Separation module, separation device, and separation system

Abstract

To provide a separation module which can inhibit clogging.SOLUTION: A separation module 40 includes: a filter 10 having filter holes 14 linearly extending along a thickness direction and formed of an organic material or a metal material; and a support 20 supporting the filter 10 with its surface and having support holes 23 extending linearly along the thickness direction, a first support 21, a second support 22, a spacer 30 sandwiched between the first support 21 and the second support 22, and a space 24 connected to the support holes 23 and disposed among the first support 21, the second support 22, and the spacer 30. An opening 112 at the support 20 side of the filter hole 14 overlaps with an opening 231 at the filter 10 side of the support hole 23. The filter 10 includes: a first filter 11 disposed at one side of the support 20; and a second filter 12 disposed at the other side of the support 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a separation module, a separation device and a separation system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a known technique for separating a fluid to be separated (such as a slurry) containing particles of a desired size from a fluid to be separated (such as a slurry). Patent Document 1 describes an inorganic filter having a one-dimensional through-hole nanoporous membrane. This inorganic filter is manufactured by forming a ceramic thin film consisting of a columnar ceramic phase that grows and is oriented perpendicular to the membrane surface and a ceramic matrix phase that surrounds it on a dense substrate that can be made porous by leaching treatment, and then subjecting the entire substrate with the ceramic thin film formed thereon to leaching treatment to remove the columnar ceramic phase and make the dense substrate porous. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-246340 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the inorganic filter described in Patent Document 1, nanometer-sized particles pass through linearly formed one-dimensional nanopores and the eluted portions in the substrate. The flow paths formed by the eluted portions in the substrate have a complex inner wall shape as shown in Figure 1 of Patent Document 1, and are therefore prone to clogging. The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a separation module, a separation device, and a separation system that can suppress clogging. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The separation module of the present invention is a separation module that separates a fluid to be separated from a fluid to be separated, and includes a filter made of an organic or metallic material and having filter holes extending linearly along the thickness direction, a support that supports the filter on its surface and has support holes extending linearly along the thickness direction, a first support, a second support, a spacer sandwiched between the first support and the second support, and a support connected to the support holes and having a space disposed between the first support, the second support, and the spacer, wherein the opening of the filter hole on the support side overlaps the opening of the support hole on the filter side, and the filter includes a first filter disposed on one side of the support and a second filter disposed on the other side of the support. Other solutions will be described later in the description of the invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a separation module, a separation device, and a separation system that are capable of suppressing clogging. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the separation module of the present embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the separation module of the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a separation device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a system diagram of the separation system of the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a system diagram of a separation system according to another embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top view of a first support constituting a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top view of a first support constituting a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is a top view of a first support constituting a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 8A. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a top view of a first support constituting a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of a second support that can be used in conjunction with the first support of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support that constitutes a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support that constitutes a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support that constitutes a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support that constitutes a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support and a second support that constitute a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first support and a second support that constitute a separation module of another embodiment. [Figure 17A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a support constituting a separation module according to another embodiment. [Figure 17B] 17B is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 17A. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a separation module. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a separation module. [Figure 20A] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 20B] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 20C] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a separation module. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a separation module. [Figure 23A]10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 23B] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 23C] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a separation method using a separation device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, a mode for carrying out the present invention (referred to as an embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of one embodiment, other embodiments applicable to the one embodiment will also be described as appropriate. The present invention is not limited to the one embodiment below, and different embodiments can be combined with each other or modified as desired within a range that does not significantly impair the effects of the present invention. Furthermore, the same components will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, components having the same functions will be given the same names. The contents shown are merely schematic, and for convenience of illustration, the actual configuration may be changed within a range that does not significantly impair the effects of the present invention.

[0009] 1A is a perspective view of a separation module 40 of this embodiment. As an example, the direction of a straight line connecting notches 291, 291 formed at both diametrical ends of the edge of a support 20 that has a perfect circular shape in a top view is defined as the x-direction, the direction perpendicular to the x-direction in the plane direction of the support 20 is defined as the y-direction, and the direction perpendicular to the x-direction and y-direction, which is the thickness direction of a filter 10 (described below), is defined as the z-direction. This also applies to the other figures.

[0010] The separation module 40 separates a fluid T (such as a slurry) containing metal particles of a desired size from a fluid L1 (such as a slurry) containing metal particles of various sizes. In this case, the separation module 40 can wet classify metal particles, enabling particle sieving. The separation module 40 includes a filter 10 and a support 20.

[0011] 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1A. The filter 10 includes a first filter 11 arranged (supported) on one side (the upper surface in the illustrated example) of a support 20 having a disk shape, for example, and a second filter 12 arranged (supported) on the other side (the lower surface in the illustrated example) of the support 20. The support 20 includes, for example, a stacked first support 21 and second support 22, and a spacer 30. As will be described in detail later, a space 24 is formed inside the support 20, i.e., between the first support 21, the second support 22, and the spacer 30 in the illustrated example. The fluid T to be separated by the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 flows into the space 24 through support holes 23. The fluid T to be separated in the space 24 is extracted from the separation module 40 through an extraction port 25.

