Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D19/00—Degasification of liquids
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D61/00—Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltration; Apparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D63/00—Apparatus in general for separation processes using semi-permeable membranes
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D63/00—Apparatus in general for separation processes using semi-permeable membranes
  • B01D63/02—Hollow fibre modules
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D63/00—Apparatus in general for separation processes using semi-permeable membranes
  • B01D63/02—Hollow fibre modules
  • B01D63/04—Hollow fibre modules comprising multiple hollow fibre assemblies

Definitions

• This disclosure relates to a degassing module and a method for degassing a liquid.
• degassing modules that degas liquids using degassing elements (hollow fiber units) with multiple hollow fiber membranes have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
• Sweep mode is a method of degassing a liquid by supplying a liquid to the outside of a hollow fiber membrane and then supplying a sweep gas into the hollow fiber membrane.
• Vacuum mode is a method of degassing a liquid by supplying a liquid to the outside of a hollow fiber membrane and then drawing a vacuum inside the hollow fiber membrane. In vacuum mode, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the hollow fiber membrane is greater than in sweep mode, so more gas passes through the hollow fiber membrane than in sweep mode.
• the degassing module described in Patent Document 1 may house multiple degassing elements connected to each other in a single housing and degas the liquid.
• the gas port is provided only at one end of the degassing module, so the discharge path for gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes is long.
• the hollow fiber membranes are formed elongated (thin and long) to increase the membrane area (contact area with the liquid), the pressure loss of the fluid flowing within the hollow fiber membranes is high. As a result, there is a possibility that the discharge efficiency of gas that has permeated the hollow fiber membranes may not be sufficient.
• the present disclosure therefore aims to provide a degassing module and a liquid degassing method that can increase the flow rate of the liquid to be degassed while improving gas discharge efficiency.
• the degassing module comprises a plurality of degassing elements, each having a liquid circulation pipe formed with a plurality of openings and extending in an extension direction, and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes arranged around the liquid circulation pipe so as to cover the plurality of openings; a housing that accommodates the plurality of degassing elements so that the plurality of degassing elements are arranged in the extension direction; an intermediate communication space that is connected to a first side degassing element and a second side degassing element that are adjacent in the extension direction among the plurality of degassing elements and that communicates with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second side degassing element;
• the housing includes an element connection part that forms an intermediate liquid flow passage that communicates with the hollow portion of the pipe and the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe of the second degassing element, and a partition part that separates
• the housing has a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe, a liquid discharge port for discharging liquid that has exited the liquid flow pipe, and a gas port for discharging gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes.
• the gas port is connected to the element connection part and communicates with the intermediate communication space.
• a plurality of degassing elements are contained in a housing so that the degassing elements are arranged in the extension direction, and the element connection portion connected to a first side degassing element and a second side degassing element that are adjacent to each other in the extension direction among the plurality of degassing elements forms an intermediate communication space that communicates with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second side degassing element, and an intermediate liquid flow passage that communicates with the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipe of the first side degassing element and the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipe of the second side degassing element, and a partition portion separates the area within the housing, with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes as the boundary, into an internal area including the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and an external area including the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipe, and the housing has a liquid supply port for supplying liquid
• the gas port is connected to the element connection section and communicates with the intermediate communication space. This shortens the length of the discharge path for gas that has permeated multiple hollow fiber membranes compared to when gas ports are provided at only one end of the degassing module, and reduces the imbalance between the gas discharge force acting on the first degassing element and the gas discharge force acting on the second hollow fiber membrane element. This improves degassing efficiency.
• the multiple degassing elements include a first end degassing element located at an end in a first extension direction, which is one of the extension directions, and a second end degassing element located at an end in a second extension direction, which is the opposite direction to the first extension direction.
• the first end degassing element has a hollow portion of a liquid flow pipe that is blocked at its end in the first extension direction, and the liquid supply port is connected to the second end of the liquid flow pipe of the second end degassing element.
• the first end of the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe of the first end degassing element is blocked at its end in the first extension direction, and the liquid supply port is connected to the second end of the liquid flow pipe of the second end degassing element. Therefore, when liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid is supplied to the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe in each degassing element, flows out of the liquid flow pipe through the multiple openings, and is degassed by coming into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes. The degassed liquid then comes into contact with the hollow fiber membranes and is discharged from the liquid discharge port without returning to the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe.
• the liquid does not flow in a direction that presses the hollow fiber membranes against the liquid distribution pipe, but rather in a direction that moves the hollow fiber membranes away from the liquid distribution pipe.
• This prevents an increase in pressure loss when the liquid passes through the hollow fiber membranes, and therefore prevents a decrease in the liquid flow rate.
• a relatively low-output liquid supply device can be used to supply liquid to the multiple degassing modules.
