Monolithic membrane filter

Abstract

The invention relates to a monolithic component, in particular as a device or for a device for separating constituents from a fluid. The monolithic component comprises a carrier fluid inlet and a carrier fluid discharge, a monolithic structure which is arranged between the carrier fluid inlet and the carrier fluid discharge and which is designed to be permeable at least in some parts or regions in any case, and an opening collector which is arranged between the carrier fluid discharge and the permeable structure, wherein the opening collector is integrally formed together with the carrier fluid discharge and the permeable structure, and the permeable structure is designed and arranged so as to separate an enveloping face from a carrier face in a permeable manner at least in some parts and / or at least in some regions. A carrier fluid can be provided on the carrier face, said carrier fluid being capable of flowing from the carrier fluid inlet to the carrier fluid discharge through the carrier face of the permeable structure. The permeable structure is designed to ensure a material transfer of the carrier fluid by means of the enveloping face, in particular a transfer of the carrier fluid into an enveloping fluid and / or from an enveloping fluid into the carrier fluid.

Description

[0001] Monolithic membrane filters

[0002] Description

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to monolithic components, in particular as membrane filters.

[0005] Background and general description of the invention

[0006] Membrane filters are known for filtering or separating substances from mostly liquid mixtures. Such a mixture can be a dispersed medium or, for example, a solution in which other components are dissolved in a base substance.

[0007] Membrane filters are used in a variety of applications, including water and food treatment, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and biotechnological, medical, or chemical processes or applications. One example of such an application is the separation of alcohol from beer to produce alcohol-free beer. A particularly gentle process preferably enables alcohol removal with minimal impact on the flavor. Another application is the separation of cells and cell fragments from active ingredient solutions in the biotechnological production of pharmaceuticals. For example, there are constant efforts to increase the throughput of the medium being filtered or to further reduce costs. Different applications may require different designs. In contrast to medical devices, much larger membrane surfaces are required for technical systems.

[0008] Since each different application area has different requirements, particularly with regard to the material, design, or size of the filter, and process requirements such as temperature, pressure, volume, and aggressiveness of the media in contact with it, as well as special hygiene requirements, must be taken into account, the membrane filter market is currently still in development. A universal approach that can cover at least a majority of different application areas has not yet been achieved. Furthermore, filtration system failures are not uncommon due to the limited mechanical and / or chemical stability of known modules. For example, modules made of polymeric materials such as PP typically cannot withstand greater stress such as temperatures above 60 °C or higher transmembrane pressures (over 3 bar), or at least not for extended periods without damage. However, this is desirable for many application areas.

[0009] Steam sterilization, for example, at 121 °C, which is particularly necessary in hygienically demanding areas, can only be repeated a small number of times, if at all. Likewise, cleaning at elevated temperatures, high and / or low pH values, or with oxidizing cleaning agents limits the service life of the modules. Ceramic filters, on the other hand, are sensitive to thermal shocks or mechanical impact.

[0010] Due to the partly automated manufacturing processes, membrane filters are nowadays manufactured as standardized products with a predetermined geometry, whereby adaptations to special requirements from the process control, such as for high viscosities and / or low pressure losses during flow or for difficult installation environments, are practically impossible or not planned, since the resulting lower unit quantities would drive the unit costs to unsaleable levels.

[0011] The present invention is based on the knowledge that the limitations of currently existing filters and those described in the literature arise essentially from their construction, since they are assembled from prefabricated components.

[0012] An example of known welded tubular membranes is described in European Patent Application EP 88 108 462 A. Typically, various joining processes, such as welding or the filling of casting compound, are necessary to achieve a seal and / or targeted fluid flow in the filter module. With such a "modular structure" it is fundamentally interesting that different materials can be used to fit precisely and thus potentially more cost-effectively and can therefore be specifically selected according to requirements. However, a disadvantage of this is that the different components behave differently towards one another, for example under stress such as changes in temperature, pressure or swelling of the material, and this can impair the performance of the filter or cause the filter to fail.For example, when welding tubular membranes, no foreign materials or different substances are used, but the surfaces that come into contact before welding are often inadequately prepared for welding, so that a tight and reliable connection cannot be established.

[0013] Building on the developments at InnoSpire, for example also described in the publications WO 2021 / 110483 or WO 2022 / 038093, further design improvements and further developments are described below.

[0014] Based on InnoSpire's in-house developments, the present invention therefore sets itself the task of further improving the solutions already presented. On the one hand, the task is to further improve flow guidance and reduce or prevent dead spots in the flow. On the other hand, based on the in-house developments, another aspect of the task is to further optimize the design of the components in order to either save costs, simplify production, further increase the resistance of the components to external influences, especially their mechanical strength, and / or make even more adverse process parameters such as higher pressures manageable without component failure.

[0015] The present invention therefore also fulfills the further aspect of reducing production costs during manufacture and / or increasing the service life of filter modules or components in tough technical applications and thus improving economic efficiency.

[0016] In addition to the aforementioned and numerous other aspects solved by the present invention, the present invention also provides a filter that can be easily adapted and optimized during the manufacturing process for the specific subsequent application with regard to, for example, the parameters of filtration performance, conveying capacity, volume or mass flow of fluid and / or mechanical load capacity or resistance to mechanical influences.

[0017] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0018] The improvements and new designs proposed in this description, among numerous other aspects, focus on providing a component suitable for separating components from a fluid. Such separation includes, for example, the filtration of a fluid, i.e., the extraction of substances from a solution, or the stripping or separation of suspended matter from a dispersed medium such as a suspension. However, the invention is not limited to this.

[0019] The present invention focuses, in an underlying concept and in a further aspect of the invention, on providing monolithically constructed components for the production of filter modules. Such monolithic components, such as membrane filters in particular, can be additively formed in light of the present invention and / or have intrinsic porosity. For example, in a monolithic component, all components can be provided from a uniform starting material.

[0020] Monolithic components are also typically manufactured in one piece and preferably without interruption. Due to the lack of joined component-to-component transitions, they can be characterized by extremely robust applications and, moreover, their size and thus their filtration capacity can be optimized for their intended use. There are various known additive manufacturing processes that offer considerable design flexibility. Typically, the elements to be manufactured are built up layer by layer. However, the additive manufacturing processes known to date are inadequate in various respects, particularly for the construction of membrane modules, and only with the present invention are they ready for use.

[0021] Additive manufacturing also allows, for example, the production of geometries that are not possible with previously known processes for membrane or membrane module production. Of particular note here are three-dimensional geometries that are designed to provide a damping or force-absorbing shape. For example, the longitudinal extension of the membrane modules is often subject to force. Even if the membrane modules are inserted stress-free into the respective holder or device, a change in length can occur during operation due to temperature changes or chemical influences, and the membrane module(s) are subjected to stress. The membrane module(s) are therefore preferably designed to be stress-tolerant, in particular longitudinal stress-tolerant. This stress tolerance can be continuously improved.

