Distillation system

Abstract

The invention relates to a distillation system for concentrating a feed liquid, comprising at least one condensing unit and at least one adjacent evaporating unit, each unit being provided by at least one frame element. The frame elements are assembled together to form a stack. Each frame element comprises: a supply side and an opposite steam side; an outer region; an inner region; a first set of connection notches including supply connection notches connecting the supply channel with the interior region; the second group is connected with the notches; and a steam connection section arranged on the steam side and connecting the other of the channels with the inner region and including a first steam connection recess connecting the first steam channel with the inner region, a second steam connection recess connecting the second steam channel with the inner region, and a distillate connection recess connecting the distillate channel with the inner region. The system also includes a sealing element. The sealing elements include different types of seals. The inner region of the frame element of the condensing unit is covered with a liquid-tight wall on the supply side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a distillation system, in particular a distillation system for producing a distillate, such as sterile water. The distillation system may in particular comprise a modular flow system comprising a plurality of frame elements. Background Art

[0002] Modular flow systems comprising a plurality of frame elements are known, for example, from EP2427263 (A1) (or the homologous US2012038069 (A1)). A plurality of frame elements can be combined by means of welded web structures to form a plurality of stacks, each stack comprising at least two, in particular at least ten, frame elements to form a membrane distillation stage.

[0003] The frame elements each comprise an outer frame provided with passage openings and vapor channels and / or liquid channels and a central inner area surrounded by the outer frame. When the vapor channels and / or liquid channels are combined together to form a modular flow system, the vapor channels and / or liquid channels are arranged on the left and right sides of the respective frame elements.

[0004] For example, pervaporation membranes are used to overcome azeotropic points in the separation of multi-substance mixtures such as alcohol and water, which cannot be overcome by conventional distillation methods.

[0005] In addition, EP 2 627 437 B1 describes a multistage membrane distillation device, which comprises a heating stage, preferably a plurality of condensation stages / evaporation stages and a condensation stage through which the liquid to be concentrated passes continuously. Each condensation stage / evaporation stage comprises at least one condensation unit and at least one evaporation unit. Each condensation unit comprises a first steam chamber at least partially defined by a condensation wall, and each evaporation unit comprises a second steam chamber at least partially defined by a liquid-tight membrane wall permeable to steam.

[0006] Another device for distilling solutions using membranes is known from WO 2005 / 089914 A1.

[0007] Another distillation device is known from WO 2019 / 233610 A1. The device comprises a plurality of multi-stage membrane distillation modules. The frame element of the device comprises a channel opening in the form of a through hole in the frame wall of the inner frame. The frame wall separates the inner area of ​​the frame element from the vapor channel and / or the liquid channel. The through hole requires a relatively complex manufacturing process (for example, a special injection mold tool is required in the injection molding process). In addition, non-destructive inspection of the inner area is not possible.

[0008] Modular, i.e. frame-based flow systems have proven useful in practice due to their high flexibility. However, they may represent disadvantages in terms of maintenance, since the interior of the welded stack of frame elements may not be accessible from the outside, for example for cleaning. Thus, for example, salt crystals or other solids remaining on the (porous) membrane surface may be difficult to remove. Therefore, such flow systems may not be very suitable for specific functions, for example for crystallization processes. In a crystallization process, the feed liquid is concentrated until saturation, i.e. until crystals grow. Summary of the invention

[0009] Currently, it remains desirable to provide a distillation system which implies reduced manufacturing and improved maintenance characteristics and which can be used for other functions, such as for crystallization processes.

[0010] Thus, the present disclosure relates to a distillation system for concentrating a feed liquid, the distillation system comprising at least one condensation unit and adjacent at least one evaporation unit, each unit being provided by at least one frame element.

[0011] The frame elements of the system are assembled together to form a stack of frame elements.

[0012] Each frame element consists of:

[0013] · Feed side and opposite steam side,

[0014] an outer region comprising a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels comprising at least one of the following channels: a feed channel, a concentrate channel, two vapor channels, and a distillate channel,

[0015] an inner region, which is open, which is surrounded by the outer region, and which is bounded by a feed side and an opposite steam side,

[0016] A first group comprising at least one connecting recess which is arranged on the supply side and connects some of the channels with the interior area.

[0017] The first group includes supply connection recesses that connect the supply channel with the interior region.

[0018] Each frame element also includes:

[0019] • A second set of connecting recesses, which are arranged on the steam side and which connect other ones of the channels with the inner region.

[0020] The second group includes:

[0021] o a first steam connection recess (or a plurality of steam connection recesses to increase the steam flow), which connects the first steam channel with the inner area,

[0022] o a second steam connection recess, which connects the second steam channel with the inner area, and

[0023] o A distillate connecting recess connecting the distillate channel with the inner region.

[0024] The system further comprises a sealing element configured to connect adjacent frame elements. The sealing element comprises different types of seals formed such that the different types of seals block different connection recesses.

[0025] The inner area of ​​the frame element of the condensing unit is covered with a liquid-tight wall on the feed side.

[0026] For example, the interior area of ​​each condensing unit may be provided with a liquid-tight condensing surface that covers the open interior area and closely separates the feed side and the vapor side.

