 by sealing the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 and opening the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. Furthermore, the second fixing part 25 located at the end 2b of the second element fixes the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 to the liquid flow tube 21 by sealing the liquid flow tube 21, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the plurality of suction tubes 23 and opening the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. Therefore, at either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b, the openings of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are connected to the openings of the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. That is, any opening of the first-end hollow filament membrane opening 22b or the second-end hollow filament membrane opening 22c is connected to any opening of the first-end suction tube opening 23b or the second-end suction tube opening 23c, thereby attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 from either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b. Thus, by means of the attraction force transmitted to the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are attracted from both sides of the second element end 2b side and the first element end 2a side. That is, even without providing suction ports for attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 at both the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be attracted from both ends of the extension direction D. This simplifies the structure of the degassing module using the degassing element 2, thus achieving high degassing efficiency and improved maintainability.

[0064] Furthermore, in this degassing element 2, since it has a plurality of suction tubes 23, it is easier to transmit the attraction force.

[0065] Furthermore, in this degassing element 2, since the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 is greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 is less than the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Therefore, when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are connected to the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 at either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b, and when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 are attracted at either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are easily attracted from either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b.

[0066] Furthermore, in this degassing element 2, since a plurality of suction tubes 23 are arranged on the outside of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, it is easy to arrange a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 around the liquid flow tube 21, and the degassing of the liquid L can be prevented from being obstructed by the plurality of suction tubes 23.

[0067] Furthermore, in this degassing element 2, since a plurality of suction tubes 23 are arranged around a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, it is easy to arrange a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 around the liquid flow tube 21, and the degassing of the liquid L can be prevented from being obstructed by the plurality of suction tubes 23.

[0068] Furthermore, in this degassing element 2, a plurality of suction tubes 23 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the liquid flow tube 21. Therefore, when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are connected to the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 at either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b, and when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 are attracted at either end of the first element end 2a or the second element end 2b, the deviation in degassing performance among the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 is reduced.

[0069] [Degassing module in the first embodiment] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Figure 7. As shown in Figures 7 to 10, the degassing module 1 of this embodiment is a module for degassing liquid L. The degassing module 1 includes: the degassing element 2 of the first embodiment described above, the housing 3, the end baffle 4, the first end communication space forming portion 5, and the partition portion 6. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3 is shown in Figure 7.

[0070] The outer casing 3 houses the degassing element 2 in such a way that a space is formed between it and the degassing element 2. This space allows the liquid L to flow between the degassing element 2 and the outer casing 3.

[0071] The outer casing 3 includes: a cylindrical portion 31 for housing the degassing element 2; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite to the first cover portion 32. The degassing element 2 is housed in the cylindrical portion 31 such that its extending direction D is the same as the extending direction of the cylindrical portion 31, which is also the opposite direction of the first cover portion 32 and the second cover portion 33. Therefore, since the extending direction D of the degassing element 2 is the same as the extending direction of the cylindrical portion 31, the extending direction of the cylindrical portion 31 is also referred to as the extending direction D. The first cover portion 32 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 on the first extending direction D1 side, covering the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extending direction D2 side. The second cover portion 33 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extending direction D2 side, covering the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extending direction D2 side.

[0072] The end baffle 4 blocks the end of the hollow portion 21a of the cylindrical liquid flow pipe 21 on the first extending direction D1 side. That is, the end baffle 4 blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 at the first element end 2a of the degassing element 2. The end baffle 4 is embedded in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 at the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first extending direction D1. That is, the end baffle 4 is embedded in the end of the hollow portion 21a of the cylindrical liquid flow pipe 21 on the first extending direction D1 side. The end baffle 4 prevents the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 from being discharged along the first extending direction D1. Therefore, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 will not be discharged along the first extending direction D1, but will be discharged radially outward from the plurality of openings 21d formed in the liquid flow pipe 21.

[0073] The first end-connecting space forming part 5 is connected to the end portion 2a of the first element, forming the first end-connecting space S1. The first end-connecting space S1 is a space that connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 with the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The first end-connecting space S1 is adjacent to the first extending direction D1 side of the degassing element 2. Furthermore, the first end-connecting space S1 is adjacent to the opening 22b of the first end hollow filament membrane and the opening 23b of the first end suction tube. The first end-connecting space forming part 5 is connected to the first fixing part 24 of the degassing element 2 in a manner that covers the end portion 2a of the first element. Moreover, the first end-connecting space forming part 5 forms the first end-connecting space S1 between itself and the end portion 2a of the first element.

[0074] The partition 6, with a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 as boundaries, divides the area within the outer shell 3 into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2. The inner region R1 includes the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The outer region R2 includes the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21. Therefore, the membrane system of the hollow filament membranes 22 forms the boundary between the inner region R1 and the outer region R2. That is, the inner side (hollow portion 22a) of the hollow filament membranes 22 becomes the inner region R1, and the outer side of the hollow filament membranes 22 becomes the outer region R2. Furthermore, the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 prevent liquid L from permeating from the outer region R2 to the inner region R1, while allowing gas G (dissolved gas of liquid L, bubbles contained in liquid L, etc.) to permeate from the outer region R2 to the inner region R1. Furthermore, since the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 is connected to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21 through a plurality of openings 21d formed in the liquid flow tube 21, the outer region R2 also includes the space S2 on the outside of the liquid flow tube 21 that is connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21.

[0075] The partition 6 seals the space between the second fixing part 25 of the degassing element 2 and the outer casing 3. Therefore, a second end-connecting space S3 is formed on the second extending direction D2 side of the degassing element 2, communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. The second end-connecting space S3 is adjacent to the second extending direction D2 side of the end 2b of the second element. Furthermore, the second end-connecting space S3 is adjacent to the opening 22c of the second end hollow filament membrane and the opening 23c of the second end suction tube. Moreover, since the second end-connecting space S3 communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, it is also part of the internal region R1.

[0076] Furthermore, the partition 6 is used to fix the second fixing part 25 of the degassing element 2 to the housing 3 by sealing the second fixing part 25 of the degassing element 2 between the two. The partition 6 is formed, for example, by resin.

[0077] The outer casing 3 has: a liquid supply port 3a for supplying liquid L to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21; a liquid discharge port 3b for discharging liquid L flowing out of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21; and a suction port 3c for drawing in (vacuuming) the internal region R1. The suction port 3c is also called a vacuum port, etc. The liquid supply port 3a, the liquid discharge port 3b, and the suction port 3c can be integrally formed with the outer casing 3, or they can be separate components from the outer casing 3.

[0078] A liquid supply port 3a is provided on the second cover 33, serving as a port connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3. The liquid supply port 3a extends in a tubular shape from the second cover 33 toward the inside of the outer casing 3 and is connected to the end 21e on the second extension direction D2 side of the liquid flow pipe 21. Furthermore, the liquid supply port 3a is connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21.

[0079] The liquid outlet 3b is located on the first cover 32 and serves as the opening connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3. The liquid outlet 3b is adjacent to and communicates with the space S2 on the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21.

[0080] The suction port 3c is located on the second cover 33 and serves as a connection between the inside and outside of the outer casing 3. The suction port 3c is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space S3.

[0081] [First Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the first embodiment will be described. The degassing method for the liquid in the first embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using the degassing module 1.

[0082] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c of the degassing module 1 is drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1. The suction of the suction port 3c can be achieved, for example, by connecting a suction device (not shown) such as a vacuum pump to the suction port 3c via piping, and activating the suction device. The supply of liquid L to the liquid supply port 3a can be achieved, for example, by connecting a liquid supply device (not shown) such as a liquid pump that delivers liquid L via piping to the liquid supply port 3a, and activating the liquid supply device.