[0022] For example, the membrane module(s) can be provided in a stress-tolerant manner by having or exploiting an inherent spring action of the membrane module(s), so that compression of the individual membrane tubes causes the membrane tubes to deflect. The deflection of the membrane tube can take the form of twisting, arching, or the like. Likewise, the stress-tolerant design of the membrane tubes or membrane modules can also include a transverse stress-tolerant provision. Membrane modules are occasionally also exposed to transverse stresses, for example, if they are not inserted precisely into the respective holder and the membrane module compensates for the inaccurate installation by twisting. This twisting can be transferred to the membrane tubes inside the membrane module.

[0023] The use of porous material systems for additive manufacturing described in the present invention also allows, for example, the reproducible production of porous components with an average pore size of up to less than 1 μm. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the geometric resolution of the application device is only relevant for the general shape of the component or the membrane filter, but not for the specific pore size of the membrane filter.

[0024] A monolithic component according to one aspect of the present description comprises a carrier fluid inlet and a carrier fluid outlet. The carrier fluid inlet and outlet guide the carrier fluid from outside the monolithic component into and out of it, thus guiding the flow in particular into or through a permeable structure.

[0025] The monolithic component comprises the monolithically constructed structure arranged between the carrier fluid inlet and the carrier fluid outlet, which is at least partially or regionally permeable. The permeable structure is designed to ensure mass transfer or filtering of components of the carrier fluid. The carrier fluid therefore carries components that are removed from the carrier fluid in the permeable structure. The monolithic component is therefore preferably used as or for a device for separating components from a fluid, namely the carrier fluid. The monolithic component is therefore typically designed to receive and discharge the carrier fluid on the carrier side and a sheath fluid on the sheath side. The carrier fluid and optionally also the sheath fluid can flow through the monolithic component to provide a carrier flow and optionally a sheath flow in the monolithic component.In one example, the monolithic component can be an integrated filter module.

[0026] The monolithic component further comprises an orifice collector arranged between the carrier fluid outlet and the permeable structure. The orifice collector distributes the carrier fluid to subregions of the permeable structure, which can be tubular or membrane tubes, for example. A carrier fluid reservoir is preferably formed in the orifice collector, so that the permeable structure is in fluid communication with the carrier fluid reservoir. The orifice collector can also be referred to as a fluid distributor, fluid collector, or funnel collector. In the orifice collector, the fluid flows from the permeable structure converge or branch off into subregions of the permeable structure.

[0027] The orifice collector is formed integrally with the carrier fluid outlet and the permeable structure. The carrier fluid outlet thus merges integrally with the orifice collector, and the orifice collector merges integrally with the permeable structure. Together, the carrier fluid outlet, orifice collector, and permeable structure form a three-dimensional, possibly interlocking structure. Typically, the orifice collector is arranged between the carrier fluid outlet—or carrier fluid inlet, depending on the side of the component—on one side and the permeable structure on the other side and can be used as a connecting piece between them. The permeable structure can partially extend into the orifice collector.

[0028] The permeable structure is designed and arranged to permeably separate a shell side from a carrier side at least partially and / or at least in certain regions. A carrier fluid can be provided on the carrier side of the permeable structure. The carrier fluid can, for example, flow from the carrier fluid inlet through the carrier side of the porous structure to the carrier fluid outlet, i.e. once through the monolithic component, wherein the permeable structure is designed to ensure a mass transfer of the carrier fluid with the shell side, in particular a transfer from the carrier fluid into a shell fluid and / or from a shell fluid into the carrier fluid. The permeable or porous material structure thus permeably separates a shell side from a carrier side, such that the porous material structure can be referred to as a membrane for the permeable separation of the shell fluid from the carrier fluid.

[0029] A second orifice collector can preferably be arranged between the carrier fluid inlet and the permeable structure. Although this embodiment has some advantages, as will be explained in the context of the exemplary embodiments, this is not necessary in every case. The second orifice collector can be formed integrally with the carrier fluid inlet on one side and the permeable structure on the other side. For example, the second orifice collector can be constructed mirror-symmetrically to the (first) orifice collector. In other words, the carrier fluid inlet, orifice collector, permeable structure, second orifice collector, and optionally also the carrier fluid outlet can be formed or constructed in one piece, so that there are no separating points that reduce the tightness, and thus no seals need to be used.

[0030] The permeable structure can preferably comprise filter capillaries, in particular membrane capillaries. Furthermore, the filter capillaries can be integrally integrated into the orifice collector and / or the second orifice collector. The filter capillaries can therefore be considered a one-piece structural extension of the orifice collector, whereby it may be preferable for the filter capillaries to extend into the installation space of the orifice collector.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the membrane tubes or filter capillaries are stress-tolerant, particularly longitudinal stress-tolerant, but also transverse stress-tolerant. If the first end face and the second end face are arranged parallel to one another, longitudinal stress can imply a force applied to the membrane tubes or filter capillaries, whereby the end faces remain parallel to one another, but may be displaced parallel. Excessive longitudinal stress can therefore result in the end faces moving away from one another. In this case, the membrane tubes or filter capillaries are subjected to a force along their main direction of extension, typically compressing them but also elongating them. This can lead to the membrane tubes or filter capillaries breaking.Transverse stress can imply that a force is applied to the membrane tubes or filter capillaries, whereby the end faces are tilted towards each other, i.e. a force is applied perpendicular to the main direction of extension of the membrane tubes or filter capillaries. If the membrane tubes or filter capillaries are designed to be stress-tolerant, then they can be subjected to a higher degree of longitudinal stress and / or transverse stress than a comparable straight membrane tube or filter capillary. In other words, the geometry of the membrane tubes or filter capillaries is designed in such a way that a higher longitudinal stress, or also transverse stress, can be absorbed without the membrane tubes or filter capillaries breaking. One embodiment of a membrane tube or filter capillary that is designed to be stress-tolerant is a spring-like compressible membrane tube or filter capillary. For example, the membrane tube orThe filter capillary can be compressed by 1 mm or more without being damaged or destroyed, preferably by 2 mm or more, more preferably by 5 mm or more, even more preferably by 10 mm or more, and finally preferably by 20 mm or more. On the other hand, the length change tolerance—that is, the length change resulting from the stress tolerance of the membrane tube or filter capillary when subjected to stress—can be 0.1% of the original length or more, preferably 0.2% or more, more preferably 0.5% or more, even more preferably 1% or more, and finally 2% or more of the original length of the membrane tube or filter capillary.

