Membrane Separation Flow Control for Uniform Heat Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing separation devices with separation membranes face challenges in maintaining uniform heat distribution, leading to inefficient heating and cooling, particularly during transient operations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves controlling the mixture flow through the first flow path to maintain an average Reynolds number below 2,000, preferably 1,600, ensuring laminar flow to minimize heat exchange and stabilize temperature distribution across the separation membrane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the mixture flows through the first flow path with high velocity to increase productivity, then the throughput increases, but the heat distribution in the separation membrane becomes uneven and heating/cooling efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow regime parameter (Reynolds number) from turbulent to laminar flow by controlling the average Reynolds number to be less than 2,000. This parameter change fundamentally alters the heat transfer characteristics, enabling uniform heat distribution while maintaining acceptable throughput levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the mixture flow rate to maintain the average Reynolds number below 2,000 during operation. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt flow conditions to achieve optimal heat distribution while maximizing productivity under varying operating conditions.
2Productivity
If the flow rate is increased to improve productivity, then the processing capacity increases, but the heating and cooling efficiency of the separation membrane deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow regime from turbulent to laminar by controlling the Reynolds number, which fundamentally improves thermal efficiency. Laminar flow reduces unnecessary turbulent mixing and allows more effective heat transfer from the mixture to the membrane surface, reducing energy losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the typically undesirable effect of laminar flow (lower mixing intensity) into a beneficial characteristic for heat transfer. By accepting reduced turbulent mixing, the system achieves superior heat distribution uniformity and thermal efficiency, turning a potential disadvantage into a major advantage.
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 approach enables efficient and stable heating and cooling of the separation membrane, reducing heat distribution and enhancing operational efficiency, especially during transient operations.
Implementation Method 1
controlling the mixture flow through the first flow path to maintain an average Reynolds number below 2,000, preferably 1,600, ensuring laminar flow to minimize heat exchange and stabilize temperature distribution across the separation membrane
Implementation Method 2
a membrane separation method that uses a separation membrane to separate a specific substance from a mixture
Data Source
AI summary
An operating method for a separation device is an operating method for a separation device including a separation membrane, the separation device including: a first flow path to which a mixture is to be supplied; and a second flow path through which a substance that has permeated through the separation membrane is allowed to flow. The operating method includes a step of supplying the mixture to the first flow path so that the mixture flowing through the first flow path has an average Reynolds number of less than 2,000.