Hollow fiber membrane module, degasser, air supply device and adjustment device

Abstract

This prevents damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings of the mesh member, while also preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member. [Solution] The hollow fiber membrane module 100 comprises a hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 are bundled together, a mesh member 111 that extends cylindrically and covers the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, and a housing 104 that contains the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The space within the housing 104 is divided by the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 into an internal space S101 that includes the hollow portions 102a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102, and an external space S102 that does not include the hollow portions 102a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102. The mesh member 111 has a plurality of openings 111a with different opening areas.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hollow fiber membrane module in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are housed in a housing, a degassing device, an air supply device, and an adjusting device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a hollow fiber membrane module in which a hollow fiber membrane bundle, which is a bundle of multiple hollow fiber membranes, is wrapped in a mesh member. This hollow fiber membrane module uses a mesh member with a predetermined axial pitch and opening ratio to equalize and reduce the momentum of the fluid, suppressing the oscillation of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and reducing deformation of the hollow fiber membranes, thereby suppressing damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to rubbing or pressure. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-230470 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a hollow fiber membrane module in which a hollow fiber membrane bundle is wrapped in a mesh member, if the openings in the mesh member are large, the force of the fluid passing from the inside to the outside of the mesh member can cause the hollow fiber membranes to enter the openings in the mesh member, making the hollow fiber membranes more susceptible to damage. On the other hand, if the openings in the mesh member are small, the pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member increases, making the performance of the hollow fiber membrane module more likely to deteriorate. Furthermore, if all the openings in the mesh member have the same opening area, the fluid flow can become monotonous, shortening the contact time between the fluid and the hollow fiber membranes. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose anything about the opening area of ​​the openings in the mesh member, and therefore the hollow fiber membrane module described in Patent Document 1 does not solve these problems.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a hollow fiber membrane module that can suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes entering the openings in the mesh member, while suppressing an increase in pressure loss of a fluid passing through the mesh member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] [1] The hollow fiber membrane module according to the present disclosure comprises a hollow fiber membrane bundle in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are bundled together, a mesh member that extends in a cylindrical shape and covers the hollow fiber membrane bundle, and a housing that accommodates the hollow fiber membrane bundle, wherein the space within the housing is divided by the plurality of hollow fiber membranes into an internal space that includes the hollow portions of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and an external space that does not include the hollow portions of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, and the mesh member has a plurality of openings with different opening areas.

[0007] In this hollow fiber membrane module, the mesh member covering the hollow fiber membrane bundle has multiple openings with different opening areas. That is, the mesh member has openings with relatively small opening areas and openings with relatively large opening areas. As a result, the hollow fiber membranes are less likely to enter the openings of the mesh member at the openings with relatively small opening areas, and an increase in fluid pressure loss is suppressed at the openings with relatively large opening areas. This makes it possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes entering the openings of the mesh member while suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member. Furthermore, by having multiple openings with different opening areas in the mesh member covering the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the flow of the fluid can be made more complex, thereby suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member while also lengthening the contact time between the fluid and the hollow fiber membranes.

[0008] [2] In the hollow fiber membrane module described in [1], when the median opening area of ​​the opening with the largest opening area among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the opening with the smallest opening area among the plurality of openings is defined as the threshold area, and an opening with an area among the plurality of openings larger than the threshold area is defined as a large opening, the ratio of the total opening area of ​​the large openings to the total opening area of ​​the plurality of openings may be 40% or more and 60% or less. In this hollow fiber membrane module, because the ratio of the total opening area of ​​the large openings to the total opening area of ​​the plurality of openings is 40% or more and 60% or less, it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings in the mesh member and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member.

[0009] [3] In the hollow fiber membrane module according to [1] or [2], when the median opening area of ​​the largest opening among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the smallest opening among the plurality of openings is defined as the threshold area, and an opening among the plurality of openings having an area larger than the threshold area is defined as a large opening, the ratio of the total linear length of the large openings to the perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the mesh member may be 40% or more and 60% or less. In this hollow fiber membrane module, because the ratio of the total linear length of the large openings to the perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the mesh member is 40% or more and 60% or less, it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings in the mesh member and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member.

[0010] [4] In the hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [1] to [3], when the median opening area of ​​the largest opening among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the smallest opening among the plurality of openings is defined as the threshold area, and openings among the plurality of openings having an area smaller than the threshold area are defined as small openings, the ratio of the total linear length of the small openings to the perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the mesh member may be 40% or more and 60% or less. In this hollow fiber membrane module, because the ratio of the total linear length of the small openings to the perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the mesh member is 40% or more and 60% or less, it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings in the mesh member and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member.

[0011] [5] In the hollow fiber membrane module described in any one of [1] to [4], the mesh member may have a plurality of first filamentous portions extending in a first direction inclined relative to the extension direction of the mesh member and a plurality of second filamentous portions extending in a second direction inclined opposite to the first direction relative to the extension direction and intersecting with the plurality of first filamentous portions, and each of the plurality of openings may be formed by an adjacent pair of first filamentous portions among the plurality of first filamentous portions and an adjacent pair of second filamentous portions among the plurality of second filamentous portions. In this hollow fiber membrane module, the mesh member has a plurality of first filamentous portions extending in the first direction and a plurality of second filamentous portions extending in the second direction and intersecting with the plurality of first filamentous portions, and each of the plurality of openings may be formed by an adjacent pair of first filamentous portions among the plurality of first filamentous portions and an adjacent pair of second filamentous portions among the plurality of second filamentous portions. Therefore, the opening area of ​​the opening can be easily adjusted by adjusting the spacing between the plurality of first filamentous portions and the plurality of second filamentous portions.

[0012] [6] In the hollow fiber membrane module described in [5], when the opening with the largest opening area among the plurality of openings is defined as the largest opening and the opening with the smallest opening area among the plurality of openings is defined as the smallest opening, the spacing between the pair of first filamentous portions and the pair of second filamentous portions that form the largest opening may be larger than the spacing between the pair of first filamentous portions and the pair of second filamentous portions that form the smallest opening. In this hollow fiber membrane module, the spacing between the pair of first filamentous portions and the pair of second filamentous portions that form the largest opening is larger than the spacing between the pair of first filamentous portions and the pair of second filamentous portions that form the smallest opening, so that the difference in opening area between the largest opening and the smallest opening can be increased.

[0013] [7] The hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [1] to [6], further comprising a first fixing part for fixing a first membrane bundle end, which is one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, to the housing, and a second fixing part for fixing a second membrane bundle end, which is the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, to the housing, wherein the housing may have a first external space port opening to the external space between the first fixing part and the second fixing part, a second external space port communicating with the external space, an internal space port communicating with the internal space, and a baffle arranged between the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the first external space port.

[0014] In this hollow fiber membrane module, first and second membrane bundle ends of the hollow fiber membrane bundle are fixed to a housing by first and second fixing parts, and the housing has a first external space port opening to the external space between the first and second fixing parts, a second external space port communicating with the external space, an internal space port communicating with the internal space, and a baffle disposed between the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the first external space port. Therefore, when a liquid is supplied to the external space from the second external space port, the liquid passes between the hollow fiber membranes, flows around the baffle disposed between the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the first external space port, and is discharged from the first external space port. At this time, the liquid supplied to the external space can be degassed by suctioning the internal space through the internal space port, and a gas can be added to the liquid supplied to the external space by supplying a gas to the internal space through the internal space port.

[0015] [8] In the hollow fiber membrane module described in [7], the first fixing part seals the area other than the hollow part of the hollow fiber membrane bundle in a cross section passing through the end of the first membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the second fixing part seals the area other than the hollow part of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes in a cross section passing through the end of the second membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the second external space port may open to the external space on the opposite side of the second fixing part relative to the first fixing part, and the internal space port may open to the internal space on the opposite side of the first fixing part relative to the second fixing part.

