Automatic air-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinneret

Abstract

The application provides an automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for a spinneret, and belongs to the technical field of membrane filament cleaning equipment. The application reduces operation difficulty, improves cleaning efficiency and cleaning quality, realizes unattended operation, automatic operation, and on-demand expansion of a cleaning station, improves the overall system explosion-proof level to meet safety requirements, reduces DMAC solvent waste, realizes recycling, reduces operation cost, reduces power components such as pumps, reduces the overall system operation energy consumption, and the operation is performed within the range of a fume hood, and related purging and cleaning do not cause additional solvent overflow, which improves the operation safety and occupational health safety of operators to a certain extent, reduces the diffusion and overflow of DMAC, and effectively reduces the pollution to the existing environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of membrane fiber cleaning equipment technology, and more specifically to an automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets. Background Technology

[0002] The core demand in the biopharmaceutical and biomanufacturing fields is to achieve efficient separation, high-purity purification, and large-scale production of bioactive substances (such as monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, vaccines, and cell therapy products), while meeting GMP compliance, biocompatibility, and cost control requirements. Downstream separation and purification, as a crucial link in this field, directly determines product quality, production efficiency, and commercial feasibility, accounting for 50%-80% of the overall production cost, and has become one of the core bottlenecks in the industry's development.

[0003] Traditional separation and purification techniques (such as dead-end filtration, centrifugation, gel filtration chromatography, etc.) have significant limitations: dead-end filtration is prone to rapid flux decay due to filter cake accumulation, making it difficult to adapt to large-scale production; centrifugation is complex to operate and can easily damage heat-sensitive bioactive substances; although traditional chromatography techniques have high separation accuracy, they are expensive and have low throughput, making it difficult to meet the mass production needs of biomanufacturing.

[0004] Tangential flow hollow fiber membrane technology, based on the principle of membrane separation, overcomes the bottlenecks of traditional separation technologies through innovative hollow fiber structure design (large specific surface area and uniform pore size) and tangential flow operation mode (the feed solution flows parallel to the membrane surface, generating shear force to inhibit concentration polarization and filter cake formation). Tangential flow hollow fiber membrane technology has wide applications in the biomedical field. In vaccine development, hollow fiber membranes can be used for the concentration and purification of viral vaccines. By selecting membranes with appropriate pore sizes (such as 30kDa or 50kDa ultrafiltration membranes), viral particles can be effectively retained while removing impurities and host cell proteins, improving vaccine purity and yield. For example, hollow fiber membranes are often used for virus concentration and buffer exchange in the production of influenza and rabies vaccines. In hemodialysis, hollow fiber membranes, as the core component of the dialyzer, utilize their microporous structure to achieve the exchange of substances between blood and dialysate, removing metabolic waste (such as urea and creatinine) and excess water from the blood while retaining blood cells and large molecular proteins. Its low shear stress and high flux characteristics reduce damage to blood cells and improve dialysis efficiency. For pharmaceutical components such as proteins, antibodies, and nucleic acids, hollow fiber membranes can achieve concentration, washing, and buffer replacement. For example, in monoclonal antibody production, 30kDa or 50kDa ultrafiltration membranes are used to concentrate antibodies and replace the medium, removing impurities and residual culture medium components, improving drug purity and stability. Hollow fiber bioreactors can serve as support materials for cell culture, providing a three-dimensional growth environment that simulates in vivo cell growth. Their open-channel design allows cells to attach and grow on the outside of the fibers, while controlling the exchange of nutrients and metabolic waste through membrane pore size. Furthermore, in perfusion culture, hollow fiber membranes are used to retain cells, enabling continuous cell culture and product harvesting, increasing cell density and product expression levels. In gene therapy, hollow fiber membranes can be used for the purification and concentration of plasmid DNA, removing impurities and residual bacterial components. In cell therapy, such as CAR-T cell therapy, hollow fiber membranes are used for the enrichment, washing, and concentration of T cells, improving cell purity and activity. Hollow fiber membranes can serve as gas exchange elements in artificial lungs, enabling the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide through their microporous structure to provide respiratory support for patients. Their high flux and biocompatibility make them an important component of artificial lung technology. These applications of hollow fiber membranes fully demonstrate their multifunctionality and efficiency in the biomedical field, and their application scope continues to expand with technological advancements.

