Degassing device

Abstract

A degassing device is provided with: a degassing module having a pipe unit that has gas permeability and separates a fluid flow space from a pressure reduction space; a discharge device configured to communicate with a vacuum pipe communicating with the decompressed space of the degassing module, and to discharge gas in the decompressed space to the outside via the vacuum pipe; a housing on which the degassing module and the discharge device are mounted; and an anti-vibration member that is interposed between the housing and the discharge device and that supports the discharge device with respect to the housing, the anti-vibration member having a resonance frequency of 45 Hz or less.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a degassing device. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a degasser used in a liquid chromatography apparatus or the like.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2007 / 094242 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The degassing device described in Patent Document 1 is configured to include a discharge device (pump) for decompressing a decompression space in a degassing module provided with a tube unit, and to degas the liquid flowing in the tube unit by operating the discharge device. However, when the discharge device is operated, vibrations are generated from the discharge device. Sometimes the tube unit constituting the degassing module in the degassing device is damaged by the vibration. In addition, sometimes the tube unit falls off the degassing module due to the vibration. In addition, sometimes microbubbles are generated in the fluid flowing in the degassing module due to the vibration, which affects inspections, etc.

[0008] Therefore, an object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a degassing device that can effectively suppress the transmission of vibration of a discharge device to other structures.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] The inventors have conducted in-depth research on the above-mentioned issues, and as a result, have obtained the following insights. That is, the discharge device of the degassing device discharges the gas in the decompression space to the outside by driving the motor to rotate. The greater the speed of the motor, the greater the amount of gas discharged from the decompression space to the outside. On the other hand, since the load associated with the discharge of the gas acts on the motor, if the speed of the motor becomes too small, the rotation of the motor stops and the gas in the decompression space cannot be discharged to the outside. Therefore, in the discharge device, it is necessary to rotate the motor at a speed higher than the minimum speed at which the rotation of the motor does not stop. The result of the verification by the inventors is that the frequency of the vibration generated from the discharge device when the motor is rotated at the minimum speed, that is, the minimum frequency, is 50Hz to 60Hz. The vibration-proof component has the property of attenuating vibrations of frequencies higher than its resonant frequency. In view of this, the inventors have obtained the following insights: by using a vibration-proof component with a resonant frequency of less than 50Hz, the vibration of the discharge device can be suppressed from being transmitted to other structures. A technical solution of the present invention is made based on the above insights.

[0011] A degassing device according to one technical solution of the present invention comprises: a degassing module having a pipe unit which is gas permeable and separates a fluid flow space from a decompression space; a discharge device which is connected to a vacuum pipe connected to the decompression space of the degassing module and discharges the gas in the decompression space to the outside via the vacuum pipe; a shell which carries the degassing module and the discharge device; and a vibration-proof component which is interposed between the shell and the discharge device and supports the discharge device relative to the shell, wherein the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof component is below 45 Hz.

[0012] In the degassing device, the discharge device is supported on the housing by means of a vibration-proof member, and the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member is 45 Hz or less. Therefore, the vibration-proof member can be used to effectively suppress the transmission of vibration generated from the discharge device to the housing when the discharge device is operated. As a result, since the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device to other structures can be effectively suppressed, for example, damage to the pipe unit, detachment of the pipe unit, generation of noise, and growth of microbubbles in the inspection fluid can be suppressed.

[0013] Alternatively, [2] in the degassing device described in [1], the housing has a bottom plate that divides the bottom plate of the degassing device, and the discharge device is supported on the bottom plate via a vibration-proof member. In the degassing device, the discharge device is supported on the bottom plate via a vibration-proof member, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration of the discharge device to the housing and stably supporting the discharge device.

[0014] Alternatively, [3] based on the degassing device described in [2], the housing has a front plate erected on the bottom plate, and the degassing module is fixed to the front plate. In this degassing device, the degassing module is not fixed to the bottom plate supporting the discharge device, but is fixed to the front plate erected on the bottom plate, thereby making the path from the discharge device to the degassing module longer and more complicated. As a result, the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device to the degassing module can be further suppressed.

[0015] Alternatively, [4] in the degassing device of [2] or [3], at least a portion of the vibration-proof member is disposed between the bottom plate and the discharge device, and the discharge device is disposed at a predetermined height from the bottom plate. In the degassing device, at least a portion of the vibration-proof member is disposed between the bottom plate and the discharge device, and the discharge device is disposed at a predetermined height from the bottom plate, thereby further suppressing the transmission of vibration of the discharge device to the housing, and even if the fluid being degassed in the degassing device leaks from the degassing module, the fluid can be prevented from corroding the discharge device. In addition, even if such a liquid leak occurs, waste liquid treatment can be easily performed.

[0016] Alternatively, [5] in the degassing device described in any one of [2] to [4], the discharge device includes a pump and a fixing plate to which the pump is fixed, and the vibration-proof member is interposed between the bottom plate and the fixing plate. In the degassing device, the vibration-proof member is interposed between the bottom plate of the housing and the fixing plate of the discharge device, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in arranging the vibration-proof member compared to a case where the vibration-proof member is directly attached to the pump, and enabling the vibration-proof member to be arranged in a wider range. As a result, the vibration-proof effect of the vibration-proof member can be further improved.