[0027] By providing such a system, the distillation system can be opened in a non-destructive manner, i.e. the assembled frame elements can be disassembled or disassembled. Thus, the inner areas of the used system can be cleaned, for example in the case of scaling, fouling or blockages, to remove salts or other particles or elements. Furthermore, in the case of production defects or damage to individual frame elements, the defective individual components can be replaced. The system can be reassembled afterwards. In particular, the sealing elements can be removable and the welds can be replaced, i.e. the frame elements do not need to be welded to each other.

[0028] Production can be further simplified, as only one type of frame is sufficient, which is particularly advantageous in the injection molding process. In addition, sealing can be performed on only one side.

[0029] In other words, a specific function of a (substantially standardized) frame element can be defined by a specific sealing element. Since this specific sealing element is arranged between two adjacent frame elements (thus giving functionality to the pair of frame elements and / or to the space between the pair of frame elements), the frame element can also be called a "half frame".

[0030] Furthermore, the manufacturing process is less complicated, since the frame element does not require a through hole in the frame wall of the frame element. The frame wall can separate the inner area of ​​the frame element from the passage. Thus, the injection molding process for manufacturing the frame element is less complicated, since no special displacement tool is required.

[0031] The system of the present disclosure also provides several advantages compared to conventional plate distillation equipment (e.g., comparable to conventional heat exchangers):

[0032] The use of a liquid tight wall (eg foil) and optional membrane can improve heat transfer rates and corrosion resistance.

[0033] Furthermore, membrane distillation processes are possible. The condensation and evaporation surfaces of the system can be (at least slightly) flexible or movable. Thus, adhesions can be loosened more easily.

[0034] Furthermore, the system of the present disclosure may be relatively inexpensive since only relatively inexpensive materials are required to manufacture the system.

[0035] According to the present disclosure, each frame element may further include a sealing area which surrounds the inner area and is arranged on the supply side.

[0036] Each frame element may further comprise a sealing groove which is arranged on both the feed side and the steam side and which is configured to receive a sealing element for connecting adjacent frame elements.

[0037] When the frame elements are stacked together in the system, each frame element may be axisymmetric about a vertical axis of symmetry. Specifically, at least one of the following elements of the system may be ideally symmetrical: the sealing groove, the channel (and optionally the connecting recess), and the interior area. The exterior space of the frame element may be symmetrical, but not necessarily.

[0038] The interior area may provide an open 3D (three-dimensional) space surrounded by the frame elements.

[0039] Optionally, grid elements may be arranged in the open space of the interior area.

[0040] Different types of seals can be configured to leave different connection recesses unobstructed.For example, different types of seals can be made from the same type of base, wherein different sections can be cut off.

[0041] The system can be configured so that at least one sealing element can be removed from the frame element. This can facilitate maintenance or cleaning of the system, as well as replacement of individual elements, such as individual sealing elements or individual frame elements.

[0042] Each type of seal may include at least a first type, a second type and a third type, wherein the first type is a condensation seal, the second type is a supply seal and the third type is an evaporation seal.

[0043] The condensation seal may be configured to block all connection recesses except for the following:

[0044] a first steam connection recess, which connects the first steam channel with the inner area, and

[0045] a distillate connection recess connecting the distillate channel with the inner region,

[0046] The supply seal is configured to block all connection recesses except for the following:

[0047] a supply connection recess connecting the supply channel with the interior region, and

[0048] Optionally, a first set of concentrate connection recesses connecting the concentrate channel with the inner area, for example in case the evaporation frame comprises a membrane arranged on the feed side, or in case the connection recesses of the concentrate channel are arranged on the steam side of the frame.

[0049] The evaporation seal is configured to block all connection recesses except for the following:

[0050] a second steam connection recess, which connects a second steam channel with the inner area, and

[0051] Optionally, an additional leakage connection recess, which connects a leakage channel arranged on the steam side with the inner area. In case the evaporation unit comprises a membrane, a leakage channel may be present. Otherwise, the leakage channel may be combined with (or represented by) an existing concentrating channel of an adjacent frame element.

[0052] Thus, the first group can also include a concentrate connection recess, which connects the concentrate channel with the inner region. However, the concentrate connection recess can also be part of the second group, i.e. arranged on the vapor side, for example in the case of an evaporation unit that does not comprise a membrane element. In this case, the supply liquid passing through the inner region can be discharged via the concentrate connection recess arranged on the vapor side of the adjacent frame element.

[0053] The frame elements of the system can be made essentially from the same type of base.

[0054] The first type of frame may be a condensation frame comprising a liquid-tight wall in the form of a foil attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the feed side and / or the space of the inner area.

[0055] The second type frame may be an evaporation frame which may include a film attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the supply side and / or the space of the inner area.

[0056] Alternatively, the second type frame may be an evaporation frame, wherein the inner region and / or the space of the inner region may be open on the supply side, ie open towards adjacent frame elements, or in other words not covered by a film or foil.

[0057] Thus, the evaporation frame can be provided with or without a membrane.

[0058] The condensing unit may include two condensing frames that are stacked and arranged such that steam sides of the two condensing frames face each other.

[0059] The evaporation unit may include two evaporation frames that are stacked and arranged such that vapor sides of the two evaporation frames face each other.