[0012] The first filter 11 and the second filter 12 are similar except for the placement side relative to the space 24, and therefore, for the sake of simplicity, the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 will be described mainly with the first filter 11. The first support 21 and the second support 22 also have the same configuration except for the placement side relative to the space 24, and therefore, for the sake of simplicity, the first support 21 and the second support 22 will be described mainly with the first support 21.

[0013] The filter 10 has filter holes 14 that extend linearly along the thickness direction. The filter holes 14 have an opening 111 on the surface side (the side opposite the support 20) and an opening 112 on the center side (the side where the support 20 is located). The filter holes 14 have a predetermined inner diameter, and the fluid T to be separated flows through the filter holes 14 from the surface side to the center side, whereby the fluid T to be separated is separated.

[0014] The filter 10 is made of an organic material such as a resin (polycarbonate, polyester, polyimide, etc.), or a metallic material such as an elemental metal (copper, etc.) or an alloy. Among these, the use of an organic material makes it easy to handle, mold, and attach the filter 10 to the support 20. On the other hand, the use of a metallic material allows stable separation of the fluid T to be separated, even when the fluid is a strong alkali.

[0015] The filter 10 is preferably made of a material different from the fluid T to be separated that is contained in the fluid L1 to be separated. Specifically, for example, when metal particles of a desired size are to be separated as the fluid T to be separated from the fluid L1 to be separated that contains metal particles, the filter 10 is preferably made of an organic material. In this way, contamination of the fluid T to be separated that is caused by the constituent material of the filter 10 can be suppressed.

[0016] The thickness direction, which is the extension direction of the filter pores 14, is the direction in which the fluid T to be separated flows through the filter pores 14, i.e., the permeation direction of the fluid T to be separated. Furthermore, the thickness direction, which is the extension direction of the filter pores 14, is the z direction shown in the figure, which is the thickness direction of the filter 10, and is a direction perpendicular to the surface directions (x direction and y direction) of the filter 10. The extension direction of the filter pores 14 does not need to strictly coincide with the z direction, and may extend obliquely at a predetermined angle, for example, 1° to 10°, relative to the z direction.

[0017] The filter holes 14 extend linearly through the filter 10. "Linear" refers to, for example, that the inner walls are smoothly formed and extend in the same direction from one side to the other. However, the extension direction of the filter holes 14 may vary depending on the position in the z direction, as long as the effects of the present invention are not significantly impaired. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the filter holes 14 is preferably the same from one side to the other, but may vary depending on the position in the z direction, as long as the effects of the present invention are not significantly impaired. For example, the inner diameter increases from the surface side to the center. The inner walls of the filter holes 14 may be composed of only flat or curved surfaces, or may include both flat and curved surfaces. The linear extension of the filter holes 14 prevents the fluid T to be separated from getting caught on the inner wall and becoming clogged when it flows through the filter holes 14, thereby maintaining stable separation performance over a long period of time.

[0018] The method for forming the filter holes 14 is not particularly limited and may be selected appropriately depending on the material of the filter 10. For example, if the filter 10 is made of an organic material, linear filter holes 14 can be formed by, for example, irradiating the filter with laser light having a desired beam diameter. Alternatively, if the filter 10 is made of a metal material, linear filter holes 14 can be formed by, for example, etching. In this case, the inner diameter of the filter holes 14 can be controlled by, for example, the etching time, the composition of the etching solution, etc.

[0019] The inner diameter of the filter pores 14 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 1 nm or more, preferably 5 nm or more, with an upper limit of, for example, 1 mm or less, preferably 500 μm or less, more preferably 1 μm or less, even more preferably 500 nm or less, and particularly preferably 200 nm or less. By setting the inner diameter of the filter pores 14 within this range, it is possible to separate a fluid T to be separated that is on the order of microns and nanometers. Note that the inner diameter of the filter pores 14 refers to the shortest distance of the filter pores 14, which determines the size of, for example, particles contained in the fluid T to be separated. In the case of a filter pore 14 that is circular in top view, it refers to the inner diameter, and in the case of a filter pore having corners such as a rectangle, it refers to the distance between two opposing sides.

[0020] The support 20 supports the filter 10 on its surface, and has support holes 23 that extend linearly along the z direction (thickness direction of the filter 10) on the support surface of the filter 10. The filter 10 is supported by, for example, pasting, bonding, welding, etc., the filter 10 to the surface of the support 20. "Extending linearly along the thickness direction of the filter 10" here has the same meaning as described above for the filter 10. The openings 231 are all the same size and shape, although some may be different. The support 20 has higher rigidity than the filter 10. The support 20 is made of a resin, such as polystyrene or polycarbonate.

[0021] The support hole 23 has an opening 231 on the surface side (the side where the filter 10 is placed) and an opening 232 on the center side (the opposite side from the filter 10). Of these, the opening 231 is formed on the support surface of the filter 10. The support hole 23 has, for example, a perfect circle shape when viewed from above.

[0022] Openings 112 of filter holes 14 on the support 20 side overlap with openings 231 of support holes 23 on the filter 10 side. This allows the fluid T to be separated that has flowed through filter holes 14 and reached support 20 to further flow through support holes 23. In the illustrated example, the inner diameter of support holes 23 is larger than the inner diameter of filter holes 14, for example, 1 mm or more and 10 mm or less. This allows the fluid T to be separated after separation by filter 10 to flow through support holes 23 without excessively increasing pressure loss.