[0017] Alternatively, [6] in the degassing device described in any one of [1] to [5], at least a portion of the vacuum piping is a resin composition comprising polyolefin and a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer. In the degassing device, at least a portion of the vacuum piping is a resin composition comprising polyolefin and a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, thereby achieving excellent solvent resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. In addition, gas permeability can be reduced, and the vacuum piping can be prevented from falling off. In particular, by operating the motor of the degassing device at a minimum frequency of 50 Hz to 60 Hz, such durability and prevention of falling off can be further improved.

[0018] Effects of the Invention

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to effectively suppress the vibration of the discharge device from being transmitted to other structures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 It is a schematic plan view showing a degassing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagrammatic side view of a degassing device is shown.

[0022] Figure 3 It means that it is installed on Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a degassing module of the degassing device shown.

[0023] Figure 4 Yes Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a connector portion of the degassing module.

[0024] Figure 5 Yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown.

[0025] Figure 6 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device.

[0026] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device.

[0028] Fig. 9 Yes Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown.

[0029] Fig.10 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, the degassing device of the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in all the drawings, the same reference numerals are attached to the same or corresponding parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0031] Figure 1 It is a schematic top view showing a degassing device according to one embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of the degassing device is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the degassing device 1 includes: a housing 5, degassing modules 10, 20, 30, a vacuum pipe 40, a discharge device 50, an atmosphere opening pipe 60, an atmosphere opening valve 70, an adjustment valve 75, and a control unit 80, wherein the housing 5 has a bottom plate 2, a front plate 3, and a rear plate 4. The bottom plate 2 of the housing 5 divides the bottom of the degassing device 1, the front plate 3 of the housing 5 divides the front part of the degassing device 1, and the rear plate 4 of the housing 5 divides the rear part of the degassing device 1. The degassing device 1 is, for example, a degassing device for liquid chromatography, and is used to degas a fluid that is an inspection object of the liquid chromatography. Of course, the degassing device 1 can also be used for gas chromatography, a biochemical analysis device, an inkjet filling device, etc.

[0032] The degassing modules 10, 20, 30 have, for example, Figure 3 The structure shown. Figure 3 It means that it is installed on Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a degassing module of the degassing device shown. Figure 4 Yes Figure 3 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the connector portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. Figure 3 The structure of the degassing module 10 is shown, but the other degassing modules 20 and 30 have the same structure. Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the degassing module 10 comprises: a tube unit 12, which has a plurality of tubes 11 bundled at both ends to divide the fluid flow space S1 inside; a shell 13, which accommodates the tube unit 12; a cover 14, which air-tightly seals the opening 13a of the shell 13; a connector part 15 and a connector part 16, which connect and fix the tube unit 12 passing through the cover part 14; and an exhaust port 17 and an open port 18, which are connected to the decompression space S2.

[0033] The degassing module 10 divides the interior of the housing 13 into a fluid circulation space S1 and a decompression space S2 by using a tube unit 12 as a gas permeable membrane having gas permeability. The fluid circulation space S1 is the internal space of each tube 11 of the tube unit 12, and the decompression space S2 is the space outside the tube unit 12. The fluid circulation space S1 is a region to which liquid is supplied, and the liquid introduced from the inlet 12a of the tube unit 12 is supplied to the outlet 12b. The decompression space S2 is a region into which gas is sucked. In addition, in the degassing module 10, liquid is supplied to the internal space of each of the plurality of tubes 11, i.e., the fluid circulation space S1, and gas is sucked from the decompression space S2 outside the plurality of tubes 11, thereby degassing the liquid supplied to the tube unit 12.

[0034] Each tube 11 constituting the tube unit 12 is a tubular membrane (gas permeable membrane) that allows gas to pass but does not allow liquid to pass (see Figure 4 ). The raw material, film shape, film morphology, etc. of the tube 11 are not particularly limited. As the raw material of the tube 11, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA), tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymer (ethylene copolymer resin) (ETFE), polytrifluorochloroethylene (PCTFE), amorphous fluorine-containing polymer (amorphous fluorine resin; AF), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and other fluorine resins, polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (PMP), silicone, polyimide, polyamide. As the amorphous fluorine-containing polymer, for example, Teflon (registered trademark) AF can be mentioned.

[0035] The degassing device 1 is provided with three degassing modules 10 , 20 , and 30 , but may be provided with one degassing module, two degassing modules, or four or more degassing modules.

[0036] Back to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Let's continue with the explanation. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the vacuum piping 40 is a member that communicates with each decompression space S2 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 and is used to connect each decompression space S2 to the discharge device 50. The vacuum piping 40 includes discharge piping sections 41, 42, and 43 connected to each discharge port 17 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30, a discharge collection section 44 that collects the discharge piping sections 41, 42, and 43, a pipe 45 that connects the discharge collection section 44 to the discharge device 50, a detection piping section 46 that communicates the discharge collection section 44 with a detector 85, and a discharge pipe 47 connected to the discharge device 50. As described later, the detector 85 is a pressure sensor for detecting the degree of decompression in each decompression space S2 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30, and the detector 85 is provided in the control section 80. The end of the discharge pipe 47 on the side opposite to the discharge device 50 is attached to the front plate 3 and is open to the outside of the degassing device 1 in front of the front plate 3.