[0005] Currently, based on statistics of most existing hollow fiber membrane production lines, the spinneret cleaning process mostly follows these steps: First, operators manually disassemble the spinneret assembly. Then, compressed air is used to purge the inside of the spinneret to initially remove internal residues. Next, the spinneret is immersed in DMAC (N,N-dimethylacetamide, C4H9NO) solvent for an extended period to dissolve the casting solution and other impurities remaining inside. After immersion, the spinneret is removed, drained, and then reassembled into the production line system for production. The DMAC solvent used for immersion contains insoluble impurities from the initial immersion stage and cannot be recycled for subsequent cleaning; therefore, it must be disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations. The existing cleaning solutions involve cumbersome steps and procedures, requiring extensive manual operation in real time. This results in low cleaning efficiency and a need to improve cleaning quality. Furthermore, the process is lengthy and requires constant human observation and control, making unattended and automated operation impossible. The lack of removal of high-concentration waste liquid from the initial cleaning process prevents the recycling of subsequent cleaning solutions, leading to a waste of some DMAC. Additionally, the existing solutions operate in relatively open environments, increasing the risk of DMAC solvent evaporation and spillage, which could potentially pollute the working environment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets, so as to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the background art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] This invention provides an automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets, comprising: a triple air source processor, a central control valve island, a piping system, a spinneret cleaning fixture, automatic control valves, manual valves, an intermediate tank, a waste liquid tank, a first storage tank, and a second storage tank. The triple air source processor is used to pre-treat compressed air, and its outlet is connected to the piping system. The central control valve island is equipped with a set of solenoid valves, controlled by a PLC system, for controlling the opening and closing of each automatic control valve. The spinneret cleaning fixture is used to clamp the spinneret to be cleaned. The intermediate tank is used to buffer the flow rate of the cleaning fluid and increase the gravity flow effect. The waste liquid tank is used to collect waste liquid from the initial cleaning stage. The first and second storage tanks are recycling containers for DMAC solvent, with the solvent circulating between the first and second storage tanks during the continuous rinsing stage.

[0009] Furthermore, the spinneret cleaning and fixing fixture includes: a base plate, with a bracket at each end of the base plate and a horizontal clamp at the top of the bracket; a spinneret fixing base between the two brackets for fixing the spinneret to be cleaned; a top pressure plate between the two brackets for pressing the spinneret; and a through hole in the middle of the top pressure plate through which a quick-connect fitting for connecting to the spinneret extends.

[0010] Furthermore, the spinneret cleaning and fixing fixture includes: a base plate, one end of which is provided with a bracket, and a top pressure plate is connected to the top of the bracket by fastening screws; a spinneret fixing base is provided on one side of the bracket, which is used to fix the spinneret to be cleaned, and one end of the top pressure plate is provided with a slot, through which a quick-connect connector connected to the spinneret extends.

[0011] Furthermore, a level gauge is installed inside the waste liquid tank to monitor the waste liquid level in real time.

[0012] Furthermore, both the first and second liquid storage tanks are equipped with level gauges to monitor the liquid level in real time and send the signal back to the PLC system.

[0013] The beneficial effects of this invention are: reduced operational difficulty, improved cleaning efficiency, and enhanced cleaning quality; unattended, automated operation with the ability to expand cleaning stations as needed; improved explosion-proof rating of the overall system, meeting safety requirements; reduced DMAC solvent waste, enabling recycling and lowering operating costs; reduced power components such as pumps, lowering overall system energy consumption; all operations are performed within a fume hood, and related purging and cleaning do not generate additional solvent spills, thus improving operator safety and occupational health to some extent; and reduced DMAC diffusion and spillage, effectively reducing pollution to the existing environment.

[0014] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the spinneret cleaning fixture of the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets described in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the spinneret cleaning fixture for the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system for spinnerets described in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the horizontal clamp of the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system described in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal clamp of the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system described in Embodiment 1 of the present invention in use.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal clamp of the automatic gas-liquid linkage cleaning system described in Embodiment 2 of the present invention in use.

[0022] The components include: 101, air source processor triple unit; 301, central control valve island box; 401, piping system; 114, spinneret cleaning fixture; 102-112, automatic control valves; 113, manual valves; 115, one-way valve system; 202, intermediate tank; 201, waste liquid tank; 203, first storage tank; 204, storage tank 2; 1, base plate; 2, bracket; 3, horizontal clamp; 6, fixed base; 5, spinneret; 7, top pressure plate; 4, quick connector; 8, fastening screws. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0024] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0025] It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in general dictionaries should be understood to have meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the prior art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless defined as here.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will understand that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” used herein may also include the plural forms. It should be further understood that the term “comprising” as used in this specification means the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0027] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of those different embodiments or examples.