• the degassing module described in [2] may further include a first-end communication space forming portion connected to the end of the first end degassing element on the first extension direction side and forming a first-end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element, and the housing may have a first-end gas port connected to the first-end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first-end communication space.
• the first-end communication space forming portion connected to the end of the first end degassing element on the first extension direction side forms a first-end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element
• the housing has a first-end gas port connected to the first-end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first-end communication space. Therefore, it is possible to suction the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes from the end of the first end degassing element on the first extension direction side. This further improves degassing efficiency.
• a second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and the housing may have a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space.
• a second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and the housing has a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space. Therefore, it is possible to suction the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes or supply sweep gas to the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes from the end of the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element. This further improves degassing efficiency.
• the degassing module described in [2] may further include a first-end communication space forming portion connected to the end of the first-end degassing element in the first extension direction and forming a first-end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the first-end degassing element; a second-end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the second-end degassing element is formed on the second-end extension direction side of the second-end degassing element; and the housing may have a first-end gas port connected to the first-end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first-end communication space, and a second-end gas port adjacent to the second-end communication space and communicating with the second-end communication space.
• the first-end communication space forming portion connected to the end of the first degassing element in the first extension direction forms a first-end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the first-end degassing element; and the housing has a first-end gas port connected to the first-end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first-end communication space.
• a second end communication space that communicates with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and the housing has a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space that communicates with the second end communication space.
• each of the multiple degassing elements has a first fixing portion located at the first element end, which is the end in the first extension direction, and fixing the multiple hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe so as to seal the gap between the liquid flow pipe and the multiple hollow fiber membranes and open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the multiple hollow fiber membranes; and a second fixing portion located at the second element end, which is the end in the second extension direction, and fixing the multiple hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe so as to seal the gap between the liquid flow pipe and the multiple hollow fiber membranes and open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the multiple hollow fiber membranes;
• the element connection portion has a connecting cover connected to the second fixing portion of the first side degassing element and the first fixing portion of the second side degassing element and covering the space between the first side degassing element and the second side degassing element; and a connecting pipe connected to the liquid flow pipe of the first side degassing element
• the element connection part is connected to the second fixing part of the first degassing element and the first fixing part of the second degassing element, and includes a connecting cover that covers the space between the first degassing element and the second degassing element, and a connecting pipe that is connected to the liquid flow pipe of the first degassing element and the liquid flow pipe of the second degassing element. Therefore, an intermediate liquid flow passage is formed by the connecting pipe, and an intermediate communication space is formed by the connecting cover and the connecting pipe. Furthermore, because the gas port is connected to the connecting cover, the gas port can be connected to the intermediate communication space with a simple configuration.
• a liquid degassing method is a method for degassing a liquid using a degassing module described in any of [1] to [6], in which the gas port of the degassing module is suctioned and liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port of the degassing module.
• the gas port of any of the above degassing modules is suctioned and liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid is degassed in multiple degassing elements, thereby enabling a large flow rate of the liquid to be degassed.
• the gas port is connected to the element connection section and communicates with the intermediate communication space.
• the length of the discharge path for gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes can be shortened, and the imbalance between the gas discharge force acting on the first degassing element and the gas discharge force acting on the second hollow fiber membrane element can be alleviated. This improves degassing efficiency.
• a liquid degassing method is a method for degassing a liquid using the degassing module described in [5], in which a sweep gas is supplied to at least one of the gas port, first-end gas port, and second-end gas port of the degassing module, and liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port of the degassing module.
• a sweep gas is supplied to at least one of the gas port, first-end gas port, and second-end gas port of the degassing module, and liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port of the degassing module.
• the gas port is connected to the element connection portion and communicates with the intermediate communication space
• the first-end gas port is connected to the first-end communication space forming portion and communicates with the first-end communication space
• the second-end gas port is adjacent to the second-end communication space and communicates with the second-end communication space.
• a sweep gas may be supplied to the gas port of the degassing module.
• the gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes can be discharged from the first end gas port and the second end gas port.
• the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module may be suctioned.
• suctioning the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module can improve the discharge efficiency of gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes.
• a sweep gas may be supplied to the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module.
• this liquid degassing method by supplying a sweep gas to the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the module, gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes can be discharged from the gas ports.
• the gas port of the degassing module may be suctioned.
• suctioning the gas port of the degassing module can improve the efficiency of discharging gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes.
• FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to an embodiment.
• FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the degassing element.
• FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 3.
• FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the degassing element shown in FIG. 3 .
• FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the degassing element shown in FIG. 3 .
• 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module.
• FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in FIG. 10.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module for explaining another example of a method for degassing a liquid.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module for explaining another example of a method for degassing a liquid.
• FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to an embodiment.
• FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• the degassing module 1 according to this embodiment is a module for degassing a liquid L.
• the liquid L is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, seawater, drinking water, pure water, ultrapure water, or other water; an aqueous solution containing ammonium sulfate, a surfactant, or the like; an organic solvent such as alcohol or hydrocarbon; or an ionic liquid.