[0037] At least a portion of the discharge piping sections 41, 42, 43, the discharge collection section 44, the piping 45, the detection piping section 46, and the discharge pipe 47 constituting the vacuum piping 40 is, for example, composed of a resin tube. All or substantially all (for example, except for the connecting parts) of the constituent members of the vacuum piping 40 may also be composed of resin tubes. In other words, the vacuum piping 40 may also be constructed by connecting a plurality of tubes using connecting members or the like. Such a tube is composed of a piping that is resistant to solvents used in liquid chromatography, for example, the rubber hardness of the piping is preferably within the range of 70±30 degrees and the oxygen permeability of the piping is 6000cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 Below. The rubber hardness is preferably in the range of 70±30 degrees, but from the viewpoint of both the appropriate flexibility to prevent the loosening and falling off of the connecting part and the appropriate durability to suppress the deformation, crushing and clogging of the tube, the lower limit is more preferably above 50 degrees, further preferably above 55 degrees, and particularly preferably above 60 degrees, and the upper limit is more preferably below 95 degrees, further preferably below 80 degrees, and particularly preferably below 75 degrees. Among them, the rubber hardness represents Shore A, and can be measured, for example, using a durometer (type A) according to the method of JIS K7312 (1996). In addition, from the viewpoint of superior durability, the oxygen permeability may be preferably 6000cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 Below, more preferably 3000cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 Below, more preferably 1000cc(STP)cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10Below, particularly preferably 500cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 Below, and preferably 0.1cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 More preferably 10cc(STP)cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 Here, oxygen permeability refers to oxygen permeation rate, and can be measured by, for example, a method in accordance with ASTM D 1434 pressure method.

[0038] The material of the tube constituting the vacuum pipe 40 is not particularly limited as long as it has the above-mentioned properties. For example, vinyl chloride, silicone rubber; polyamide (nylon) such as nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 11, and nylon 12; polyurethane; polyethylene such as low-density polyethylene and linear low-density polyethylene, polyolefins such as polypropylene; fluororesins such as FEP, PFA, ETFE, and PTFE; thermoplastic elastomers such as polyester thermoplastic elastomers, styrene thermoplastic elastomers, and olefin thermoplastic elastomers, and one or more of them can be used. As the material of the tube constituting the vacuum pipe 40, a resin composition including polyolefin and thermoplastic elastomer among the above-mentioned materials is more preferred, and a resin composition including polyolefin and styrene thermoplastic elastomer is further preferred.

[0039] The vacuum pipe 40 is composed of a resin composition including the above-mentioned polyolefin and thermoplastic elastomer, so that it not only has excellent solvent resistance, but also can reduce gas permeability. In addition, the vacuum pipe 40 is composed of a resin composition including the above-mentioned polyolefin and thermoplastic elastomer and has appropriate flexibility, which can also prevent loosening and falling off at the connection part of the discharge collection part 44 during the degassing operation, and can also suppress deformation, crushing, and clogging of the pipe, so the durability is also excellent. In addition, although the degassing device 1 of this embodiment has a plurality of degassing modules, and has a plurality of connection structures such as the connection parts of the vacuum pipe 40 and the degassing modules 10, 20, 30, and the connection parts with other parts of the discharge collection part 44, it is composed of such a flexible and durable pipe, so that the long-term reliability as a degassing device can also be improved.

[0040] In addition, the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer used in the vacuum pipe 40 is a copolymer having at least one styrene block (hard segment) and at least one elastomer block. As the elastomer block, vinyl-polydiene, polyisoprene, polybutadiene, polyethylene, polychloroprene or poly-2,3-dimethylbutadiene can be preferably used. The elastomer block can also use an elastomer block after hydrogen is added. If hydrogen is added to the elastomer block, the solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance have a better tendency, which is preferred. As specific examples of styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, styrene-vinyl isoprene-styrene triblock copolymers (SIS), styrene-isobutylene diblock copolymers (SIB), styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymers (SBS), styrene-ethylene·butylene-styrene triblock copolymers (SEBS), styrene-ethylene·propylene-styrene triblock copolymers (SEPS), styrene-ethylene·ethylene·propylene-styrene triblock copolymers (SEEPS), styrene-butadiene·butylene-styrene triblock copolymers (SBBS), etc. can be cited. Styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers can be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among them, styrene-vinyl isoprene-styrene triblock copolymers are preferably used because of their superior solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance. Preferred examples of such styrene-vinylisoprene-styrene triblock copolymers include "FG 1901G Polymer" and "FG 1924G Polymer" manufactured by Kraton, and HYBRAR 5127 manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd. In addition, HYBRAR 7311 manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd., which is obtained by adding hydrogen to a vinylisoprene block, can also be preferably used.

[0041] Regarding the range of the content rate of the styrene block in the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer (styrene content), the lower limit is preferably 1% by mass, more preferably 5% by mass, and further preferably 10% by mass relative to the total of the styrene block and the elastomer block. Within this range, there is a tendency to obtain better solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance. On the other hand, the upper limit is preferably 30% by mass, more preferably 20% by mass, relative to the total of the styrene block and the elastomer block. Within this range, there is a tendency to obtain better solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance.