[0032] Stress tolerance can also be interpreted as elastic, stress-distributing, or stress-reducing, because stress peaks in inelastic regions are distributed over a larger component surface, and possibly even reduced overall if the component allows deformation as a result. It is particularly preferred for the membrane tubes or filter capillaries to be designed to dissipate stress. This is because if the membrane tubes or filter capillaries can yield under the application of force, e.g., compress like a spring, and the component housing is simultaneously rigid enough, then the applied stress, e.g., compressive stress, can be dissipated to the component housing and absorbed by it.

[0033] The monolithic component can comprise one or more sheath fluid channels. The sheath fluid channel(s) is / are particularly designed to guide the flow of a sheath fluid, at least in sections along the monolithic component. The sheath fluid channels can, for example, merge integrally into the outlet collector and / or the second outlet collector.

[0034] The filter capillaries can each have a capillary outlet. The capillary outlets can then further form a sheath fluid seal to block the sheath fluid from the carrier fluid inlet and merge integrally into the orifice collector. In other words, the capillary outlets form a closed wall that separates a carrier fluid side from a sheath fluid side in the area of ​​the orifice collector.

[0035] The capillary outlets can provide reduced flow resistance for the carrier fluid flowing through them by means of a flow-guiding surface design, thereby reducing turbulence and / or pressure fluctuations in the flow path. The capillary outlets can, for example, have a conical, conical-surface-shaped, parabolic, or toroidal inner surface-shaped design. The flow-guiding surface design is, in particular, arranged or constructed concentrically around the orifice. Furthermore, the capillary outlets can project into the orifice collector. The monolithic component can further comprise a housing that is monolithically formed with at least one of a permeable structure, orifice collector, second orifice collector, carrier fluid inlet, or carrier fluid outlet.Particularly preferably, the housing is monolithic with all the aforementioned structures, i.e. with permeable structure, orifice collector, second orifice collector, carrier fluid inlet and carrier fluid outlet.

[0036] The sheath fluid channels can form an integral part of the housing, so that the housing forms part of the interior of the sheath fluid channels. In other words, the sheath fluid channels can be arranged directly adjacent to the housing, preferably formed integrally with the housing, for example, as a bulge or cavity, so that the interior of a sheath fluid channel is also located inside the housing.

[0037] An inner support structure can be provided in the monolithic component, which is formed integrally with at least one of the housing, the sheath fluid channels, the permeable structure, the orifice collector, or the second orifice collector, preferably monolithically formed with all of the aforementioned structures. The inner support structure can support the housing inwardly toward the orifice collector. For example, the sheath fluid channels can be formed integrally with the support structure. For example, the inner support structure can be attached to one of the sheath fluid channels with a support arm and be formed integrally with the respective sheath fluid channel.

[0038] The orifice collector and / or the second orifice collector can preferably be designed to taper conically. In addition to the preferred conical shape, the taper can also be designed in an analogous or very similar truncated cone shape. Typically, the carrier fluid inlet or carrier fluid outlet has a smaller diameter than the permeable structure, so that the flow from the carrier fluid supply is expanded in the orifice collector to the width of the permeable structure—or is recombined in the second orifice collector toward the carrier fluid outlet.

[0039] On the shell side facing the sheath fluid, i.e., for example, the outside of the permeable structure, a sheath fluid can be provided so that both the carrier fluid and the sheath fluid can flow in or through the monolithic component and the carrier fluid is separated from the sheath fluid by means of the permeable structure.

[0040] The permeable structure can also be semipermeable or selectively permeable. The permeable structure can also be permeable, for example, to substances and / or particles with a size of less than 10 μm, preferably less than 2 μm, and more preferably less than 0.5 μm.

[0041] The filter capillaries of the permeable structure may be formed as a plurality of elongated membrane tubes that integrally connect the orifice collector of the monolithic component to the second orifice collector.

[0042] The membrane tubes or filter capillaries can furthermore have an inner side, with the inner sides of the membrane tubes or filter capillaries forming the carrier side. The carrier fluid can therefore flow along the inner side. The membrane tubes or filter capillaries can furthermore form part of the sheath side on their outer sides, with the sheath fluid flowing along the outer side. The membrane tubes or filter capillaries can also have a tubular or pipe-shaped design.

[0043] Although this is not specifically shown in figures in this description, the filter capillaries can also be helically shaped, for example divided into triple helices. Helically shaped filter capillaries offer the advantage of better mass transfer on the inside when carrier fluid flows through them. Compared to straight filter capillaries, helically shaped membrane tubes exhibit elastic compliance when subjected to loads in the direction of the main axis of the membrane tube bundle or triple helix. Such loading can arise during operation when the temperature of the fluid flowing through it changes rapidly. The membrane tube bundle, for example, wants to expand according to the temperature, but is prevented from doing so by the still cold casing. The same applies to rapid temperature drops. The triple helix, or the helical shape in general, can act like a coil spring in this case.This makes it possible to provide a stress-tolerant monolithic component, particularly one that is tolerant of longitudinal stresses, which can absorb higher stresses, especially longitudinal stresses caused by temperature differences, before fatigue or even fracture of one or more filter capillaries occurs. In a further embodiment, filter capillaries can be shaped in a meandering or wavy line to improve the mixing of the fluids and, if necessary, to increase a damping effect or elastic compliance in the direction of the main extension axis of the filter capillary. It is also possible to use variable cross-sectional geometries of filter capillaries to increase the mixing of the flowing carrier fluid.

[0044] The carrier fluid inlet can have a carrier fluid connection element formed monolithically with the orifice collector and the porous structure for connection to a fluid guide such as a hose or a pipe. The carrier fluid connection element can preferably have means for releasably connecting the hose or the pipe, such as a connecting thread. The carrier fluid outlet can also / or have a second carrier fluid connection element formed monolithically with the second orifice collector and the permeable structure for connection to a fluid guide such as a hose or a pipe. The second carrier fluid connection element can also comprise means for releasably connecting the hose or the pipe, such as a screw thread.

[0045] Furthermore, at least one sheath fluid connection formed monolithically with the permeable structure and / or the sheath fluid channels can be provided.

[0046] The monolithic component may comprise a sheath fluid ring distributor, in particular for connecting the sheath fluid connection and / or for connecting the sheath fluid channels.

[0047] For example, the sheath fluid ring distributor can distribute the sheath fluid from the sheath fluid port into the individual sheath fluid channels. The sheath fluid ring distributor can be mounted on the housing of the monolithic component from outside the housing, for example, by embodying the sheath fluid ring distributor as an integral part of the housing and the housing forming part of the inner wall of the ring distributor.