• the degassing module 1 includes a plurality of degassing elements 2, a housing 3, an element connection portion 4, a baffle 5, a first-end communication space forming portion 6, and a partition portion 7. Note that FIG. 1 shows only the housing 3 in cross section.
• Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the degassing element.
• Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Figure 3.
• Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 3.
• Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Figure 3.
• the degassing element 2 is used to degas a liquid L.
• the degassing element 2 includes a liquid circulation pipe 21, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, a first fixing portion 24, and a second fixing portion 25.
• the liquid flow pipe 21 is a cylindrical member extending in extension direction D.
• One of the two extension directions D is called the first extension direction D1, and the other is called the second extension direction D2.
• the upper side is the first extension direction D1
• the lower side is the second extension direction D2.
• the end of the degassing element 2 on the first extension direction D1 side is called the first element end 2a
• the end of the degassing element 2 on the second extension direction D2 side is called the second element end 2b.
• the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 is a flow path (internal flow path) through which the liquid L can flow, and is formed by the inner surface of the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the liquid flow pipe 21 extends over the entire extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the liquid flow pipe 21 extends from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2.
• the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 is open in the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2.
• the opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 on the first extension direction D1 side is referred to as the first end liquid flow pipe opening 21b
• the opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 on the second extension direction D2 side is referred to as the second end liquid flow pipe opening 21c.
• no member such as a baffle that prevents the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the liquid flow pipe 21 and are arranged around the liquid flow pipe 21 so as to cover the multiple openings 21d. "The multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the liquid flow pipe 21" means that in the initial state (unused state) of the degassing element 2, the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the extension direction D. The multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 form a membrane bundle that is approximately cylindrical overall.
• the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 are formed, for example, from a hollow fiber membrane fabric (not shown) woven in the shape of a bamboo blind.
• the hollow fiber membrane fabric is a fabric made by weaving multiple hollow fiber membranes 22, which serve as weft threads, with warp threads (not shown).
• the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 are arranged in the shape of a bamboo blind.
• the hollow fiber membrane fabric is then wrapped around the liquid distribution pipe 21 so that the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend in the extension direction D and cover the multiple openings 21d.
• the hollow portion 22a of the hollow fiber membrane 22 is a flow path (intra-membrane flow path) through which gas G can flow, and is formed by the inner surface of the hollow fiber membrane 22.
• the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend over the entire area in the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. In other words, the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 extend from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2.
• the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 are open in the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. Note that the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 refer to the hollow portions 22a of each of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• first end hollow fiber membrane openings 22b The openings of the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 on the side of the first extension direction D1 are referred to as first end hollow fiber membrane openings 22b, and the openings of the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 on the side of the second extension direction D2 are referred to as second end hollow fiber membrane openings 22c.
• the hollow fiber membrane 22 is a hollow fiber membrane that allows gas G to pass through but not liquid L.
• the material, shape, and form of the hollow fiber membrane 22 are not particularly limited.
• materials for the hollow fiber membrane 22 include polyolefin resins such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and polymethylpentene; silicone resins such as polydimethylsiloxane and its copolymers; and fluororesins such as PTFE and vinylidene fluoride.
• Examples of the shape (sidewall shape) of the hollow fiber membrane 22 include porous membranes, microporous membranes, and homogeneous membranes (non-porous membranes) that do not have porosity.
• the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 is not particularly limited. From the perspective of increasing the membrane area, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be, for example, 500 ⁇ m or less, preferably 350 ⁇ m or less, and more preferably 250 ⁇ m or less. On the other hand, from the perspective of suppressing breakage, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be, for example, 50 ⁇ m or more, preferably 150 ⁇ m or more, and more preferably 200 ⁇ m or more.
• the first fixing portion 24 is located at the first element end portion 2a and fixes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 to the liquid flow pipe 21 so as to seal the gap between the liquid flow pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and leave the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open.
• the first fixing portion 24 fixes the end of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 on the first extension direction D1 side to the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the first fixing portion 24 also seals the gap between the liquid flow pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the second fixing portion 25 is located at the second element end 2b and fixes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 to the liquid flow pipe 21 so as to seal the gap between the liquid flow pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and leave the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open.
• the second fixing portion 25 fixes the ends of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 on the second extension direction D2 side to the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the second fixing portion 25 also seals the gap between the liquid flow pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the second fixing portion 25 is not provided in the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 or the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, leaving the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open.
• the second fixing portion 25 is formed, for example, from resin.
• the housing 3 accommodates multiple degassing elements 2 so that the multiple degassing elements 2 are arranged in the extension direction D.
• two degassing elements 2 are accommodated in the housing 3.
• the two degassing elements 2 are composed of a first degassing element 2 ⁇ and a second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D.
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ is a first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side
• the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is a second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side.