[0042] Regarding the range of the content of the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer in the resin composition containing polyolefin and styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, the lower limit is preferably 3% by mass, more preferably 5% by mass, and further preferably 10% by mass relative to the total of the polyolefin and the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, and within this range, there is a tendency to obtain good solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance. On the other hand, the upper limit is preferably 30% by mass, more preferably 25% by mass, and further preferably 20% by mass relative to the total of the polyolefin and the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, and within this range, there is a tendency to obtain good solvent resistance (solvent resistance) and chemical resistance.

[0043] Furthermore, in the discharge collecting section 44, the connecting portion connecting the tubes to each other may be made of hard plastic (polypropylene) or the like.

[0044] The exhaust device 50 is connected to the decompression space S2 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 via the vacuum piping 40, and the exhaust device 50 exhausts the gas in each decompression space S2 to the outside based on the control instruction from the control unit 80. The exhaust device 50 is arranged above the bottom plate 2. The exhaust device 50 is configured to include, for example, a pump 51, a fixed plate 52 to which the pump 51 is fixed, and the like. The pump 51 is fixed to the upper surface 52a of the fixed plate 52 (the surface on the side opposite to the bottom plate 2). Therefore, the lower surface 52b of the fixed plate 52 (the surface on the bottom plate 2 side) becomes the lowermost surface of the exhaust device 50 (the surface closest to the bottom plate 2 side). The pump 51 includes a motor 53 for discharging the gas in each decompression space S2 to the outside, an air intake port 54 connected to a pipe 45 for sucking the gas in each decompression space S2, and an air exhaust port 55 connected to an exhaust pipe 47 for discharging the sucked gas to the outside of the degassing device 1. The motor 53 is driven to rotate based on a control instruction from the control unit 80, so that the gas in each decompression space S2 is discharged to the outside. As the pump 51, for example, a diaphragm dry vacuum pump is used. The diaphragm dry vacuum pump is a vacuum pump that moves the diaphragm up and down by driving the motor to rotate, and moves the gas from the air intake port to the exhaust port by the up and down movement of the diaphragm. As the fixing plate 52, for example, a rectangular metal plate is used.

[0045] In the discharge device 50, the greater the rotation speed of the motor 53, the greater the amount of gas discharged from each decompression space S2 to the outside. On the other hand, since the load associated with the discharge of the gas acts on the motor 53, if the rotation speed of the motor 53 becomes too small, the rotation of the motor 53 stops and the gas in the decompression space S2 cannot be discharged to the outside. Therefore, the motor 53 has the lowest rotation speed, that is, the lowest rotation speed, at which the gas in the decompression space S2 can be discharged to the outside without stopping the rotation. That is, when the motor 53 is driven to rotate at a speed higher than the minimum rotation speed, the gas in the decompression space S2 can be discharged to the outside without stopping the rotation of the motor 53. In the degassing device 1, the frequency of the vibration generated from the discharge device 50 when the motor 53 rotates at the minimum rotation speed, that is, the minimum frequency is 50Hz to 60Hz. In addition, when the motor 53 rotates at a speed higher than the minimum rotation speed, the frequency of the vibration generated from the discharge device 50 becomes a frequency higher than the minimum frequency.

[0046] The discharge device 50 is supported on the bottom plate 2 of the housing 5 by means of four vibration-proof members 101. The four vibration-proof members 101 have the same structure, and therefore, except for the case where they are specifically described separately, they are described together as the vibration-proof members 101. The vibration-proof member 101 is a member used to attenuate vibration and suppress the transmission of vibration. The vibration-proof member 101 is preferably a vibration-damping steel plate structure. The vibration-damping steel plate structure refers to a composite restraint type vibration-damping structure used by sandwiching a viscoelastic material (preferably rubber, gel or elastomer) with a thickness of 0.1 mm to 1 cm between two members such as plates. The vibration-proof member 101 is interposed between the bottom plate 2 and the discharge device 50 (fixed plate 52) to support the discharge device 50 relative to the bottom plate 2. The four vibration-proof members 101 are arranged at the four corners of the fixed plate 52 when viewed from above, and support the discharge device 50 (fixed plate 52) at the four corners of the fixed plate 52. The discharge device 50 is arranged at a position at a predetermined height from the upper surface 2a of the bottom plate 2 (the surface on the discharge device 50 side) through the vibration-proof component 101. In addition, in order to effectively suppress the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device 50 to the housing 5, the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof component 101 is set to 45 Hz or less. The resonance frequency is also called the resonance vibration number or the resonance point. In the vibration transfer characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Hz) and the vertical axis represents the response magnification (dB), it is the frequency of the peak value of the diagram. Since the vibration-proof component 101 has the property of attenuating vibrations of frequencies higher than its resonance frequency, by setting the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof component 101 to 45 Hz or less, resonance with the discharge device 50 having a minimum frequency of 50 Hz to 60 Hz can be avoided, and vibrations in the frequency region above the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof component 101 can be attenuated.