[0060] From another perspective, the system can also be described as follows: the system can include a plurality of stacked condensation-evaporation groups. Each group can include a condensation unit and an evaporation unit, wherein the groups can be connected alternately via the steam side so that units of the same type can (always) be adjacent to each other.

[0061] Accordingly, the groups may be arranged such that the steam sides of the condensing units of two adjacent groups face each other, and the steam sides of the evaporating units of two adjacent groups face each other.

[0062] The condensing frames of the condensing units can be connected to each other via condensing seals.

[0063] The evaporation frame of the evaporation unit can be connected via an evaporation seal.

[0064] The frame of the condensing unit and the frame of the evaporating unit may be adjacent to each other and the frame of the condensing unit and the frame of the evaporating unit may be connected by a supply seal.

[0065] The passage may be provided by an opening in the frame element from the feed side to the opposite steam side.

[0066] The connection recess may be arranged on a surface of one of the feed side and the steam side.

[0067] Two steam channels may be arranged above the inner area.

[0068] The distillation channel and optionally the leakage channel may be arranged below the inner region.

[0069] The supply channels may also be arranged above the inner area or on the lateral sides of the inner area.

[0070] The concentrate channels may be arranged below the inner region or on the lateral sides of the inner region.

[0071] However, in case the system uses membranes, the donor channels can also be arranged below the inner region and the concentrating channels above the inner region.

[0072] Each frame element may include an outer frame and an inner frame, the inner frame surrounding the interior area and the inner frame being surrounded by the outer frame.

[0073] Channels and recesses may be arranged between the outer frame and the inner frame.

[0074] Each frame element may comprise a lowered region having a reduced thickness compared to the outer region and / or the outer frame.

[0075] The lowered area may include at least one of: the inner area, the inner frame, and a section of the frame element where the sealing area is arranged. In one example, the section of the frame element where the sealing area may be arranged may be the inner frame.

[0076] Each frame element may include a dispensing recess on the supply side, the dispensing recess being connected to the supply connecting recess and being configured to dispense supply liquid to the interior area.

[0077] The distribution recess can be arranged outside the lowered area and / or between the sealing groove and the lowered area. When the frame elements are stacked together in the system, the distribution recess can extend in a substantially horizontal direction and / or in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side of the inner area or inner frame.

[0078] Thus, for each element, at least one of the inner frame, the section of the frame element where the sealing area may be arranged, and the mesh element may have a thickness thinner than the outer frame.

[0079] The lowered area can be used in particular to accommodate at least one of an optional membrane and a condensation wall (depending on the frame type and the purpose of one of these elements) and a feed spacer.

[0080] A feed spacer may be arranged in the feed space, which may be arranged between the condensation wall and the membrane. The feed spacer may be used to keep the feed space between the condensation wall and the adjacent membrane open so as to allow feed liquid to pass through the feed space. In the case where no membrane is used, a feed spacer is not required.

[0081] The supply spacer may have a mesh form and be relatively thin, for example, it may have a thickness of 0.5 mm or less.

[0082] Each membrane frame or at least one membrane frame can have a flat surface on the steam side, ie without a lowered area.

[0083] The system is a multi-stage distillation apparatus comprising a plurality of stages in series, each stage comprising at least one condensation unit and at least one evaporation unit, wherein a first stage is configured to generate steam and supply the steam to a second stage.

[0084] Additional optional aspects of the distillation system are described below.

[0085] The present disclosure may also relate to a multi-stage distillation system, which includes a plurality of multi-stage distillation modules, which are configured to be flowed through in parallel by the liquid to be concentrated. Each module may include a plurality of condensation stages / evaporation stages connected in series, which are configured to be flowed through in series or in parallel by the liquid to be concentrated.

[0086] Each condensation stage / evaporation stage may include a plurality of parallel condensation elements / evaporation elements, which are configured to be flowed through in parallel by the liquid to be condensed. Each condensation element / evaporation element includes at least one condensation unit and at least one evaporation unit.

[0087] The system also desirably includes at least one of: a centralized heating stage configured to generate steam and provide steam to each module in the parallel modules; and a centralized condensing stage configured to receive steam from each module in parallel and condense the steam.

[0088] Thus, the multistage distillation system can have a hierarchical organization having, for example, three levels (the system can also include more or fewer levels, for example, two or four levels). At the first and highest level, the system comprises a plurality of multistage distillation modules connected in parallel. At the second (lower) level, the system comprises a plurality of condensation stages / evaporation stages connected in series. At the third (lowest) level, the system comprises a plurality of condensation elements / evaporation elements connected in parallel. The condensation elements / evaporation elements may comprise a first frame element and a second frame element.

[0089] Due to this arrangement, the system may comprise up to several thousand condensation elements / evaporation elements, for example by simply combining several thousand first frame elements and second frame elements, respectively.

[0090] Furthermore, by providing such a system, several modules can use together a centralized (or single) heating stage and / or a centralized (or single) condensing stage. Thus, the energy consumption of the centralized (or single) heating stage and / or the centralized (or single) condensing stage can be shared by a plurality of parallel modules, which results in an optimized efficiency of the system and at the same time (due to the use of more than one module) a higher overall output of the system.