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ is also a first-end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the first extension direction D1
• the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is also a second-end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the second extension direction D2.
• FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1.
• the housing 3 accommodates the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ so that a space is formed between the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ . This space is between the housing 3 and the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and allows liquid L to flow through.
• the housing 3 comprises a cylindrical portion 31 in which the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are accommodated, a first lid portion 32 connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 31, and a second lid portion 33 connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite the first lid portion 32.
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are accommodated in the cylindrical portion 31 so that the extension direction D of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is the extension direction of the cylindrical portion 31, i.e., the opposing direction of the first lid portion 32 and the second lid portion 33.
• the extension direction D of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is the same as the extension direction of the cylindrical portion 31, and therefore the extension direction of the cylindrical portion 31 is also referred to as the extension direction D.
• the first lid portion 32 is connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 31 on the first extension direction D1 side so as to cover the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the first extension direction D1 side.
• the second lid portion 33 is connected to the end portion of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extension direction D2 side so as to cover the opening of the cylindrical portion 31 on the second extension direction D2 side.
• the element connection portion 4 connects the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the element connection portion 4 also positions the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ at a distance from each other in the extension direction D.
• the element connection portion 4 forms an intermediate communication space S1 and an intermediate liquid flow passage S2.
• the intermediate communication space S1 is a space that communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the intermediate communication space S1 is also a space adjacent to the second end hollow fiber membrane opening 22c of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first end hollow fiber membrane opening 22b of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the intermediate liquid flow passage S2 is a liquid flow passage that communicates with the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ . Furthermore, the intermediate liquid flow passage S2 is a liquid flow passage adjacent to the second end liquid flow pipe opening 21c of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first end liquid flow pipe opening 21b of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the element connection part 4 has a connecting cover 41 and a connecting pipe 42.
• the connecting cover 41 is connected to the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and is a cover that covers the space between the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the connecting cover 41 is connected to the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ by fitting the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ into the connecting cover 41.
• the connecting cover 41 is connected to the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ by fitting the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ into the connecting cover 41.
• the connecting pipe 42 is a pipe that connects the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the connecting pipe 42 is connected to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ by fitting the end of the connecting pipe 42 on the first extension direction D1 side into the end 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extension direction D2 side.
• the connecting pipe 42 is also connected to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ by fitting the end of the connecting pipe 42 on the second extension direction D2 side into the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side.
• An intermediate liquid flow passage S2 is formed by the connecting pipe 42, connecting the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• An intermediate communication space S1 is also formed by the connecting cover 41 and connecting pipe 42, connecting the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the baffle 5 blocks the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side. In other words, the baffle 5 blocks the hollow portion 21a at the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side.
• the baffle 5 is fitted into the end of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side.
• the baffle 5 prevents the liquid L supplied to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ from being discharged from the first degassing element 2 ⁇ in the first extension direction D1.
• the baffle 5 is attached only to the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and does not block the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the liquid L is not discharged from the first degassing element 2 ⁇ in the first extension direction D1, but is discharged radially outward from the liquid flow pipe 21 through the multiple openings 21d formed in the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 is connected to the first element end portion 2a, which is the end portion of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side, to form a first end communication space S3.
• the first end communication space S3 is a space that communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space S3 is a space adjacent to the first extension direction D1 side of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space S3 is also a space adjacent to the first end hollow fiber membrane openings 22b of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 is connected to the first fixing portion 24 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ so as to cover the first element end portion 2a of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 forms a first end communication space S3 between itself and the first element end portion 2a of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the partition 7 divides the area within the housing 3 into an internal region R1 and an external region R2, with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 as boundaries.
• the internal region R1 is an area that includes the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the external region R2 is an area that includes the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21. Therefore, the hollow fiber membranes 22 form the boundary between the internal region R1 and the external region R2. In other words, the inside (hollow portions 22a) of the hollow fiber membranes 22 forms the internal region R1, and the outside of the hollow fiber membranes 22 forms the external region R2.
• the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 prevent the liquid L from passing from the external region R2 to the internal region R1, and allow the gas G (dissolved gas in the liquid L, air bubbles contained in the liquid L, etc.) to pass from the external region R2 to the internal region R1.
• the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 is connected to the outside of the liquid flow pipe 21 by multiple openings 21d formed in the liquid flow pipe 21, and therefore the external region R2 also includes the space S4 outside the liquid flow pipe 21 that is connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the partition 7 seals the gap between the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ and the housing 3, thereby fixing the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ to the housing 3.
• the partition 7 is made of, for example, resin.
• the housing 3 has a liquid supply port 34 for supplying liquid L to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, a liquid discharge port 35 for discharging liquid L from the liquid flow pipe 21, and a gas port 36, a first-end gas port 37, and a second-end gas port 38 for discharging gas that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the gas port 36, first-end gas port 37, and second-end gas port 38 are also referred to as vacuum ports, etc.
