Gas Separation Membrane Modules with Distributed Sweep Gas Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
In gas separation membrane modules using hollow fiber membranes, non-uniform distribution of sweep gas leads to reduced efficiency, particularly in air purification applications.
Innovation Solution
The module incorporates dispersed sweep gas introduction and discharge ports on the cylindrical body's periphery, along with separate supply and discharge chambers, ensuring uniform gas flow and contact with hollow fiber membranes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single introduction port is used for sweep gas, then the device structure is simple, but the gas distribution becomes non-uniform and separation efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The single introduction port is segmented into multiple introduction ports arranged along the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical body. This segmentation allows sweep gas to be introduced at multiple locations, creating a more uniform gas distribution pattern throughout the internal space and improving contact with hollow fiber membranes while maintaining reasonable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the cylindrical body are provided with introduction ports at optimized positions. The ports are strategically located to ensure that sweep gas reaches all areas of the internal space uniformly, creating locally optimized gas distribution that enhances overall separation efficiency
2Ease of operation
If sweep gas is introduced through a single port, then the device is easier to operate, but sweep gas has less contact with distant hollow fiber membranes
Solution Approach 1:
The gas introduction system is segmented into multiple ports distributed along the cylindrical body. This segmentation ensures that sweep gas is introduced at multiple locations, allowing it to reach and contact hollow fiber membranes throughout the entire internal space, including those distant from any single port, thereby maintaining reliable separation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The introduction ports are arranged not only along the longitudinal direction but also potentially in the circumferential direction, utilizing multiple spatial dimensions to ensure comprehensive gas distribution and contact with all hollow fiber membranes throughout the internal space
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances gas separation efficiency by ensuring uniform gas distribution and contact, improving the purification process, especially for air purification.
Implementation Method 1
hollow fiber membranes; each hollow fiber membrane including a hollow 40 through which feed gas flows
Implementation Method 2
sweep gas having a lower carbon dioxide concentration and a higher oxygen concentration than the feed gas
Data Source
AI summary
A gas separation membrane module includes at least one hollow fiber membrane element and a casing. The hollow fiber membrane element includes hollow fiber membranes and a cylindrical body. The cylindrical body extends in a longitudinal direction of the hollow fiber membranes, and accommodates the hollow fiber membranes. The hollow fiber membrane element includes sweep gas introduction ports and mixed gas discharge ports. A first supply chamber, a first discharge chamber, a second supply chamber, and a second discharge chamber are positioned between the casing and the hollow fiber membrane element. The first supply chamber, the first discharge chamber, the second supply chamber, and the second discharge chamber are partitioned off from each other.