[0091] In particular, centralized heating stages and centralized condensing stages can result in a simplified design of the system, since several modules can be operated in parallel and each module does not require its own heating system. An increase in system efficiency can therefore also be obtained and depends, for example, on the number of stages connected in series. Due to the series connection of the stages, the heat flow supplied at the front (i.e. the first stage) and dissipated on the cold side (i.e. from the last stage towards the centralized condensing stage) can be used several times (i.e. at each stage from the first stage to the last stage) for condensation and evaporation. If the modules are connected in parallel, each additional module may require more heating heat.

[0092] The centralized heating stage generates steam (i.e., vapor; these two terms can be used interchangeably) and supplies the steam to each module in the module in parallel. Therefore, the modules (i.e., the first stage, preferably the corresponding one) are heated by the supplied steam. Compared with the separate supply of (hot) liquid and the generation of steam in the corresponding modules (e.g., by using a steam generator, such as known from EP 2 427 263 B1), the present disclosure has the following advantages: due to thermodynamics, the coldest surface automatically attracts the most steam. Therefore, the modules that are colder than other modules will automatically heat up more. As a result, the temperature of the modules (i.e., in particular their corresponding first stage) is automatically balanced.

[0093] In contrast, heating with (hot) liquids requires very precise control, which means a lot of work and lower reliability.

[0094] The same applies to the centralized condensing stage. Due to thermodynamics, the vapor (or steam) produced in the last stage of each module will be attracted by the centralized condensing stage, depending on the temperature of the vapor. Therefore, the module that produces hotter vapor (or steam) in its last stage will automatically supply more steam to the centralized condensing stage and will therefore be cooled more than other (colder) modules. Therefore, the heat of the modules is automatically balanced.

[0095] The centralized heating stage may be configured to provide steam from each module to the first of a series of condensing / evaporating stages.

[0096] Thus, the first stage of each module can be heated by a centralized heating stage.

[0097] The centralized heating stage may be configured to provide steam in each module in parallel to the condensing unit of the first stage, in particular for heating the condensing unit to a first predetermined temperature.

[0098] The centralized heating stage and / or the centralized condensing stage may be external to the module, for example external to the stack of individual frame elements forming the module. The centralized heating stage and / or the centralized condensing stage may be connected to the module by, for example, pipes, tubes and / or hoses.

[0099] Each condensation / evaporation stage may be formed by a stack of individual frame elements providing parallel condensation / evaporation elements.

[0100] Each module may be formed from a stack of individual frame elements providing condensation / evaporation stages in series.

[0101] Combinations of the elements described above and within the specification are possible unless otherwise indicated to the contrary.

[0102] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosure, as claimed.

[0103] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0104] Figure 1a Shows Figure 1b Schematic distillation process, wherein the system does not have a membrane;

[0105] Figure 1b A schematic diagram showing a distillation process in a system with a membrane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0106] Figure 2a A schematic diagram showing a basic design of a supply side of a frame element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0107] Figure 2b A schematic diagram showing the basic design of the steam side of a frame element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0108] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a system with a membrane and four frame elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a distillation system is schematically shown;

[0109] Figure 4a shows a schematic diagram of the steam side of a first type of frame 101 including a condensation seal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0110] Figure 4b A schematic diagram showing a supply side of a first type frame 101 or a second type frame 102 including a supply seal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0111] Figure 4c shows a schematic diagram of the vapor side of a second type of frame 102 including a evaporation seal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0112] Figure 5 FIG. 4 shows an example of a system having a plurality of evaporation units and condensation units connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the distillation system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0114] Figure 1a Shows Figure 1b Schematic distillation process, where the system has no membrane.

[0115] Figure 1b A schematic diagram of a distillation process in a system with a membrane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0116] The distillation process can be carried out by a distillation system, such as Figure 1a As shown schematically in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The distillation system can be configured to concentrate a feed liquid F, such as sewage or any solvent containing salts.

[0117] The system comprises at least one condensing unit and adjacent at least one evaporating unit. Each unit is provided by respective frame elements 101, 102 assembled together to form a stack of frame elements (see e.g. Figure 3 and Figure 5 ). The condensing unit may include a first vapor space 40a and a condensing wall W at least partially delimiting the first vapor space 40a. The evaporation unit 102 may include a second vapor space 40b. The supply region 40' may be substantially disposed between the condensing unit and the evaporation unit (and through a supply seal, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4b The supply region 40' is delimited by a condensation wall.

[0118] The system is configured so that the condensation wall can be heated by the first steam V1 in the first steam space 40a. The system is also configured so that the supply liquid F flows on the condensation wall W in the supply area so that the second steam V2 generated by the supply liquid F moves into the second steam space 40b. The supply area 40' can be open to the second steam space 40b, in which sense it is desirable that there is no membrane between the supply area 40' and the second steam space 40b. However, a membrane M may be arranged, such as Figure 1b shown.

[0119] The condensation wall W may be flexible, wherein the condensation wall W may optionally comprise a foil or may be a foil.