[0083] When suction port 3c is attracted, the internal region R1 connected to suction port 3c is attracted, and the internal region R1 becomes depressurized. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of liquid flow pipe 21, and discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of liquid flow pipe 21 towards the space S2 outside liquid flow pipe 21, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. At this time, the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 becomes depressurized, so dissolved gases in liquid L, gas bubbles contained in liquid L, and other gases G pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, liquid L is degassed. The degassed liquid L passes through the space between degassed element 2 and outer casing 3, and is discharged from liquid outlet 3b. The gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 passes through the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, the first end connecting space S1, the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, and the second end connecting space S3, and is discharged from the suction port 3c.

[0084] As described above, in the degassing module 1 of this embodiment, the end baffle 4 blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the end 2a of the first element. The first end communication space forming portion 5 forms a first end communication space S1, which connects the first end hollow membrane openings 22b of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow membranes 22 in the end 2b of the second element with the first end suction tube openings 23b of the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 in the end 2b of the second element. The separation portion The housing 3 is divided into an internal region R1 containing hollow portions 22a of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and hollow portions 23a of a plurality of suction tubes 23, and an external region R2 containing hollow portions 21a of liquid flow tubes 21. The housing 3 has: a liquid supply port 3a for supplying liquid L to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow tubes 21; a liquid discharge port 3b for discharging liquid L flowing out of the liquid flow tubes 21; and a suction port 3c for suction of the internal region R1. Therefore, when suction port 3c is suctioned, the suction force is transmitted to the first end communication space S1 through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be suctioned from both sides of the second element end 2b side and the first element end 2a side. That is, even without providing suction ports for attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 at both the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be attracted from both ends of the extension direction D. In this way, the structure of the degassing module 1 can be simplified, thus achieving high degassing efficiency and improving maintainability.

[0085] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, since the liquid supply port 3a is connected to the end 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the second extension direction D2, the liquid L can be supplied to the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 by supplying liquid L to the liquid supply port 3a.

[0086] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, since the end baffle 4 blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 at the end 2a of the first element, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, flows out from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 to be degassed. Then, the liquid L that has been degassed by contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 does not return to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, but is discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. That is, liquid L does not flow in the direction that presses the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 against the liquid flow pipe 21, but flows in the direction that separates the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 from the liquid flow pipe 21. In this way, since the increase in pressure loss when liquid L passes through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be suppressed, the decrease in the flow rate of liquid L can be suppressed. As a result, for example, a device with relatively low output can be used as a liquid supply device for supplying liquid L to the degassing module 1.

[0087] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, since the partition 6 seals the second fixing part 25 and the outer shell 3, the inner region R1 and the outer region R2 can be separated in a simple configuration.

[0088] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, a second end-connecting space S3 is formed on the second extending direction D2 side of the degassing element 2, which communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23. The suction port 3c is adjacent to and communicates with the second end-connecting space S3. Therefore, it is easy to construct a system that draws the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 from the suction port 3c.

[0089] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, the outer casing 3 has: a cylindrical portion 31 for housing the degassing element 2; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31 and having a liquid outlet 3b; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite to the first cover portion 32 and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c. Therefore, the degassing module 1 can be easily manufactured.

[0090] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, apart from the end baffle 4, does not have any components to prevent the liquid L from moving in the extending direction D. Therefore, the liquid L flowing out of the liquid flow pipe 21 will not return to the liquid flow pipe 21 but will be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b.

[0091] Here, we consider a comparative example of a degassing module. This module allows the liquid supplied to the liquid flow pipe to flow out of and back into the liquid flow pipe, and includes a baffle or similar component in the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe to block this hollow portion. In this comparative example, when the liquid flowing out of the liquid flow pipe returns to the liquid flow pipe, it presses multiple hollow filaments against the liquid flow pipe, thus narrowing the liquid flow path and increasing the liquid pressure loss. This increase in liquid pressure loss becomes more significant with higher flow rates. Therefore, because the liquid flow rate is reduced, a high-output device (not shown) must be used as the liquid supply device, such as a liquid pump, to supply liquid to the degassing module.

[0092] In contrast, in this degassing module 1, apart from the end baffle 4 blocking the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 at the end 2a of the first element, no component is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 to prevent the liquid L from moving in the extending direction D. Therefore, the liquid L flowing out of the liquid flow pipe 21 will not return to the liquid flow pipe 21, but will be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. Therefore, compared with the degassing module of the comparative example, the pressure loss of the liquid is reduced and the flow rate of the liquid is increased, so a device with a lower output can be used as the liquid supply device.

[0093] In the liquid degassing method of this embodiment, in the degassing module 1, when the suction port 3c is attracted, the suction force is transmitted to the first end communication space S1 through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, thereby attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 from both sides of the second element end 2b side and the first element end side. Moreover, by supplying liquid L to the liquid supply port 3a, the liquid L can flow out from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, so that it comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 for degassing, and is discharged from the liquid discharge port 3b.

[0094] In addition, by degassing seawater (which is liquid L), the concentration of carbon dioxide in the seawater can be reduced, thereby reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

[0095] [Degassing module in the second embodiment] Next, the degassing module of the second embodiment will be described. The degassing module of the second embodiment is basically the same as the degassing module 1 of the first embodiment, except that it has a plurality of degassing elements 2. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing module 1 of the first embodiment will be described, and the same descriptions as those of the degassing module 1 of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0096] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the second embodiment. Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 11. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the degassing module 1A of this embodiment includes: a plurality of degassing elements 2, a housing 3A, an end baffle 4, a first end communication space forming portion 5, a partition portion 6, and an element connecting portion 7A. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3A is shown in Figure 11.

[0097] A plurality of degassing elements 2 are arranged along the extension direction D. The plurality of degassing elements 2 are adjacent to each other in the extension direction D. Furthermore, the hollow portions 22a of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of a plurality of suction tubes 23 are interconnected between adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D, and the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow tubes 21 are interconnected. In this embodiment, the plurality of degassing elements 2 are composed of a first-end degassing element 2α located at the end in the first extension direction D1 and a second-end degassing element 2β located at the end in the second extension direction D2. That is, the degassing module 1A has two degassing elements. The first-end degassing element 2α is also the first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side among two adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D. Similarly, the second-end degassing element 2β is also the second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side among two adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D.

[0098] The outer casing 3A accommodates the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β by forming a space between them. The outer casing 3A includes: a cylindrical portion 31A for accommodating the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31A and having a liquid outlet 3b; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31A opposite to the first cover portion 32 and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c. The first cover portion 32 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31A on the first extension direction D1 side by covering the opening. The second cover portion 33 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31A on the second extension direction D2 side by covering the opening.

[0099] The component connection portion 7A connects the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β. Furthermore, the component connection portion 7A separates the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β in the extending direction D.

[0100] The component connection portion 7A forms an intermediate connecting space S4 and an intermediate liquid flow path S5. The intermediate connecting space S4 is a space communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2α, and with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β. Furthermore, the intermediate connecting space S4 is adjacent to the second-end hollow filament membrane opening 22c and the second-end suction tube opening 23c of the first-end degassing element 2α, and the first-end hollow filament membrane opening 22b and the first-end suction tube opening 23b of the second-end degassing element 2β. The intermediate liquid flow path S5 is a liquid flow path communicating with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β. Furthermore, the intermediate liquid flow path S5 is a liquid flow path adjacent to the second end liquid flow pipe opening 21c of the first end degassing element 2α and the first end liquid flow pipe opening 21b of the second end degassing element 2β.

[0101] The component connection part 7A has a connecting cover 71A and a connecting tube 72A.

[0102] The connecting cover 71A is connected to the second fixing part 25 of the first end degassing element 2α and the first fixing part 24 of the second end degassing element 2β, and covers the space between the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β. The connecting cover 71A is connected to the second fixing part 25 of the first end degassing element 2α by being inserted into the connecting cover 71A. Furthermore, the connecting cover 71A is connected to the first fixing part 24 of the second end degassing element 2β by being inserted into the connecting cover 71A.