[0048] The permeable structure can comprise at least one turbulator for mixing the carrier fluid and / or for mixing the sheath fluid, in particular a plurality of turbulators per filter capillary. A turbulator can create turbulence in the corresponding fluid, resulting in improved mixing and thus improved mass transfer between the sheath fluid and the carrier fluid.

[0049] The monolithic component can comprise, consist of, or be made from inorganic components, in particular ceramic paste or metallic paste. The monolithic component can further comprise, consist of, or be made from polymers, in particular polymer powder, more particularly at least one of polyolefins, for example polypropylene, polyamides, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and polyethersulfone. The monolithic component can further comprise, consist of, or be made from inorganic and polymer components, in particular polymer solution with ceramic, metallic, and / or polymeric fillers, the polymer solution in particular comprising at least one of polyolefins, for example polypropylene, polyamides, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and polyethersulfone. The permeable structure can be a porous structure constructed in one piece from a porous or porosifiable starting material.

[0050] The present description also includes a monolithically constructed filter module for separating components from a fluid, comprising a carrier fluid inlet and a carrier fluid outlet, a mouth collector formed monolithically with the carrier fluid inlet, a second mouth collector formed monolithically with the carrier fluid outlet, a filter housing, in particular an elongated or tubular one, formed integrally with the mouth collector and / or the second mouth collector, a structure arranged in the filter housing and constructed and connected integrally with the mouth collector, the second mouth collector and the filter housing and at least partially or regionally permeable, at least one carrier fluid connection element, at least one sheath fluid connection element,wherein the orifice collector and the second orifice collector are each designed as an integral fluid barrier to prevent an exchange between the carrier fluid connection element and the sheath fluid connection element.,

[0051] The filter module can further comprise the permeable structure designed and arranged such that a shell side is at least partially and / or at least regionally permeably separated from a carrier side. A carrier fluid can be provided accordingly on the carrier side. The permeable structure can also be designed to ensure mass transfer of the carrier fluid with the shell side.

[0052] To produce a monolithic component with a permeable structure, as described above in various combinable variants, several steps will be explained below to increase understanding. The monolithic component preferably has a material structure that is at least partially or at least regionally porous, and is therefore particularly suitable as a filter element or filter device. The starting material is prepared for application, for example, by means of an extruder. The starting material is already porous or is provided in a porosifiable form.This means that the starting material is initially non-porous when it is provided, but is influenced, modified or recomposed in connection with the application of the starting material in such a way that the starting material can be permeated with pores in a temporal connection with the application of the starting material. Providing the primary material can also include conveying the porous or porosifiable starting material to the location where the material is applied, but also thermal adaptation to desired application conditions, as well as setting a favorable physical pressure for applying the starting material to produce the component. In the example of the extruder, providing includes conveying and pressing in the extruder screw, whereby the porous or porosifiable starting material is finally provided at the outlet of the extruder.

[0053] When applying the porous or porosifiable starting material, the porosity can be adjusted, for example at the location where the material is applied. This adjustment can be made immediately before, during or immediately after the actual material application. For example, machine parameters of an application machine, such as an extruder, can be changed, or a mixing ratio of the starting material can be changed, or process parameters during the solidification of the starting material can be adjusted in order to adjust the porosity at the location where the material is applied. In this case, the material permeability is advantageously adjusted intrinsically within the material. With the starting material provided in a slightly or non-porous form, parts of the housing of the component can be constructed, for example. At another location on the component, a porous, i.e.permeable, semi-permeable or specifically permeable material structure can be created, and the different component areas are constructed monolithically with one another.

[0054] The porous or porosifiable starting material can be applied point by point, particularly in a point-target matrix or in cylindrical coordinates, in a line or in layers. The material can be applied continuously or quasi-continuously, i.e., it can emerge from the supply system such as an extruder in a bead-like pattern and, for example, be applied point by point to points in a point-target matrix. The material is typically applied following the force of gravity, with application from above and the component being built up from bottom to top. The material can be applied in a layer-target matrix, whereby a plurality of points to be approached can be combined in such a layer. For example, if the starting material is in powder form, such a layer can be prepared as a whole, for example heated with a radiation source and joined together to form a one-piece layer.

[0055] The point spacing from one point to the next neighboring point does not need to be identical; for example, an area of ​​particularly complex geometry can be provided with a tighter point grid, whereas simple structures can be described with fewer points. For example, in the case of pasty starting material, the starting material can be applied in a "bead-like" pattern, and a long straight line can be drawn, with only the starting and end points of the straight line needing to be defined.

[0056] When approaching a point to be applied, the starting material is available at the corresponding point in the point-target matrix. The approach can be achieved using a deposition tool, for example, the aforementioned extruder, whereby the deposition tool can be moved three-dimensionally to the point in the point-target matrix to be applied, or a component carrier can be designed to be adjustable so that a movable system of the point-target matrix is ​​created. The point-target matrix is ​​moved in front of the deposition tool, and the point in the point-target matrix to be applied comes into contact with the deposition tool.

[0057] An application tool is advantageous when the starting material is in liquid, pasty, or solid form. If the starting material is in powder form, approaching the point of the point-target matrix to be applied can also be understood as directing a heat generator, such as a laser or radiation source, at the point of the point-target matrix to be applied in order to bring the powdered starting material deposited there into at least a type of pre-melt at that point in the point-target matrix, so that it bonds with the surrounding component or the surrounding starting material, possibly in preparation for later sintering of the component as a whole. For example, the powdered starting material can be an inorganic, e.g. ceramic and / or metallic, filled polymer powder.

[0058] Adjusting the porosity of the porous and / or porosizable starting material can be achieved in various ways. It can involve adjusting the mixing ratio in the starting material, for example, if a filler is provided in a variable mixing ratio, whereby the porosity of the starting material can be defined by adjusting the mixing ratio of the filler. It can also involve adjusting the radiation source or the source for thermal treatment of the starting material at the desired point. For example, the intensity of a laser to be used can be adjusted so that a higher intensity produces a different porosity than a lower intensity.The porosity of the starting material is influenced, modified, combined, or generally adjusted at the target point of the point-target matrix in such a way that a porous material structure is created at at least one first point. At at least one second point of the point-target matrix, an impermeable material structure can be created by varying the porous or porosifiable starting material. An impermeable material structure, for example, is one that has comparatively few pores or no pores at all, or one that has a closed-pore structure, thus preventing fluid exchange and / or mass transfer between fluids.