[0028] In the description of this specification, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0029] In the description of this specification, the terms “center,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer,” etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this technology and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this technology.

[0030] Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "setting" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection or setting, a detachable connection or setting, or an integral connection or setting. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this art according to the specific circumstances.

[0031] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the present invention will be further explained and described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] Those skilled in the art should understand that the accompanying drawings are merely schematic diagrams of embodiments, and the components in the drawings are not necessarily essential for implementing the present invention.

[0033] Example 1

[0034] In this embodiment 1, an automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets is provided for cleaning spinnerets during the hollow fiber membrane production process. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets described in this embodiment includes a triple air source processor 101 integrated within a central control valve island 301. The central control valve island 301 has a built-in PLC control system and a solenoid valve assembly. The air source outlet of the triple air source processor 101 is connected to a pipeline system 401. Several spinneret cleaning fixtures 114 are provided on the pipeline system 401, and spinnerets to be cleaned are placed on the fixtures 114. The pipeline system 401 is equipped with multiple automatic control valves, such as automatic control valves 102-112. Manual valves 113 are provided on both sides of the spinneret fixtures 114 on the branch of the spinneret to be cleaned.

[0035] The central control valve island 301 of this cleaning system is the power source and the center of the automatic control system for the entire system. It houses a triple air source processor 101 for pre-treating compressed air, removing impurities to ensure it meets usage requirements. Additionally, it contains a solenoid valve assembly to control the opening and closing of various automatic control valves. Furthermore, it includes a PLC programmable module, which can be programmed to meet specific needs, allowing for the setting of control logic and duration for each automatic control valve. The PLC system can also be used to set the time for the pre-cleaning stage, continuous rinsing stage, and post-treatment stage, facilitating customized operation and real-time adjustments. An external touchscreen provides an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) for easy parameter adjustment. The PLC system integrates a data transmission module, enabling real-time system monitoring and alarm information transmission via network connection, facilitating remote manual viewing and operation. See appendix for details. Figure 1 .

[0036] Combination Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the compressed air output from the central control valve island 301 first enters the pipeline system 401. The pipeline system 401 is divided into two branches, which are respectively connected to the first automatic control valve 102 and the second automatic control valve 103. The downstream of the second automatic control valve 103 is connected to several cleaning branches. Each cleaning branch is equipped with a fixing fixture 114, on which the spinneret to be cleaned is fixed. Manual valves 113 are provided on both ends of the spinneret. The downstream of the several cleaning branches are combined into a total branch, which is further divided into two branches, which are respectively connected to the fourth automatic control valve 105 and the fifth automatic control valve 106. The downstream branch of the fourth automatic control valve 105 enters the waste liquid tank 201, and the downstream of the fifth automatic control valve 106 first enters the intermediate tank 202. The downstream of the first automatic control valve 102 is further divided into two branches, which are respectively connected to the sixth automatic control valve 107 and the seventh automatic control valve 108. The downstream of the sixth automatic control valve 107 enters the first liquid storage tank 203, and the downstream of the seventh automatic control valve 108 enters the second liquid storage tank 204. The downstream branch of the intermediate tank 202 splits into two branches, respectively connecting to the eighth automatic control valve 109 and the ninth automatic control valve 111. The downstream of the eighth automatic control valve 109 enters the first liquid storage tank 203, and the downstream of the ninth automatic control valve 108 enters the second liquid storage tank 204. Both the first liquid storage tank 203 and the second liquid storage tank 204 are equipped with an air outlet and liquid inlet pipe at the top. The air outlet and liquid inlet pipe of the first liquid storage tank is equipped with a tenth automatic control valve 110, and the air outlet and liquid inlet pipe of the second liquid storage tank is equipped with an eleventh automatic control valve 112. The waste liquid tank, the first liquid storage tank, and the second liquid storage tank are all equipped with level gauges to monitor the liquid level and send the liquid level signal to the PLC control system in real time. The liquid flowing out of the first and second liquid storage tanks are combined into a pipeline after passing through their respective one-way valve systems 115 and then flow into the cleaning branch through the third self-control valve 104, thus realizing the circulation flow.