[0103] Connecting pipe 72A is a pipe that connects to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β. Connecting pipe 72A is connected to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α by inserting its end in the first extension direction D1 into the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α. Furthermore, connecting pipe 72A is connected to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β by inserting its end in the second extension direction D2 into the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β.

[0104] Furthermore, by forming an intermediate liquid flow path S5 through the connecting pipe 72A, the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β are connected. Also, by forming an intermediate connecting space S4 through the connecting cover 71A and the connecting pipe 72A, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2α, and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β are connected.

[0105] The end baffle 4 blocks the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α at the end in the first extension direction D1. That is, the end baffle 4 is installed at the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α at the end in the first extension direction D1, blocking the hollow portion 21a. The end baffle 4 is embedded in the hollow portion 21a of the cylindrical liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α at the end in the first extension direction D1. The end baffle 4 is only installed on the first end degassing element 2α and does not block the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second end degassing element 2β. Therefore, the liquid L will not be discharged from the second end degassing element 2β to the first extension direction D1, but will be discharged radially outward from the plurality of openings 21d formed in the liquid flow pipe 21 in both the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β.

[0106] In addition, apart from the end baffle 4, the hollow part 21a and the intermediate connecting space S4 of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β are not provided with any components to prevent the liquid L from moving in the extension direction D.

[0107] The first end-connecting space forming part 5 is connected to the first fixing part 24 of the first end-degassing element 2α in such a way that it covers the first element end 2a of the first end-degassing element 2α. Furthermore, the first end-connecting space forming part 5 forms a space that connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end-degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end-degassing element 2α, serving as the first end-connecting space S1. This first end-connecting space S1 is adjacent to the first extending direction D1 side of the first end-degassing element 2α. Also, this first end-connecting space S1 is adjacent to the first end hollow filament membrane openings 22b of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end-degassing element 2α and the first end suction tube openings 23b of the plurality of suction tubes 23.

[0108] The partition 6 divides the area within the housing 3A into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2 by sealing the second fixing part 25 of the second-end degassing element 2β with the housing 3A. The partition 6 forms a space on the second extension direction D2 side of the second-end degassing element 2β, communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β, serving as a second-end communication space S3. This second-end communication space S3 is adjacent to the second element end 2b of the second-end degassing element 2β on the second extension direction D2 side. Furthermore, this second-end communication space S3 is adjacent to the second-end hollow filament membrane opening 22c and the second-end suction tube opening 23c of the second-end degassing element 2β.

[0109] [Second Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the second embodiment will be described. The degassing method for the liquid in the second embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using a degassing module 1A.

[0110] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c of the degassing module 1A is drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1A.

[0111] When suction port 3c is attracted, the internal region R1 connected to suction port 3c is attracted, resulting in a depressurized state of internal region R1. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α. Next, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of each liquid flow tube 21 is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow tube 21 to the space S2 outside the liquid flow tube 21, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. At this time, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, so the dissolved gas in the liquid L, the gas G contained in the liquid L, and other gases will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, the liquid L is degassed. The degassed liquid L will pass through the space between the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α and the outer casing 3A, and be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. The gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α is discharged from the suction port 3c through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the intermediate connecting space S4, the first-end connecting space S1, the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, and the second-end connecting space S3.

[0112] As explained above, in the degassing module 1A of this embodiment, a plurality of degassing elements 2 are arranged along the extension direction, and the hollow portions 22a of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of a plurality of suction tubes 23 are interconnected between adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction, and the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow tubes 21 are interconnected. Therefore, when suction port 3c is attracted, the attraction force is transmitted through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α to the intermediate connecting space S4 and the first-end connecting space S1, thereby attracting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β from both sides of the second element end 2b side of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first-end degassing element 2α. In other words, even if neither the first end degassing element 2α nor the second end degassing element 2β is equipped with suction ports for attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be attracted from both ends of the extending direction D. This simplifies the structure of the degassing module 1A. Furthermore, since a large flow rate of the liquid L to be degassed can be achieved, it is particularly suitable for degassing seawater, which is liquid L.

[0113] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, since the liquid supply port 3a is connected to the end 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the second extension direction D2 of the second end degassing element 2β, liquid can be supplied from the supply port 3a to the liquid flow pipe 21 with a simple configuration.

[0114] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β, which are adjacent in the extension direction D, are separated in the extension direction D by the element connecting part 7A. The element connecting part 7A forms an intermediate connecting space S4 and an intermediate liquid flow path S5. The intermediate connecting space S4 is connected to the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2α, and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β. The intermediate liquid flow path S5 is connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β. Therefore, between the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β adjacent in the extending direction D, the attraction forces acting on the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 can be mutually transferred, allowing liquid L to flow. Furthermore, when the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β are drawn from the suction port 3c, this attraction force is transmitted through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β to the intermediate connecting space S4 and the first-end connecting space S1. In this way, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β can be drawn from both sides, on the second element end 2b side of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first-end degassing element 2α.

[0115] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, the component connection portion 7A includes: a connecting cover 71A, which connects a second fixing portion 25 to the first-end degassing element 2α and a first fixing portion 24 to the second-end degassing element 2β, thereby covering the space between the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β; and a connecting pipe 72A, which connects the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β. Therefore, with a simple configuration, the hollow portions 22a of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of a plurality of suction pipes 23 can be interconnected between the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β, and the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21 can circulate between them.

[0116] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, the end baffle 4 blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first end degassing element 2α. The first end communication space forming portion 5 is connected to the first element end 2a of the first end degassing element 2α, and the first end communication space S1 connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end degassing element 2α. Therefore, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a, the liquid L is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β, flows out from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 to be degassed. Then, the liquid L degassed by contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 does not return to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21, but is discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. Next, in this degassing module, a second end communication space S3 is formed on the second extension direction D2 side of the second end degassing element 2β, which communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23. The suction port 3c is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space S3. Therefore, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β can be attracted from both sides of the second element end 2b side of the second end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first end degassing element 2α.

[0117] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, since the partition 6 seals the second fixing part 25 of the second end degassing element 2β with the outer shell 3A, it is easy to form a partition between the inner region R1 and the outer region R2.

[0118] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1A, the outer casing 3A has: a cylindrical portion 31A for housing a first-end degassing element 2α and a second-end degassing element 2β; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31A and having a liquid outlet 3b; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31A opposite to the first cover portion 32 and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c. Therefore, the degassing module 1A can be easily manufactured.

[0119] In the liquid degassing method of this embodiment, in the degassing module 1A, when the suction port 3c is attracted, the suction force is transmitted to the first end communication space S1 through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. This allows the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β to be attracted from both sides of the second element end 2b and the first element end 2a. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to the liquid supply port 3a, liquid L can flow out from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21 in the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β, causing it to contact the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 for degassing, and then be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b.

[0120] [The degassing module in the third embodiment] Next, the degassing module of the third embodiment will be described. The degassing module of the third embodiment is basically the same as the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment, except that it has a first end suction port that is different from the suction port. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be described, and the descriptions that are the same as those in the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0121] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the third embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 13. As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the degassing module 1B of this embodiment includes: a plurality of degassing elements 2, a housing 3B, an end baffle 4, a first end communication space forming portion 5B, a partition portion 6, and an element connecting portion 7A. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3B is shown in Figure 13.

[0122] The first end-connecting space forming portion 5B, like the first end-connecting space forming portion 5 in the second embodiment, is connected to the first fixing portion 24 of the first end-degassing element 2α in such a way that it covers the first element end 2a of the first end-degassing element 2α. Furthermore, like the first end-connecting space forming portion 5 in the second embodiment, the first end-connecting space forming portion 5B forms a first end-connecting space S1 that connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end-degassing element 2α and the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23 of the first end-degassing element 2α. Moreover, the first end-connecting space forming portion 5B is larger than the first end-connecting space forming portion 5 in the second embodiment, with the first end-connecting space S1 being larger.

