Integrated Membrane Distillation Condenser Underpressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional membrane distillation systems are vulnerable to damage from pressure differences, especially when a separate condenser module is used, leading to increased complexity and maintenance requirements, particularly in outdoor applications or hot climates.
Innovation Solution
An integrated membrane distillation system where the cooling liquid flows under suction due to applied underpressure, eliminating the need for separate pumps and reducing the risk of damage to foil-based condensation walls, with the cooling liquid being reused and partially used to dilute non-evaporated feed, thus simplifying the system and enhancing robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a separate condenser module is used with high pressure difference, then condensation efficiency is improved, but the risk of damage to foil-based condensation walls increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the condenser module with the membrane distillation module by integrating the condensation wall directly into the module structure. The cooling liquid channels are formed within the same housing as the membrane distillation elements, creating an integrated assembly where the condensation wall is protected from excessive pressure differences while maintaining condensation efficiency through direct contact with cooling liquid.
2Ease of operation
If separate pumps are used for cooling liquid circulation, then cooling control is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by allowing the cooling liquid to circulate through the integrated condenser module via natural convection and pressure differential created during operation. The system uses the vacuum pump's pressure differential to drive cooling liquid through the channels without requiring separate circulation pumps, thereby reducing component count while maintaining effective cooling control.
3Use of energy by moving object
If foil-based condensation walls are used, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but vulnerability to pressure difference damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foil-based condensation wall is merged with the housing structure of the membrane distillation module, creating a unified assembly. The condensation wall is positioned such that it experiences minimal pressure differential as it forms part of the pressurized module structure rather than being a separate component subjected to full pressure differences. This integration maintains the high heat transfer efficiency of foil materials while reducing their vulnerability to pressure damage.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system operates with pressure variations, then adaptability to different conditions is improved, but the risk of condenser damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The condenser is merged into the membrane distillation module structure, creating a unified pressure-containing assembly. Pressure variations affecting the module are distributed across the entire integrated structure rather than concentrated on separate condenser components. This allows the system to adapt to different operating pressures while the integrated design ensures that pressure changes are managed uniformly, reducing the risk of localized damage to condensation walls.
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
The integrated system reduces the risk of condenser damage, minimizes the need for additional components, and allows for more efficient operation by maintaining constant pressure, improving yield and reducing maintenance needs, especially in challenging environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrophobic, vapor permeable membrane through which evaporated liquid may pass
Implementation Method 2
evaporated liquid may pass through the hydrophobic, vapor permeable membrane into a vapor space
Implementation Method 3
a condensation wall and a distillate exit for a distillate generated by means of condensation of the evaporated liquid
Implementation Method 4
transferring heat into the heating channel, that is separated by a wall from an adjacent liquid channel of a first membrane distillation module
Implementation Method 5
a vacuum pump for applying an underpressure to the condenser module and/or to at least one membrane distillation module
Data Source
AI summary
The membrane distillation system comprises at least one membrane distillation module and a condenser module, in which, in use, a feed is converted into distillate and non-evaporated, concentrated feed. The distillate is generated in the at least one membrane distillation modules and the condenser module, which comprises a vapour channel for receiving said vapour, a condensation wall, and a cooling channel through which, in use, a cooling liquid flows, said system being operated by means of an applied under pressure. The cooling channel constitutes part of an open cooling system, in which cooling liquid flows in use from an inlet to an outlet under suction by means of a pressure difference, wherein the outlet is held in use at a – second - under pressure and wherein a pumping means is present for pumping cooling liquid at the outlet from the second under pressure to a higher pressure.