[0037] The piping system 401 of this cleaning system is made of materials that can withstand DMAC solvent for a long time (e.g., stainless steel, polymer synthetic materials, and other piping materials with equivalent resistance). The seals used in the pipe fittings of the piping system are all made of materials that can withstand DMAC solvent (e.g., PTFE and materials with equivalent resistance to organic solvents) to meet the requirements of long-term use of gas and DMAC solvent.

[0038] The spinneret cleaning fixture 114 of this cleaning system is used to clamp the spinneret, which is tightly sealed to the bottom outlet of the spinneret. The spinneret is also securely clamped at the top by clamping pliers to ensure safety during the cleaning process. The number of fixtures can be expanded as required to meet the cleaning requirements.

[0039] In this embodiment, the fixing fixture 114 is designed in the form of a fixture according to the specific clamping requirements of this embodiment, such as... Figure 2As shown, it includes the following structure: a base plate 1, with a bracket 2 at each end of the base plate 1, and a horizontal clamp 3 at the top of the bracket 2; a spinneret fixing base 6 is provided between the two brackets 2, which is used to fix the spinneret 5 to be cleaned; a top pressure plate 7 is provided between the two brackets 2, which is used to press the spinneret 5; a through hole is provided in the middle of the top pressure plate 7, and a quick connector 4 connected to the spinneret 5 extends out from the through hole.

[0040] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, the horizontal clamp described in this embodiment mainly consists of a pressure rod 301, a connecting rod 302, a pressure head connecting rod 303, a pressure head 304, a base plate 305, and pins 306. The pressure rod 301 is the operating component. The connecting rod 302 connects the pressure rod 301 and the base plate 305 and provides support for the pressure rod 301. The pressure head connecting rod 303 connects the pressure head 304 and the base plate 305 and provides support for the pressure head 304. The base plate 305 is fastened to the bolts through the connecting holes at the bottom, serving as the base of the entire horizontal clamp. The top of the pressure head 304 is connected to the pressure head connecting rod 303 via a nut. Its head is covered with hard rubber to press the surface of components and protect it from wear. The top of the pressure head 304 can be adjusted vertically via a nut to adapt to different pressing requirements. All the connecting rod mechanisms and the base plate are connected to each other via pins 306. Figure 5 As shown, during operation, the pressure rod 301 is manually pressed downwards. The pressure rod, through the lever structure of the base plate 305, connecting rod 302, and pressure head connecting rod 303, pushes the pressure head 304 to move in the opposite direction, rotating it from position 1 to position 2 (indicated by the dotted line) in the diagram below. After the pressure head 304 contacts the surface of the component, continuously pressing the pressure rod 301 provides pressure to fix the component. The pressing distance can be adjusted by the nut on the top of the pressure head 304, thus ensuring the required clamping. Based on the above principle of the horizontal clamping tool, this fixing fixture ensures the stable clamping of the pressure plate on top of the spinneret.

[0041] The automatic control valves of this cleaning system are used to control the switching of the gas source and DMAC liquid, as well as the running time. Through the PLC control logic of the central control valve island 301, related interlocking functions are implemented to meet the automatic opening and closing requirements of the initial cleaning stage, continuous rinsing stage, and post-treatment stage. The manual valve 113 of this cleaning system is used to close cleaning stations that are not being cleaned, ensuring operational requirements are met. The one-way valve system 115 of this cleaning system is used to control the flow of the liquid path, preventing solvent backflow and ensuring operational requirements are met.

[0042] The intermediate chamber 202 of this cleaning system is used to increase the flow rate of the buffer solution and enhance the effect of gravity flow.

[0043] Waste liquid tank 201 of this cleaning system is used to collect waste liquid from the initial cleaning stage. It is equipped with a level gauge to monitor the waste liquid level in real time, facilitating subsequent unified treatment. The tank body is made of a material resistant to DMAC solvent (e.g., PET, PE, stainless steel, or other materials with equivalent organic solvent resistance). The first storage tank 203 and the second storage tank 204 of this cleaning system are containers for the recycling of DMAC solvent. During the continuous rinsing stage, the solvent can circulate between the two tanks to ensure continuous cleaning requirements. Both are equipped with level gauges to monitor the liquid level in real time and feed the signal back to the PLC system, allowing for timely switching between the two tanks to ensure recycling. Simultaneously, it facilitates timely replenishment of DMAC solvent through the air outlet and liquid inlet pipes. The storage tanks are made of stainless steel or a material with equivalent organic solvent resistance and can withstand a pressure of at least 1.6 MPa.