[0123] The outer casing 3B houses the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β by forming a space between them. The outer casing 3B includes: a cylindrical portion 31A for housing the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β; a first cover portion 32B connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31A and having a liquid outlet 3b and a first-end suction port 3d; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31A opposite to the first cover portion 32B and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c.

[0124] The first end suction port 3d is provided on the first cover portion 32, serving as a port connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3B. The first end suction port 3d extends tubularly from the first cover portion 32 toward the inside of the outer casing 3B, connecting to the first end communication space forming portion 5B. Furthermore, the first end suction port 3d communicates with the first end communication space S1. The first end suction port 3d may be integrally formed with the outer casing 3B, or it may be a component separate from the outer casing 3B.

[0125] [Third Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the third embodiment will be described. The degassing method for the liquid in the third embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using the degassing module 1B.

[0126] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c and the first end suction port 3d of the degassing module 1B are attracted, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1A.

[0127] When suction ports 3c and 3d are attracted, the internal region R1, which is connected to suction ports 3c and 3d, is attracted, and the internal region R1 is in a depressurized state. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2, which is connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α. Then, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of each liquid flow tube 21 is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow tube 21 to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. At this time, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, since the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, the dissolved gas in the liquid L, the gas bubbles contained in the liquid L, and other gases G will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, the liquid L is degassed. The degassed liquid L will pass through the space between the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α and the outer casing 3A, and be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. Gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α is discharged from the suction port 3c and the first-end suction port 3d through the hollow portion 22a, the intermediate connecting space S4, the first-end connecting space S1, the hollow portion 23a, and the second-end connecting space S3 of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α.

[0128] As explained above, in the degassing module 1B of this embodiment, the outer shell 3B has a first end suction port 3d that is connected to the first end communication space forming portion 5B and communicates with the first end communication space S1. Therefore, when the internal region R1 is drawn from the suction port 3c and the first end suction port 3d, the suction force is transmitted to the intermediate communication space S4 and the first end communication space S1 through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second end degassing element 2β and the first end degassing element 2α. In this way, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β can be drawn from both sides of the second element end 2b side of the second end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first end degassing element 2α. Moreover, by drawing the internal region R1 from both the suction port 3c and the first end suction port 3d, the discharge path length of the gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be shortened, so higher degassing efficiency can be obtained.

[0129] [Degassing module in the fourth embodiment] Next, the degassing module of the fourth embodiment will be described. The degassing module of the fourth embodiment is basically the same as the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment, except that the suction port is connected to the component connection part. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be described, and the descriptions that are the same as those in the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0130] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the fourth embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 15. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the degassing module 1C of this embodiment includes: a plurality of degassing elements 2, a housing 3C, an end baffle 4, a first end communication space forming portion 5, a partition portion 6, and an element connecting portion 7C. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3C is shown in Figure 15.

[0131] Similar to the component connection portion 7A in the second embodiment, the component connection portion 7C forms an intermediate connecting space S4. This intermediate connecting space S4 communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, as well as with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. Furthermore, the component connection portion 7C forms an intermediate liquid flow path S5 communicating with the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β. Moreover, the component connection portion 7C is larger than the component connection portion 7A in the second embodiment in that the intermediate connecting space S4 and the intermediate liquid flow path S5 are both larger than those in the second embodiment.

[0132] The component connection portion 7C is similar to the component connection portion 7C in the second embodiment, and includes: a connecting cover 71A, which connects the second fixing portion 25 of the first end degassing element 2α and the first fixing portion 24 of the second end degassing element 2β to cover the space between the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β; and a connecting pipe 72A, which connects the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second end degassing element 2β.

[0133] The outer casing 3C accommodates the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β by forming a space between them. The outer casing 3C has: a cylindrical portion 31C for accommodating the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β and having a central suction port 3e; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31C and having a liquid discharge port 3b; and a second cover portion 33C connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31C opposite to the first cover portion 32 and having a liquid supply port 3a.

[0134] The intermediate suction port 3e is provided in the cylindrical portion 31C, serving as an opening connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3C. The intermediate suction port 3e extends tubularly from the cylindrical portion 31C toward the inside of the outer casing 3C and is connected to the connecting cover 71A of the component connecting portion 7C. Next, the intermediate suction port 3e communicates with the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the component connecting portion 7C. The intermediate suction port 3e can be integrally formed with the outer casing 3C, or it can be a separate component from the outer casing 3C.

[0135] [Fourth Implementation: Degassing Method for Liquids]

[0136] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the fourth embodiment will be explained. The degassing method for the liquid in the fourth embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using a degassing module 1C.

[0137] In this degassing method, the intermediate suction port 3e of the degassing module 1C is drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1C.

[0138] When the intermediate suction port 3e is attracted, the internal region R1, which is connected to the intermediate suction port 3e, is attracted, and the internal region R1 becomes depressurized. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to the liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2, which is connected to the liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α. Then, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of each liquid flow tube 21 is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow tube 21 to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. At this time, in the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, since the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, the dissolved gas in the liquid L, the gas bubbles contained in the liquid L, and other gases G will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, the liquid L is degassed. The degassed liquid L will pass through the space between the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α and the outer casing 3A, and be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. Gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α is discharged from the intermediate suction port 3e through the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, the intermediate connecting space S4, the first-end connecting space S1, the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α, and the second-end connecting space S3.

[0139] As explained above, in the degassing module 1C of this embodiment, the outer shell 3C has a central suction port 3e connected to the element connection portion 7C and communicating with the central communicating space S4. Therefore, when the internal region R1 is drawn from the central suction port 3e, the suction force is transmitted from the central communicating space S4 to the first communicating space S1 and the second communicating space S3 through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first-end degassing element 2α. This allows the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2α and the second-end degassing element 2β to be drawn from both sides of the second element end 2b side of the second-end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first-end degassing element 2α. Furthermore, by connecting the central suction port 3e to the element connection portion 7C and communicating with the central communicating space S4, the discharge path length of the gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be shortened. This results in high degassing efficiency.

[0140] [Degassing module in the fifth embodiment] Next, the degassing module of the fifth embodiment will be described. The degassing module of the fifth embodiment is basically the same as the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment, except that it has three degassing elements. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be described, and the descriptions that are the same as those for the degassing module 1A of the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0141] Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 17, the degassing module 1D of this embodiment includes: three degassing elements 2, a housing 3D, an end baffle 4, a first end communication space forming part 5, a partition part 6, and a two element connecting part 7A. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3D is shown in Figure 17.

[0142] Three plurality of degassing elements 2 are arranged in the extension direction D and are adjacent to each other in the extension direction D. Each of the three plurality of degassing elements 2 consists of a first end degassing element 2α located at the end in the first extension direction D1, a second end degassing element 2β located at the end in the second extension direction D2, and an intermediate degassing element 2γ located between the first end degassing element 2α and the second end degassing element 2β. Therefore, between the first end degassing element 2α and the intermediate degassing element 2γ adjacent in the extension direction D, the first end degassing element 2α becomes the first side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side, and the intermediate degassing element 2γ becomes the second side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side. Furthermore, between the intermediate degassing element 2γ and the second end degassing element 2β adjacent in the extension direction D, the intermediate degassing element 2γ becomes the first side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side, and the second end degassing element 2β becomes the second side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side.

[0143] The two element connection parts 7A are composed of a first element connection part 7Aα that connects the first end degassing element 2α and the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and a second element connection part 7Aβ that connects the intermediate degassing element 2γ and the second end degassing element 2β.