[0016] In this hollow fiber membrane module, in a cross section passing through the end of the first membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the region other than the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle is sealed by the first fixing part, and in a cross section passing through the end of the second membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the region other than the hollow portion of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes is sealed by the second fixing part, so that the space in the housing on the opposite side of the first fixing part from the second fixing part becomes the internal space, and the space on the opposite side of the second fixing part from the first fixing part becomes the external space. Furthermore, because the second external space port opens to the external space on the opposite side of the second fixing part from the first fixing part, the second external space port can be connected to the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle. Furthermore, because the internal space port opens to the internal space on the opposite side of the first fixing part from the second fixing part, the internal space port can be connected to the hollow portion of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes.

[0017] [9] In the hollow fiber membrane module described in [7], the housing may further have a second internal space port that is connected to the internal space. This hollow fiber membrane module has two ports that are connected to the internal space: a port for the internal space and a port for the second internal space. Therefore, for example, when the hollow fiber membrane module is used as an external perfusion module to add gas to a liquid, the gas in the internal space can be replaced by supplying the gas to either the port for the internal space or the port for the second internal space and discharging the gas from the other of the port for the internal space or the port for the second internal space, thereby suppressing changes in gas concentration in the internal space.

[0018]

[10] The hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [7] to [9] may further comprise an inner support disposed in the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle to support the hollow fiber membrane bundle from the inner peripheral side. In this hollow fiber membrane module, the hollow fiber membrane bundle is supported from the inner peripheral side by the inner support. This prevents the hollow fiber membranes from entering the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and narrowing or blocking the hollow portion when the hollow fiber membranes swell. This prevents an increase in pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle.

[0019]

[11] A degassing device according to the present disclosure includes the hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [7] to

[10] , a liquid supply pipe connected to the second external space port, a suction pipe connected to the internal space port, and a suction device that suctions the internal space port through the suction pipe.

[0020] In this degassing device, the liquid supplied from the liquid supply pipe to the second external space port of the hollow fiber membrane module can be degassed by sucking the internal space port of the hollow fiber membrane module through the suction tube with the suction device. Moreover, since the degassing device is provided with the hollow fiber membrane module described above, it is possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings of the mesh member, while also suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member.

[0021]

[12] The air supply device according to the present disclosure includes the hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [7] to

[10] , a liquid supply pipe connected to the second external space port, a gas supply pipe connected to the internal space port, and a gas supply device that supplies gas to the internal space port through the gas supply pipe.

[0022] In this gas supply device, by supplying gas to the internal space port of the hollow fiber membrane module through the gas supply pipe by the gas supply device, it is possible to add gas to the liquid supplied from the liquid supply pipe to the second external space port of the hollow fiber membrane module. Moreover, by providing the hollow fiber membrane module described above, it is possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings of the mesh member, while also suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member.

[0023]

[13] The adjustment device according to the present disclosure includes a hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of [7] to

[10] , a liquid supply pipe connected to the second external space port, a liquid discharge pipe connected to the first external space port, a gas supply pipe connected to the internal space port, a gas supply device that supplies gas to the internal space port through the gas supply pipe, and a bypass pipe that is connected to the branched portion of the liquid supply pipe and the confluence of the liquid discharge pipe so as to bypass the hollow fiber membrane module.

[0024] In this adjustment device, the liquid supplied to the liquid supply pipe is divided at the branching section into the liquid supplied to the hollow fiber membrane module and the liquid bypassing the hollow fiber membrane module, and at the confluence section, the liquid to which gas has been added in the hollow fiber membrane module and the liquid that bypassed the hollow fiber membrane module are combined. Therefore, by adjusting the distribution ratio at the branching section, the amount of liquid supplied, the amount of gas supplied, etc., it is possible to adjust the dissolved gas concentration in the liquid supplied to the liquid supply pipe. Moreover, because the device includes the hollow fiber membrane module described above, it is possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings in the mesh member while also suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes due to the hollow fiber membranes getting into the openings of the mesh member, while suppressing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a hollow fiber membrane module according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of the hollow fiber membrane module shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of the hollow fiber membrane module shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view showing an example of a mesh member. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a degassing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an air supply device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an adjustment device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a modified hollow fiber membrane module. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a modified hollow fiber membrane module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Hereinafter, the hollow fiber membrane module, degassing device, air supply device, and adjusting device of the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0028] [Hollow fiber membrane module] Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a hollow fiber membrane module according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlargement of a portion of the hollow fiber membrane module shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlargement of a portion of the hollow fiber membrane module shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, a hollow fiber membrane module 100 according to this embodiment comprises a hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 are bundled together in a cylindrical shape, a mesh member 111 that covers the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, and a cylindrical housing 104 that houses the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0029] The space within the housing 104 is divided by the hollow fiber membranes 102 into an internal space S101 that includes the hollow portions 102a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 102, and an external space S102 that does not include the hollow portions 102a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 102. The external space S102 includes the hollow portions 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, the spaces between the hollow fiber membranes 102 in the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, and the space between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the housing 104. The hollow portions 103a are hollow portions located in the center of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in the radial direction.

[0030] The hollow fiber membrane 102 is a hollow fiber membrane that allows gas to pass through but not liquid to pass through. The material, shape, and form of the hollow fiber membrane 102 are not particularly limited. Examples of materials for the hollow fiber membrane 102 include polyolefin-based resins such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and polymethylpentene; silicone-based resins such as polydimethylsiloxane and its copolymers; and fluorine-based resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and vinylidene fluoride. Examples of the shape (sidewall shape) of the hollow fiber membrane 102 include a porous membrane, a microporous membrane, and a homogeneous membrane (non-porous membrane) that does not have any porosity. Examples of the form of the hollow fiber membrane 102 include a symmetric membrane (homogeneous membrane) in which the entire membrane has a homogeneous chemical or physical structure, and an asymmetric membrane (heterogeneous membrane) in which the chemical or physical structure of the membrane varies depending on the membrane. An asymmetric membrane (heterogeneous membrane) is a membrane that has a non-porous dense layer and a porous layer. In this case, the dense layer may be formed anywhere in the membrane, such as on the surface or inside the porous membrane. Heterogeneous membranes also include composite membranes with different chemical structures and multilayer membranes such as three-layer structures. Heterogeneous membranes using poly(4-methylpentene-1) resin have a dense layer that blocks liquids, making them particularly suitable for degassing liquids other than water, such as ink. Furthermore, when used in an external perfusion system, it is preferable that the dense layer be formed on the outer surface of the hollow fiber.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, the housing 104 includes a cylindrical portion 105, a first lid portion 106, and a second lid portion 107.

[0032] The tubular portion 105 is a portion in which the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is housed. The tubular portion 105 is formed in a cylindrical shape with both ends open. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is housed in the tubular portion 105 so that the extending direction of the tubular portion 105 and the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 are substantially the same. A first membrane bundle end 103b, which is one end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, is fixed to a first opening end 105a, which is one end of the tubular portion 105, by a first fixing portion 108. Furthermore, a second membrane bundle end 103c, which is the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, is fixed to a second opening end 105b, which is the other end of the tubular portion 105, by a second fixing portion 109.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the first fixing portion 108 is made of resin. Examples of resins that can be used for the first fixing portion 108 include epoxy resin, urethane resin, ultraviolet-curable resin, and polyolefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The first fixing portion 108 seals the area other than the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in a cross section passing through the first membrane bundle end portion 103b and perpendicular to the extension direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. That is, the first fixing portion 108 fills the hollow portions 102a of the hollow fiber membranes 102, the spaces between the hollow fiber membranes 102 in the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, and the space between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the tubular portion 105. The first fixing portion 108 is formed with a communication port 108a that opens the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 to the outside of the tubular portion 105. The first fixing part 108 may be provided in a part of the hollow part 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, as long as the hollow part 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is open.