[0044] All operations of this cleaning system are conducted within a fume hood to prevent solvent diffusion and contamination.

[0045] The operation scheme of the cleaning system described in this embodiment is as follows:

[0046] Install quick-connect fittings on the upper part of the spinnerets to be cleaned, matching the actual mounting hole type and specifications of the spinnerets. Then, clamp each part to be cleaned onto the spinneret cleaning fixture. Insert the inlet pipes of each spinneret into place. Activate the start button on the central control valve island, and the system enters automatic cleaning mode. Automatic cleaning is divided into a pre-cleaning stage, a continuous rinsing stage, and a post-treatment stage. According to the settings, the system first enters the pre-cleaning stage, which consists of compressed air purging followed by DMAC solvent rinsing. The purging and rinsing times can be set according to actual conditions, for example, a purging time of 30 seconds and a rinsing time of 60 seconds. After the air source is processed by the air source processor triplet in the central control valve island, it is distributed into each spinneret through pipelines for powerful purging. At this time, the second automatic control valve 103 and the fourth automatic control valve 105 are open, while the first automatic control valve 102, the third automatic control valve 104, and the fifth automatic control valve 106 are closed to prevent compressed air cross-circuiting. After the purging stage, the DMAC solvent rinsing stage begins. At this time, the second automatic control valve 103 is closed, while the first automatic control valve 102 and the third automatic control valve 104 are open. Simultaneously, the PLC system uses the level gauge to determine whether the compressed air is going to the first storage tank 203 or the second storage tank 204. The corresponding sixth automatic control valve 107 or seventh automatic control valve 108 is then open. After the gas enters the storage tank, it pushes the DMAC solvent along the pipeline into the interior of each spinneret for continuous rinsing. The rinsing waste liquid enters the waste liquid tank 201 through the pipeline.

[0047] After the initial cleaning phase is completed, the continuous rinsing phase begins. The duration of the continuous rinsing phase can be set according to actual conditions (e.g., 5 hours, 10 hours, etc.). During this phase, the fourth automatic control valve 105 closes, and the fifth automatic control valve 106 opens, allowing the rinsing liquid to enter the intermediate tank 202 through the pipeline. Simultaneously, based on the level gauge reading, the system opens either the eighth automatic control valve 109 or the ninth automatic control valve 111, allowing the liquid to enter the first storage tank 203 or the second storage tank 204, thus initiating the continuous rinsing phase. For example, if compressed air enters the first storage tank 203 through the sixth automatic control valve 107, then the tenth automatic control valve 110 and the eighth automatic control valve 109 close. At this time, the DMAC solvent in the first storage tank continuously participates in the rinsing. The rinsed solution then flows through the pipeline and the intermediate tank 202 into the second storage tank 204. At this point, the ninth automatic control valve 111 and the eleventh automatic control valve 112 open to ensure smooth entry of the gravity-flow liquid, and so on.

[0048] During continuous rinsing, the PLC system uses the level gauge feedback signal to determine whether to switch between the first liquid storage tank 203 and the second liquid storage tank 204, and to open or close the corresponding automatic control valve.

[0049] After the continuous rinsing stage is completed, the post-treatment stage begins. In this stage, compressed air is used to purge the inside of the spinneret. The time can be set according to the actual situation (e.g., 120 seconds). The purpose is to quickly purge away the remaining DMAC solvent to meet the requirements for reloading.

[0050] Once all the above stages are completed, the system can automatically terminate its operation.

[0051] Based on the feedback signal from the level gauge, DMAC solvent is added as needed through the tenth automatic control valve 110 or the eleventh automatic control valve 112 to meet subsequent cleaning requirements.

[0052] Example 2

[0053] In this embodiment 2, an automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets is provided for cleaning spinnerets during the hollow fiber membrane production process. The cleaning system includes a three-unit air source processor 101, a central control valve island 301 (with a built-in PLC system and solenoid valve assembly), a piping system 401, a spinneret cleaning fixture 114, automatic control valves (102-112), manual valves 113, a one-way valve system 115, an intermediate tank 202, a waste liquid tank 201 (with a built-in level gauge), a first storage tank 203 (with a built-in level gauge), and a second storage tank 204 (with a built-in level gauge). See attached diagram for details. Figure 1 .