[0059] To adjust the porosity of the component's material structure, an intrinsic or chaotic pore arrangement can be set. This means that the microporous design is not exactly reproducible, meaning that one component cannot resemble a second component at a specific point in the point-target matrix. The pore structure is therefore not precisely defined in the micrometer range, but rather adjusted solely with regard to its "effect," i.e., average pore size and number of pores per volume. A permeable or porous material structure accordingly exhibits open porosity. The pores can, if necessary, be designed or prepared during material application so that they form a coherent porous material structure in the component. The pores can have a round or potato-shaped individual structure.The impermeable material structure, on the other hand, can have closed porosity or no porosity at all, in any case no open porosity.

[0060] The porous material structure can be characterized by lower resistance to the flow or penetration of a fluid through the porous material structure than in the impermeable material structure. It can prove advantageous if the pores are at least partially interconnected, so that a fluid can flow from one pore to the next and an overall flow or permeability can develop through the porous material structure. Open porosity therefore preferably means that a pore typically communicates with at least two other pores when a fluid flows through the porous material structure.The liquid can be made to flow by conveying the liquid through the component by applying a pressure gradient, for example generated by gravity and without an external pumping device, or by the action of a pumping device or pressurization.

[0061] The permeable or porous material structure can have an open micro- or mesoporous structure. The average pore size can be less than 40 μm, preferably less than 5 μm, and more preferably even less than 1 μm. The permeable or porous material structure preferably has an average volume porosity of 20% or greater, preferably 35% or greater. The average volume porosity can also reach 50% or greater.

[0062] The impermeable material structure can have a higher density than the porous material structure. The ratio of the density of the impermeable material structure to that of the porous material structure is in particular 1.2:1, preferably 1.5:1, and even more preferably 2:1. In other words, the material structure can be denser in impermeable areas than in areas of porous material structure. The ratio of the density of the impermeable material structure to the porous material structure can also be specified in intervals, for example in an interval between 1.2:1 and 1.5:1, and preferably in the interval from 1.5:1 to 2:1.

[0063] The porosity can be adjusted by adding additives or fillers to the starting material, or by adjusting curing parameters for the respective point of the point-target matrix to be approached, or by selecting a starting material to be used from a plurality of at least two starting materials, if the at least two starting materials can be supplied alternately or simultaneously. Adjustment can also be achieved by providing a location-dependent radiation intensity with a radiation source directed at the location of the material application, or further alternatively or cumulatively, by the location-dependent adjustment of the light absorption capacity of the porous or porosifiable starting material, so that the component can be constructed, in particular, using a location-independent radiation source.

[0064] Polymeric or inorganic nanoparticles can be used as additives for the starting material. Nanoparticles are defined as particles with an average diameter of typically 100 nm or less. For example, the nanoparticles can have an average diameter of 900 nm or less, 500 nm or less, 100 nm or less, or even 50 nm or less. An inorganic or organic filler can be used as a filler.

[0065] For greater clarity, the following describes an additive manufacturing process for producing a component with at least a partial or at least partially porous material structure. First, a porous or porosifiable starting material is provided. The porous or porosifiable starting material is then applied to construct the component, and the porosity of the porous or porosifiable starting material is adjusted during the application process.

[0066] The application of the porous or porosable starting material can comprise point-by-point, line-by-line, or layer-by-layer application of the porous or porosable starting material, in particular in a point-target matrix or in a layer-target matrix. The point-by-point application can further comprise moving to a point of the point-target matrix to which the porous or porosable starting material is to be applied. Furthermore, the adjustment of the porous or porosable starting material at the point of the point-target matrix to which it is to be moved and the application of the adjusted porous or porosable starting material at the point can be included.

[0067] Furthermore, the approach to at least one first point of the point-target matrix and the adjustment of the porous or porosifiable starting material at the at least one first point can be included in such a way that a porous material structure is created at the at least one first point, and / or the approach to at least one second point of the point-target matrix and the adjustment of the porous or porosifiable starting material at the at least one second point in such a way that an impermeable material structure is created at the second point.

[0068] The points of the point target matrix can be arranged in storage layers, and wherein the approach (120) of the points of the point target matrix is ​​carried out layer by layer, so that first the points of a first storage layer are approached and then the points of a second storage layer.

[0069] The application of the porous or porosifiable starting material can be configured such that one deposition layer has regions with an impermeable material structure, at least one deposition layer has regions with a porous material structure, or at least one deposition layer has both an impermeable material structure and a porous material structure, which is applied with the same porous or porosifiable starting material. The partially or partially porous material structure of the component can be arranged or constructed randomly. The partially or partially porous material structure of the component can also arise with the application of the starting material in or on the component.

[0070] The starting material is, for example, intrinsically porous. The porous material structure preferably has open porosity, while the impermeable material structure has closed porosity. The porous material structure can also be characterized by lower resistance to the flow or penetration of a fluid through the porous material structure than in an impermeable material structure. The porous material structure preferably has an open micro- or mesoporous structure with an average pore size of less than 40 μm, preferably less than 5 μm, more preferably less than 1 μm. The porous material structure can also have an average volume porosity of 20% or greater, preferably 35% or greater.

[0071] An additive or filler can be added to the starting material to adjust the porosity at the moment of material application, in particular at the respective point of the point-target matrix to be approached. Curing parameters for the respective point of the point-target matrix to be approached can also be set there. Furthermore, a starting material to be used can be selected from a plurality of at least two starting materials, wherein the at least two starting materials can be supplied alternately or simultaneously. A location-dependent radiation intensity can be provided by means of a radiation source directed at the material application. A location-dependent adjustment of the light absorption capacity of the porous or porosifiable starting material can also be carried out, so that the component can be constructed, in particular, using a location-independent radiation source.Polymeric or inorganic nanoparticles can be used as additives, and an inorganic or organic filler can be used as filler.

[0072] During material application, the pores of the porous or porosifiable starting material can be designed or prepared in such a way that they form a coherent porous material structure in the component.

[0073] In the monolithic component, the orifice collector and / or the second orifice collector may form an integral fluid barrier, and the fluid barrier(s) may separate the flow of the carrier fluid from the sheath flow.

[0074] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the figures, wherein identical and similar elements are partially provided with the same reference numerals and the features of the various exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another. Brief description of the figures

[0075] They show:

[0076] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of an improved monolithic component in longitudinal section,

[0077] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of a monolithic component in longitudinal section with two symmetrical ends, Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a monolithic component in longitudinal section,

[0078] Fig. 4 - 12 the embodiment of Fig. 3 in different cross-sectional areas, Fig. 13 a further embodiment of an improved monolithic component, Fig. 14 an embodiment of a monolithic component with asymmetrical terminations.