[0023] The support body 20 is formed inside the support body 20 and includes a space 24 connected to the support body holes 23, and an outlet 25 communicating with the space 24. The outlet 25 includes an opening 251 on the surface side (the side where the filter 10 is arranged) and an opening 252 on the central side (the side facing the space 24). By providing the space 24 and the outlet 25, the fluid to be separated T separated by the filter 10 can be made to flow into the space 24 and taken out from the space 24 through the outlet 25.

[0024] The space 24 is disposed between the first support 21 and the second support 22. In this way, the space 24 can be formed by stacking the first support 21 and the second support 22, which are configured separately, and therefore the space 24 can be easily formed. In particular, in the illustrated example, the space 24 is disposed between the first support 21, the second support 22, and the spacer 30. In this way, the space 24 can be formed by stacking the first support 21, the spacer 30, and the second support 22, which are configured separately, and therefore the space 24 can be easily formed.

[0025] The support 20 is sandwiched between the first filter 11 and the second filter 12. This allows the fluid T to be separated from both sides of the support 20, thereby improving separation efficiency.

[0026] The support 20 has a disk shape, and the outlet 25 is disposed at a position including the center P (FIG. 1A) of the support 20. This makes it easier for the fluid to be separated T that flows into the space 24 through the filter holes 14 and support holes 23, which are arranged to surround the outlet 25, to flow toward the outlet 25 located at the center. Furthermore, as will be described in detail later, by arranging the outlet 25 at the center, the separation module 40 can be rotated around a rotation axis that passes through the outlet 25 and extends in the z direction. The outlet 25 has a shape of, for example, a perfect circle when viewed from above.

[0027] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the separation module 40 of this embodiment. The support holes 23 are arranged at equal intervals in both the circumferential and radial directions so as to surround the extraction port 25. The spacer 30 is sandwiched between the first support 21 and the second support 22. When the first support 21 and the second support 22 are stacked with the spacer 30 sandwiched between them, a space 24 (FIG. 1B) is formed between the first support 21, the second support 22, and the spacer 30. With this type of support 20, the space 24 can be easily formed because it can be formed by stacking the first support 21, the spacer 30, and the second support 22, which are configured separately. The size of the space 24 can also be easily changed by changing the height of the spacer 30 (in the same direction as the thickness direction of the filter 10).

[0028] The spacer 30 is annular, and in the illustrated example, the outer diameter of the spacer 30 is the same as the outer diameter of the support 20. The spacer 30 also has a plurality of branches 31 spaced at equal intervals from the outer periphery of the annular shape toward the center P (FIG. 1A). The branches 31 can support the first support 21 and the second support 22 up to near their central portions, thereby improving the strength of the separation module 40.

[0029] 3 is a schematic diagram of a separation device 100 of this embodiment. The separation device 100 includes, for example, a replaceable separation module 40, and is, for example, a classification device for inorganic particles contained in a fluid to be separated L1. The inorganic particles are, for example, metal particles, and the metal particles include particles of simple metals or metal compounds, specifically, for example, particles of simple metals, particles of metal oxides, etc. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, the inorganic particles are assumed to be metal particles.

[0030] In another embodiment, the separation device 100 is a classification device for organic particles contained in the fluid to be separated L1, for example. The organic particles include resin particles, for example.

[0031] If the separation module 40 deteriorates over time, it can be replaced with another separation module 40. In the illustrated example, there is only one separation module 40, but there may be two or more. The number of separation modules 40 to be installed can be determined, for example, depending on the desired filtration area.

[0032] The separation device 100 includes a housing 60 that rotatably houses the separation module 40, and a rotation mechanism 50 that rotates the separation module 40. The rotation mechanism 50 rotates the separation module 40 inside the housing 60. The rotation mechanism 50 is, for example, a motor. As will be described in detail later, the separation target fluid L1 is separated from the separation subject fluid T while rotating the separation module 40. Therefore, by including the rotation mechanism 50, the shear force generated by the rotation can be utilized, and the rotation can suppress the adhesion of cake to the filter 10 (i.e., the occurrence of fouling), thereby improving separation efficiency.

[0033] The housing 60 is airtight and has an internal space 61. The housing 60 has a supply port 63 for the fluid to be separated L1, a discharge port 64 for the fluid to be treated C1, and a discharge port 65, all of which are connected to the space 61. The discharge port 65 is used to extract the fluid to be separated L1 or the fluid to be treated C1 (or both) that overflows from the space 61, and the discharge port 65 can prevent excessive pressure buildup in the space 61.

[0034] Baffle plates 62 are provided inside the space 61 above and below the separation module 40. The baffle plates 62 can prevent the fluid to be separated L1 from simply flowing circumferentially in the space 61 as the separation module 40 rotates, thereby facilitating separation by the separation module 40.

[0035] A cylinder 70 is connected to one end (in the illustrated example, the upper surface side of the separation module 40) of the extraction port 25 ( FIG. 1A ) of the separation module 40, and a blocking member 71 is connected to the other end (in the illustrated example, the lower surface side of the separation module 40). The cylinder 70 is detachably connected to the separation module 40. This allows, for example, a separation module 40 that has deteriorated over time to be replaced with another separation module 40. A rotation mechanism 50 is connected to the cylinder 70, and when the cylinder 70 is rotated by driving the rotation mechanism 50, the separation module 40 to which the cylinder 70 is connected rotates. The cylinder 70 has an outlet 72 for the fluid T to be separated on the side opposite to the connection side to the separation module 40.