[0047] In this case, the higher the frequency of the vibration of the attenuation object is relative to the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101, the more the vibration-proof effect (vibration attenuation effect) of the vibration-proof member 101 can be achieved and the resonance with the discharge device 50 can be suppressed. Therefore, the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is 45 Hz or less, preferably 40 Hz or less. In addition, when the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is a frequency that is 30% or more lower than the vibration of the attenuation object, the vibration-proof effect of the vibration-proof member 101 can be better achieved and the resonance with the discharge device 50 can be suppressed. Therefore, the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is more preferably 35 Hz or less. On the other hand, from the perspective of the ease of manufacture of the vibration-proof member 101, the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is, for example, preferably 20 Hz or more, more preferably 23 Hz or more, and more preferably 30 Hz or more. From these viewpoints, the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is, for example, preferably 20 Hz or more and 45 Hz or less, more preferably 23 Hz or more and 40 Hz or less, and more preferably 23 Hz or more and 35 Hz or less.

[0048] The vibration-proof member 101 has, for example, Figure 5 The structure shown. Figure 5 Yes Figure 1 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the vibration-proof member 101 is interposed between the base plate 2 and the fixing plate 52, and supports the fixing plate 52 relative to the base plate 2. The vibration-proof member 101 has: a neck 101a, which is inserted into the through hole 52c of the fixing plate 52; an upper diameter-enlarged portion 101b, which extends from the neck 101a to the upper surface 52a side of the fixing plate 52 and expands in diameter; a lower diameter-enlarged portion 101c, which extends from the neck 101a to the lower surface 52b side of the fixing plate 52 and expands in diameter; and a through hole 101d, which passes through the neck 101a, the upper diameter-enlarged portion 101b, and the lower diameter-enlarged portion 101c. The upper diameter-enlarged portion 101b and the lower diameter-enlarged portion 101c are larger than the aperture of the through hole 52c of the fixing plate 52 to prevent the through hole 52c of the fixing plate 52 from passing through. Then, the screw 102 is inserted into the through hole 101d of the vibration-proof member 101 from the upper surface 52a side of the fixing plate 52, and is screwed into the screw hole 2c of the bottom plate 2. Thus, the upper enlarged diameter portion 101b and the lower enlarged diameter portion 101c clamp the fixing plate 52 from the upper surface 52a side and the lower surface 52b side, and the lower enlarged diameter portion 101c is pressed against the bottom plate 2, and the discharge device 50 is supported on the bottom plate 2 via the vibration-proof member 101. In addition, the lower enlarged diameter portion 101c serves as a spacer between the fixing plate 52 and the bottom plate 2, so that the fixing plate 52 is arranged at a predetermined height from the bottom plate 2.

[0049] Back to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , continue with the description. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the atmosphere opening piping 60 is a member that communicates with each decompression space S2 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 and is used to connect each decompression space S2 to the atmosphere opening valve 70. The atmosphere opening piping 60 includes open piping parts 61, 62, and 63 connected to each opening port 18 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30, an open collection part 64 that collects the open piping parts 61, 62, and 63, and a pipe 65 that connects the open collection part 64 to the atmosphere opening valve 70. The end 66 of the open collection part 64 of the atmosphere opening piping 60 on the side opposite to the pipe 65 is closed. The atmosphere opening piping 60 is made of the same material as the vacuum piping 40, for example, a resin pipe. More specifically, at least a part of the open piping parts 61, 62, and 63, the open collection part 64, and the pipe 65 that constitute the atmosphere opening piping 60 is made of, for example, a resin pipe as described above. All or substantially all (for example, except for the connecting portion) of the constituent members of the atmosphere-release piping 60 may also be formed of resin pipes. That is, the atmosphere-release piping 60 may be formed by connecting a plurality of resin pipes using connecting members or the like. Such a resin pipe is formed of a pipe that is resistant to the solvent used in liquid chromatography, has a rubber hardness in the range of 70±30 degrees, and has an oxygen permeability of 6000cc(STP)cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 In addition, similar to the connection part of the discharge collection part 44, the connection part of the open collection part 64 may also be made of hard plastic (for example, polypropylene) or the like.

[0050] The atmosphere release valve 70 is a solenoid valve that is connected to one end of the atmosphere release pipe 60 and can introduce the atmosphere into each decompression space S2 of the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 at one go through the atmosphere release pipe 60 based on a control instruction from the control unit 80. For example, when the degassing process in the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 is completed, the atmosphere release valve 70 opens the solenoid valve from the closed state (CLOSE) to the open state (OPEN) within 5 seconds based on the control instruction from the control unit 80, so that each decompression space S2 (for example, a 1L container) is opened to the atmosphere within 1 minute.

[0051] The adjustment valve 75 is an electromagnetic valve disposed between the degassing modules 10, 20, 30 and the discharge device 50, and is used to adjust the degree of decompression of the decompression space S2. When the decompression space S2 is decompressed by the discharge device 50, the adjustment valve 75 opens the valve. On the other hand, when the degree of decompression of the decompression space S2 is within a prescribed range, the adjustment valve 75 closes the valve based on a control instruction from the control unit 80. At this time, the discharge device 50 can stop its discharge action. Afterwards, on the other hand, when the degree of decompression of the decompression space S2 is outside the prescribed range, the valve is opened based on a control instruction from the control unit 80. The atmosphere opening valve 70 and the adjustment valve 75 are both raised to a prescribed height from the bottom plate 2 of the housing 5 by a plurality of legs 71 and a plurality of legs 76.