[0079] Detailed description of the invention

[0080] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a monolithic component 50, in which the inlet side 7 is left open. The monolithic component 50 has a housing 5 that encloses the filter capillaries 1. A carrier fluid flows through the carrier side 11 of the filter capillaries 1 towards the outlet collector 25, in which the carrier fluid from all filter capillaries 1 is combined in the reservoir 22 before the carrier fluid leaves the monolithic component 50 again via the carrier fluid outlet 6. In the region of the filter capillaries 1, the side surfaces 9 of the capillaries 1 are designed to be permeable; preferably, an adjustably porous material is used for the structure 60 to produce the capillaries 1. This enables mass transfer between the carrier fluid or the carrier side 11 and the sheath fluid or the sheath side 10.A sheath fluid is provided on the sheath side 10, which is typically characterized by the fact that it can absorb components of the carrier fluid. In one example, a chemical potential gradient can cause components from the carrier fluid to be expelled into the sheath fluid. On the other hand, corresponding components can also be pressed out of the carrier fluid and thus transported from the carrier side 11 to the sheath side 10. In this example, the capillaries 1 each have a capillary outlet 3, which merges into the outlet collector 25 in a truncated cylinder-like or conical manner. The sheath fluid closure 20 is formed from the ends of the side surfaces 9 of the filter capillaries 1. The sheath fluid closure 20 impermeably separates the sheath side 10 from the carrier side 11. The side surfaces 9 are designed such that the capillaries 1 grow into one another or adhere to one another, or are otherwise connected to one another in a fluid-tight manner for the sheath fluid.In other words, the sheath fluid closure 20 prevents the sheath fluid from penetrating the orifice collector 25. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the sheath fluid closure 20 is simultaneously continued to form an integral stiffening structure 28, which is fused or formed integrally with the housing 5. In this embodiment, the side arms 28a of the stiffening structure 28 are based on sheath fluid channels 12. This allows for even further improved force dissipation of transverse and / or longitudinal stresses.

[0081] The capillaries 1, the sheath fluid seal 20, and the orifice collector 25 are made of the same, similar, or at least compatible material, so that the sheath fluid seal 20 and the capillaries 1 can be constructed as a single piece. Mechanical forces may also act on the capillary outlets 3, as these connect the filter capillaries 1 to the orifice collector 25 and thus to the housing 5. The capillary outlet 3 can therefore also be optimized with regard to its mechanical resistance in order to reduce the tendency to fracture in the region of the transition from the sheath fluid seal 20 to the respective filter capillary 1. The filter capillaries 1 typically together form the membrane or membrane filter.

[0082] The sheath fluid is provided at the sheath fluid inlet 8 and fed into the sheath fluid ring distributor 15. From the sheath fluid ring distributor 15, sheath fluid channels 12 branch off along the housing 5 toward the permeable structure 60, which forward the sheath fluid in a pre-distributed manner into the central exchange area of ​​the component 50. The sheath fluid channels 12 are formed integrally with the housing 5; one could therefore say that they are formed together with the wall of the housing 5. The sheath fluid channels 12 have an inner side (see, for example, Fig. 7), with the inner side of the sheath fluid channels 12 being partially formed by the housing 5.

[0083] The carrier fluid outlet 6 and / or the carrier fluid inlet 7 has a connection means 6a for fluid-tightly connecting a fluid connecting line, such as, in particular, a pipe section or a hose. For example, a thread may be arranged there, a screw-in fitting may be provided, or it may be designed as a flange connection. The sheath fluid inlet or outlet 8 may also have a connection means 8a, such as a thread or the like.

[0084] Referring to Fig. 2, a further embodiment of a monolithic component 50 is shown as a pass-through filter, wherein here two orifice collectors 25 in this design are mirror-symmetrical to one another. Inside the filter 50, the filter capillaries 1 are shown in a sectional view. A total of 19 filter capillaries 1 are arranged in the filter 50 (see also Fig. 8). On both sides, the filter capillaries 1 open integrally into the respective orifice collector 25 and together form the sheath fluid closure 20. For this purpose, the ends of the filter capillaries 1 join together to separate the sheath side 10 from the respective orifice collector 25 in a fluid-tight manner. Furthermore, both orifice collectors 25 have an integral stiffening structure 28, which is formed seamlessly and in one piece from the extension of the filter capillaries 1.In other words, during the production of the filter capillaries 1, the material application is continued in such a way that at the ends of the filter capillaries, first the sheath fluid closure 20 is formed and then the integral stiffening structure 28 is formed.

[0085] Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the monolithic component 50, wherein, in contrast to the previous embodiments, the filter capillaries 1 are equipped with static mixers or turbulators 29. This achieves improved mixing of the carrier fluid.

[0086] Internals such as static mixers, such as turbulators 29, are known in process engineering to improve the mixing of a flowing fluid. However, this does not work readily in filter capillaries 1, or at least not permanently. Static mixers cannot be securely fixed in conventional membrane tubes, nor can they even be fixed with other materials, and therefore regularly perform relative movements to the membrane surface during operation. The resulting friction permanently damages the membrane surface, and it can no longer fulfill its separation function.

[0087] Thanks to the advantageous process, in which the component is constructed monolithically, it is now possible to form turbulators 29 in one piece with the porous structure 60, so that the problem of relative movement no longer arises. The individual segments of the turbulators 29 or the static mixers are thus an integral part of the porous structure 60. The monolithic combination of turbulators 29 with the porous structure 60 as an integrated component eliminates the problem of relative movement, so that membrane damage at this point is reduced or even eliminated, thus reliably ensuring long-term operation.

[0088] Referring to Figures 4 to 13, an embodiment of the monolithic component 50 is shown in various cross-sectional planes to further illustrate the internal structure. Figure 4 shows a perspective external view of the filter component 50, with the perspective allowing a view through the carrier fluid outlet 6 into the underlying orifice collector 25. Furthermore, two sheath fluid channels 12 branching off from the sheath fluid ring distributor 15 can also be seen.

[0089] Fig. 5 shows a cross-section at the level of the sheath fluid ring distributor 15, showing the liquid distribution of the sheath fluid and the branching sheath fluid channels 12. Fig. 6 shows a cross-section of the component 50 at the level of the carrier fluid chamber 22. Along the housing 5, 12 sheath fluid channels 12 are shown in cross-section, through which the sheath fluid is guided from the sheath fluid connection 8 into the filter chamber or the central region 52. The sheath fluid channels 12 have an inner wall 12a, wherein the inner wall 12a simultaneously forms the housing wall of the housing 5 over part of the circumference of the respective sheath fluid channel, so that part of the inner wall 12a of the sheath fluid channels 12 is formed by the housing 5.