[0036] The separation method using the separation device 100 will be described. After the rotation mechanism 50 starts rotating the separation module 40, the fluid to be separated L1 is supplied to the space 61 through the supply port 63. Shear force is generated in the fluid to be separated L1 that comes into contact with the rotating separation module 40, making it easier for the fluid to be separated T to flow through the filter 10 (FIG. 1B). In addition, the supply pressure of the fluid to be separated L1 to the space 61 makes the fluid to be separated L1 somewhat high pressure. That is, a pressure difference is generated between the supply side of the fluid to be separated L1 and the discharge side of the fluid to be separated T. Therefore, with the shear force and pressure difference as driving forces, the fluid to be separated T passes through the filter 10 and flows into the space 24 (FIG. 1B). The fluid to be separated T in the space 24 is taken out through the outlet 25 and the cylinder 70, for example, from an outlet 72 open to the atmosphere. On the other hand, the fluid to be treated C1, which is the residue of the fluid to be separated L1 after separating the fluid to be separated T, is taken out through the outlets 64 and 65.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a system diagram of a separation system 1000 according to this embodiment. The separation system 1000 is a dead-end system in which a fluid to be separated (T) is separated by continuously supplying a fluid to be separated (L1) to the separation device 100 or by supplying a cleaning liquid (L2) after the supply of the fluid to be separated (L1) has stopped. The cleaning liquid (L2) is preferably the same type of solvent or liquid that dissolves or disperses the fluid to be separated (T) in the fluid to be separated (L1). For example, if the fluid to be separated (L1) contains metal particles and is a slurry containing water and a predetermined additive, such as a pH adjuster or dispersant, to disperse the metal particles, the cleaning liquid (L2) is preferably a solution containing water and a predetermined additive, such as a pH adjuster or dispersant. This prevents dilution of the predetermined additive in the fluid to be separated (T) and maintains the dispersion of the metal particles. However, the cleaning liquid (L2) may be a solvent, such as water, if it can achieve the desired effect.

[0038] The separation system 1000 includes a separation device 100, a tank 201 that stores a fluid to be separated L1, a tank 202 that stores a cleaning liquid L2, and a tank 203 that stores a fluid to be separated T. However, the tank 202 may be a plurality of tanks that store at least one of each of the components that make up the cleaning liquid L2. That is, for example, a pH adjuster, a classification agent, and water may be stored in different tanks and supplied to the separation device 100 independently from each tank.

[0039] The separation system 1000 includes systems 221 and 222 that supply pressurized gas G1 (e.g., high-pressure nitrogen gas) to the tanks 201 and 202, respectively, and the systems 221 and 222 include valves 271 and 272 that control the flow of the pressurized gas G1. The separation system 1000 also includes systems 223 and 224 that supply the fluid to be separated L1 and the cleaning liquid L2 contained in the tanks 201 and 202, respectively, to the space 61 (FIG. 3) of the separation device 100. The separation system 1000 also includes a system 225 that supplies the fluid to be separated T separated in the separation device 100 to the tank 203, and a system 226 that discharges the fluid to be treated C1 and the used cleaning liquid L2 produced in the separation device 100 to the outside. The system 226 includes a valve 276.

[0040] The separation system 1000 includes a pressure gauge 233 that measures the pressure in the space 61 (FIG. 3) and a mass meter 234 that measures the mass of the fluid T to be separated. The pressure gauge 233 makes it possible to measure the pressure in the space 61. The mass meter 234 makes it possible to measure the amount of the fluid T that has permeated the separation module 40.

[0041] The separation system 1000 includes a supply device 300 that supplies the separation device 100 with a fluid to be separated L1 at a higher pressure than the discharge side (the tank 203 side) of the fluid to be separated T. The supply device 300 generates a pressure difference in the separation module 40, and separation is performed using the pressure difference as a driving force. In the illustrated example, the supply device 300 includes systems 221 and 223, valves 271 and 273, and a tank 201. By supplying a pressurized gas G1 to the gas phase of the tank 201, the gas phase is pressurized, and the liquid phase of the fluid to be separated L1 is pushed out and supplied to the separation device 100. The supply device 300 may also be a pressure reducing device (not shown) that reduces the pressure of the discharge side of the fluid to be separated T, for example, to a vacuum. Even when a pressure reducing device is included, the separation device can supply the fluid to be separated L1 at a higher pressure than the depressurized discharge side. The fluid to be separated L1 and the cleaning liquid L2 may be supplied using a liquid feed pump (not shown) instead of or in addition to the supply of the pressurized gas G1.

[0042] When the pressurized gas G1 is flowed through the system 221 with the valves 271, 273, and 276 open and the valves 272 and 274 closed, the fluid to be separated L1 contained in the tank 201 is supplied to the separation device 100 through the system 223. In the separation device 100, the fluid to be separated T is separated by the rotating separation module 40 (FIG. 1A) and supplied to the tank 203 through the system 225. Meanwhile, the residual fluid to be treated C1 is discharged to the outside through the system 226. In this embodiment, the fluid to be separated L1 is continuously supplied and the fluid to be separated T is continuously separated.