[0034] 1 and 4, the second fixing portion 109 is formed of the same resin as the first fixing portion 108. In a cross section passing through the second membrane bundle end portion 103c and perpendicular to the extension direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, the second fixing portion 109 seals the area inside the tubular portion 105 other than the hollow portions 102a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 102. In other words, the second fixing portion 109 does not fill the hollow portions 102a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 102, but fills between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the tubular portion 105, between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the tubular portion 105, and in the hollow portions 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, the cylindrical portion 105 is formed with a first external space port 105c and a baffle 105d.

[0036] The first external space port 105c is in communication with the external space S102. The first external space port 105c communicates between the external space S102 and the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The first external space port 105c is formed in the side wall of the tubular portion 105 between the first fixing portion 108 and the second fixing portion 109, and opens to the external space S102 between the first fixing portion 108 and the second fixing portion 109.

[0037] The baffle 105d is a generally plate-shaped portion disposed between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the first external space port 105c. When a liquid is supplied to the external space S102, the baffle 105d prevents the liquid supplied to the external space S102 from flowing directly into the first external space port 105c. For this reason, the baffle 105d is also called a baffle plate. The baffle 105d is formed at a position overlapping with the first external space port 105c when viewed from the direction along the central axis B of the first external space port 105c (the extension direction of the first external space port 105c) so as to cover the first external space port 105c. For this reason, the baffle 105d divides the external space S102 between the first fixed portion 108 and the second fixed portion 109 into an inner space S105 on the opposite side of the baffle 105d from the first external space port 105c, and an outer space S106 on the first external space port 105c side of the baffle 105d. Note that a communication space S107 is formed in the external space S102, connecting the inner space S105 and the outer space S106, which are separated by the baffle 105d. For this reason, when liquid is supplied to the external space S102, the liquid flows around the baffle 105d and into the first external space port 105c.

[0038] The first lid portion 106 is airtightly joined to the first open end 105a of the tubular portion 105. The first lid portion 106 can be joined to the tubular portion 105 by, for example, screwing, fitting, welding, etc. The first lid portion 106 is formed in a shape that decreases in diameter as it moves away from the tubular portion 105. A first end space S103 is formed inside the first lid portion 106. The first end space S103 is part of the external space S102 and is connected to the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. A second external space port 106a is formed at the tip of the first lid portion 106.

[0039] The second external space port 106a is in communication with the external space S102. The second external space port 106a communicates between the external space S102 and the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The second external space port 106a is formed in the first lid portion 106 and opens to the first end space S103. That is, the second external space port 106a opens to the external space S102 on the opposite side of the second fixing portion 109 with respect to the first fixing portion 108. Therefore, the second external space port 106a is in communication with the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, and it is possible to supply a liquid to the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0040] The second lid portion 107 is airtightly joined to the second opening end 105b of the tubular portion 105. The second lid portion 107 can be joined to the tubular portion 105 by, for example, screwing, fitting, welding, or the like. The second lid portion 107 is formed in a shape that decreases in diameter as it moves away from the tubular portion 105. A second end space S104 is formed inside the second lid portion 107. The second end space S104 is part of the internal space S101 and is connected to each of the hollow portions 102a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 102. An internal space port 107a is formed at the tip of the second lid portion 107.

[0041] The internal space port 107a is in communication with the internal space S101. The internal space port 107a connects the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 with the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The internal space port 107a is formed in the second cover portion 107 and opens into the second end space S104. That is, the internal space port 107a opens into the internal space S101 on the opposite side of the second fixing portion 109 from the first fixing portion 108.

[0042] The mesh member 111 is a mesh member having a plurality of openings 111a. The mesh member 111 extends in a cylindrical shape and covers the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. Therefore, the extending direction of the mesh member 111 is the same as the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the mesh member 111 is referred to as the extending direction D1. The extending direction D1 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the mesh member 111 is also the direction along the central axis A of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 (the direction in which the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 extends cylindrically). By covering the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, the mesh member 111 is formed in a cylindrical shape corresponding to the outer shape of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. In this embodiment, since the hollow fiber membrane bundle is formed in a cylindrical shape, the mesh member 111 is also formed in a cylindrical shape. The circumferential direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the mesh member 111 is referred to as the circumferential direction D2. The circumferential direction D2 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the mesh member 111 is a direction around the central axis A of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0043] The mesh member 111 covers the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 so as to be in contact with the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The mesh member 111 may cover the entire area of ​​the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in the extending direction D1, or may cover only a portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in the extending direction D1. Both ends of the mesh member 111 may be fixed to the first fixing part 108 and the second fixing part 109, or may not be fixed to the first fixing part 108 and the second fixing part 109.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a partially enlarged view showing an example of a mesh member. As shown in FIG. 5, the mesh member 111 is composed of a plurality of first thread-like portions 112 extending in a first direction D3 inclined with respect to the extension direction D1, and a plurality of second thread-like portions 113 extending in a second direction D4 inclined in the opposite direction to the first direction D3 with respect to the extension direction D1 and intersecting with the plurality of first thread-like portions 112. That is, the mesh member 111 is formed in a mesh-like shape by the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the plurality of second thread-like portions 113. Each of the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 is a thread-like member, and each of the plurality of second thread-like portions 113 is a thread-like (elongated linear) member. For example, various types of threads can be used for each of the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and each of the plurality of second thread-like portions 113.

[0045] The multiple first thread-like portions 112 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D3. The multiple second thread-like portions 113 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the second direction D4. The inclination angle of the first direction D3 with respect to the extension direction D1 and the inclination angle of the second direction D4 with respect to the extension direction D1 are not particularly limited and can be, for example, between 0° and 90°. Note that FIG. 5 illustrates eight first thread-like portions 112 and nine second thread-like portions 113.

[0046] The plurality of meshes formed by the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the plurality of second thread-like portions 113 constitute the plurality of openings 111a of the mesh member 111. That is, each of the plurality of openings 111a is formed by an adjacent pair of first thread-like portions 112 among the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and an adjacent pair of second thread-like portions 113 among the plurality of second thread-like portions 113.

[0047] The plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the plurality of second thread-like portions 113 are arranged to intersect with each other, for example, by knitting, weaving, overlapping, etc. At the positions where the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the plurality of second thread-like portions 113 intersect, the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the plurality of second thread-like portions 113 may or may not be joined.

[0048] When a fluid such as a liquid or gas flows from the inside to the outside of the mesh member 111, the hollow fiber membranes 102 tend to deform locally to enter the openings 111a. If all of the openings 111a have the same large opening area, localized deformation of the hollow fiber membranes 102 occurs throughout the entire hollow fiber membrane 102, making the hollow fiber membranes 102 more susceptible to damage. On the other hand, if all of the openings 111a have the same small opening area, the hollow fiber membranes 102 are less likely to enter the openings 111a, thereby suppressing the localized deformation of the hollow fiber membranes 102 as described above. However, this increases the pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member 111, making the performance of the hollow fiber membrane module 100 more likely to deteriorate. Furthermore, if all of the openings 111a have the same opening area, the fluid flow may become monotonous, shortening the contact time between the fluid and the hollow fiber membranes 102.

[0049] Therefore, in this embodiment, at least some of the openings 111a have opening areas that are different from one another. That is, the mesh member 111 has a plurality of openings 111a that have opening areas that are different from one another.

[0050] Here, the opening 111a with the largest opening area among the plurality of openings 111a is referred to as the maximum opening 111b, and the opening 111a with the smallest opening area among the plurality of openings 111a is referred to as the minimum opening 111c. Furthermore, the median between the opening areas of the maximum opening 111b and the minimum opening 111c is referred to as the threshold area T, and the opening 111a among the plurality of openings 111a having an area larger than the threshold area T is referred to as the large opening 111d, and the opening 111a among the plurality of openings 111a having an area smaller than the threshold area T is referred to as the small opening 111e. Note that the median between the opening areas of the maximum opening 111b and the minimum opening 111c, which is the threshold area T, is also the average value of the opening areas of the maximum opening 111b and the minimum opening 111c.