[0090] Fig. 7 shows the component 50 in a further cross-section through the orifice collector 25, wherein it can be seen that, due to the conical and continuous widening, the orifice collector 25 already has a larger diameter than in the cross-section shown in Fig. 6. The structure of the integral stiffening structure 28 can be seen in Fig. 7, wherein side arms 28a of the stiffening structure 28 are based directly on the sheath fluid channels 12, so that force transfer into the housing 5 is further improved by the enlarged contact area of ​​the sheath fluid channel 12. Furthermore, this structure also proves to be advantageous during production, since the sheath fluid channels are already built on the housing 5 in the direction of the orifice collector 25 and thus a further application of material to the sheath fluid channels 12 is easier than having to reach between the sheath fluid channels 12 with the corresponding application tool in order to base the side arms 28a there.The filter capillaries 1 already protrude between the side arms 28a of the stiffening structure 28 and extend into the filter area 52. Fig. 8 shows a further section through the filter component 50 in the area of ​​the sheath fluid closure 20, where the largest diameter of the orifice collector 25 has already been almost reached.

[0091] Fig. 9 shows a further cross-section through the filter component 50 in the region of the capillary outlets 3 of the filter capillaries 1 and thus even further in the direction of the filter chamber 52, wherein Fig. 9 shows the transition between capillary 1 and mouth collector 25 or sheath fluid closure 20. The capillaries 1 have an expanded diameter in the region of the capillary outlets 3, which further "up" in the direction of the carrier fluid inlet 7 (see Figures 1 and 8) has already grown into one another, and further down (see Figures 12 and 13) then tapers into tubular filter capillaries. The shape of the capillary outlets 3 can be adjusted so that it optimally follows the available space and merges integrally from the permeable, and in this case round, filter capillaries 1 into the impermeable or fluid-tight sheath fluid closure 20.

[0092] Fig. 10 shows a cross-section in the area of ​​the second outlet collector, i.e., already on the opposite side of the filter chamber 52, with a perspective of the carrier fluid inlet 7. In this perspective, no filter capillaries 1 are visible, as they run in the opposite direction. From a structural point of view, the side arms 28a represent extensions of the outlets 3 of the filter capillaries 1, as they merge into one another in one piece. The stiffening structure 28 forms a self-supporting support structure that can further stiffen the component 50. The arms 28a are based on the sheath fluid channels 12, which, in the perspective view, extend to the sheath fluid ring distributor 15 (see, for example, Fig. 4).

[0093] Referring to Fig. 11, another cross-section through the filter component 50 is shown in perspective, wherein the cross-section is taken at the base of the capillary outlets 3, so that the transition from capillaries 1 via the capillary outlets 3 and into the sheath fluid closure 20 can be seen in perspective. Furthermore, the filter capillaries 1 in this embodiment are equipped with turbulators 29 to slow the flow through the filter capillaries 1 and to improve the mass transfer with the sheath fluid on the sheath side 10.

[0094] With reference to Fig. 12, a cross-section through the filter component 50 at the level of the filter chamber 52 is shown, wherein it can be seen how the envelope side 10 encloses the carrier side 11 of the filter capillaries 1 on all sides, so that the sheath fluid can flow around the filter capillaries 1 on all sides to provide an effective and large-area overflow of the filter capillaries 1.

[0095] With reference to Fig. 13, a further embodiment of a component 50 is shown in a simplified schematic representation to clarify the essential components with carrier fluid inlet 7, mouth collector 25 with carrier fluid chamber 22, schematic representation of the sheath fluid closure 20 in the region of the capillary ends 3 and three filter capillaries 1. The filter 50 can be provided as a pass-through filter or as a dead-end filter.

[0096] Fig. 14 shows the embodiment of Fig. 13 as a dead-end filter, wherein the filter capillaries 1 are closed in the region of the end shown in the figure below, e.g. closed integrally with the sheath fluid closure 20. In such an embodiment, the carrier fluid is pressed into the filter 50 through the carrier fluid inlet 7 and components from the carrier fluid reach the sheath side 10. For example, suspended matter can be collected in the filter capillaries 1 and the carrier fluid can, in such an embodiment, pass from the carrier side 11 through the permeable or porous structure of the filter capillaries 1 to the sheath side 10 and larger components remain in the filter capillaries 1. In such an embodiment, the filter capillaries 1 fill up with suspended matter or particles or the like over the period of use until the filter is full.

[0097] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments described above are to be understood as examples and that the invention is not limited to them, but can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of the claims. Furthermore, it is clear that the features, regardless of whether they are disclosed in the description, the claims, the figures or otherwise, also individually define essential components of the invention, even if they are described together with other features. In all figures, the same reference numerals represent the same objects, so that descriptions of objects that may only be mentioned in one figure or at least not with regard to all figures can also be transferred to those figures with regard to which the object is not explicitly described in the description.