[0120] The first steam space 40a can be connected to at least one steam channel 17 via at least one first steam connection recess (as described in more detail in subsequent figures), so that the first steam V1 can enter the first steam space. The first steam space 40a can also be connected to the condensate collecting passages 19a, 19b arranged below the first steam space 40a, for example, via at least one distillate connecting recess (as described in more detail in subsequent figures). Thus, the condensate D generated by the condensed first steam V1 can leave the first steam space 40a via the collecting passages 19a, 19b (see also Figure 2b ).

[0121] The frame elements 101, 102 are configured (for example, by a sealing element arranged between the frame elements 101, 102, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4b ) so that when the frame elements are stacked in the modular flow system, a gap remains between the frame elements. The gap in particular forms a supply area 40' which is aligned with the inner area of ​​the stacked frame elements and is located in front of the first steam space 40a and the second steam space 40b of the adjacent frame elements.

[0122] The supply region 40' is delimited on a first side by a condensation wall W (ie a liquid-tight wall) facing the first vapor space 40a. On the opposite second side, the supply region 40' can be open to the second vapor space 40b (see Figure 1a ), or the supply region 40' may be defined by a membrane M (see Figure 1b ).

[0123] Feed (or feed liquid) F is supplied to feed area 40' via first passage opening 13. The feed may be a liquid, such as brine or sewage distilled and / or cleaned by the modular flow system. The feed may have a slightly lower temperature than vapor V1, such as 4 to 6°C.

[0124] Due to the heat transferred by the condensing vapor V1, the feed F is heated and evaporates, thereby generating a second vapor V2. In this regard, the pressure in the feed area or in the portion of the modular flow system may be reduced so that the feed boils when heated.

[0125] Due to the distillation, second steam V2 enters from the feed region 40' into the second steam space 40b of the frame element 102. This steam V2 can have the same temperature as the (boiling) feed F or only slightly lower therefrom.

[0126] Figure 1a , Figure 1b or Figure 3 The arrangement shown in can be the first stage of a modular flow system (not shown). The vapor V2 leaving the second frame element 102 can be conveyed to the second stage of the modular flow system, where the vapor V2 can be used again as (heating) vapor in the first frame element 101. Thus, the modular flow system can have several stages (e.g. 10 or more), wherein in each subsequent stage the temperature of the supplied vapor and feed is slightly reduced relative to the previous stage.

[0127] A discharge passage or leakage passage 20 may be arranged below the second vapor space 40 b and / or the supply region 40 ′, the discharge passage 20 being configured such that the supply liquid F can leave the supply region 40 ′ via the discharge passage 20 .

[0128] The second steam space 40b can be connected by at least one second steam connection recess (as in the subsequent Figures 2a to 4c The second steam space 40b can also be connected to the exhaust passage 20 (as described in more detail in the context of FIG. 47 ) by at least one exhaust or leakage connection recess 47f. Figures 2a to 4c Thus, the second steam V2 may leave the second steam space 40b via the steam channel 18 and / or the exhaust passage 20.

[0129] Since the vapor channel is arranged above the inner region 40, the entire inner region 40 can be used as a barrier for drips carried by the flow of the generated vapor V2. In other words, the supply will need to fill the entire inner region in order to pass through the barrier given by the construction of the frame element, i.e. flow into the vapor channel 18. Therefore, the vapor V2 must be properly separated from the supply. Due to gravity separation, the vapor channel arranged in the upper region of the frame element is advantageous. Therefore, any contamination of the final product (i.e. the distillate) can be effectively prevented.

[0130] The condensation wall W may be movable within the supply region. In particular, the system may be configured such that the condensation wall may be deformed by the first steam entering or toward the second steam space 40b. Furthermore, the system may be configured such that: when the first steam may stop entering the first steam space or in the case of pressure balance between the first steam space and the second steam space, the condensation wall moves back to its initial position.

[0131] A supply spacer ( Figure 1a or Figure 1b ), as explained in more detail below.

[0132] Figure 2a A schematic diagram showing the basic design of the supply side of a frame element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0133] Figure 2b A schematic diagram showing the basic design of the steam side of a frame element 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0134] Thus, each frame element 100 of the system comprises a supply side 10f (see Figure 2a ) and the opposite steam side 10v (see Figure 2b ). The outer region of the frame element includes a plurality of channels and an inner region 40. For example, each frame element may include an outer frame and an inner frame, the inner frame surrounding the inner region 40 and being surrounded by the outer frame. The channels and the connecting recesses may be arranged between the outer frame and the inner frame.

[0135] The plurality of channels may include at least one of: a feed channel 13 above the interior region 40; a concentrate channel 16 below the interior region 40; two vapor channels 17, 18 above the interior region 40; one or more distillate channels 19a, 19b below the interior region 40; and an optional exhaust passage 20 below the interior region 40. Having a concentrate channel 16 and an additional exhaust passage 20 may be particularly useful where the system includes a membrane, which will also be described in detail in the accompanying drawings. Figure 3 The passage can be an opening from the feed side to the steam side of the frame element.

[0136] Two steam channels 17, 18 and distillate channels 19a, 19b are arranged in a symmetrical manner in the frame element (see Figure 2a and Figure 2b ) may be advantageous, since adjacent frame elements can be rotated about their vertical symmetry axes and stacked together so that the symmetrical channels fit together. In this way, the stack of frame elements can form several parallel condensing units and evaporating units and several series stages, such as in Figure 5In other words, when the frame elements are stacked together in the system, each frame element may be axisymmetric about a vertical axis of symmetry.