[0051] In this case, the ratio (percentage) of the total opening area of ​​the large openings 111d to the total opening area of ​​the multiple openings 111a is, for example, 40% to 60%, preferably 43% to 57%, and more preferably 45% to 55%. Furthermore, the ratio (percentage) of the total opening area of ​​the small openings 111e to the total opening area of ​​the multiple openings 111a is, for example, 40% to 60%, preferably 43% to 57%, and more preferably 45% to 55%. The total opening area of ​​the multiple openings 111a is the sum of the opening areas of all the openings 111a. The total opening area of ​​the large openings 111d is the sum of the opening areas of all the large openings 111d.

[0052] In a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the mesh member 111 (cross section shown in FIG. 2 ), the ratio of the total line length of the large openings 111d to the circumferential length of the mesh member 111 is, for example, 40% to 60%, preferably 43% to 57%, and more preferably 45% to 55%. Furthermore, in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the mesh member 111, the ratio of the total line length of the small openings 111e to the circumferential length of the mesh member 111 is, for example, 40% to 60%, preferably 43% to 57%, and more preferably 45% to 55%. The circumferential length of the mesh member 111 is the length of the mesh member 111 in the circumferential direction D2 of the mesh member 111 or the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The total line length of the large openings 111d is the sum of the lengths in the circumferential direction D2 of all the large openings 111d located in the cross section. The total line length of the small openings 111e is the sum of the lengths in the circumferential direction D2 of all the small openings 111e located in the cross section.

[0053] Furthermore, for example, the spacing A1 between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 and the spacing A2 between the pair of second thread-like portions 113 that form the largest opening 111b are larger than the spacing B1 between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 and the spacing B2 between the pair of second thread-like portions 113 that form the smallest opening 111c. Note that either the spacing A1 between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 that form the largest opening 111b or the spacing A2 between the pair of second thread-like portions 113 that form the smallest opening 111c may be smaller than either the spacing B1 between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 that form the smallest opening 111c or the spacing B2 between the pair of second thread-like portions 113.

[0054] The hollow fiber membrane module 100 configured in this manner can be applied to a degassing device that degasses a liquid, an aeration device that adds gas to a liquid, an adjusting device that adjusts the concentration of gas dissolved in a liquid, etc. Adding a gas to a liquid means dissolving the gas in the liquid.

[0055] The liquid to be degassed in the degassing apparatus is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include ultrapure water, pure water, seawater, wastewater, food, beverages, tap water, industrial water, ink, constant temperature water, etc. The gas degassed from the liquid in the degassing apparatus is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxygen, carbon dioxide gas, ammonia gas, nitrogen, etc.

[0056] Examples of such degassing devices include a degassing device that removes (separates) oxygen from ultrapure water or pure water for use in semiconductor cleaning water, a degassing device that removes (separates) carbon dioxide from ultrapure water or pure water for use in semiconductor cleaning water, a degassing device that removes (separates) carbon dioxide from seawater for use in decarbonating seawater, a degassing device that removes (separates) ammonia gas from wastewater for use in wastewater treatment, a degassing device that removes (separates) oxygen, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen from food or beverages for use in preventing the oxidation of food or beverages, a degassing device that removes (separates) oxygen from boiler make-up water for use in boiler make-up water, a degassing device that removes (separates) oxygen from ink for use in inkjet printers, and a degassing device that removes (separates) oxygen from constant temperature water for use in biochemical analysis.

[0057] The liquid to be supplied with gas in the gas supply device is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include ultrapure water, pure water, ammonia water, etc. The gas to be added to the liquid in the gas supply device is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen, etc.

[0058] Examples of such aeration devices include an aeration device that adds carbon dioxide to ultrapure water or pure water for use in preventing static electricity in ultrapure water or pure water, an aeration device that adds oxygen, carbon dioxide or nitrogen to ultrapure water for use in semiconductor cleaning water, an aeration device that adds hydrogen or nitrogen to ammonia water for use in semiconductor cleaning water, and an aeration device that adds oxygen, carbon dioxide or nitrogen to food or beverages for use in food or beverages.

[0059] The liquid to which the gas to be regulated in the regulating device is added is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include ultrapure water, etc. The gas to be regulated in the regulating device is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.

[0060] Such an adjusting device may be, for example, an adjusting device for adjusting the dissolved concentration of oxygen, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen in ultrapure water for use as washing water for semiconductors. The adjusting device for adjusting the dissolved concentration of oxygen, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen in ultrapure water is also used, for example, as a device for adjusting the resistivity of ultrapure water.

[0061] As described above, in the hollow fiber membrane module 100 according to this embodiment, the mesh member 111 covering the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 has a plurality of openings 111a with different opening areas. That is, the mesh member 111 has openings 111a with relatively small opening areas and openings 111a with relatively large opening areas. Therefore, the hollow fiber membranes 102 are less likely to enter the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 in the openings 111a with relatively small opening areas, and the openings 111a with relatively large opening areas suppress an increase in pressure loss of a fluid, such as a liquid, supplied to the external space S102. This suppresses damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 due to the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111, while suppressing an increase in pressure loss of a fluid passing through the mesh member 111. Furthermore, the mesh member 111 covering the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 has multiple openings 111a with different opening areas, which can complicate the flow of fluid. This can prevent an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member 111 while also lengthening the contact time between the fluid and the hollow fiber membranes 102.

[0062] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, the ratio of the total opening area of ​​the large openings 111d to the total opening area of ​​the multiple openings 111a is 40% or more and 60% or less, preferably 43% or more and 57% or less, and more preferably 45% or more and 55% or less, so that it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 due to the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member 111.

[0063] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, the ratio of the total linear length of the large openings 111d to the circumferential length of the mesh member 111 in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction D1 of the mesh member 111 is 40% or more and 60% or less, preferably 43% or more and 57% or less, and more preferably 45% or more and 55% or less. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 due to the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member 111.

[0064] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, the ratio of the total linear length of the small openings 111e to the circumferential length of the mesh member 111 in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction D1 of the mesh member 111 is 40% or more and 60% or less, preferably 43% or more and 57% or less, and more preferably 45% or more and 55% or less. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a good balance between preventing damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 due to the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 and preventing an increase in pressure loss of the fluid passing through the mesh member 111.

[0065] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, the mesh member 111 has a plurality of first thread-like portions 112 extending in the first direction D3 and a plurality of second thread-like portions 113 extending in the second direction D4 and intersecting the plurality of first thread-like portions 112, and each of the plurality of openings 111a is formed by an adjacent pair of first thread-like portions 112 among the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and an adjacent pair of second thread-like portions 113 among the plurality of second thread-like portions 113. Therefore, by adjusting the spacing between the plurality of first thread-like portions 112 and the spacing between the plurality of second thread-like portions 113, the opening area of ​​the opening 111a can be easily adjusted.

[0066] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, the spacing between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 and the spacing between the pair of second thread-like portions 113 that form the largest opening 111b is larger than the spacing between the pair of first thread-like portions 112 and the spacing between the pair of second thread-like portions 113 that form the smallest opening 111c, so the difference in opening area between the largest opening 111b and the smallest opening 111c can be made larger.

[0067] In addition, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, a first membrane bundle end 103b and a second membrane bundle end 103c of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 are fixed to a housing 104 by a first fixing part 108 and a second fixing part 109, and the housing 104 has a first external space port 105c that opens into the external space S102 between the first fixing part 108 and the second fixing part 109, a second external space port 106a that communicates with the external space S102, an internal space port 107a that communicates with the internal space S101, and a baffle 105d that is arranged between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the first external space port 105c. For this reason, when a liquid is supplied from the second external space port 106a to the external space S102, the liquid passes between the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102, goes around the baffle 105d arranged between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the first external space port 105c, and is discharged from the first external space port 105c. At this time, the liquid supplied to the external space S102 can be degassed by suctioning the internal space S101 from the internal space port 107a, and a gas can be added to the liquid supplied to the external space S102 by supplying a gas to the internal space S101 from the internal space port 107a.