[0052] The control unit 80 controls the operation and stop of the pump 51 of the discharge device 50. In addition, the control unit 80 has a detector 85 for detecting the degree of decompression of the decompression space S2, and controls the operation of the discharge device 50 and the adjustment valve 75 based on the detected degree of decompression. In this control, the discharge of the atmosphere by the discharge device 50 is performed in such a way that the degree of decompression detected by the detector 85 becomes a prescribed value, and when the degree of decompression in the decompression space S2 is within a prescribed range, the adjustment valve 75 is closed and the operation of the discharge device 50 is stopped. When the degree of decompression detected by the detector 85 after closing the adjustment valve 75 is out of the prescribed range, the control unit 80 operates the discharge device 50 again to perform the discharge process.

[0053] On the other hand, when the degassing process performed by the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30 is completed, the control unit 80 controls the operation of the exhaust device 50 and the atmosphere opening valve 70 based on a stop instruction from the outside or the like. In this control, after the degassing process is completed, the atmosphere opening valve 70 is opened to open each decompression space S2 to the atmosphere at one go. After the degassing process is completed, control may be performed in the following manner: while the gas exhaust operation performed by the exhaust device 50 is continued for a predetermined time (for example, several seconds), the atmosphere opening valve 70 is opened to open each decompression space S2 to the atmosphere at one go.

[0054] As described above, in the degassing device 1 of the present embodiment, the discharge device 50 is supported on the housing 5 by the vibration-proof member 101, and the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 101 is 45 Hz or less. Therefore, the vibration-proof member 101 can effectively suppress the transmission of vibration generated from the discharge device 50 to the housing 5 when the discharge device 50 is operated. Thus, since the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device 50 to other structures can be effectively suppressed, for example, damage to the tube unit 12, detachment of the tube unit 12, generation of noise, and growth of microbubbles in the inspection fluid can be suppressed.

[0055] In addition, in the degassing device 1 , the discharge device 50 is supported on the bottom plate 2 via the vibration-isolating member 101 , thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration of the discharge device 50 to the housing 5 and stably supporting the discharge device 50 .

[0056] In addition, in the degassing device 1, the degassing modules 10, 20, 30 are not fixed to the bottom plate 2 supporting the discharge device 50, but are fixed to the front plate 3 erected on the bottom plate 2, thereby making the path from the discharge device 50 to the degassing modules 10, 20, 30 longer and more complicated. As a result, the vibration of the discharge device 50 can be further suppressed from being transmitted to the degassing modules 10, 20, 30.

[0057] In addition, in the degassing device 1, the lower enlarged diameter portion 101c of the vibration-proof member 101 is arranged between the bottom plate 2 and the fixing plate 52 of the discharge device 50, and the discharge device 50 is arranged at a position with a predetermined height from the bottom plate 2, thereby further suppressing the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device 50 to the housing 5, and even if the fluid undergoing degassing in the degassing device 1 leaks from the degassing modules 10, 20, and 30, the fluid can be prevented from corroding the discharge device 50. In addition, even if such a liquid leak occurs, waste liquid treatment can be easily performed.

[0058] In addition, in the degassing device 1, the vibration-proof member 101 is interposed between the bottom plate 2 of the housing 5 and the fixing plate 52 of the discharge device 50, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in arranging the vibration-proof member 101 compared to the case where the vibration-proof member 101 is directly mounted on the pump 51, and the vibration-proof member 101 can be arranged in a wider range. As a result, the vibration-proof effect of the vibration-proof member 101 can be further improved.

[0059] In addition, in the degassing device 1, at least a part of the vacuum pipe 40 is a resin composition containing polyolefin and styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer, thereby making it possible to achieve excellent solvent resistance, chemical resistance and durability. In addition, the gas permeability can be reduced, and the vacuum pipe 40 can be suppressed from falling off. In particular, by operating the motor 53 of the degassing device 1 at a minimum frequency of 50 Hz to 60 Hz, such durability and suppression of falling off can be further improved.

[0060] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention is described, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can change or modify suitably within the range of the summary of this invention.

[0061] For example, the bottom plate of the housing defines the bottom of the degasser, but one or more legs or rollers may be mounted on the bottom plate, and the bottom plate may be installed on the installation surface via the legs or rollers.

[0062] In addition, for example, the number of vibration-isolating members is not limited to four, and may be any number of one or more.

[0063] In addition, for example, the vibration-isolating member may be attached to the housing and the discharge device via another member instead of being directly attached to the housing and the discharge device. Figure 6 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device. Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The degassing device 1A shown is basically the same as the degassing device 1 of the above-mentioned embodiment, but is different from the degassing device 1 of the above-mentioned embodiment in the shape of the vibration-proof member and the mounting structure of the vibration-proof member relative to the housing and the discharge device. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the vibration-proof member 103 of the degassing device 1A is formed in a columnar shape such as a cylinder or a prism. An upper plate 104 having a thread groove 104a is connected to the front end, i.e., the upper end, of one side of the vibration-proof member 103, and a lower plate 105 having a thread groove 105a is connected to the front end, i.e., the lower end, of the other side of the vibration-proof member 103. The upper plate 104 is fixed to the fixing plate 52 by screwing a screw 106 inserted into the through hole 52d of the fixing plate 52 into the thread groove 104a of the upper plate 104, and the lower plate 105 is fixed to the bottom plate 2 by screwing a screw 107 inserted into the through hole 2d of the bottom plate 2 into the thread groove 105a of the lower plate 105. Even in such a structure, the vibration-proof member 103 is interposed between the bottom plate 2 of the housing 5 and the fixing plate 52 of the discharge device 50, and is in a state of supporting the discharge device 50 relative to the bottom plate 2 of the housing 5. Therefore, by setting the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 103 to 45 Hz or less, the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device 50 to other structures can be effectively suppressed. This can, for example, suppress damage to the tube unit 12, detachment of the tube unit 12, generation of noise, and growth of microbubbles in the inspection fluid.