[0137] The inner area of ​​the frame element 100 is substantially open, surrounded by the outer area and limited by a feed side and an opposite steam side. The inner area may include a grid element. Depending on the function of the inner area, it may be defined (or limited) by a liquid-tight wall on the feed side and optionally by a membrane on the steam side.

[0138] Each frame element may also include a sealing area 12, which surrounds the inner area and is arranged on the supply side. The sealing area and the contained inner area may be slightly thinner than the outer area of ​​the frame element (e.g. Figure 5 Thus, in the sealing region, some space is left between two adjacent frame elements 101, 102 for a supply spacer, which can be placed in the supply region (see also Figure 3 Supply F flow between frame elements 101 and 102).

[0139] In other words, the sealing area 12 may also be referred to as a lowered area 12 .

[0140] The lowered area 12 may be used in particular to accommodate at least one of an optional membrane M and a condensation wall W (depending on the frame type and the purpose of one of these elements) and a feed spacer (not shown).

[0141] A supply spacer may be arranged in the supply space, which may be arranged between the condensation wall and the membrane. The supply spacer may be used to keep the supply space between the condensation wall and the adjacent membrane open so as to allow supply liquid to pass through the supply space. In the case where no membrane is used, a supply spacer is not required.

[0142] The supply spacer may have a mesh form and be relatively thin, for example having a thickness of 0.5 mm or less.

[0143] The frame element comprises a first group of connection recesses on the supply side, which connect some of the channels with the interior area. The first group comprises a first supply connection recess 47a, which connects the supply channel 13 with the interior area, and an optional concentrate connection recess 47b, which connects the interior area with the concentrate channel 16. The concentrate connection recess 47b and the concentrate channel 16 are only necessary if the steam side is bounded (limited or covered) by a membrane. If this is not the case, the concentrate C can also leave the interior area via the discharge connection recess 47f (arranged on the steam side of the adjacent frame element) and the discharge passage 20, with the possibility of leakage L, such as would be from Figure 3 understood in.

[0144] The supply connection recess 47a may be connected to the supply distribution recess 45a, and the supply distribution recess 45a may extend through the upper side of the inner area 40 in a horizontal direction.

[0145] Furthermore, the concentrate connecting recess may be connected to the concentrate collecting recess 45 b , and the concentrate collecting recess 45 b may extend through the lower side of the inner area 40 in a horizontal direction.

[0146] Each frame element also includes a second set of connection recesses, which are arranged on the steam side and connect other channels in the channel with the internal area. The second group includes: a first steam connection recess (or multiple steam connection recesses to increase steam flow) 47c, which connects the first steam channel 18 with the internal area; a second steam connection recess (or multiple steam connection recesses to increase steam flow) 47d, which connects the second steam channel 17 with the internal area; and a distillate connection recess 47e, which connects the distillate channels 19a, 19b with the internal area.

[0147] The connecting recess may be a groove in (the material of) the frame element.

[0148] Each frame element may also include a sealing groove 11, which is arranged on the feed side and the steam side and is configured to receive a sealing element connecting adjacent frame elements. The system also includes sealing elements 11c, 11f, 11e (see Figures 4a to 4c ), the sealing elements 11c, 11f, 11e are configured to connect adjacent frame elements. However, the outer regions of adjacent frame elements of the system may also be in contact with each other.

[0149] Sealing elements include different types of seals, such as Figures 4a to 4cAs shown, different types of seals are formed so that they block different connection recesses. In particular, different types of seals can be configured so that different connection recesses are not blocked. For example, different types of seals can be made from the same type of base, wherein different sections can be cut off.

[0150] The system can be configured so that at least one sealing element can be removed from the frame element. This can facilitate maintenance or cleaning of the system, as well as replacement of individual elements, such as individual sealing elements or individual frame elements.

[0151] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a system with a membrane and four frame elements according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a distillation system is schematically shown.

[0152] Figure 4a A schematic diagram of the steam side of a first type of frame 101 with a condensation wall W and a placed condensation seal 11c is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Figure 4b A schematic diagram of the feed side of a first type frame 101 with a condensation wall W or a second type frame 102 with a membrane wall M and a placed feed seal 11f according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0154] Figure 4c A schematic diagram of the vapor side of a second type of frame 102 with a placed evaporation seal 11 e is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] Figure 3 The distillation (i.e., condensation and evaporation) process performed by the system shown in the example of Figure 1a or Figure 1b corresponds to the process in .

[0156] Each type of frame 101 and 102 may basically correspond to Figure 2a and Figure 2b In other words, the frame elements 101, 102 of the system can be basically composed of Figure 2a and Figure 2b The different types of frames 101 and 102 can be made by simply including (or not including) a sealed liquid-tight wall W and / or an optional membrane M with Figure 2a , Figure 2b The basic frame elements of the embodiment of the present invention are different from each other, and are different from each other, as described below. In addition, different types of seals 11c, 11f, 11e can also be used to connect adjacent frame elements. The sealing elements can be removed from the frame elements.

[0157] Figures 4a to 4cThe different types of frames 101, 102 and their corresponding types of seals 11c, 11f, 11e are also shown in a stacked form. Figure 3 The stack can constitute a distillation system.