[0098] 1 membrane tube, filter capillary

[0099] 3 Capillary outlet

[0100] 5 Housing, casing

[0101] 6 Carrier fluid drain

[0102] 7 Carrier fluid inlet

[0103] 8 Sheath fluid inlet or outlet, filtrate connection

[0104] 9 inner side surface

[0105] 10 Envelope, filtrate chamber

[0106] 11 Carrier side

[0107] 12 Sheath fluid channel

[0108] 15 sheath fluid ring distributors

[0109] 20 Sheath fluid closure

[0110] 22 Carrier fluid chamber

[0111] 25 Muzzle collector

[0112] 25a second outlet collector

[0113] 28 integral stiffening structure

[0114] 28a Side arms of the stiffening structure

[0115] 29 Turbulator, static mixer

[0116] 50 monolithic component

[0117] 52 Filter chamber or central area

[0118] 60 permeable or porous structure

[0119] 62 pores or cavities or passage

Claims

Monolithic component (50), in particular as or for a device for separating components from a fluid, comprising: - a carrier fluid inlet (7) and a carrier fluid outlet (6), - a monolithic structure arranged between the carrier fluid inlet and the carrier fluid outlet and at least partially or in certain areas designed to be permeable (60), and - a mouth collector (25) arranged between the carrier fluid outlet and the permeable structure, - wherein the outlet collector is integrally formed with the carrier fluid outlet and the permeable structure, - wherein the permeable structure is arranged and configured to at least partially and / or at least partially permeably separate a shell side (10) from a support side (11), - where a carrier fluid can be provided on the carrier side, - wherein the carrier fluid can flow from the carrier fluid inlet through the carrier side of the permeable structure to the carrier fluid outlet, - wherein the permeable structure is configured to ensure a transfer of the carrier fluid to the envelope side, in particular a transfer from the carrier fluid to an envelope fluid and / or from an envelope fluid to the carrier fluid. Monolithic component (50) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a second outlet collector (25) arranged between the carrier fluid inlet (7) and the permeable structure (60), wherein the second outlet collector is integrally formed with the carrier fluid inlet on one side and the permeable structure on the other side, wherein the second outlet collector is, for example, mirror-symmetrical or identical in construction to the outlet collector, and / or wherein the second outlet collector is arranged at an angle to the first outlet collector. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the permeable structure (60) comprises filter capillaries (1), in particular membrane capillaries, wherein the filter capillaries merge integrally into the outlet collector (25) and / or the second outlet collector (25a), and / or further comprising one or more sheath fluid channels (12), wherein the sheath fluid channels merge integrally into the outlet collector (25) and / or the second outlet collector (25a). Monolithic component (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein the filter capillaries (1) each have a capillary outlet (3), wherein the capillary outlets together form a sheath fluid closure (20) for shutting off the sheath fluid from the carrier fluid inlet (7), and / or wherein the filter capillaries (1) have the capillary outlets (3) through which the carrier fluid can flow, which integrally transition into the outlet collector (25) or the second outlet collector (25a).A monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an enclosure (5) which is monolithically formed with at least one permeable structure (60), outlet collector (25), second outlet collector (25a), carrier fluid inlet (7) or carrier fluid outlet (6), preferably monolithically formed with all of the aforementioned structures (6, 7, 25, 25a). A monolithic component (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein the enclosing fluid channels (12) form an integral part of the enclosure (5), such that a portion of the inner surface of the enclosing fluid channels is formed by the enclosure (5). Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an inner supporting structure (28, 28a) which is monolithically formed with at least one consisting of housing (5), the enclosing fluid channels (12), the permeable structure (60), the outlet collector (25) or the second outlet collector (25a), preferably monolithically formed with all. the aforementioned structures (5, 12, 25, 25a, 60), and / or wherein the outlet collector (25) and / or the second outlet collector (25a) is conically tapered.

8. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, further arranged such that a sheathing fluid can be provided on the sheathing side (10) so that both the carrier fluid and the sheathing fluid can flow in or through the monolithic component and the carrier fluid is separated from the sheathing fluid by means of the permeable structure (60), and / or wherein the permeable structure (60) is configured to be semipermeable or selectively permeable, and / or wherein the permeable structure (60) provides passages (62) which are in particular configured as slotted screens or tubular, wherein the permeable structure (60) is configured to be permeable for substances and / or particles with a size of less than 10 pm, preferably less than 2 pm, more preferably less than 0.5 pm.

9. Monolithic component (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein the openings (62) are designed as slotted screens and have a width of 25 pm or more, preferably 50 pm or more, more preferably 75 pm or more, and more preferably 100 pm or more, and / or have a width of 120 pm or less, preferably 80 pm or less, and / or wherein the slotted screen-like openings (62) have a length of 1 mm or more, preferably 2 mm or more, more preferably 3 mm or more, and / or wherein the slotted screen-like openings have a length of 5 mm or less, preferably 4 mm or less, and / or wherein the openings (62) are tubular and have a diameter of 50 pm or more, preferably 100 pm or more, more preferably 130 pm or more, and / or have a diameter of 150 pm or less, preferably a diameter of 12 pm or less, then preferably from 80 m or less.

10. Monolithic component (50) according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 9, wherein the filter capillaries (1) of the permeable structure (60) are formed as a plurality of elongated membrane tubes which integrally connect the outlet collector (25) of the monolithic component to the second outlet collector (25a), and / or wherein the membrane tubes or filter capillaries (1) have an inner surface (9), wherein the inner surfaces of the membrane tubes or filter capillaries define the support surface (11), and / or wherein the membrane tubes or filter capillaries (1) form a part of the outer surface (10), and / or wherein the membrane tubes or filter capillaries (1) have a tubular or pipe-shaped configuration.

11. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising wherein the carrier fluid inlet (7) has a carrier fluid connection element (7a) formed monolithically with the outlet collector (25) and the permeable structure (60) for connection to a fluid guide such as a hose or a pipe, wherein the carrier fluid connection element preferably comprises a connection thread, and / or wherein the carrier fluid outlet (6) has a second carrier fluid connection element (6a) formed monolithically with the second outlet collector (25a) and the permeable structure (60) for connection to a fluid guide such as a hose or a pipe, and / or a sheath fluid connection (8, 8a) formed monolithically with the permeable structure (60) and / or the sheath fluid channels.

12. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sheath fluid ring distributor (25), in particular for connecting the sheath fluid connection (8, 8a) according to claim 9 and / or for connecting the Enveloping fluid channels according to claim 3, wherein the enveloping fluid ring distributor is preferably formed integrally with the housing (50) and is, for example, mounted from outside the housing (5).

13. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the permeable structure (60) has at least one turbulator (29, 29a) for mixing the carrier fluid and / or for mixing the envelope fluid, in particular a plurality of turbulators per filter capillary (1).

14. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the monolithic component comprises or consists of inorganic components, in particular is composed of ceramic paste or metallic paste, and / or wherein the monolithic component comprises or consists of polymers, in particular at least one of polyolefins, for example polypropylene, polyamides, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polyethersulfone, and is preferably composed of polymer powder, and / or wherein the monolithic component comprises or consists of inorganic and polymeric components, in particular of a polymer solution with ceramic, metallic and / or polymeric fillers, the polymer solution in particular comprising at least one of polyolefins, for example polypropylene, polyamides, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polyethersulfone.

15. Monolithic component (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the permeable structure (60) is a porous structure which is constructed in one piece from porous or porous starting material.

16. Monolithically constructed filter module (50) for separating components from a fluid, comprising: - a carrier fluid inlet (7) and a carrier fluid outlet (6), - a monolithic outlet collector formed with the carrier fluid inlet - a second outlet collector (25a) formed monolithically with the carrier fluid outlet, - a filter housing (5) formed in one piece with the outlet collector and / or the second outlet collector, - a structure (60) arranged in the filter housing and integrally constructed and connected with the outlet collector, the second outlet collector and the filter housing, and at least partially or in certain areas designed to be permeable, - wherein the permeable structure extends into the outlet collector or the second outlet collector in such a way that an integral fluid barrier (20) is formed there in each case. Monolithically constructed filter module (50) according to the preceding claim, - wherein the permeable structure (60) is arranged and configured to at least partially and / or at least partially permeably separate a shell side (10) from a support side (11), - wherein a carrier fluid can be provided on the carrier side (11), - wherein the permeable structure is designed to ensure a transfer of the carrier fluid to the envelope side.

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