[0043] In another embodiment, when the rotation of the separation module 40 (FIG. 1A) is stopped, the valves 271 and 273 are opened, and the valves 272, 274, and 276 are closed, and pressurized gas G1 is flowed through the system 221, the fluid to be separated L1 contained in the tank 201 is supplied to the separation device 100 through the system 223. Because the valve 276 is closed, high pressure is generated in the space 61 (FIG. 1B) of the separation device 100. In this state, the valves 271 and 273 are closed, and the supply of the fluid to be separated L1 is stopped. Next, the valves 272, 274, and 276 are opened, and the supply of the cleaning liquid L2 is started. Furthermore, when the rotation of the separation module 40 is started, the separation of the fluid to be separated T is performed in the separation device 100 by pressurization of the fluid to be separated L1 in the separation device 100 due to shear force and the supply of the cleaning liquid L2. The residual fluid to be treated C1 is discharged to the outside through the system 226.

[0044] The separation module 40, separation device 100, and separation system 1000 described above can prevent clogging of the filter 10 and continuously separate particles of a desired size over a long period of time. For example, the particle size of particles used in metal pastes and chemical materials for electronics is nano-sized. The properties of nano-sized particles can be improved by classification to make the particle size uniform, thereby increasing added value. Therefore, by using the separation module 40 to prepare and use a fluid to be separated (e.g., a slurry) containing particles of a uniform size, the properties of the particles can be utilized in products that use the fluid to be separated, such as capacitors.

[0045] 5 is a system diagram of a separation system 1100 according to another embodiment. The separation system 1100 performs separation by a diafiltration method. The diafiltration method separates the fluid T to be separated by adding a washing liquid L2 to the fluid L1 to be separated, in an amount equal to the amount of the fluid T obtained while circulating the fluid L1 to be separated. This allows the separation speed and separation efficiency to be maintained over a long period of time.

[0046] Separation system 1100 has the same basic configuration as separation system 1000 (FIG. 4), except that separation system 1100 includes supply device 301, such as a liquid feed pump, instead of supply device 300 (FIG. 4). However, separation system 1100 further includes flow meter 235 that measures the flow rate of cleaning liquid L2 flowing through system 224, and mass meter 236 that measures the mass of the fluid in tank 201. Feedback control is performed on the opening of valve 274 while measuring the flow rate with flow meter 235 so that the mass measured by mass meter 236 remains constant.

[0047] By driving the supply device 301, a circulating fluid C3 is generated in the separation device 100, the flow rate of which is reduced by the amount of the fluid to be separated T. The circulating fluid C3 is supplied to the tank 201 through a system 227 equipped with a valve 277. A cleaning liquid L2 in an amount equal to the reduced amount of the fluid to be separated T is further supplied to the tank 201 through a system 224. As a result, a constant flow rate of the fluid to be separated L1 is supplied to the separation device 100, enabling the separation device 100 to continuously perform stable separation.

[0048] FIG. 6 is a top view of the first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (FIG. 1A) of another embodiment. The shapes and locations of the openings 231, 251 are not particularly limited. In the example of FIG. 6, the openings 231 are not formed over the entire surface, unlike the example of FIG. 1A, and the shapes of the openings 231 are not all the same but are partially different. Specifically, the openings 231 are arranged symmetrically with the opening 251 as the center, and have a rectangular (e.g., square) shape on one side and a triangular (e.g., equilateral) shape on the other side. The openings 231 are each arranged in a 90° region that is the range between the x direction and the y direction.

[0049] 7 is a top view of the first support 21 constituting the separation module 40 (FIG. 1A) of another embodiment. The size of the opening 231 is not particularly limited. In the example of FIG. 7, the openings 231 are formed on the entire surface of the first support 21, but unlike the example of FIG. 1A, they have various sizes. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 7, the openings 231 have various sizes and various shapes such as diamond, circle, square, etc.

[0050] 8A is a top view of the first support 21 constituting the separation module 40 (FIG. 1A) of another embodiment. The openings 231 and 232 (FIG. 1B) do not need to be at the same positions in the x and y directions, i.e., at the same positions on the front and back, and the openings 231 and 232 are arranged at different positions on the front and back. In the illustrated example, four openings 231 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the opening 251.

[0051] Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in Figure 8A. The outline arrow indicates the rotation direction R of the separation module 40 (Figure 1A) relative to the illustrated support hole 23, and the dashed arrow indicates the relative movement direction P1 of the fluid to be separated L1 when the separation module 40 rotates. Note that the fluid to be separated L1 does not necessarily have to actually move in the direction of the dashed arrow, and the dashed arrow indicates the flow direction of the fluid to be separated L1 as seen from the rotating separation module 40.

[0052] 1B, the support holes 23 are arranged at an angle to the z direction. That is, the support holes 23 are arranged obliquely to the z direction, which is the thickness direction of the filter 10, and the support holes 23 have a slope that slopes downward to the left on the paper. However, the support holes 23 may also have a slope that slopes downward to the right on the paper. The inner walls of the support holes 23 may have a streamlined shape.

[0053] The first support 21 of this embodiment is suitable for a rotating separation module 40. Therefore, for example, the separation device 100 shown in FIG. 3 above is equipped with a separation module 40 including the first support 21 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. The support holes 23 have an inclination that rises in the rotation direction R (the direction of the outline arrow) caused by the drive of the rotation mechanism 50 (FIG. 3). By configuring the support holes 23 in this manner, it is possible to make it easier for the fluid T to be separated (FIG. 3) to flow through the support holes 23 during rotation, and an increase in pressure loss can be suppressed.