[0158] The first type of frame 101 may be a condensation frame comprising a liquid-tight wall W in the form of a foil attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the feed side and / or the space of the inner area.

[0159] The second type frame 102 may be an evaporation frame, which may include a film M attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the supply side and / or the space of the inner area.

[0160] Alternatively, the second type frame may be an evaporation frame, wherein the inner region and / or the space of the inner region may be open on the supply side, ie towards adjacent frame elements, or in other words not covered by a film or foil.

[0161] Thus, the evaporation frame element 102 can be provided with a membrane or not.

[0162] The seal type may include at least a first type, a second type, and a third type, the first type being a condensation seal 11c, the second type being a supply seal 11f, and the third type being an evaporation seal 11e.

[0163] The condensation seal 11c can be arranged between two adjacent frame elements 101, both of which have their vapor sides 10v facing the condensation seal 11c (see also Figure 4a ). The two frame elements 101 may together be referred to as a condensing unit of the system.

[0164] Similarly, the evaporation seal 11e can be arranged between two adjacent frame elements 102, both of which have their vapor sides 10v facing the evaporation seal 11e (see also Figure 4c ). The two frame elements 102 may together be referred to as an evaporation unit of the system.

[0165] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the condensing frame 101 may be adjacent to the evaporation units 102 in the stack and may be connected to their feed sides 10f via a feed seal 11f.

[0166] like Figure 4a As shown, the condensation seal 11c can be configured to block all connection recesses except the first steam connection recess 47c connecting the first steam channel 18 to the interior area and the distillate connection recesses 47g, 47e connecting one or more distillate channels 19a, 19b to the interior area 40 (see also Figure 2b ). Thus, the condensation seal 11c allows vapor V1 to enter the interior region and allows distillate D to leave the interior region (see also Figure 3 ).

[0167] In addition, if Figure 4b As shown, the supply seal 11f can be configured to block all connection recesses except the supply connection recess 47a connecting the supply channel 13 with the interior area 40 and the optional concentrate connection recess 47b connecting the concentrate channel 16 with the interior area, for example, in the case where the evaporation frame includes a membrane arranged on the supply side, or in the case where the connection recess for the concentrate channel is arranged on the vapor side of the frame. Thus, the supply seal 11f allows the supply liquid F to enter the interior area and allows the concentrate C to leave the interior area (see also Figure 3 ).

[0168] In addition, if Figure 4c As shown, the evaporation seal 11e can be configured to block all connection recesses except for the steam connection recess 47d connecting the additional steam channel 17 with the interior area 40 and the optional additional leakage connection recess 47f connecting the leakage channel 20 with the interior area 40. Therefore, the evaporation seal 11e allows the vapor V2 to leave the interior area, and allows the potential leakage L to leave the interior area (see also Figure 3 ).

[0169] In case the evaporation unit comprises a membrane, a leakage channel may be present. Otherwise, the leakage channel may be combined with (or represented by) an existing concentrate channel of an adjacent frame element.

[0170] Thus, the first group of connecting recesses arranged on the feed side 10f can also include concentrate connecting recesses connecting the concentrate channel with the inner region. However, the concentrate connecting recesses can also be part of the second group, i.e. arranged on the vapor side, for example in the case of an evaporation unit that does not comprise a membrane element. In this case, the feed liquid passing through the inner region can be discharged via the concentrate connecting recesses arranged on the vapor side of the adjacent frame element.

[0171] like Figure 1a and Figure 1b As described in more detail in the context of , vapor (or steam) V1 can enter the inner area of ​​the first frame element 101 via the first vapor channel and condense at the liquid-tight frame wall W. The supply liquid F that enters the gap between the first type frame 101 and the second type frame 102 may evaporate due to the heat transferred by the condensing vapor. The evaporated vapor V2 thus generated can enter the second frame element 102 and leave via another vapor channel.

[0172] Figure 5 A distillation system (e.g. based on a plurality of evaporation units and condensation units connected in parallel) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the system).

[0173] Therefore, the evaporation units 102+102 and the condensation units 101+101 can be stacked together to form a distillation system. From a functional perspective, the evaporation units and the condensation units can be connected in parallel, thereby increasing the overall distillation capacity of the system. These parallel evaporation units and condensation units can form a stage of the system.

[0174] Furthermore, the system may be a multi-stage distillation apparatus comprising a plurality of serially connected stages, each stage comprising at least one condensation unit and at least one evaporation unit, wherein a first stage is configured to generate steam and supply the steam to a second stage.

[0175] Throughout the specification, including the claims, the term "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified. In addition, any ranges set forth in the specification, including the claims, should be understood to include their end values, unless otherwise specified. The specific values ​​of the elements described should be understood to be within acceptable manufacturing or industry tolerances known to those skilled in the art, and any use of the terms "substantially" and / or "approximately" and / or "generally" should be understood to mean falling within such acceptable tolerances.

[0176] Although the present disclosure has been described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure.