• the liquid supply port 34, liquid discharge port 35, gas port 36, first-end gas port 37, and second-end gas port 38 may be configured integrally with the housing 3 or may be separate components from the housing 3.
• the liquid supply port 34 is provided in the second lid portion 33 and is a port that communicates between the inside and outside of the housing 3.
• the liquid supply port 34 extends in a pipe-like shape from the second lid portion 33 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the end 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extension direction D2 side.
• the liquid supply port 34 is also connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the liquid discharge port 35 is provided in the first lid portion 32 and is a port that connects the inside and outside of the housing 3.
• the liquid discharge port 35 is adjacent to the space S4 outside the liquid circulation pipe 21 and is connected to the space S4 outside the liquid circulation pipe 21.
• the gas port 36 is provided in the cylindrical portion 31 and is a port that connects the inside and outside of the housing 3.
• the gas port 36 extends like a pipe from the cylindrical portion 31 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the connecting cover 41 of the element connection portion 4.
• the gas port 36 is also connected to the intermediate communication space S1.
• the first-end gas port 37 is provided in the first lid portion 32 and is a port that connects the inside and outside of the housing 3.
• the first-end gas port 37 extends in a pipe-like shape from the first lid portion 32 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the first-end communication space forming portion 6.
• the first-end gas port 37 is also connected to the first-end communication space S3.
• the second-end gas port 38 is provided in the second lid portion 33 and is a port that connects the inside and outside of the housing 3.
• the second-end gas port 38 is adjacent to the second-end communication space S5 and is connected to the second-end communication space S5.
• the gas port 36, first end gas port 37, and second end gas port 38 of the degassing module 1 are suctioned, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• Suction of the gas port 36, first end gas port 37, and second end gas port 38 can be performed, for example, by connecting a suction device (not shown) such as a vacuum pump to the gas port 36, first end gas port 37, and second end gas port 38 via piping or the like and activating this suction device.
• Liquid L can be supplied to the liquid supply port 34 by connecting a liquid supply device (not shown) such as a liquid delivery pump that delivers liquid L via piping or the like to the liquid supply port 34 and activating this liquid supply device.
• the gas port 36, the first end gas port 37, and the second end gas port 38 are suctioned, the internal region R1 connected to the gas port 36, the first end gas port 37, and the second end gas port 38 is suctioned, and the internal region R1 is decompressed. Furthermore, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34, the liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to the liquid supply port 34. The liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 34 is supplied to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the liquid L supplied to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21 is discharged from the multiple openings 21d of the liquid flow pipes 21 into the space S4 outside the liquid flow pipes 21 and comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are in a depressurized state, so that gas G, such as dissolved gas in the liquid L and air bubbles contained in the liquid L, permeates the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. This degasses the liquid L.
• the degassed liquid L passes through the space between the degassing element 2 and the housing 3 and is discharged from the liquid discharge port 35.
• the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ passes through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , the intermediate communicating space S1, the first end communicating space S3, and the second end communicating space S5, and is discharged from the gas port 36, the first end gas port 37, and the second end gas port 38.
• gas G that permeates the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ passes through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , the intermediate communicating space S1, and the first end communicating space S3, before being discharged from the gas port 36 and the first end gas port 37.
• Gas G that permeates the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ passes through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , the intermediate communicating space S1, and the second end communicating space S5, before being discharged from the gas port 36 and the second end gas port 38.
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are accommodated in the housing 3 so that they are arranged in the extension direction D, and the element connection part 4 connected to the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is formed by an intermediate communication space S1 that communicates with the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the hollow part 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and a hollow part 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the hollow part 21a of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the degassing module 1 includes an intermediate liquid flow passage S2 that communicates with the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the partition 7 divides the interior of the housing 3 into an inner region R1 including the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and an outer region R2 including the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21, with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 as boundaries.
• the housing 3 has a liquid supply port 34 for supplying the liquid L to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21, a liquid discharge port 35 for discharging the liquid L exiting the liquid flow pipes 21, and a gas port 36 for discharging gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the gas port 36 is connected to the element connection portion 4 and communicates with the intermediate communication space S1. Therefore, compared to when the gas port 36 is provided at only one end of the multiple degassing elements, the length of the discharge path for the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 can be shortened, and the imbalance between the discharge force of the gas G acting on the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the discharge force of the gas G acting on the second degassing element 2 ⁇ can be alleviated. This improves degassing efficiency.
• this degassing module 1 the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side is blocked, and a liquid supply port 34 is connected to the end 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extension direction D2 side. Therefore, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34, the liquid L is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , exits the liquid flow pipe 21 through the multiple openings 21d, and comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 to be degassed.
• the liquid L that has come into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 and been degassed is discharged from the liquid discharge port 35 without returning to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the liquid L does not flow in a direction that presses the hollow fiber membranes 22 against the liquid distribution pipe 21, but rather in a direction that moves the hollow fiber membranes 22 away from the liquid distribution pipe 21.