[0054] The aforementioned air source processor triplet 101 is used to pre-treat compressed air, remove impurities from the air source, and ensure that it meets the usage requirements.

[0055] The central control valve island 301 (with a built-in PLC system and solenoid valve assembly) is the power source and automatic control center of the entire system. It contains a solenoid valve assembly, configured via the PLC system, used to control the opening and closing of various automatic control valves. It also includes a programmable PLC module, which can be programmed to meet the control logic and duration settings for the opening and closing of each automatic control valve. Furthermore, the PLC system allows for setting the time for the pre-cleaning stage, continuous rinsing stage, and post-treatment stage, facilitating customized operation and real-time adjustments.

[0056] The exterior of the enclosure features a touchscreen with an HMI (Human Machine Interface) for easy parameter adjustment.

[0057] The PLC system integrates a data transmission module, which can send real-time images and alarm information of the system operation via network connection, facilitating remote viewing and operation.

[0058] The self-controlled valves (102~112) include, but are not limited to, pneumatic valves, electric valves, solenoid valves, etc., and are all made of organic or inorganic materials that can withstand DMAC solvent. Valves that can achieve the same function are all within the scope of protection of this patent application.

[0059] The manual valve 113 mentioned above includes, but is not limited to, ball valves, butterfly valves, gate valves, etc., and is made of organic or inorganic materials that can withstand DMAC solvent. Valves that can achieve the same function are all within the scope of protection of this patent application.

[0060] The interface forms of the self-controlled valves (102~112) and manual valves (113) include, but are not limited to, chuck type, flange type, internal / external pipe thread type, welding type, etc. All interface forms that can achieve the same connection function are within the protection scope of this patent application.

[0061] The aforementioned spinneret cleaning fixture 114 is used to clamp the spinneret. The fixture is equipped with a dedicated interface that is tightly sealed to the bottom outlet of the spinneret, and the spinneret is securely clamped at the top by clamping pliers to ensure safety during the cleaning process. The number of fixtures can be expanded as required to meet cleaning requirements.

[0062] In this second embodiment, a different spinneret cleaning fixture was designed compared to that in embodiment 1, based on the clamping requirements needed during spinneret cleaning. Figure 3As shown. The fixed fixture structure of this embodiment includes a base plate 1, a bracket 2 at one end of the base plate 1, and a top pressure plate 7 connected to the top of the bracket 2 by fastening screws 8; a spinneret fixing base 6 is provided on one side of the bracket 2, the spinneret fixing base 6 is used to fix the spinneret 5 to be cleaned, and a slot is provided at one end of the top pressure plate 7, through which a quick-connect connector 4 connected to the spinneret 5 extends.

[0063] like Figure 6 As shown, the cleaning system described in this embodiment is operated as follows: First, the quick-connect connector 4 is connected and tightened to the spinneret 5 through the pipe thread. PTFE tape is wrapped around the pipe thread to ensure a tight seal. Then, the spinneret 5 is placed inside the spinneret fixing base 6. The spinneret fixing base 6 is welded to the base plate 1, with its inner diameter and the outer diameter of the spinneret 5 in clearance fit to ensure smooth installation. The base plate 1 is connected and tightened to the base via bolts. The bottom of the bracket 2 is welded to the base plate 1. A threaded hole is machined on the top of the bracket 2 to engage with the fastening screw 8 for fixing the top pressure plate 7. One end of the top pressure plate 7 has a through hole that engages with the fastening screw 8, and the other end has an elongated hole to provide installation space for the top of the quick-connect connector 4. The bottom surface of the top pressure plate 7 contacts the top surface of the spinneret 5, and pressure is generated by tightening the threads of the fastening screw 8 to ensure that the spinneret 5 is securely fixed without loosening. When operating, first loosen the fastening screw 8 and rotate the top pressure plate 7 away. Then place the quick connector 4 and the connector of the spinneret 5 into the spinneret fixing base 6. Then rotate the top pressure plate 7 back to its original position and tighten the fastening screw 8 according to the torque requirements to ensure that the spinneret 5 can be fixed firmly without loosening.