[0054] Fig. 9 is a top view of a first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (Fig. 1A) of another embodiment. In the example of Fig. 1A, the first support 21 and the second support 22 have the same configuration, but they may have different configurations. The first support 21 shown in Fig. 9 has the same shapes of inner and outer edges as the second support 22 shown in Fig. 10, but has circular openings 231 arranged over the entire surface at equal intervals in the circumferential and radial directions with opening 251 as the center.

[0055] 10 is a top view of a second support 22 that can be used in combination with the first support 21 of FIG. 9. The second support 22 shown in FIG. 10 has a different configuration from the first support 21 shown in FIG. 9, specifically, for example, the shape of the openings 231 is different. In the second support 22 shown in FIG. 10, diamond-shaped openings 231 are arranged over the entire surface at equal intervals in the circumferential and radial directions with the opening 251 at the center. Even if the first support 21 and the second support 22 have different configurations, the separation module 40 can be configured.

[0056] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (Fig. 1A) of another embodiment. In the example of Fig. 1A, the first support 21 has a perfect circle shape when viewed from above, but the shape of the first support 21 is not limited to a perfect circle. The first support 21 of Fig. 11 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above, more specifically, a square shape. The openings 231 are arranged at equal intervals across the entire surface of the square-shaped first support 21 so as to surround the opening 251.

[0057] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (Figure 1A) of another embodiment. The first support 21 in Figure 12 has a circular shape when viewed from above, similar to Figure 1A, but unlike Figure 1A, it has an elliptical shape. The openings 231 are arranged at equal intervals across the entire surface of the elliptical first support 21 so as to surround the opening 251.

[0058] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (Figure 1A) of another embodiment. The first support 21 in Figure 13 has a polygonal shape similar to that in Figure 11, but unlike that in Figure 11, it has a hexagonal shape, more specifically, a regular hexagonal shape. The openings 231 are arranged at equal intervals across the entire surface of the regular hexagonal first support 21 so as to surround the opening 251.

[0059] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a first support 21 constituting a separation module 40 (Figure 1A) of another embodiment. The first support 21 in Figure 14 has a polygonal shape similar to that in Figure 11, but unlike that in Figure 11, has a shape in which convex portions 292 and concave portions 293 are formed alternately on the edge. The openings 231 are arranged at equal intervals across the entire surface of the first support 21, which has a shape in which convex portions 292 and concave portions 293 are formed alternately, so as to surround the opening 251.

[0060] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a first support 21 and a second support 22 constituting a separation module 40 (Fig. 1A) of another embodiment. The separation module 40 shown in Fig. 1A includes a spacer 30 (Fig. 1A), but the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 15 does not include a spacer 30, and a space 24 (Fig. 1B) is formed inside.

[0061] An annular convex portion 262 is arranged on the lower surface 261 of the first support 21, for example, along the edge (it does not have to be along the edge). A first support 21 having such a shape can be formed, for example, by hollowing out a cylinder. Then, the first support 21 and the second support 22 are laminated so that the convex portion 262 contacts the upper surface 263 of the disk-shaped second support 22. At this time, the convex portion 262 and the upper surface 263 are attached, glued, or welded. As a result, a space 24 is formed between the lower surface 261, the convex portion 262, and the upper surface 263.

[0062] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a first support 21 and a second support 22 that constitute a separation module 40 (Fig. 1A) of another embodiment. Similar to Fig. 15 above, the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 16 does not include a spacer 30 (Fig. 1A), and a space 24 (Fig. 1B) is formed inside.

[0063] A plurality of, for example, columnar (e.g., cylindrical) protrusions 264 are arranged on an upper surface 263 of the second support 22, for example, at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. An annular, for example, plate-shaped elastic body 267 is arranged to surround the plurality of protrusions 264. Then, the first support 21 and the second support 22 are stacked with the elastic body 267 interposed therebetween so that the protrusions 264 come into contact with the lower surface 261 of the disk-shaped first support 21. At this time, the protrusions 264 and the lower surface 261 are attached, bonded, or welded. As a result, a space 24 is formed between the lower surface 261, the upper surface 263, the protrusions 264, and the elastic body 267.

[0064] Fig. 17A is a perspective view of a support body 20 constituting a separation module 40 (Fig. 1A) of another embodiment. In each of the above examples, the support body 20 includes a first support body 21 and a second support body 22 that are configured separately, but the support body 20 in Fig. 17A is not separated into the first support body 21 and the second support body 22, but is molded as an integrated member. Openings 231, 231 are formed in an upper surface 265 and a lower surface 266 of the support body 20, similar to the support body 20 in each of the above examples.

[0065] Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Figure 17A. As described above, the support body 20 shown in Figure 17B is an integrally molded product. This increases the airtightness of the space 24, making it possible to increase the pressure within the space 24 and improve separation performance. The support body 20 can be formed, for example, by a 3D printer or the like.

[0066] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of a separation module 40 of another embodiment. The support 20 includes a first support 21 and a second support 22, each of which is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape. Unlike the above examples, the separation module 40 shown in Figure 18 does not have a space 24 (Figure 1B) between the first support 21 and the second support 22, nor does it have an outlet 25. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the fluid to be separated L1 comes into contact with one surface of the separation module 40, the fluid to be separated T is obtained from the other surface.