• This makes it possible to suppress an increase in pressure loss when the liquid L passes through the hollow fiber membranes 22, and therefore to suppress a decrease in the flow rate of the liquid L.
• a liquid supply device with a relatively low output can be used to supply the liquid L to the degassing module 1.
• a second end communication space S5 that is connected to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is formed on the second extension direction D2 side of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and the housing 3 has a second end gas port 38 that is adjacent to the second end communication space S5 and is connected to the second end communication space S5. Therefore, it is possible to suction the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 or supply sweep gas to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 from the end of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extension direction D2 side. This further improves degassing efficiency.
• the element connection part 4 is connected to the second fixing part 25 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first fixing part 24 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and includes a connecting cover 41 that covers the space between the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and a connecting pipe 42 that is connected to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ . Therefore, an intermediate liquid flow passage S2 is formed by the connecting pipe 42, and an intermediate communication space S1 is formed by the connecting cover 41 and the connecting pipe 42. Furthermore, because the gas port 36 is connected to the connecting cover 41, the gas port 36 can be connected to the intermediate communication space S1 with a simple configuration.
• the hollow portions 21a and intermediate liquid flow passages S2 of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and second degassing element 2 ⁇ are not provided with any members other than the baffles 5 to prevent the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D.
• the liquid L that leaves the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and second degassing element 2 ⁇ is discharged from the liquid discharge port 35 without returning to the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• this degassing module 1 apart from the baffle 5 that blocks the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side, no member that blocks the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a and intermediate liquid flow passage S2 of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the liquid L that leaves the liquid flow pipe 21 is discharged from the liquid discharge port 35 without returning to the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the liquid pressure loss is reduced and the liquid flow rate is improved, making it possible to use a liquid supply device with a relatively low output.
• liquid degassing method when the gas port 36, first-end gas port 37, and second-end gas port 38 are suctioned and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 in the degassing module 1, the liquid L is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , exits the liquid flow pipe 21 through the multiple openings 21d, and is degassed by coming into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the gas port 36 is connected to the element connection portion 4 and communicates with the intermediate communication space S1.
• the length of the discharge path for gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 can be shortened, and the imbalance between the discharge force of gas G acting on the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the discharge force of gas G acting on the second degassing element 2 ⁇ can be alleviated. This improves degassing efficiency.
• the carbon dioxide concentration in the seawater can be reduced, thereby reducing the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere.
• gas port 36 connected to the element connection portion and communicating with the intermediate communication space
• first end gas port 37 connected to the first end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first end communication space
• second end gas port 38 adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space.
• other gas ports may not be provided.
• first end gas port connected to the first end communication space forming portion and communicating with the first end communication space or a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space may be provided.
• FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module.
• Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the degassing module shown in Figure 10.
• the degassing module 1A shown in Figures 10 and 11 has only one gas port 36 connected to the element connection portion 4 and connected to the intermediate communication space S1 as a gas port for suctioning the internal region R1.
• the first lid portion 32A of the housing 3A corresponding to the first lid portion 32 of the housing 3 does not have a first end gas port connected to the first end communication space forming portion and connected to the first end communication space.
• the second lid portion 33A of the housing 3A corresponding to the second lid portion 33 of the housing 3 does not have a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and connected to the second end communication space.
• Figure 10 shows only the housing 3A in cross section. Therefore, the first end communication space forming portion 6A corresponding to the first end communication space forming portion 6 is connected only to the hollow portion 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the second end communication space S5 is connected only to the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.
• the first end communication space forming portion 6A may block the ends of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extending direction D1 side, without forming the first end communication space S3.
• the ends of the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extending direction D2 side may be blocked, and no second end communication space S5 may be formed.
• the gas port 36 is connected to the element connection portion 4 and communicates with the intermediate communication space S1. Therefore, compared to when the gas port 36 is provided at only one end of the multiple degassing elements, the length of the discharge path for the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 can be shortened, and the imbalance between the discharge force of gas G acting on the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the discharge force of gas G acting on the second degassing element 2 ⁇ can be alleviated. This increases the degassing efficiency.
• the degassing module was described as having two degassing elements, but the degassing module may also have three or more degassing elements.
• FIG 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module.
• the degassing elements 2 are housed in a housing 3B corresponding to the housing 3.
• the four degassing elements 2 are composed of a first degassing element 2 ⁇ , a second degassing element 2 ⁇ , a third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and a fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the third degassing element 2 ⁇ is the degassing element adjacent to the first degassing element 2 ⁇ on the side in the first extension direction D1.
• the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ is the degassing element adjacent to the second degassing element 2 ⁇ on the side in the second extension direction D2.
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , the third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ are housed in a cylindrical portion 31B corresponding to the cylindrical portion 31.