[0144] The first element connection portion 7Aα forms a space communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end degassing element 2α, and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the intermediate degassing element 2γ, serving as an intermediate communication space S4. Furthermore, the first element connection portion 7Aα forms a liquid flow path communicating with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the intermediate degassing element 2γ and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second end degassing element 2β, serving as an intermediate liquid flow path S5.

[0145] The outer casing 3D houses the first-end degassing element 2α, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the second-end degassing element 2β by forming a space between them. The outer casing 3D includes: a cylindrical portion 31D for housing the first-end degassing element 2α, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the second-end degassing element 2β and having an intermediate suction port 3e; a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31D and having a liquid discharge port 3b; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31D opposite to the first cover portion 32 and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c.

[0146] The intermediate suction port 3e is provided in the cylindrical portion 31D and serves as a port connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3D. The intermediate suction port 3e extends tubularly from the cylindrical portion 31D toward the inside of the outer casing 3D and connects to the connecting cover 71A of the first element connecting portion 7Aα. Furthermore, the intermediate suction port 3e communicates with the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the first element connecting portion 7Aα. The intermediate suction port 3e can be integrally formed with the outer casing 3D or it can be a separate component from the outer casing 3D.

[0147] The end baffle 4 blocks the end of the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α in the first extending direction D1. The end baffle 4 is only installed on the first end degassing element 2α and does not block the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the intermediate degassing element 2γ and the second end degassing element 2β.

[0148] In addition, apart from the end baffles 4, the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2α, the intermediate degassing element 2γ and the second end degassing element 2β and each intermediate connecting space S4 are not provided with any components to prevent the liquid L from moving in the extension direction D.

[0149] The first end-connecting space forming part 5 is connected to the first fixing part 24 of the first end-degassing element 2α in such a way that it covers the first element end 2a of the first end-degassing element 2α. Furthermore, the first end-connecting space forming part 5 forms a space that connects the hollow parts 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end-degassing element 2α and the hollow parts 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end-degassing element 2α, as the first end-connecting space S1.

[0150] The partition 6 divides the area inside the housing 3D into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2 by sealing the second fixing part 25 of the second end degassing element 2β with the housing 3D.

[0151] [Fifth Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the fifth embodiment will be described. The degassing method for the liquid in the fifth embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using a degassing module 1D.

[0152] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c and the intermediate suction port 3e of the degassing module 1D are drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1A.

[0153] When suction ports 3c and 3e are drawn, the internal region R1, which is connected to suction ports 3c and 3e, is drawn in, and the internal region R1 is in a depressurized state. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2, which is connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tubes 21 of the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α. Then, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of each liquid flow tube 21 in the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow tube 21 to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. At this time, in the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α, since the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, the dissolved gas in the liquid L, the gas bubbles contained in the liquid L, and other gases G will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, the liquid L is degassed. The degassed liquid L will pass through the space between the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, the first-end degassing element 2α and the outer casing 3D, and be discharged from the liquid outlet 3b. Gas G passing through a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α is discharged from the suction port 3c and the intermediate suction port 3e through the hollow portion 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α, the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the second element connecting portion 7Aβ, the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the first element connecting portion 7Aα, the first-end connecting space S1, the hollow portion 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first-end degassing element 2α, and the second-end connecting space S3.

[0154] As described above, in the degassing module 1D of this embodiment, the outer shell 3D has an intermediate suction port 3e connected to the first element connection portion 7Aα and communicating with the intermediate connecting space S4. Therefore, when the internal region R1 is drawn from the suction port 3c and the intermediate suction port 3e, the suction force is transmitted through the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second end degassing element 2β, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the first end degassing element 2α to the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the first element connection portion 7Aα, the intermediate connecting space S4 formed by the second element connection portion 7Aβ, and the first end connecting space S1. In this way, the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end degassing element 2α, the intermediate degassing element 2γ, and the second end degassing element 2β can be drawn from both sides of the second element end 2b side of the second end degassing element 2β and the first element end 2a side of the first end degassing element 2α. Therefore, since high degassing efficiency can be obtained, the number of components that need to be connected to the degassing element 2 and the outer shell 3D for attracting the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be reduced. Moreover, by attracting the internal region R1 from both the suction port 3c and the intermediate suction port 3e, the length of the exhaust path of the gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 can be shortened, thus achieving even higher degassing efficiency.

[0155] [Degassing element in the second embodiment] Next, the degassing element of the second embodiment will be described. The degassing element of the second embodiment is basically the same as the degassing element 2 of the first embodiment, but it differs from the degassing element 2 of the first embodiment in that it further includes an intermediate baffle. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing element 2 of the first embodiment will be described, and the descriptions of the same aspects as the degassing element 2 of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0156] Figure 18 is a schematic front view of the degassing element of the second embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line XIX-XIX shown in Figure 18. Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 18. As shown in Figures 18-20, the degassing element 2E of this embodiment includes: a liquid flow tube 21, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, a plurality of suction tubes 23, a first fixing part 24, a second fixing part 25, and an intermediate baffle 26.

[0157] An intermediate baffle 26 blocks the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the intermediate portion 2c of the component between the first component end 2a and the second component end 2b. The intermediate portion 2c is, for example, the central portion located between the first component end 2a and the second component end 2b. The intermediate baffle 26 is embedded in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the intermediate portion 2c. The intermediate baffle 26 prevents liquid L from flowing between the first component end 2a and the second component end 2b of the liquid flow tube 21. Therefore, when liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 from either the first component end 2a or the second component end 2b flows out of the outside of the liquid flow tube 21 through the plurality of openings 21d and returns to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 through the plurality of openings 21d, it will not flow to either the other end of the first component end 2a or the second component end 2b.

[0158] As explained above, in the degassing element 2E of this embodiment, the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 is blocked by the intermediate baffle 26 in the middle portion 2c of the element between the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b. Therefore, the liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 can flow out from the plurality of openings 21d upstream of the intermediate baffle 26 to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21, contact the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and then return to the liquid flow pipe 21 downstream of the intermediate baffle 26 from the plurality of openings 21d. This extends the contact time between the liquid L and the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22.

[0159] [Sixth Embodiment of the Degassing Module] Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the sixth embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 21. As shown in Figures 21 to 25, the degassing module 1E of this embodiment includes: the degassing element 2E of the second embodiment described above, a housing 3E, a first end communication space forming portion 5E, and a partition portion 6E. Furthermore, in Figure 21, only a cross-section of the housing 3E is shown.

[0160] The outer casing 3E houses the degassing element 2E in such a way that a space is formed between it and the degassing element 2E. This space allows liquid L to flow between the degassing element 2E and the outer casing 3E.

[0161] The outer casing 3E includes: a cylindrical portion 31 for housing the degassing element 2E; a first cover portion 32E connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31 and having a liquid outlet 3f; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite to the first cover portion 32E and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c. The first cover portion 32E is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 on the first extension direction D1 side in such a way that it covers the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extension direction D2 side. The second cover portion 33 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extension direction D2 side in such a way that it covers the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extension direction D2 side.

[0162] A liquid outlet 3f is located on the first cover portion 32E and connects the inner and outer openings of the outer casing 3E. The liquid outlet 3f extends tubularly from the first cover portion 32E toward the inner side of the outer casing 3E and connects to the end portion 21f on the first extension direction D1 side of the liquid flow pipe 21. Furthermore, the liquid outlet 3f communicates with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21.

[0163] The first end-connecting space forming part 5E is the same as the first end-connecting space forming part 5 in the first embodiment, connected to the end 2a of the first element, forming a first end-connecting space S1 that connects the hollow parts 22a of a plurality of hollow silk membranes 22 with the hollow parts 23a of a plurality of suction tubes 23.