[0068] Furthermore, in this hollow fiber membrane module 100, in a cross section passing through the first membrane bundle end 103b and perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, the area other than the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is sealed by the first fixing portion 108, and in a cross section passing through the second membrane bundle end 103c and perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, the area other than the hollow portion 102a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 is sealed by the second fixing portion 109. Therefore, the space within the housing 104 on the opposite side of the first fixing portion 108 from the second fixing portion 109 becomes the internal space S101 (second end space S104), and the space on the opposite side of the second fixing portion 109 from the first fixing portion 108 becomes the external space S102 (first end space S103). Since the second external space port 106a is open to the external space S102 (first end space S103) on the opposite side of the second fixing part 109 relative to the first fixing part 108, the second external space port 106a can be connected to the hollow part 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. Furthermore, since the internal space port 107a is open to the internal space S101 (second end space S104) on the opposite side of the first fixing part 108 relative to the second fixing part 109, the internal space port 107a can be connected to the hollow parts 102a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102.

[0069] [Degassing device] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of a degassing apparatus according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 6, a degassing apparatus 200 according to this embodiment includes the hollow fiber membrane module 100 described above, a liquid supply pipe 201, a liquid discharge pipe 202, a suction pipe 203, and a suction apparatus 204. The degassing apparatus 200 is an apparatus that degasses a liquid L using the hollow fiber membrane module 100 as an external perfusion type hollow fiber membrane module.

[0070] The liquid supply pipe 201 is a pipe for supplying the liquid L to the external space S102 through the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 201 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 201 may be equipped with a liquid delivery device (not shown), such as a pump, that delivers the liquid L in the liquid supply pipe 201 to the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The liquid supply pipe 201 may also be equipped with a liquid supply device (not shown) that supplies the liquid L to the liquid supply pipe 201, for example.

[0071] The liquid discharge pipe 202 is a pipe for discharging the liquid L from the external space S102 through the first external space port 105c. The liquid discharge pipe 202 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the first external space port 105c. The liquid discharge pipe 202 may be equipped with a liquid delivery device (not shown), such as a pump, that delivers the liquid L in the liquid discharge pipe 202 to the side opposite the hollow fiber membrane module 100.

[0072] The suction tube 203 is a tube for suctioning the gas G from the internal space S101 through the internal space port 107a. The suction tube 203 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the internal space port 107a.

[0073] The suction device 204 is a device for sucking the gas G from the internal space S101 through the suction pipe 203. The suction device 204 is connected to the suction pipe 203 and sucks the internal space port 107a through the suction pipe 203. As the suction device 204, for example, a vacuum pump, an air pump, an aspirator, or the like can be used.

[0074] Next, the operation of the degassing device 200 will be described.

[0075] In the degassing device 200, the suction device 204 is operated to suction the internal space S101 through the internal space port 107a. Furthermore, the liquid L is supplied from the second external space port 106a to the external space S102 through the liquid supply pipe 201. The liquid L supplied to the external space S102 then flows around the hollow fiber membranes 102 and comes into contact with the hollow fiber membranes 102. At this time, the internal space S101 is suctioned, and the hollow portions 102a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 102 are decompressed. Therefore, as the liquid L passes around the hollow fiber membranes 102, gas G, such as dissolved gas and bubbles, in the liquid L permeates each of the hollow fiber membranes 102 and moves into the internal space S101. This causes the liquid L to be degassed. The degassed liquid L passes through the multiple openings 111a of the mesh member 111, passes around the baffle 105d through the inner space S105, the communicating space S107, and the outer space S106, and is discharged from the first outer space port 105c to the liquid discharge pipe 202. The gas G that has permeated each of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 102 and moved to the inner space S101 is discharged from the inner space port 107a to the suction pipe 203.

[0076] As described above, in the degassing device 200 according to this embodiment, the liquid L supplied from the liquid supply pipe 201 to the second external space port 106a can be degassed by using the suction device 204 to suction the internal space port 107a through the suction pipe 203. Moreover, since the degassing device 200 includes the hollow fiber membrane module 100 described above, damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 caused by the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 can be suppressed, while an increase in pressure loss of the liquid L passing through the mesh member 111 can be suppressed.

[0077] [Air supply device] 7 is a schematic diagram of an air supply device according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, an air supply device 300 according to this embodiment includes the hollow fiber membrane module 100 described above, a liquid supply pipe 301, a liquid discharge pipe 302, a gas supply pipe 303, and a gas supply device 304. The air supply device 300 is an apparatus that adds gas G to liquid L using the hollow fiber membrane module 100 as an external perfusion type hollow fiber membrane module.

[0078] The liquid supply pipe 301 is a pipe for supplying the liquid L to the external space S102 through the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 301 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 301 may be equipped with a liquid delivery device (not shown), such as a pump, that delivers the liquid L in the liquid supply pipe 301 to the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The liquid supply pipe 301 may also be equipped with a liquid supply device (not shown) that supplies the liquid L to the liquid supply pipe 301, for example.

[0079] The liquid discharge pipe 302 is a pipe for discharging the liquid L from the external space S102 through the first external space port 105c. The liquid discharge pipe 302 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the first external space port 105c. A liquid delivery device (not shown), such as a pump, may be attached to the liquid discharge pipe 302 to deliver the liquid L in the liquid discharge pipe 302 to the side opposite the hollow fiber membrane module 100.

[0080] The gas supply pipe 303 is a pipe for supplying the gas G to the internal space S101 through the internal space port 107a. The gas supply pipe 303 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the internal space port 107a. The gas supply pipe 303 may be fitted with a pressure adjustment device (not shown) or a flow rate adjustment device (not shown), such as a diaphragm valve or a regulator, for adjusting the pressure or flow rate of the gas G flowing through the gas supply pipe 303.

[0081] The gas supply device 304 is a device for supplying gas G to the internal space S101 through the gas supply pipe 303. The gas supply device 304 is connected to the gas supply pipe 303 and supplies gas G to the internal space port 107a through the gas supply pipe 303. The gas supply device 304 can be configured, for example, with a gas cylinder filled with gas G and a gas delivery device that delivers gas G from the gas cylinder. The gas delivery device can be, for example, a pump that delivers gas G by mechanical force or a pressure delivery device that delivers gas G by air pressure. When the gas G is a gas that is a mixture of multiple gases, such as a mixed gas, multiple gas supply devices 304 may be provided, and the multiple gases delivered from the multiple gas supply devices 304 may be mixed and the mixed gas may be supplied as gas G to the internal space S101 through the gas supply pipe 303.

[0082] Next, the operation of the air supply device 300 will be described.

[0083] In the gas supply device 300, the gas supply device 304 is operated to supply gas G from the internal space port 107a to the internal space S101. Furthermore, liquid L is supplied from the second external space port 106a to the external space S102 through the liquid supply pipe 301. The liquid L supplied to the external space S102 flows around the hollow fiber membranes 102 and comes into contact with the hollow fiber membranes 102. At this time, the supply of gas G to the internal space S101 causes the hollow portions 102a of the hollow fiber membranes 102 to be pressurized by the gas G supplied to the internal space S101. Therefore, the gas G supplied to the internal space S101 passes through each of the hollow fiber membranes 102 and moves to the external space S102. As a result, the gas G is added to the liquid L passing around the hollow fiber membranes 102. The liquid L to which the gas G has been added passes through the multiple openings 111a of the mesh member 111, passes around the baffle 105d through the inner space S105, the communicating space S107, and the outer space S106, and is discharged from the first external space port 105c to the liquid discharge pipe 302.