• the third degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first degassing element 2 ⁇ are adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D.
• the third degassing element 2 ⁇ is a first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side of the first degassing element 2 ⁇
• the first degassing element 2 ⁇ is a second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are degassing elements 2 adjacent to each other in the extension direction D.
• first degassing element 2 ⁇ is a first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side of the second degassing element 2 ⁇
• second degassing element 2 ⁇ is a second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the second degassing element 2 ⁇ and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ are adjacent degassing elements 2 in the extension direction D.
• the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is a first-side degassing element located on the first extension direction D1 side of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇
• the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ is a second-side degassing element located on the second extension direction D2 side of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the third degassing element 2 ⁇ is also the first end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the first extension direction D1
• the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ is also the second end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the second extension direction D2.
• the third degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first degassing element 2 ⁇ are connected by an element connection portion 4, the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ are connected by an element connection portion 4, and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ are connected by an element connection portion 4.
• the element connection portion 4 connecting the first degassing element 2 ⁇ and the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is referred to as the first element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the element connection portion 4 connecting the third degassing element 2 ⁇ and the first degassing element 2 ⁇ is referred to as the second element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the element connection portion 4 connecting the second degassing element 2 ⁇ and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ is referred to as the third element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the first element connection portion 4 ⁇ , the second element connection portion 4 ⁇ , and the third element connection portion 4 ⁇ each form an intermediate communication space S1 and an intermediate liquid flow passage S2.
• a baffle 5 blocks the end of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side.
• the baffle 5 is attached only to the third degassing element 2 ⁇ and does not block the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , second degassing element 2 ⁇ , and fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• no member for preventing the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 and each intermediate liquid flow passage S2 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , second degassing element 2 ⁇ , third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 is connected to the first element end portion 2a, which is the end portion of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ on the first extension direction D1 side.
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 forms a first end communication space S3, which is a space adjacent to the first extension direction D1 side of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ and adjacent to the first end hollow fiber membrane openings 22b of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and is connected to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 is connected to the first fixing portion 24 of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ so as to cover the first element end portion 2a of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the first end communication space forming portion 6 forms a first end communication space S3 between itself and the first element end portion 2a of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• a second end communicating space S5 is formed on the second extension direction D2 side of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ . This space is adjacent to the second extension direction D2 side of the second element end portion 2b of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ and adjacent to the second end hollow fiber membrane opening 22c of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ , and is connected to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the housing 3B has a liquid supply port 34, a liquid discharge port 35, three gas ports 36, a first-end gas port 37, and a second-end gas port 38.
• the three gas ports 36 are composed of a first gas port 36 ⁇ , a second gas port 36 ⁇ , and a third gas port 36 ⁇ .
• the liquid supply port 34 extends in a pipe-like manner from the second lid portion 33 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the end portion 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ on the second extension direction D2 side.
• the liquid supply port 34 is also connected to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ .
• the liquid discharge port 35 is adjacent to the space S4 outside the liquid flow pipe 21 and is connected to the space S4 outside the liquid flow pipe 21.
• the first gas port 36 ⁇ extends in a pipe-like manner from the cylindrical portion 31B to the inside of the housing 3B and is connected to the first element connection portion 4 ⁇ . The first gas port 36 ⁇ is then connected to the intermediate communication space S1 formed by the first element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the second gas port 36 ⁇ extends in a pipe-like manner from the cylindrical portion 31B to the inside of the housing 3B and is connected to the second element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the second gas port 36 ⁇ is also connected to the intermediate communication space S1 formed by the second element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the third gas port 36 ⁇ extends in a pipe-like manner from the cylindrical portion 31B to the inside of the housing 3B and is connected to the third element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the third gas port 36 ⁇ is also connected to the intermediate communication space S1 formed by the third element connection portion 4 ⁇ .
• the first-end gas port 37 extends in a pipe-like manner from the first lid portion 32 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the first-end communication space forming portion 6. The first-end gas port 37 is then connected to the first-end communication space S3.
• the second end gas port 38 is adjacent to the second end communication space S5 and is connected to the second end communication space S5.
• the first gas port 36 ⁇ , second gas port 36 ⁇ , third gas port 36 ⁇ , first end gas port 37, and second end gas port 38 of degassing module 1B are suctioned, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of degassing module 1B.
• the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 34 is degassed in the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , second degassing element 2 ⁇ , third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ , and discharged from the liquid discharge port 35.
• the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 in the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , the third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ passes through the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , the second degassing element 2 ⁇ , the third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ , each intermediate communicating space S1, the first end communicating space S3, and the second end communicating space S5, and is then discharged from the first gas port 36 ⁇ , the second gas port 36 ⁇ , the third gas port 36 ⁇ , the first end gas port 37, and the second end gas port 38.