[0177] It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A distillation system for concentrating a supply liquid, the distillation system comprising: At least one condensing unit and adjacent at least one evaporating unit, each unit being provided by at least one frame element (101, 102), wherein The frame elements of the system are assembled together to form a stack of frame elements, wherein Each frame element consists of: · Feed side and opposite steam side, an outer region comprising a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels comprising at least one of the following channels: a feed channel, a concentrate channel, two vapor channels, and a distillate channel, an inner region, which is open, which is surrounded by the outer region, and which is limited by the feed side and oppositely by the steam side, a first set of connecting recesses, said first set of connecting recesses comprising at least one connecting recess, said at least one connecting recess being arranged on the supply side and connecting some of said channels with said inner area, said first set of connecting recesses comprising: o a supply connection recess connecting a supply channel with the interior area, a second set of connecting recesses, which are arranged on the steam side and which connect other of the channels with the inner area, the second set of connecting recesses comprising: o a first steam connection recess, which connects the first steam channel with the inner area, o a second steam connection recess, which connects the second steam channel with the inner area, and o a distillate connecting recess connecting the distillate channel with the inner region, The system further comprises a sealing element configured to connect adjacent frame elements, wherein the sealing element comprises different types of seals formed such that the different types of seals block different connection recesses, Therein, the inner area of ​​the frame element of the condensing unit is covered with a liquid-tight wall on the feed side.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each frame element also includes at least one of the following: a sealing area surrounding the inner area and arranged on the supply side, and A sealing groove is arranged on both the feed side and the steam side and is configured to receive a sealing element connecting adjacent frame elements.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the frame elements are stacked together in the system, each frame element is axisymmetric about a vertical axis of symmetry.

4. System according to the preceding claim, wherein: The inner region provides an open 3D space surrounded by the frame element, wherein, optionally, a grid element is arranged in the open space of the inner region.

5. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The different types of seals are configured so that different connection recesses are not blocked, and / or The different types of seals are made from the same type of base, wherein different sections are cut off, and / or The system is configured such that at least one sealing element is removable from the frame element.

6. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each type of seal includes at least a first type, a second type and a third type, wherein the first type is a condensation seal, the second type is a supply seal, and the third type is an evaporation seal, wherein at least one of the following: The condensation seal is configured to block all connection recesses except for the following connection recesses: the first steam connection recess, which connects the first steam channel with the inner area, and the distillate connection recess, the distillate connection recess connecting the distillate channel with the inner region, The supply seal is configured to block all connection recesses except for: a supply connection recess connecting the supply channel with the interior region, and Optionally, a concentrate connection recess in the first set of connection recesses, the concentrate connection recess connecting the concentrate channel with the interior region, and The evaporation seal is configured to block all connection recesses except for the following connection recesses: the second steam connection recess, which connects the second steam channel with the inner area, and Optionally, an additional leakage connection recess which connects a leakage channel arranged on the steam side with the inner region.

7. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The frame elements of the system are made of the same type of base, wherein: a first type of frame is a condensation frame (101) comprising a liquid-tight wall in the form of a foil attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the feed side and / or the space of the inner area, and The second type of frame is the evaporation frame (102) o the evaporation frame (102) comprises a film, which is attached to the sealing area to cover the inner area on the supply side and / or the space of the inner area, or o wherein the inner area and / or the space of the inner area is open on the supply side.

8. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The condensing unit comprises two stacked condensing frames (101), the two condensing frames (101) being arranged such that the steam sides of the two condensing frames (101) face each other, and / or The evaporation unit comprises two stacked evaporation frames (102), the two evaporation frames (102) being arranged such that the steam sides of the two evaporation frames (102) face each other, and / or The system comprises a plurality of stacked condensation-evaporation groups, each group comprising a condensation unit and an evaporation unit, wherein the groups are connected alternately via the vapor side, so that units of the same type are always adjacent to one another.

9. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The condensing frame (101) of the condensing unit is connected via a condensing seal, and / or The evaporation frame (102) of the evaporation unit is connected via an evaporation seal.

10. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The frame of the condensing unit and the frame of the evaporating unit are adjacent to each other, and the frame of the condensing unit and the frame of the evaporating unit are connected by a supply seal.

11. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The passage is provided by an opening in the frame element from the feed side to the opposite steam side, and / or The connection recess is arranged on a surface of one of the feed side and the steam side.

12. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The two steam channels are arranged above the inner area, and / or The distillate channel and the optional leakage channel are arranged below the inner region.

13. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each frame element consists of: an outer frame and an inner frame, the inner frame surrounding the inner region and the inner frame being surrounded by the outer frame, Wherein, the channel and the recess are arranged between the outer frame and the inner frame.

14. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein: Each frame element comprises a lowered area (12) having a reduced thickness compared to the outer area and / or the outer frame, the lowered area comprising at least one of: the inner area, the inner frame, and the section of the frame element in which the sealing area is arranged, and / or Each frame element comprises a distribution recess on the supply side, which is connected to the supply connection recess and is configured to distribute the supply liquid to the inner area, the distribution recess being arranged outside the lowering area and / or the distribution recess being arranged between the sealing groove and the lowering area.

15. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The system is a multi-stage distillation device, and the multi-stage distillation device comprises: A plurality of stages in series, each stage comprising at least one condensing unit and at least one evaporating unit, wherein: The first stage is configured to generate steam and supply the steam to the second stage.

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