[0084] In this way, in the gas supply device 300 according to this embodiment, the gas G is supplied to the internal space port 107a through the gas supply pipe 303 by the gas supply device 304, whereby the gas G can be added to the liquid L supplied to the second external space port 106a from the liquid supply pipe 301. Moreover, since the above-described hollow fiber membrane module 100 is provided, damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 caused by the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111 can be suppressed, while an increase in pressure loss of the liquid L passing through the mesh member 111 can be suppressed.

[0085] [Adjustment device] 8 is a schematic diagram of an adjusting device according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8, an adjusting device 400 according to this embodiment includes the hollow fiber membrane module 100 described above, a liquid supply pipe 401, a liquid discharge pipe 402, a gas supply pipe 403, a gas supply device 404, and a bypass pipe 405. The adjusting device 400 is a device that adjusts the dissolved concentration of gas G in liquid L by using the hollow fiber membrane module 100 as an external perfusion type hollow fiber membrane module.

[0086] The liquid supply pipe 401 is a pipe for supplying the liquid L to the external space S102 through the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 401 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the second external space port 106a. The liquid supply pipe 401 may be equipped with a liquid delivery device (not shown) such as a pump that delivers the liquid L in the liquid supply pipe 401 to the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The liquid supply pipe 401 may also be equipped with a liquid supply device (not shown) that supplies the liquid L to the liquid supply pipe 401, for example.

[0087] The liquid discharge pipe 402 is a pipe for discharging the liquid L from the external space S102 through the first external space port 105c. The liquid discharge pipe 402 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the first external space port 105c. A liquid delivery device (not shown), such as a pump, may be attached to the liquid discharge pipe 402 to deliver the liquid L in the liquid discharge pipe 402 to the side opposite the hollow fiber membrane module 100.

[0088] The gas supply pipe 403 is a pipe for supplying the gas G to the internal space S101 through the internal space port 107a. The gas supply pipe 403 is connected to the housing 104 and communicates with the internal space port 107a. A gas supply amount adjustment device 406, such as a diaphragm valve or a regulator, is attached to the gas supply pipe 403 to adjust the pressure or flow rate of the gas G flowing through the gas supply pipe 403.

[0089] The gas supply device 404 is a device for supplying gas G to the internal space S101 through the gas supply pipe 403. The gas supply device 404 is connected to the gas supply pipe 403 and supplies gas G to the internal space port 107a through the gas supply pipe 403. The gas supply device 404 can be configured, for example, with a gas cylinder filled with gas G and a gas delivery device that delivers gas G from the gas cylinder. The gas delivery device can be, for example, a pump that delivers gas G by mechanical force or a pressure delivery device that delivers gas G by air pressure. When the gas G is a gas that is a mixture of multiple gases, such as a mixed gas, multiple gas supply devices 404 may be provided, and the multiple gases delivered from the multiple gas supply devices 404 may be mixed and the mixed gas may be supplied as gas G to the internal space S101 through the gas supply pipe 403.

[0090] The bypass pipe 405 is a pipe for allowing the liquid to bypass the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The bypass pipe 405 is connected to a branching point 407 of the liquid supply pipe 401 and a junction 408 of the liquid discharge pipe 402 so as to bypass the hollow fiber membrane module 100. The branching point 407 is provided at an arbitrary position on the liquid supply pipe 401. The junction 408 is provided at an arbitrary position on the liquid discharge pipe 402.

[0091] The branching section 407 branches (distributes) the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply pipe 401 into a route that passes through the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and flows to the liquid discharge pipe 402, and a route that bypasses the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and flows to the liquid discharge pipe 402.

[0092] The confluence section 408 merges the liquid L that has flowed via the hollow fiber membrane module 100 with the liquid L that has flowed while bypassing the hollow fiber membrane module 100. That is, the confluence section 408 merges the liquid L that has bypassed the hollow fiber membrane module 100 with the liquid L that has been discharged from the hollow fiber membrane module 100 to the liquid discharge pipe 402.

[0093] At branching point 407, bypass pipe 405 may be directly connected to liquid supply pipe 401, or may be indirectly connected to liquid supply pipe 401 via another member such as a branching device. Moreover, at junction 408, bypass pipe 405 may be directly connected to liquid discharge pipe 402, or may be indirectly connected to liquid discharge pipe 402 via another member such as a junction device.

[0094] The distribution ratio of the liquid L at the branching portion 407 can be adjusted by various known methods. For example, the distribution ratio of the liquid L at the branching portion 407 may be adjusted by adjusting the pressure loss of the liquid L from the branching portion 407 through the hollow fiber membrane module 100 to the junction 408 and the pressure loss of the liquid L from the branching portion 407 through the bypass pipe 405 to the junction 408. Alternatively, a flow control valve 409 may be attached to at least one of the liquid supply pipe 401, the liquid discharge pipe 402, and the bypass pipe 405, and the distribution ratio of the liquid L at the branching portion 407 may be adjusted by adjusting the aperture of this flow control valve 409. In this embodiment, the flow control valve 409 is attached to the liquid discharge pipe 402 between the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and the junction 408.

[0095] Next, the operation of adjustment device 400 will be described.

[0096] In the adjusting device 400, the gas supply device 404 is operated to supply gas G from the internal space port 107a to the internal space S101. Then, liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply pipe 401. The liquid L supplied to the liquid supply pipe 401 is divided at the branching point 407 into liquid L supplied to the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and liquid L bypassing the hollow fiber membrane module 100.

[0097] The liquid L supplied to the hollow fiber membrane module 100 is supplied to the external space S102 from the second external space port 106a. The liquid L supplied to the external space S102 flows around the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102. At this time, gas G is supplied to the internal space S101, and the hollow portions 102a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 are pressurized by the gas G supplied to the internal space S101. Therefore, the gas G supplied to the internal space S101 permeates each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 and moves to the external space S102. As a result, the gas G is added to the liquid L passing around the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102.

[0098] From the viewpoint of adjusting the dissolution concentration of gas G in liquid L with high precision, it is preferable to adjust the supply amounts of liquid L and gas G in the hollow fiber membrane module 100 so that gas G is added (dissolved) in liquid L in a saturated state. The supply amount of liquid L can be adjusted, for example, by adjusting the flow rate adjustment valve 409. The supply amount of gas G can be adjusted, for example, by adjusting the gas supply amount adjustment device 406.

[0099] The liquid L to which the gas G has been added passes through the multiple openings 111a of the mesh member 111, passes around the baffle 105d through the inner space S105, the communication space S107, and the outer space S106, and is discharged from the first external space port 105c to the liquid discharge pipe 402. Then, at the junction 408, the liquid L that has bypassed the hollow fiber membrane module 100 joins with the liquid L discharged from the first external space port 105c to the liquid discharge pipe 402. This results in the liquid L having an adjusted dissolved concentration of the gas G. The dissolved concentration of the gas G can be adjusted by adjusting the distribution ratio at the branching section 407, the supply amount of the liquid L, the supply amount of the gas G, etc.

[0100] As described above, in the adjusting device 400 according to this embodiment, the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply pipe 401 is divided at the branching point 407 into the liquid L supplied to the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and the liquid L bypassing the hollow fiber membrane module 100, and at the confluence point 408, the liquid L to which the gas G has been added at the hollow fiber membrane module 100 and the liquid L that bypassed the hollow fiber membrane module 100 are merged. Therefore, by adjusting the distribution ratio at the branching point 407, the supply amount of the liquid L, the supply amount of the gas G, and the like, it is possible to adjust the dissolved concentration of the gas G in the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply pipe 401. Moreover, since the adjusting device 400 includes the hollow fiber membrane module 100 described above, it is possible to suppress damage to the hollow fiber membranes 102 due to the hollow fiber membranes 102 entering the openings 111a of the mesh member 111, while suppressing an increase in the pressure loss of the liquid L passing through the mesh member 111.