• the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the third degassing element 2 ⁇ is discharged from the first end gas port 37 and the second gas port 36 ⁇ .
• the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ is discharged from the second gas port 36 ⁇ and the first gas port 36 ⁇ .
• Gas G that permeates the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2 ⁇ is discharged from the first gas port 36 ⁇ and the third gas port 36 ⁇ .
• Gas G that permeates the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ is discharged from the third gas port 36 ⁇ and the second end gas port 38.
• each gas port 36 is connected to each element connection portion 4 and communicates with the intermediate communication space S1. Therefore, compared to when gas ports 36 are provided at only one end of multiple degassing elements, the length of the discharge path for gas G that has permeated multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 can be shortened, and the imbalance in the discharge forces of gas G acting on each of the first degassing element 2 ⁇ , second degassing element 2 ⁇ , third degassing element 2 ⁇ , and fourth degassing element 2 ⁇ can be alleviated. This increases degassing efficiency.
• the liquid L is degassed in vacuum mode, but the liquid L may also be degassed in sweep mode, or in a combo mode that combines sweep mode and vacuum mode.
• FIGS. 13 and 14 are schematic cross-sectional views of a degassing module to explain another example of a method for degassing a liquid.
• a sweep gas SG is supplied to at least one of the gas port 36, first end gas port 37, and second end gas port 38 of the degassing module 1, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• an inert gas such as air (dry air), nitrogen gas, or argon gas is used. This makes it possible to increase the flow rate of the liquid L to be degassed while improving the discharge efficiency of the gas G, similar to the above embodiment. Note that in FIGS. 13 and 14, only the housing 3 is shown in cross section.
• sweep gas SG is not supplied to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38, but sweep gas GS is supplied to the gas port 36, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• the method shown in Figure 13 can be performed in either sweep mode or combination mode.
• the gas port 36 serves as an air supply port, and the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38 serve as exhaust ports open to atmospheric pressure.
• a sweep gas GS is supplied to the gas port 36, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• the sweep gas SG can be supplied to the gas port 36, for example, by connecting a gas supply device (not shown) such as a gas cylinder and regulator to the gas port 36 via piping or the like and activating this gas supply device.
• the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 is then scavenged (swept) by the sweep gas SG supplied to the gas port 36 and discharged (opened to the atmosphere) from the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38.
• the gas port 36 serves as an air supply port
• the first and second gas ports 37 and 38 serve as suction ports.
• a sweep gas GS is supplied to the gas port 36, the first and second gas ports 37 and 38 are suctioned, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• the suction of the first and second gas ports 37 and 38 can be performed, for example, in the same manner as in the above embodiment.
• the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 is then swept by the sweep gas SG supplied to the gas port 36, sucked into the first and second gas ports 37 and 38, and discharged from the first and second gas ports 37 and 38. This improves the discharge efficiency of the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• sweep gas SG is not supplied to gas port 36, but sweep gas GS is supplied to the first end gas port 37 and second end gas port 38, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• the method shown in Figure 14 can be performed in either sweep mode or combination mode.
• the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38 serve as gas supply ports
• the gas port 36 serves as an exhaust port open to atmospheric pressure.
• a sweep gas GS is supplied to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38
• liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• the supply of the sweep gas SG to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38 can be achieved, for example, by connecting a gas supply device (not shown) to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38 via piping or the like and activating this gas supply device.
• the gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 is then scavenged (swept) by the sweep gas SG supplied to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38, and is then discharged (opened to the atmosphere) from the gas port 36.
• the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38 serve as gas supply ports
• the gas port 36 serves as a suction port.
• a sweep gas GS is supplied to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38, suction is applied to the gas port 36, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 34 of the degassing module 1.
• Suction of the gas port 36 can be performed, for example, in the same manner as in the above embodiment. Then, gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 is swept by the sweep gas SG supplied to the first end gas port 37 and the second end gas port 38, and is then sucked into and discharged from the gas port 36. This improves the discharge efficiency of gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22.
• 1...degassing module 1A...degassing module, 1B...degassing module, 2...degassing element, 2a...first element end, 2b...second element end, 2 ⁇ ...first degassing element, 2 ⁇ ...second degassing element, 2 ⁇ ...third degassing element, 2 ⁇ ...fourth degassing element, 3...housing, 3B...housing, 4...element connection part, 4 ⁇ ...first element connection part, 4 ⁇ ...second element connection part, 4 ⁇ ...third element connection part, 5...baffle, 6...first end communication space forming part, 6A...first end communication space forming part, 7...partition part, 21...liquid circulation pipe, 21a...hollow part, 21b...first end liquid circulation pipe opening, 21c...second end liquid circulation pipe opening, 21d...opening, 21e...end, 21f...end, 22...middle Hollow fiber membrane, 22a...hollow portion, 22b...first end hollow fiber membrane opening, 22c...second end hollow fiber membrane opening, 24...first fixing

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