Parallel Ceramic Tubular Gas Separation Module Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gas separation modules for ceramic tubular membranes are limited by serial flow configurations, which reduce separation performance and increase costs due to the need for large membrane areas, and lack the ability to easily introduce a sweep gas or withdraw a second permeate stream.
Innovation Solution
A gas separation module design that allows all ceramic tubular membranes to operate in parallel, with a gas distribution system that enables separate permeate and sweep gas streams, and includes a gas-tight seal to prevent gas mixing, while also allowing for easy module replacement and reduced manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If tubular membranes are arranged in serial configuration, then the module structure is simplified, but separation performance deteriorates due to reduced driving force and increased pressure drop
Solution Approach 1:
The module is segmented into multiple independent feed channels, each feeding a separate tube with membrane. This allows parallel flow configuration where each tube receives feed gas independently, maintaining driving force across all membranes simultaneously, thus improving separation performance while keeping the structure manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from serial (one-dimensional) flow configuration to parallel (multi-dimensional) flow configuration by introducing multiple feed channels that distribute feed gas to multiple tubes simultaneously. This dimensional change enables all membranes to operate with full driving force, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and separation performance
2Reliability
If large membrane areas are used to achieve necessary separation, then separation performance improves, but manufacturing costs increase due to larger module size and material requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the flow configuration parameter from serial to parallel, which fundamentally alters the pressure distribution and driving force parameters across the membrane area. This allows achieving the same separation performance with smaller membrane area because all membrane surfaces operate at full driving force simultaneously, reducing material costs and manufacturing complexity
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional module designs are used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but adaptability is limited regarding sweep gas introduction and second permeate stream withdrawal
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel flow module design provides universal adaptability by enabling multiple operational modes: standard separation mode, sweep gas introduction mode (where sweep gas can be introduced into the permeate side), and dual permeate stream mode (where permeate can be withdrawn from both ends of tubes). This multi-functionality is achieved while maintaining straightforward manufacturing through the use of standard tube, tube sheet, and end cap components
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 design improves separation efficiency by maintaining the driving force for each membrane and reduces construction costs, enabling efficient parallel operation of multiple membranes with minimal pressure drop and easy maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
A feed gas enters the module via a feed port and flows through the feed end tube sheet and into the membrane modules. A permeate gas which has permeated the membrane is collected in a permeate pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A gas separation module and assembly for housing ceramic tubular membranes. The module includes a plurality of tubes containing the ceramic tubular membranes. The tubes are arranged parallel to one another and are supported by tube sheet plates at each end. Gas-tight seals surround each membrane, preventing a feed gas and a residue gas within the inner lumen of the membrane from mixing with a permeate gas in the tube interior. The module also contains a gas distribution pipe for withdrawing the permeate gas out of, or introducing a sweep gas into, the module. This configuration allows for ceramic tubular membranes to be modularized for use in an assembly that carries out many types of gas separations.