[0067] The filter 10 is formed to have the same shape and size as the first support 21 and the second support 22, and is sandwiched between the first support 21 and the second support 22. This improves the support strength of the filter 10. The filter 10 is attached to at least one of the first support 21 and the second support 22 by adhesion or welding.

[0068] Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of a separation module 40 according to another embodiment. The support 20 is configured to be rectangular like the example in Figure 18, but unlike the example in Figure 18, it is configured as a single unit. The filter 10 is formed to the same shape and size as the support 20, and in the illustrated example, is supported on, for example, the upper surface of the support 20, but may also be supported on the lower surface.

[0069] 20A is a diagram illustrating a separation method using a separation apparatus 100 of another embodiment. The separation apparatus 100 includes a mounting table 80 formed, for example, in a rectangular shape when viewed from above, and housings 81, 82, and 83 having spaces 61, 61 therein into which a fluid to be separated L1 is supplied. The mounting table 80 mounts, for example, a rectangular separation module 40, and includes mounting table holes (not shown) for discharging the fluid to be separated T to the side opposite the supply side of the fluid to be separated L1. The mounting table 80 is made of, for example, a resin plate with mesh holes, punched metal, or the like.

[0070] The housings 81, 82, and 83 are configured as separate upper and lower bodies separated by the mounting table 80, and are each connected to an actuator (not shown). When the actuator is driven, the housings 81, 82, and 83 are separated in the vertical direction.

[0071] The housings 81, 82, and 83 are respectively provided with supply ports 811 and 821 (the supply port provided in the housing 83 is not shown) that supply the fluid to be separated L1 to the space 61. The housings 81, 82, and 83 are respectively provided with outlets 822 and 832 (the outlet provided in the housing 81 is not shown) that discharge the fluid to be separated T. The housings 81, 82, and 83 are respectively provided with supply ports 813, 823, and 833 that supply a dry gas G2 (FIG. 20B; for example, air) to the space 61.

[0072] The separation apparatus 100 further includes an exchange mechanism 89 ( FIG. 20C ) that exchanges the separation module 40 placed on the mounting table 80 with another separation module 40. The exchange mechanism 89 includes, for example, hydraulic suction cups (not shown) that can attach and detach the separation module 40 by suction, and exchanges the separation module 40 by holding and transporting the separation module 40 with the suction cups. The separation apparatus 100 includes, for example, a shelf (not shown) on which the separation module 40 to be placed on the mounting table 80 is placed, and the exchange mechanism 89 transports the placed separation module 40 to the mounting table 80.

[0073] In the example of Fig. 20A, the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 18 is used, but the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 19 may also be used. When the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 19 is used, it is preferable to position the separation module 40 so that the support 20 is in contact with the mounting table 80.

[0074] When the fluid to be separated L1 is supplied to the space 61, a fluid to be separated T is obtained by circulating it through the separation module 40. On the other hand, a cake (not shown) that is a residue remains on the space 61 side of the separation module 40 (on the upper surface in the illustrated example).

[0075] 20B is a diagram illustrating a separation method using the separation apparatus 100 of another embodiment. For example, the supply of the fluid to be separated L1 (FIG. 20A) to the space 61 is stopped by closing a valve (not shown) on a pipe (not shown) connected to the supply ports 811, 821, etc. In this state, when the dry gas G2 is supplied, the gas pressure of the dry gas G2 causes the fluid to be separated T in the fluid to be separated L1 to flow through the separation module 40 and be discharged. At the same time, the cake on the separation module 40 is dried.

[0076] 20C is a diagram illustrating a separation method using a separation apparatus 100 according to another embodiment. After the dry gas G2 (FIG. 20B) is stopped, the actuators (not shown) are driven to separate the housings 81, 82, and 83 in the vertical direction. Next, the replacement mechanism 89 moves the separation module 40 placed on the mounting table 80 from the mounting table 80 to the left in the drawing, and places a new separation module 40 on the mounting table 80. Then, the actuators return the housings 81, 82, and 83 to their original positions, returning the separation apparatus 100 to the state shown in FIG. 20A.

[0077] By providing the mounting table 80 and the replacement mechanism 89, a separation module 40 whose separation performance has deteriorated due to cake accumulation can be replaced with a new separation module 40 using the replacement mechanism 89, thereby preventing deterioration of separation performance in the separation device 100.

[0078] Fig. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a separation module 40 according to another embodiment. The support 20 in Fig. 21 is similar to the example in Fig. 18, except that it is configured to have a circular shape when viewed from above.

[0079] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a separation module 40 according to another embodiment. The support 20 in Fig. 22 is similar to the example in Fig. 19, except that it is configured to have a circular shape when viewed from above.