[0101] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0102] For example, in the above embodiment, the configuration of the hollow fiber membrane module was specifically described, but the configuration of the hollow fiber membrane module can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the hollow fiber membrane bundle was described as a bundle of multiple hollow fiber membranes in a cylindrical shape, but the hollow fiber membrane bundle may simply be a bundle of multiple hollow fiber membranes.

[0103] Furthermore, like a modified hollow fiber membrane module 100A shown in Figure 9, the hollow fiber membrane module may include an inner support that is placed in the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and supports the hollow fiber membrane bundle from the inner peripheral side.

[0104] Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a modified hollow fiber membrane module. The modified hollow fiber membrane module 100A shown in Fig. 9 is basically the same as the hollow fiber membrane module 100 of the above embodiment, but differs from the hollow fiber membrane module 100 of the above embodiment in that it further includes an inner support 121.

[0105] The inner support 121 is a member disposed in the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and supports the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 from the inner peripheral side. The inner support 121 is formed in a cylindrical (pipe-like) shape. One end of the inner support 121 is fixed to the tubular portion 105 by a first fixing portion 108, and the other end of the inner support 121 is fixed to the tubular portion 105 by a second fixing portion 109. The outer diameter of the inner support 121 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The thickness of the inner support 121 can be appropriately set, for example, within a range that allows it to support a plurality of swollen hollow fiber membranes 102. The inner support 121 also has a plurality of openings formed therein. The inner support 121 is formed, for example, in a mesh shape. Therefore, when liquid is supplied from the second external space port 106a to the external space S102, the liquid passes through the hollow portion 121a of the inner support 121 and the openings of the inner support 121, and comes into contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102. Then, the liquid that has been degassed or has gas added through contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 passes through the plurality of openings 111a of the reticulate member 111, and is supplied to the region between the reticulate member 111 and the tubular portion 105. Then, this liquid passes through the region between the reticulate member 111 and the tubular portion 105, passes around the baffle 105d, passes through the inner space S105, the communicating space S107, and the outer space S106, and is discharged to the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100A from the first external space port 105c.

[0106] In this way, in the hollow fiber membrane module 100A of the modified example, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is supported from the inner peripheral side by the inner support 121. Therefore, when the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 swell, it is possible to prevent the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 from entering the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and narrowing or blocking the hollow portion 103a. This makes it possible to prevent an increase in pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0107] Furthermore, like a hollow fiber membrane module 100B of a modified example shown in FIG. 10, the hollow fiber membrane module may have two ports that communicate with the internal space.

[0108] Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a modified hollow fiber membrane module. The modified hollow fiber membrane module 100B shown in Fig. 10 is basically the same as the modified hollow fiber membrane module 100A shown in Fig. 9, but differs from the modified hollow fiber membrane module 100A shown in Fig. 9 in that it has two ports, a first inner space port and a second inner space port, as ports communicating with the inner spaces.

[0109] The hollow fiber membrane module 100B includes a hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 are bundled in a cylindrical shape, and a cylindrical housing 104B that houses the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. The housing 104B includes a tubular portion 105, a first lid portion 106B, and a second lid portion 107B. A first membrane bundle end portion 103b of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is fixed to a first open end portion 105a of the tubular portion 105 by a first fixing portion 108B. Furthermore, a second membrane bundle end portion 103c of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 is fixed to a second open end portion 105b of the tubular portion 105 by a second fixing portion 109B.

[0110] The first fixing portion 108B seals the area inside the tubular portion 105 other than the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 and the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in a cross section passing through the first membrane bundle end portion 103b and perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. In other words, the first fixing portion 108B fills the spaces between the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 in the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the space between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the tubular portion 105. The first fixing portion 108B has a communication port 108Ba formed therein that opens to the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0111] The second fixing portion 109B seals the area inside the tubular portion 105 other than the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 and the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 in a cross section passing through the second membrane bundle end portion 103c and perpendicular to the extending direction D1 of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. In other words, the second fixing portion 109B fills the spaces between the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 in the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the space between the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 and the tubular portion 105. The second fixing portion 109B has a communication port 109Ba formed therein that opens to the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0112] The first lid portion 106B is airtightly joined to the first open end 105a of the tubular portion 105. A first end space S103B is formed inside the first lid portion 106B. The first end space S103B is part of the external space S102 and is in communication with the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103. A second external space port 106Ba and a first internal space port 106Bb are formed in the first lid portion 106B.

[0113] The second external space port 106Ba is in communication with the external space S102. The second external space port 106Ba also communicates between the external space S102 and the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100B. The second external space port 106Ba extends in a pipe shape toward the inside of the housing 104B, is inserted into the communication port 108Ba of the first fixing part 108B, and is connected to the end of the inner support 121. This allows the second external space port 106Ba to communicate with the hollow part 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103, making it possible to supply liquid to the hollow part 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103.

[0114] The first internal space port 106Bb is in communication with the internal space S101. The first internal space port 106Bb also connects the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 with the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100B. The first internal space port 106Bb is formed in the first cover portion 106B and opens into the first end space S103B. That is, the first internal space port 106Bb opens into the internal space S101 on the opposite side of the first fixing portion 108B from the second fixing portion 109B.

[0115] The second lid portion 107B is airtightly joined to the second open end portion 105b of the tubular portion 105. A second end space S104B is formed inside the second lid portion 107B. The second end space S104B is part of the internal space S101 and is in communication with the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102. A boss portion 107Ba and a second internal space port 107Bb are formed in the second lid portion 107B.

[0116] The boss portion 107Ba is a portion that closes the communication port 109Ba of the second fixed portion 109B. The boss portion 107Ba extends in a columnar shape toward the inside of the housing 104B, is inserted into the communication port 109Ba of the second fixed portion 109B, and closes the communication port 109Ba of the second fixed portion 109B. The boss portion 107Ba is also referred to as a plug or the like. The boss portion 107Ba prevents the liquid supplied to the hollow portion 103a of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 103 from being discharged into the second end space S104B. The boss portion 107Ba may be configured as a separate member from the second cover portion 107B.

[0117] The second internal space port 107Bb is in communication with the internal space S101. The second internal space port 107Bb also connects the hollow portions 102a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 102 with the outside of the hollow fiber membrane module 100B. The second internal space port 107Bb is formed in the second cover portion 107B and opens into the second end space S104B. That is, the second internal space port 107Bb opens into the internal space S101 on the opposite side of the second fixing portion 109B from the first fixing portion 108B.

[0118] As described above, the hollow fiber membrane module 100B of the modified example is provided with two ports, the first internal space port 106Bb and the second internal space port 107Bb, as ports that communicate with the internal space S101. Therefore, when the hollow fiber membrane module 100B is used as an external perfusion type module to add gas to a liquid, the gas in the internal space S101 can be replaced by supplying the gas from either the first internal space port 106Bb or the second internal space port 107Bb and discharging the gas from the other of the first internal space port 106Bb or the second internal space port 107Bb, thereby suppressing changes in gas concentration in the internal space S101.

[0119] 10, the second cover part may have a boss, and instead the second fixing part may seal the hollow part of the hollow fiber membrane bundle. Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the hollow fiber membrane module 100B can be achieved.

[0120] Furthermore, in the adjusting device 400 according to the above embodiment, the hollow fiber membrane module 100 may be replaced with a modified hollow fiber membrane module 100B shown in FIG. 10, and a gas discharge pipe (not shown) may be further provided. In this case, the liquid supply pipe 401 may be connected to the second external space port 106Ba, the liquid discharge pipe 402 may be connected to the first external space port 105c, the gas supply pipe 403 may be connected to either the first internal space port 106Bb or the second internal space port 107Bb, and the gas discharge pipe may be connected to the other of the first internal space port 106Bb or the second internal space port 107Bb. This allows the dissolved concentration of the gas G in the liquid L to be adjusted with higher precision.