[0064] The waste liquid tank 201 is used to collect waste liquid from the initial cleaning stage. It is equipped with a level gauge inside for real-time monitoring of the waste liquid level, facilitating subsequent unified treatment. The tank body is made of a material resistant to DMAC solvent (e.g., PET, PE, stainless steel, and other materials with equivalent resistance to organic solvents), all of which are within the scope of this patent application. The level gauge, including but not limited to tuning fork level switches, duckbill level switches, and magnetic float level gauges, is also within the scope of this patent application if it can achieve equivalent level monitoring functionality.

[0065] The first storage tank 203 and the second storage tank 204 are containers for the recycling of DMAC solvent. During the continuous rinsing phase, the solvent can circulate between the two tanks to ensure continuous cleaning requirements. Each tank is equipped with a level gauge to monitor the liquid level in real time and send a signal to the PLC system, allowing for timely switching between the two tanks to ensure recycling and facilitate timely replenishment of the DMAC solvent. The materials used for the first storage tank 203 and the second storage tank 204 include, but are not limited to, stainless steel or materials with equivalent resistance to organic solvents, capable of withstanding pressures of 1.6 MPa or higher, all of which are within the scope of this patent application.

[0066] The piping system 401 is made of a material that can withstand DMAC solvent for a long time (e.g., stainless steel, polymer synthetic materials, and other piping materials with equivalent resistance). The seals used in the pipe fittings of the piping system are all made of materials that can withstand DMAC solvent (e.g., PTFE and materials with equivalent resistance to organic solvents). It meets the requirements for long-term use of gas and DMAC solvent and is within the scope of protection of this patent application.

[0067] The operation steps of the automatic pneumatic-hydraulic cleaning system for spinnerets in this embodiment are as follows:

[0068] Install quick-connect fittings on the spinneret, matching the actual mounting hole type and specifications of the spinneret. Then, clamp each part to be cleaned onto the spinneret cleaning fixture 114. Connect the piping system 401, inserting each spinneret inlet pipe into place. Observe the operation interface and alarm information of the central control valve island. According to the PLC control interface of the central control valve island (built-in PLC system and solenoid valve group), set the cleaning time according to the actual situation (e.g., pre-cleaning stage: 30s purging, 120s rinsing; continuous rinsing stage: 5H, 10H, etc.; post-treatment stage: 120s, etc.). Start the system, and the system enters automatic cleaning mode, sequentially entering the pre-cleaning stage, continuous rinsing stage, and post-treatment stage. The system opens / closes the corresponding automatic control valves according to the preset program, and uses internal DMAC solvent for circulating rinsing, automatically switching between the first and second storage tanks as needed. After the post-treatment stage is completed, the system automatically stops and prompts that cleaning is complete, and the parts can be removed and reinstalled.

[0069] The automatic pneumatic-hydraulic cleaning system for spinnerets in this embodiment has few electrical components and is explosion-proof and safe. The cleaning system of this invention uses very few electrical components, with most of the actuators being pneumatic, effectively preventing explosions and ensuring safety and reliability. The absence of pumps and other power components significantly reduces the system's energy consumption and operating costs.

[0070] In summary, the cleaning system described in this embodiment of the invention reduces operational difficulty, improves cleaning efficiency, and enhances cleaning quality. The cleaning system of this invention adopts an active pneumatic-hydraulic linkage flushing mode, significantly improving cleaning efficiency. Through the dual effects of pressure flushing and dissolution, it can efficiently and thoroughly clean the interior of the spinneret assembly. Furthermore, the spinneret is easy to install, reducing the operational difficulty of actual cleaning. It achieves unattended, automated operation and allows for expansion of cleaning stations as needed. The cleaning system of this invention is simple to operate manually, easy to clamp, and can achieve fully automatic PLC operation with high efficiency. It can also adjust cleaning time and frequency according to actual conditions and expand cleaning stations according to site requirements to meet mass production cleaning requirements. It improves the working environment and reduces the workload of operators. All system operations are performed within a fume hood, and the related purging and cleaning do not generate additional solvent spills, improving operator safety and occupational health to a certain extent. It improves the overall system's explosion-proof rating, meeting safety requirements. The cleaning system of this invention uses very few electrical components, with most pneumatic actuators, effectively preventing explosions and ensuring safety and reliability. This invention reduces DMAC solvent waste, enabling recycling and lowering operating costs. The cleaning system consists of a pre-cleaning stage, a continuous rinsing stage, and a post-treatment stage. It effectively removes the solution containing high concentrations of residues and impurities from the pre-cleaning stage as waste liquid, while the remaining solvent remains clean and can be used for subsequent circulating cleaning, significantly reducing cleaning consumable costs. It also reduces the number of pump-powered components, lowering overall system energy consumption. The cleaning system of this invention primarily uses pneumatic actuators, eliminating the need for pumps and other power components, significantly reducing system energy consumption and operating costs. Furthermore, it reduces the pollution impact on the workshop environment. Since the cleaning operations of this invention are primarily conducted in a semi-closed state, the diffusion and spillage of DMAC can be significantly controlled, effectively reducing pollution to the existing environment.