[0080] 23A is a diagram illustrating a separation method using a separation apparatus 100 according to another embodiment. The separation apparatus 100 includes a housing 90 having a mounting table 80 formed, for example, in a circular shape when viewed from above and an internal space 61, the housing 90 being formed, for example, by a pressure vessel. The mounting table 80 is placed on a bottom plate 98 (for example, a steel plate) of the housing 90. The housing 90 further includes a supply port 91 for supplying a fluid to be separated L1 to the internal space 61, a compression mechanism 92 for compressing a cake C2 (FIG. 23B) deposited in the separation module 40, a supply port 93 for supplying a dry gas G2 to the internal space 61, and an outlet 94 for discharging the fluid to be separated T. The housing 90 further includes outlets 96 and 97 for discharging the cake C2 deposited therein (see FIG. 23C for the outlet 97), and a lid 95 for closing the outlet 97.

[0081] In the example of Fig. 23A, the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 21 is used, but the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 22 may also be used. When the separation module 40 shown in Fig. 22 is used, it is preferable to position the separation module 40 so that the support 20 is in contact with the mounting table 80.

[0082] As in the example shown in Figure 20A, when the fluid to be separated L1 is supplied to the space 61 with the outlet 97 blocked, a fluid to be separated T is obtained, and a cake C2 (Figure 23B) as a residue remains on, for example, the upper surface of the separation module 40.

[0083] 23B is a diagram illustrating a separation method using the separation apparatus 100 of another embodiment. For example, the supply of the fluid to be separated L1 to the space 61 is stopped by closing a valve (not shown) on a pipe (not shown) connected to the supply port 91. In this state, when the compression mechanism 92 is driven while supplying the dry gas G2, the cake C2 is dried.

[0084] FIG. 23C is a diagram illustrating a separation method using a separation device 100 according to another embodiment. When the lid 95 is released from the lid, the discharge port 97 opens. The accumulated cake C2 can be removed by, for example, scraping it out through the discharge ports 96 and 97. After scraping out the cake C2, separation may be performed again without replacing the separation module 40, or separation may be performed after replacing the separation module 40 with another separation module (e.g., a new one). Replacement is typically performed manually, but may also be performed by, for example, a replacement mechanism 89 (FIG. 20C). [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 10 Filters 100 Separation equipment 1000 Separation System 111,112 aperture 12 Second filter 14 filter holes 20 Support 201,202,023 Tank 21 First support 212,213,214,216 Valve 22 Second support 221,222,223,224,225,226,227 system 23 Support hole 231,232 aperture 233 Pressure Gauge 234 Mass meter 235 Flow meter 236 Mass meter 24 Space 25 Extraction port 251,252 aperture 261 Bottom surface 262 Convex 263 Top surface 264 Protrusion 265 Top 266 Bottom surface 267 Elastic Body 27,271,272,276 Valve 291 Notch 262 Convex 293 Recess 30 spacer 300,301 Feeding device 31 branches 40 Separation Module 50 Rotation mechanism 60 cabinets 61 Space 62 Baffle Plate 63 Supply port 64 Outlet 65 Outlet 70 Cylinder 71 Closure member 72 Outlet 80 Mounting table 81, 82, 83 Case 811,813,821,823 supply outlet 822,832 outlet 89 Exchange mechanism 90 Case 91,93 Supply port 92 Compression mechanism 94,96,97 Outlet 95 Lid 98 Bottom plate C1 Fluid to be treated C2 Cake C3 Circulating fluid G1 Pressurized Gas G2 Dry Gas L1 Fluid to be separated L2 cleaning solution P center P1 Movement direction T Fluid to be separated

Claims

1. A separation module that separates a fluid to be separated from a fluid to be separated, a filter having filter holes extending linearly along the thickness direction and made of an organic material or a metal material; a support that supports the filter on a surface and has a support hole that extends linearly along the thickness direction, a first support, a second support, a spacer that is sandwiched between the first support and the second support, and a space that is connected to the support hole and is disposed between the first support, the second support, and the spacer; an opening of the filter hole on the support side overlaps with an opening of the support hole on the filter side; The filter is a first filter disposed on one side of the support; a second filter disposed on the other side of the support; A separation module characterized by:

2. A separation module that separates a fluid to be separated from a fluid to be separated, a filter having filter holes extending linearly along the thickness direction and made of an organic material or a metal material; a support that supports the filter on a surface and has a support hole that extends linearly along the thickness direction, a first support, and a second support; an opening of the filter hole on the support side overlaps with an opening of the support hole on the filter side; The filter is sandwiched between the first support and the second support. A separation module characterized by:

3. The separation module is a classification module that classifies a second slurry containing particles of a desired size from a first slurry containing particles of various sizes.

3. The separation module according to claim 1 or 2.

4. When the first slurry comes into contact with one surface of the filter, the second slurry flows through the filter holes to the other surface of the filter.

4. The separation module according to claim 3.

5. The openings of the filter holes on the support side overlap with the openings of the support holes on the filter side so that the second slurry discharged from the filter holes flows into the support holes.

4. The separation module according to claim 3.

6. The separation module is a classification module that classifies a second slurry containing particles of a desired size from a first slurry containing particles of various sizes, The support is a space formed inside the support and connected to the support hole; an outlet communicating with the space; Equipped with 3. The separation module of claim 2.

7. The second slurry that flows through the support holes and is discharged from the support holes further flows into the space formed inside the support and is discharged from the space through the discharge port.

7. The separation module of claim 6.

8. The separation module according to claim 1 or 2 is provided. A separation device characterized by:

9. A separation device according to claim 8; a supply device that supplies the separation target fluid at a higher pressure than the discharge side of the separation target fluid to the separation device. A separation system comprising:

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