[0164] The partition 6E divides the area within the outer casing 3E into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2, with the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 as boundaries. The partition 6E has: a first sealing part 6Ea, which seals the first fixing part 24 of the degassing element 2E between it and the outer casing 3E; and a second sealing part 6Eb, which seals the second fixing part 25 of the degassing element 2E between it and the outer casing 3E. Therefore, on the second extending direction D2 side of the degassing element 2E, a second end communication space S3 is formed, which communicates with the hollow parts 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow parts 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23.

[0165] [Sixth Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the degassing method for the liquid in the sixth embodiment will be described. The degassing method for the liquid in the sixth embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using a degassing module 1E.

[0166] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c of the degassing module 1E is drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1E.

[0167] When suction port 3c is attracted, the internal region R1 connected to suction port 3c is attracted, resulting in a depressurized state of internal region R1. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied from the end 2b of the second element to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21. Moreover, the liquid L is discharged from the space S2 outside the liquid flow tube 21 through a plurality of openings 21d upstream of the intermediate baffle 26, bypassing the intermediate baffle 26, and after contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, it returns to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 from the plurality of openings 21d downstream of the intermediate baffle 26. Furthermore, the upstream side of the intermediate baffle 26 refers to the side of the second element end 2b or the side of the second extension direction D2 of the intermediate baffle 26, and the downstream side of the intermediate baffle 26 refers to the side of the first element end 2a or the side of the first extension direction D1 of the intermediate baffle 26. At this time, since the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, the dissolved gas of liquid L, the gas G contained in liquid L, and other gases will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. In this way, liquid L is degassed. Liquid L that has been degassed and returned to the hollow portion 21a of liquid flow pipe 21 is discharged from liquid outlet 3f through the hollow portion 21a of liquid flow pipe 21. The gas G that has passed through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 is discharged from suction port 3c through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, the first end communication space S1, the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction pipes 23, and the second end communication space S3.

[0168] As explained above, in the degassing module 1E of this embodiment, the intermediate baffle 26 blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the middle portion 2c between the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b. Therefore, the liquid L supplied from the liquid supply port 3a to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 is prevented from flowing in the extending direction D by the intermediate baffle 26. Upstream of the intermediate baffle 26, the liquid flows from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow tube 21, contacts the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and is degassed. Downstream of the intermediate baffle 26, the liquid returns to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21. This extends the contact time between the liquid L and the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22.

[0169] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1E, since the partition 6E has a first sealing part 6Ea that seals the first fixing part 24 and the outer shell 3E, and a second sealing part 6Eb that seals the second fixing part 25 and the outer shell 3E, it is possible to easily construct a partition between the inner region R1 and the outer region F2.

[0170] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1E, since the liquid outlet 3f is connected to the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first extension direction D1, the liquid flowing from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21 can return from the plurality of openings 21d to the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, and then be discharged from the liquid outlet 3f.

[0171] [Seventh Embodiment of the Degassing Module] Next, the degassing module of the seventh embodiment will be described. The degassing module of the seventh embodiment is basically the same as the degassing module 1E of the sixth embodiment, except that it has a plurality of degassing elements 2E. Therefore, in the following description, only the differences from the degassing module 1E of the sixth embodiment will be described, and the descriptions that are the same as those for the degassing module 1E of the sixth embodiment will be omitted.

[0172] Figure 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module of the seventh embodiment. Figure 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 26. As shown in Figures 26 and 27, the degassing module 1F of this embodiment includes: a plurality of degassing elements 2E, a housing 3F, a first end communication space forming portion 5, a partition portion 6E, and an element connecting portion 7A. In addition, only the cross-section of the housing 3F is shown in Figure 26.

[0173] A plurality of degassing elements 2E are arranged in the extension direction D. The plurality of degassing elements 2E are adjacent in the extension direction D. In this embodiment, the plurality of degassing elements 2E are composed of a first-end degassing element 2Eα located at the end in the first extension direction D1 and a second-end degassing element 2Eβ located at the end in the second extension direction D2. That is, the degassing module 1F has two degassing elements. The first-end degassing element 2Eα is also the first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side among the two adjacent degassing elements 2E in the extension direction D. Similarly, the second-end degassing element 2Eβ is also the second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side among the two adjacent degassing elements 2E in the extension direction D.

[0174] The outer casing 3F houses the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ by forming a space between them. The outer casing 3F includes: a cylindrical portion 31F for housing the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ; a first cover portion 32E connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31F and having a liquid outlet 3f; and a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31F opposite to the first cover portion 32E and having a liquid supply port 3a and a suction port 3c.

[0175] The component connection portion 7A connects the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ. Furthermore, the component connection portion 7A forms a space communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα, and with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ, serving as an intermediate communication space S4. Additionally, the component connection portion 7A forms a liquid flow path communicating with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ, serving as an intermediate liquid flow path S5.

[0176] The component connection portion 7A includes: a connecting cover 71A, which connects the second fixing portion 25 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the first fixing portion 24 of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ to cover the space between the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ; and a connecting pipe 72A, which connects the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ. Furthermore, an intermediate liquid flow path S5 is formed by the connecting pipe 72A, allowing communication between the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ. Furthermore, an intermediate communication space S4 is formed by connecting cover 71A and connecting tube 72A, which connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end degassing element 2Eα with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the second end degassing element 2Eβ.

[0177] The liquid outlet 3f is located on the first cover 32E and serves as the opening connecting the inside and outside of the outer casing 3F. The liquid outlet 3f extends tubularly from the first cover 32E toward the inside of the outer casing 3F and connects to the end 21f on the first extension direction D1 side of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2Eα. Furthermore, the liquid outlet 3f communicates with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first end degassing element 2Eα.

[0178] The first end-connecting space forming part 5 is connected to the first fixing part 24 of the first end-degassing element 2Eα in such a way that it covers the first element end 2a of the first end-degassing element 2Eα. Furthermore, the first end-connecting space forming part 5 forms a space that connects the hollow parts 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first end-degassing element 2Eα with the hollow parts 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first end-degassing element 2Eα, as the first end-connecting space S1.

[0179] The partition 6F divides the area within the outer shell 3F into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2, using a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 as boundaries. The partition 6F includes: a first sealing portion 6Fa, sealing the first fixing portion 24 of the first end degassing element 2Eα between it and the outer shell 3F; a second sealing portion 6Fb, sealing the second fixing portion 25 of the first end degassing element 2Eα between it and the outer shell 3F; a third sealing portion 6Fc, sealing the first fixing portion 24 of the second end degassing element 2Eβ between it and the outer shell 3F; and a fourth sealing portion 6Fd, sealing the second fixing portion 25 of the second end degassing element 2Eβ between it and the outer shell 3F. Therefore, on the second extending direction D2 side of the second end degassing element 2Eβ, a second end communication space S3 is formed, communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23. Furthermore, the space S2 outside the liquid flow tube 21 is divided into two spaces: a first outer space S2α located between the first sealing part 6Fa and the second sealing part 6Fb, and a second outer space S2β located between the third sealing part 6Fc and the fourth sealing part 6Fd.

[0180] [Seventh Embodiment: Degassing Method for Liquids] Next, the method for degassing the liquid in the seventh embodiment will be described. The method for degassing the liquid in the seventh embodiment is a method of degassing the liquid L using a degassing module 1F.

[0181] In this degassing method, the suction port 3c of the degassing module 1F is drawn in, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 3a of the degassing module 1F.