[0064] In addition, for example, the vibration-isolating member may be attached to the housing and the discharge device by other methods such as bonding instead of being attached to the housing and the discharge device by fastening members such as screws. Figure 8 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device. Fig. 9 Yes Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of a vibration-proof member of the degassing device shown. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The degassing device 1B shown is basically the same as the degassing device 1 of the above embodiment, but is different from the degassing device 1 of the above embodiment in the shape of the vibration-proof member and the mounting structure of the vibration-proof member relative to the housing and the discharge device. Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, the vibration-proof member 108 of the degassing device 1B is formed in a columnar shape such as a cylinder or a prism. In addition, the front end, i.e., the upper end, of one side of the vibration-proof member 108 is bonded to the lower surface 52b of the fixing plate 52, and the front end, i.e., the lower end, of the other side of the vibration-proof member 103 is bonded to the upper surface 2a of the bottom plate 2. Even with such a structure, the vibration-proof member 108 is interposed between the bottom plate 2 of the shell 5 and the fixing plate 52 of the discharge device 50, and is in a state of supporting the discharge device 50 relative to the bottom plate 2 of the shell 5. Therefore, by making the resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member 108 below 45 Hz, the transmission of the vibration of the discharge device 50 to other structures can be effectively suppressed. As a result, for example, damage to the pipe unit 12, detachment of the pipe unit 12, generation of noise, and growth of microbubbles in the inspection fluid can be suppressed.

[0065] In addition, for example, the vibration-isolating member may be attached to a pump of the discharge device instead of the fixing plate of the discharge device. Fig.10 It is a schematic side view showing another example of a degassing device. Fig.10 The degassing device 1C shown is basically the same as the degassing device 1 of the above embodiment, but is different from the degassing device 1 of the above embodiment in the structure of the discharge device, the shape of the vibration-proof member, and the mounting structure of the vibration-proof member relative to the housing and the discharge device. Fig.10 As shown, the discharge device 56 of the degassing device 1C has the same pump 51 as that of the above-mentioned embodiment, but does not have a structure corresponding to the fixing plate of the above-mentioned embodiment. In addition, the vibration-proof member 109 of the degassing device 1C is directly or indirectly mounted on the pump 51 and the bottom plate 2. The shape of the vibration-proof member 109 and the mounting structure of the vibration-proof member 109 relative to the pump 51 and the bottom plate 2 can be set to be, for example, Figure 5 The shape of the vibration-isolating member 101 and the mounting structure of the vibration-isolating member 101 relative to the fixing plate 52 and the base plate 2 are shown. Figure 7 The shape of the vibration-isolating member 103 and the mounting structure of the vibration-isolating member 103 relative to the fixing plate 52 and the base plate 2 are shown. Fig. 9 The shape of the vibration isolating member 108 shown and the mounting structure of the vibration isolating member 108 with respect to the fixing plate 52 and the base plate 2 are the same.

[0066] Example

[0067] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail based on test examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following test examples.

[0068] (Example 1)

[0069] [Vibration test]

[0070] As Example 1, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5Degassing device 1 of the structure shown. In the degassing device 1 of Example 1, resin tubes of the material shown in the following P1 are used for the exhaust piping parts 41, 42, 43, piping 45 and detection piping part 46 of the vacuum piping 40, and the open piping parts 61, 62, 63 and piping 65 of the atmosphere open piping 60. Hard plastic (polypropylene) is used for the exhaust collection part 44 and the open collection part 64. For the four vibration-proof members 101, a vibration-proof gel (αGEL manufactured by Taico Corporation ("αGEL" is a registered trademark of Taico Corporation), A-1 (product name)) having a resonance point (peak) of 42 Hz and a resonance magnification of less than 10 dD is used.

[0071] A vibration test was performed using the degassing device 1 of Example 1. As an outline of the vibration test, a problem was confirmed when the vibration generating device applied vibration to the degassing device 1. The vibration test conditions are: a linear scan with a frequency of 50 Hz to 60 Hz, an acceleration of 1 G, a vibration time of 100 hours, and a temperature during vibration of 30°C or 60°C. In addition, the judgment criteria are set as follows. In addition, the joining portion in the judgment criteria refers to a portion where the resin tubes constituting the discharge piping portions 41, 42, 43, the piping 45, and the detection piping portion 46 are joined to the discharge collection portion 44, or a portion where the resin tubes constituting the open piping portions 61, 62, 63 and the piping 65 are joined to the open collection portion 64.