[0121] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the hollow fiber membrane module has been described as being used as an external perfusion module, but the hollow fiber membrane module may also be used as an internal perfusion module. In this case, as in the modified hollow fiber membrane module 100B shown in Figure 10, a port communicating with the internal space may be formed in the housing, in addition to the internal space port of the above embodiment, to supply liquid to the hollow portions of each of the multiple hollow fiber membranes. Various known hollow fiber membrane modules may be used as such a hollow fiber membrane module. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 100...hollow fiber membrane module, 100A...hollow fiber membrane module, 100B...hollow fiber membrane module, 102...hollow fiber membrane, 102a...hollow portion, 103...hollow fiber membrane bundle, 103a...hollow portion, 103b...first membrane bundle end, 103c...second membrane bundle end, 104...housing, 104B...housing, 105...tubular portion, 105a...first opening end, 105b...second opening end, 105c...first external space port, 105d...baffle, 106...first lid portion, 106a...second external space port, 106B ...first lid portion, 106Ba...second external space port, 106Bb...first internal space port, 107...second lid portion, 107a...internal space port, 107B...second lid portion, 107Ba...boss portion, 107Bb...second internal space port, 108...first fixing portion, 108a...communication port, 108B...first fixing portion, 108Ba...communication port, 109...second fixing portion, 109B...second fixing portion, 109Ba...communication port, 111...mesh member, 111a...opening, 111b...maximum opening, 111c...minimum opening, 111d ...large opening, 111e...small opening, 112...first filament-like portion, 113...second filament-like portion, 121...inner support, 121a...hollow portion, 200...deaerator, 201...liquid supply pipe, 202...liquid discharge pipe, 203...suction pipe, 204...suction device, 300...gas supply device, 301...liquid supply pipe, 302...liquid discharge pipe, 303...gas supply pipe, 304...gas supply device, 400...regulating device, 401...liquid supply pipe, 402...liquid discharge pipe, 403...gas supply pipe, 404...gas supply device, 405...bypass pipe, 406 ...Gas supply amount adjustment device, 407...Branch section, 408...Confluence section, 409...Flow rate adjustment valve, A...Center axis, A1...Interval, A2...Interval, B...Center axis, B1...Interval, B2...Interval, D1...Extending direction, D2...Circumferential direction, D3...First direction, D4...Second direction, G...Gas, L...Liquid, S101...Internal space, S102...External space, S103...First end space, S103B...First end space, S104...Second end space, S104B...Second end space, S105...Inner space, S106...Outer space, S107...Communication space.

Claims

1. A hollow fiber membrane bundle in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are bundled together; a mesh member extending in a cylindrical shape to cover the hollow fiber membrane bundle; a housing that accommodates the hollow fiber membrane bundle, a space within the housing is divided by the hollow fiber membranes into an internal space including hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes and an external space not including the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes, the mesh member has a plurality of openings each having a different opening area; When the median value between the opening area of ​​the largest opening among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the smallest opening among the plurality of openings is defined as a threshold area, and an opening among the plurality of openings having an area larger than the threshold area is defined as a large opening, a ratio of a total opening area of ​​the large openings to a total opening area of ​​the plurality of openings is 40% or more and 60% or less; Hollow fiber membrane module.

2. A hollow fiber membrane bundle in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are bundled together; a mesh member extending in a cylindrical shape to cover the hollow fiber membrane bundle; a housing that accommodates the hollow fiber membrane bundle, a space within the housing is divided by the hollow fiber membranes into an internal space including hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes and an external space not including the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes, the mesh member has a plurality of openings each having a different opening area; When the median value between the opening area of ​​the largest opening among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the smallest opening among the plurality of openings is defined as a threshold area, and an opening among the plurality of openings having an area larger than the threshold area is defined as a large opening, a ratio of the total line length of the large openings to the perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the mesh member is 40% or more and 60% or less; Hollow fiber membrane module.

3. A hollow fiber membrane bundle in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are bundled together; a mesh member extending in a cylindrical shape to cover the hollow fiber membrane bundle; a housing that accommodates the hollow fiber membrane bundle, a space within the housing is divided by the hollow fiber membranes into an internal space including hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes and an external space not including the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes, the mesh member has a plurality of openings each having a different opening area; When the median value between the opening area of ​​the largest opening among the plurality of openings and the opening area of ​​the smallest opening among the plurality of openings is defined as a threshold area, and an opening among the plurality of openings having an area smaller than the threshold area is defined as a small opening, a ratio of a total line length of the small openings to a perimeter of the mesh member in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the mesh member is 40% or more and 60% or less; Hollow fiber membrane module.

4. A hollow fiber membrane bundle in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes are bundled together; a mesh member extending in a cylindrical shape to cover the hollow fiber membrane bundle; a housing that accommodates the hollow fiber membrane bundle, a space within the housing is divided by the hollow fiber membranes into an internal space including hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes and an external space not including the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes, the mesh member has a plurality of openings each having a different opening area; the mesh member has a plurality of first thread-like portions extending in a first direction inclined with respect to the extension direction of the mesh member, and a plurality of second thread-like portions extending in a second direction inclined in a direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the extension direction and intersecting with the plurality of first thread-like portions, Each of the plurality of openings is formed by a pair of adjacent first thread-like portions among the plurality of first thread-like portions and a pair of adjacent second thread-like portions among the plurality of second thread-like portions. Hollow fiber membrane module.

5. When the opening with the largest opening area among the plurality of openings is defined as a maximum opening and the opening with the smallest opening area among the plurality of openings is defined as a minimum opening, a distance between the pair of first thread-shaped portions and a distance between the pair of second thread-shaped portions that form the maximum opening are greater than a distance between the pair of first thread-shaped portions and a distance between the pair of second thread-shaped portions that form the minimum opening; The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 4.

6. a first fixing portion that fixes a first membrane bundle end portion, which is one end portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, to the housing; a second fixing portion that fixes a second membrane bundle end portion, which is the other end portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, to the housing, The housing has a first external space port that opens to the external space between the first fixing part and the second fixing part, a second external space port that communicates with the external space, an internal space port that communicates with the internal space, and a baffle that is arranged between the hollow fiber membrane bundle and the first external space port. The hollow fiber membrane module according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the first fixing portion seals an area other than the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle in a cross section passing through the end portion of the first membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the second fixing portion seals an area other than the hollow portion of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes in a cross section passing through the end portion of the second membrane bundle and perpendicular to the extending direction of the hollow fiber membrane bundle, the second external space port is open to the external space on a side of the first fixed portion opposite to the second fixed portion, the internal space port is open to the internal space on a side of the second fixing portion opposite to the first fixing portion, The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6.

8. The housing further includes a second internal space port that is in communication with the internal space. The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6.

9. The hollow fiber membrane bundle further includes an inner support member disposed in the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and supporting the hollow fiber membrane bundle from the inner peripheral side. The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6.

10. The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6; a liquid supply pipe communicated with the second external space port; a suction tube communicating with the internal space port; a suction device that suctions the internal space port through the suction tube, Degassing device.

11. The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6; a liquid supply pipe communicated with the second external space port; a gas supply pipe connected to the internal space port; a gas supply device that supplies gas to the internal space port through the gas supply pipe, Air supply device.

12. The hollow fiber membrane module according to claim 6; a liquid supply pipe communicated with the second external space port; a liquid discharge pipe connected to the first external space port; a gas supply pipe connected to the internal space port; a gas supply device that supplies gas to the internal space port through the gas supply pipe; a bypass pipe that is connected to the branched portion of the liquid supply pipe and the junction portion of the liquid discharge pipe so as to bypass the hollow fiber membrane module; Adjustment device.

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