[0182] When suction port 3c is attracted, the internal region R1 connected to suction port 3c is attracted, resulting in a depressurized state of internal region R1. Furthermore, by supplying liquid L to liquid supply port 3a, liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to liquid supply port 3a. The liquid L supplied to liquid supply port 3a is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first end degassing element 2α. The liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 of the first end degassing element 2α is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d to the first outer space S2α outside the liquid flow tube 21 on the upstream side of the intermediate baffle 26, contacting the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Furthermore, the upstream side of the intermediate baffle 26 refers to the side of the second element end 2b or the side of the second extension direction D2. Furthermore, the liquid L does not flow in the second outer space S2β, but instead returns from the plurality of openings 21d to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 on the downstream side of the intermediate baffle 26, and is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second end degassing element 2β through the intermediate liquid flow path S5. The downstream side of the intermediate baffle 26 refers to the side of the first element end 2a or the side of the first extension direction D1. The liquid L supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second end degassing element 2β is discharged from the plurality of openings 21d to the second outer space S2β outside the liquid flow pipe 21 on the upstream side of the intermediate baffle 26, and contacts the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Then, the liquid L does not flow in the first outer space S2α, but instead returns from the plurality of openings 21d to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 on the downstream side of the intermediate baffle 26, and is discharged from the liquid outlet 3f. At this time, since the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, the dissolved gas in the liquid L, the gas G contained in the liquid L, and other gases G will pass through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, the liquid L is degassed. The gas G passing through the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 passes through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, the intermediate connecting space S4, the first end connecting space S1, the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23, and the second end connecting space S3, and is discharged from the suction port 3c.

[0183] As described above, in the degassing module 1F of this embodiment, each of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ has an intermediate baffle 26 that blocks the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow tube 21 in the middle portion 2c between the first element end 2a and the second element end 2b. Furthermore, the first-end communication space forming portion 5E is connected to the first element end 2a of the first-end degassing element 2Eα, and the first-end communication space S1 connects the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα with the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction tubes 23 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα. Therefore, in each of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ, the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 3a is prevented from flowing in the extension direction D by the intermediate baffle 26. So, upstream of the intermediate baffle 26, the liquid flows from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21, contacts the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22, and is degassed. Downstream of the intermediate baffle 26, the liquid returns to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21. This prolongs the contact time between the liquid L and the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Furthermore, in this degassing module 1F, a second-end communication space S3 is formed on the second extension direction D2 side of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ, communicating with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 and the hollow portions 23a of the plurality of suction pipes 23. The suction port 3c is adjacent to and communicates with the second-end communication space S3. Therefore, the hollow portions 22a of a plurality of hollow filament membranes 22 of the first-end degassing element 2Eα and the second-end degassing element 2Eβ can be attracted from both sides, namely the second element end 2b side of the second-end degassing element 2Eβ and the first element end 2a side of the first-end degassing element 2Eα.

[0184] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1F, since the partition 6F has: a first sealing part 6Fa that seals the first fixing part 24 of the first end degassing element 2Eα between the first fixing part 24 and the outer shell 3F; a second sealing part 6Fb that seals the second fixing part 25 of the first end degassing element 2Eα between the second fixing part 25 and the outer shell 3F; a third sealing part 6Fc that seals the first fixing part 24 of the second end degassing element 2Eβ between the first fixing part 24 and the outer shell 3F; and a fourth sealing part 6Fd that seals the second fixing part 25 of the second end degassing element 2Eβ between the second fixing part 25 and the outer shell 3F, it can be easily divided into an inner region R1 and an outer region F2.

[0185] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1F, since the liquid outlet 3f is connected to the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first extension direction D1 of the first end degassing element 2Eα, the liquid L flowing from the plurality of openings 21d to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21 can return from the plurality of openings 21d to the hollow part 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, and then be discharged from the liquid outlet 3f.

[0186] The above description pertains to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, but this disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned embodiment.

[0187] For example, the above embodiment describes a degassing element having a plurality of suction tubes, but the degassing element may also have only one suction tube. In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23 may also be larger than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Thus, when the degassing element 2 has only one suction tube 23, the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23 is larger than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. Therefore, the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portion 23a of the suction tube 23 can be less than the pressure loss (suction loss) caused by the suction of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow filament membranes 22. In this way, the same effect as when the degassing element has a plurality of suction tubes can be achieved.

[0188] Furthermore, the number of degassing elements in the degassing module is not particularly limited. For example, the degassing module may have one degassing element as shown in the first embodiment, two degassing elements as shown in the second and third embodiments, or three degassing elements as shown in the fourth embodiment. Additionally, the degassing module may also have four or more degassing elements.

[0189] Furthermore, when the degassing module has a plurality of degassing elements, the degassing elements adjacent in the extension direction D are also arranged separately from each other as shown in the above embodiment. However, they can also be arranged without being separated from each other as long as they can be directly connected.

[0190] Furthermore, the above embodiments specifically describe the configuration of the outer casing; however, as long as the outer casing houses the degassing unit and has a liquid supply port, a liquid discharge port, and a suction port, it can be of any configuration. For example, the liquid discharge port may also be located in the cylindrical portion. Also, for example, the cylindrical portion may be divided into multiple parts. When the cylindrical portion is divided into multiple parts, it is particularly effective when it is difficult to house multiple degassing elements within the cylindrical portion.

[0191] 1: Degassing module 1A: Degassing Module 1B: Degassing Module 1C: Degassing Module 1D: Degassing Module 1E: Degassing Module 1F: Degassing Module 2: Degassing element 2a: End of the first element 2b: End of the second element 2c: Middle part of the component 2E: Degassing element 2Eα: First-end degassing element 2Eβ: Second-end degassing element 2α: First-end degassing element 2β: Second-end degassing element 2γ: Intermediate degassing element 3: Outer shell 3A: Outer casing 3B: Outer shell 3C: Outer casing 3D: Shell 3E: Outer casing 3F: Outer shell 3a: Liquid supply port 3b: Liquid outlet 3c: Suction port 3d: First end suction port 3e: Middle suction port 3f: Liquid outlet 4: End baffle 5: First end connected space forming part 5B: First end connecting space forming part 5E: First end connecting space forming part 6: Divider 6E: Divider 6Ea: First sealing part 6Eb: Second sealing part 6F: Divider 6Fa: First sealing part 6Fb: Second sealing part 6Fc: Third sealing part 6Fd: Fourth sealing part 7A: Component connection section 7Aα: First component connection part 7Aβ: Second element connection part 7C: Component connection part 21: Liquid flow tube 21a: Hollow section 21b: Opening of the first end liquid flow tube 21c: Opening of the second end liquid flow tube 21d: Opening 21e: End 21f: End 22: Hollow fiber membrane 22a: Hollow section 22b: Opening of the first end hollow fiber membrane 22c: Opening of the second-end hollow fiber membrane 23: Suction tube 23a: Hollow section 23b: First end suction tube opening 23c: Second end suction tube opening 24: First fixing part 25: Second fixing part 26: Middle baffle 31: Cylindrical section 31A: Cylindrical section 31C: Cylindrical section 31D: Cylindrical section 31F: Cylindrical section 32: First cover 32B: First cover 32E: First cover 33: Second cover 33C: Second cover 71A: Connecting cover 72A: Connecting pipe D: Extension direction D1: First extension direction D2: Second extension direction F2: External Area G: Gas L: Liquid R1: Internal area R2: External Region S1: First-end connected space S2: Space S2α: First outer space S2β: Second outer space S3: Second-end connected space S4: Intermediate Connectivity Space S5: Intermediate liquid flow path

Claims

1. A degassing element comprising: a liquid flow tube having a plurality of openings and extending in an extending direction; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes disposed around the liquid flow tube in such a manner that they extend along the liquid flow tube and cover the plurality of openings; and a suction tube extending along the liquid flow tube; A first fixing part, located at the end of the first extending direction, i.e. the end of the first element, fixes the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes and the aforementioned suction tube to the aforementioned liquid flow tube in such a way that it seals the liquid flow tube, the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the aforementioned suction tube while keeping the hollow portions of the aforementioned liquid flow tube, the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the aforementioned suction tube open. The first extending direction is one of the aforementioned extending directions. A second fixing part, located at the end of the second extending direction, i.e. the end of the second element, fixes the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes and the aforementioned suction tube to the aforementioned liquid flow tube in such a way that it seals the liquid flow tube, the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the aforementioned suction tube while keeping the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned liquid flow tube, the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes, and the aforementioned suction tube open. The second extending direction is the opposite direction to the aforementioned first extending direction.

