Air separation module (ASM) contamination apparatus and removal process

A method to remove contaminants and restore an air separation module (ASM), comprising:

• connecting an ASM cleaning and restoration apparatus to the ASM,
• wherein the ASM cleaning and restoration apparatus comprises a conditioned air supply (dry and oil free), a pressure control valve, a flow meter, an air heater, a hydrocarbon sensor, at least one pressure sensor, at least one temperature sensor, a fuel collection tank, computer control and software, a supporting frame, power supply, and supply hoses and tubes,
• wherein the ASM comprises a nitrogen-enriched air port, an oxygen enriched air port, and an inlet feed air port,
• wherein the ASM cleaning and restoration apparatus is connected to the ASM via the inlet feed air port;
• removing liquid fuel and other contaminants of the ASM,
• wherein the ASM cleaning and restoration apparatus blows air through the ASM in order to remove the liquid fuel and other contaminants,
• wherein the liquid fuel and other contaminants are collected in a fuel collection tank,
• wherein the air flows freely out of the ASM via the nitrogen-enriched air port and the oxygen enriched air port;
• and
• restoring the ASM,
• wherein the ASM cleaning and restoration apparatus blows air through the ASM at a rate of about 4 lb/min at a minimum of 250° F. air temperature, and
• wherein the hydrocarbon sensor monitors a level of hydrocarbons in the air as the air exits the ASM via the nitrogen-enriched air port.