[0071] The self-controlled valves involved in this invention include, but are not limited to, pneumatic valves, electric valves, and solenoid valves. All valves are made of organic or inorganic materials capable of withstanding DMAC solvents, and valves capable of achieving equivalent functions are within the scope of this patent application. The manual valves involved in this invention include, but are not limited to, ball valves, butterfly valves, and gate valves. All valves are made of organic or inorganic materials capable of withstanding DMAC solvents, and valves capable of achieving equivalent functions are within the scope of this patent application. The valve interface types involved in this invention include, but are not limited to, chuck-type, flange-type, internal / external threaded type, and welded type. All interface types capable of achieving equivalent connection functions are within the scope of this patent application. The level gauges involved in this invention include, but are not limited to, tuning fork level switches, duckbill level switches, and magnetic float level gauges. All level gauges capable of achieving equivalent level monitoring functions are within the scope of this patent application. The piping systems, intermediate tanks, waste tanks, and storage tanks involved in this invention are all made of organic or inorganic materials capable of withstanding DMAC organic solvents, including but not limited to stainless steel, polymer materials, and materials with equivalent resistance to organic solvents, and are all within the scope of this patent application.

[0072] While the specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, this is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that, based on the technical solutions disclosed in the present invention, various modifications or variations that can be made by those skilled in the art without creative effort should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets, characterized in that, include: The system comprises: a three-unit air source processor (101), a central control valve island (301), a pipeline system (401), a spinneret cleaning fixture (114), automatic control valves (102-112), manual valves (113), an intermediate tank (202), a waste liquid tank (201), a first liquid storage tank (203), and a second liquid storage tank (204); wherein, the three-unit air source processor (101) is used for pre-treating compressed air, and its outlet is connected to the pipeline system (401); the central control valve island (301) is equipped with a solenoid valve group, which is controlled by a PLC system. The system is configured to control the opening and closing of each automatic control valve (102~112); the spinneret cleaning fixture (114) is used to clamp the spinneret to be cleaned; the intermediate tank (202) is used to buffer the flow rate of the buffer solution and increase the gravity flow effect; the waste liquid tank (201) is used to collect the waste liquid in the early cleaning stage; the first storage tank (203) and the second storage tank (204) are containers for the recycling of DMAC solvent, and the solvent in the continuous rinsing stage circulates between the first storage tank (203) and the second storage tank (204).

2. The automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spinneret cleaning and fixing fixture (114) includes: a base plate (1), a bracket (2) at each end of the base plate (1), and a horizontal clamp (3) at the top of the bracket (2); a spinneret fixing base (6) is provided between the two brackets (2), the spinneret fixing base (6) is used to fix the spinneret (5) to be cleaned, and a top pressure plate (7) is provided between the two brackets (2) to press the spinneret (5); a through hole is provided in the middle of the top pressure plate (7), and a quick connector (4) connected to the spinneret (5) extends out from the through hole.

3. The automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spinneret cleaning and fixing fixture (114) includes: a base plate (1), a bracket (2) at one end of the base plate (1), and a top pressure plate (7) connected to the top of the bracket (2) by fastening screws (8); a spinneret fixing base (6) is provided on one side of the bracket (2), the spinneret fixing base (6) is used to fix the spinneret (5) to be cleaned, and a slot is provided at one end of the top pressure plate (7), and a quick connector (4) connected to the spinneret (5) extends out from the slot.

4. The automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The waste liquid tank (201) is equipped with a level gauge (205) for real-time monitoring of the waste liquid level.

5. The automatic pneumatic-hydraulic linkage cleaning system for spinnerets according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first liquid storage tank (203) and the liquid storage tank 2 (204) are both equipped with level gauges (205) for real-time monitoring of liquid level and feedback signals to the PLC system.

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