2. The degassing element of claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the aforementioned suction tube is greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portions of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments.

3. The degassing element of claim 1, wherein the aforementioned suction tube system is disposed on the outside of the aforementioned plurality of hollow fiber membranes.

4. The degassing element of claim 1, which has a plurality of the aforementioned suction tubes.

5. The degassing element of claim 4, wherein the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the plurality of aforementioned suction tubes is greater than the total cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion of the plurality of aforementioned hollow filament films.

6. The degassing element of claim 4, wherein a plurality of the aforementioned suction tubes are disposed around the aforementioned plurality of hollow fiber membranes.

7. The degassing element of claim 6, wherein a plurality of the aforementioned suction tubes are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the aforementioned liquid flow tube.

8. The degassing element of claim 1 further comprises an intermediate baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube at the middle portion of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element.

9. A degassing module comprising: a degassing element as claimed in claim 1; a housing housing the degassing element; a first-end-connecting space forming portion connected to an end of the first element; and a partition portion dividing a region within the housing into an inner region comprising the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tube, bounded by the plurality of hollow filaments, and an outer region comprising the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube; the first-end-connecting space forming portion forming a first-end-connecting space connecting the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tube; the housing comprising: a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the hollow portions of the liquid flow tube; a liquid discharge port for discharging the liquid flowing from the liquid flow tube; and a suction port for aspirating the inner region.

10. The degassing module of claim 9, wherein the aforementioned liquid supply port is connected to the end of the aforementioned liquid flow pipe in the second extension direction.

11. The degassing module of claim 9 further includes an end baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube at the end of the first element of the aforementioned degassing element.

12. The degassing module of claim 11, wherein the aforementioned partition seals the space between the aforementioned second fixing part and the aforementioned outer casing.

13. The degassing module of claim 11, wherein a second end communication space is formed on the second extension direction side of the aforementioned degassing element, which communicates with the aforementioned hollow portion of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments and the aforementioned hollow portion of the aforementioned suction tube, and the aforementioned suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the aforementioned second end communication space.

14. The degassing module of claim 13, wherein the aforementioned degassing element has an intermediate baffle that blocks the aforementioned hollow portion of the aforementioned liquid flow tube at the intermediate portion of the element between the end of the aforementioned first element and the end of the aforementioned second element.

15. The degassing module of claim 14, wherein the aforementioned partition has: a first sealing portion sealing between the aforementioned first fixing portion and the aforementioned outer casing; and a second sealing portion sealing between the aforementioned second fixing portion and the aforementioned outer casing.

16. The degassing module of claim 14, wherein the aforementioned liquid outlet is connected to the end of the aforementioned liquid flow pipe in the first extension direction.

17. The degassing module of claim 9, comprising a plurality of the aforementioned degassing elements arranged in the aforementioned extending direction, wherein the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filament membranes and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned suction tubes are interconnected between adjacent degassing elements in the aforementioned extending direction, and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned liquid flow tubes are interconnected.

18. The degassing module of claim 17, wherein the aforementioned liquid supply port is connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe of the second end degassing element located at the end of the second extension direction among the plurality of the aforementioned degassing elements in the aforementioned second extension direction.

19. The degassing module of claim 17 further comprises an element connection portion in which a first-side degassing element and a second-side degassing element are separately arranged in the aforementioned extension direction, the first-side degassing element being located on the first extension direction side among the aforementioned degassing elements adjacent in the aforementioned extension direction, and the second-side degassing element being located on the second extension direction side among the aforementioned degassing elements adjacent in the aforementioned extension direction; the aforementioned element connection portion forms an intermediate connecting space and an intermediate liquid flow path, the intermediate connecting space being connected to the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned suction tube of the aforementioned first-side degassing element, and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned suction tube of the aforementioned second-side degassing element; the intermediate liquid flow path being connected to the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned liquid flow tube of the aforementioned first-side degassing element and the aforementioned hollow portions of the aforementioned liquid flow tube of the aforementioned second-side degassing element.

20. The degassing module of claim 19, wherein the aforementioned component connection portion has: a connecting cover, connected to the aforementioned second fixing portion of the aforementioned first-side degassing element and the aforementioned first fixing portion of the aforementioned second-side degassing element, to cover the space between the aforementioned first-side degassing element and the aforementioned second-side degassing element; and a connecting pipe, connected to the aforementioned liquid flow pipe of the aforementioned first-side degassing element and the aforementioned liquid flow pipe of the aforementioned second-side degassing element.

21. The degassing module of claim 19, wherein the aforementioned suction port is connected to the aforementioned component connection portion and communicates with the aforementioned intermediate communication space.

22. The degassing module of claim 17 further comprises an end baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements; the first end communication space forming portion is connected to the end of the first element of the first end degassing element located at the first extension direction of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements; the first end communication space connects the hollow portion of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments of the first end degassing element with the hollow portion of the aforementioned suction tube of the first end degassing element; a second end communication space is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element located at the second extension direction of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements; the second end communication space communicates with the hollow portion of the aforementioned plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portion of the aforementioned suction tube; the suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space.

23. The degassing module of claim 22, wherein the aforementioned housing has a first end suction port, the first end suction port being connected to the aforementioned first end communication space forming portion and communicating with the aforementioned first end communication space.

24. The degassing module of claim 22, wherein the aforementioned partition seals the aforementioned second fixing part of the aforementioned second-end degassing element with the aforementioned outer casing.

25. The degassing module of claim 17, wherein each of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements has an intermediate baffle that blocks the hollow portion of the liquid flow tube at the intermediate portion of the element between the end of the first element and the end of the second element; the first end communication space forming portion is connected to the end of the first end degassing element located at the end of the first extension direction among the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements; the first end communication space connects the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments preceding the first end degassing element with the hollow portions of the suction tube preceding the first end degassing element; a second end communication space is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element located at the end of the second extension direction among the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements, the second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow filaments and the hollow portions of the suction tube; the suction port is adjacent to and communicates with the second end communication space.

26. The degassing module of claim 25, wherein the aforementioned partition has: a first sealing portion for sealing between the aforementioned first fixing portion of the first side degassing element located on the first extension direction side of the aforementioned adjacent degassing elements in the aforementioned extension direction and the aforementioned housing; a second sealing portion for sealing between the aforementioned second fixing portion of the aforementioned first side degassing element and the aforementioned housing; a third sealing portion for sealing between the aforementioned first fixing portion of the aforementioned second side degassing element located on the second extension direction side of the aforementioned adjacent degassing elements in the aforementioned extension direction and the aforementioned housing; and a fourth sealing portion for sealing between the aforementioned second fixing portion of the aforementioned second side degassing element and the aforementioned housing.

27. The degassing module of claim 25, wherein the aforementioned liquid outlet is connected to the end of the aforementioned liquid flow tube of the first end degassing element located at the aforementioned first extension direction end of the plurality of aforementioned degassing elements in the aforementioned first extension direction.

28. The degassing module of claim 9, wherein the aforementioned housing has: a cylindrical portion for housing the aforementioned degassing element; a first cover portion connected to one end of the aforementioned cylindrical portion and having the aforementioned liquid outlet; and a second cover portion connected to the end of the aforementioned cylindrical portion opposite to the aforementioned first cover portion and having the aforementioned liquid supply port; at least one of the aforementioned first cover portion and the aforementioned second cover portion has the aforementioned suction port.

29. A method for degassing a liquid, comprising using a degassing module as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 28 to degas the liquid, wherein the aforementioned suction port of the degassing module is aspirated and the liquid is supplied to the aforementioned liquid supply port of the degassing module.

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