[0072] [Judgment criteria]

[0073] Judgment standard A No abnormality

[0074] Judgment standard B1 The pipe is loose at the joint (more than one place)

[0075] Judgment standard B2 Pipe detachment at the joint (more than one place)

[0076] Judgment criteria B3 Loosening and falling off of pipes at joints (at least one each)

[0077] Judgment criterion C: Joint is damaged (cannot be used)

[0078] P1: Styrene thermoplastic elastomer tube (single-layer tube with an outer diameter of 6 mm and an inner diameter of 4 mm, oxygen permeability coefficient 200cc (STP) cm / cm 2 / sec / cmHg×10 -10 , rubber hardness 65 degrees)

[0079] Among them, the tube of P1 is manufactured by the following manufacturing method.

[0080] (Production Example) 30 parts by mass of polypropylene (random copolymer "13T25A" manufactured by Flint Hills) and styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer (styrene / ethylene / butylene / styrene (SEBS) block copolymer "FG1924G Polymer" manufactured by Kraton) were melt-kneaded in a twin-screw vented extruder (set temperature 200°C) with an inner diameter of 30 mm and pelletized to produce a single-layer tube. Using a single-layer tube production device having a plasticizing cylinder (inner diameter 20 mm, uniaxial extrusion screw) and a tube die, pellets were placed in the plasticizing cylinder, and a tube was extruded at a temperature of 200°C, and the winding speed was adjusted to produce a single-layer tube with an outer diameter of 6 mm and an inner diameter of 4 mm.

[0081] As a result of the above-mentioned vibration test, it was confirmed that the judgment standard A was met in the degassing device 1 of Example 1.

[0082] (Comparative Example 1)

[0083] The vibration test was conducted in the same manner as in Example 1, except that a vibration-proof gel having a resonance point (peak top) of 60 Hz and a resonance magnification of 20 deciD was used for the four vibration-proof members 101 .

[0084] As a result of the above-mentioned vibration test, it was confirmed that the determination criterion was B2 in the degassing device 1 of Comparative Example 1.

[0085] (Comparative Example 2)

[0086] The vibration test was conducted in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the discharge device 50 was placed on the bottom plate 2 without using the four vibration-isolating members 101 .

[0087] As a result of the above-mentioned vibration test, it was confirmed that the judgment standard C was met in the degassing device 1 of Comparative Example 1.

[0088] Industrial Applicability

[0089] The present invention can be used as a degassing device used in liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, a biochemical analysis device, an inkjet filling device, and the like.

[0090] Description of Reference Numerals

[0091] 1. 1A, 1B, 1C, degassing device; 2. bottom plate; 2a, upper surface; 2c, threaded hole; 2d, through hole; 3. front plate; 4. rear plate; 5. shell; 10, 20, 30, degassing module; 11. tube; 12. tube unit; 12a, inlet; 12b, outlet; 13. shell; 13a, opening; 14. cover; 15. connector; 16. connector; 17, outlet; 18, open port; 40, vacuum piping; 41, 42, 43, outlet piping; 44, outlet collection; 45, piping; 46, detection piping; 47, outlet pipe; 50, outlet device; 51, pump; 52, fixing plate; 52a, upper surface; 52b, lower surface; 52c, through hole; 52d, through hole; 53, motor; 54. Air intake port; 55. Air exhaust port; 56. Exhaust device; 60. Atmosphere open piping; 61, 62, 63. Open piping section; 64. Open collecting section; 65. Piping; 66. End; 70. Atmosphere open valve; 71. Leg; 75. Adjustment valve; 76. Leg; 80. Control section; 85. Detector; 101. Vibration-proof member; 101a. Neck; 101b. Upper enlarged diameter section; 101c. Lower enlarged diameter section; 101d. Through hole; 102. Threaded member; 103. Vibration-proof member; 104. Upper plate; 104a. Threaded groove; 105. Lower plate; 105a. Threaded groove; 106. Threaded member; 107. Threaded member; 108. Vibration-proof member; 109. Vibration-proof member; S1. Fluid circulation space; S2. Decompression space.

Claims

1. A degassing device, wherein: The degassing device has: A degassing module having a pipe unit having gas permeability and separating a fluid flow space from a decompression space; a discharge device configured to communicate with a vacuum pipe communicating with the decompression space of the degassing module and discharge the gas in the decompression space to the outside via the vacuum pipe; A housing, which carries the degassing module and the discharge device; as well as a vibration-proof member interposed between the housing and the discharge device and supporting the discharge device relative to the housing, The resonance frequency of the vibration-proof member is 45 Hz or less.

2. The degassing device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing has a bottom plate which divides the bottom plate of the degassing device. The discharge device is supported on the bottom plate via the vibration-proof member.

3. The degassing device according to claim 2, wherein: The housing has a front plate vertically arranged on the bottom plate. The degassing module is fixed to the front plate.

4. The degassing device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: At least a portion of the vibration-proof member is disposed between the bottom plate and the discharge device. The discharge device is arranged at a position at a predetermined height from the bottom plate.

5. The degassing device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The discharge device comprises a pump and a fixing plate to which the pump is fixed. The vibration-proof member is interposed between the bottom plate and the fixing plate.

6. The degassing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: At least a portion of the vacuum pipe is a resin composition containing a polyolefin and a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer.

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