US 7,122,121 B1 · Advanced submerged membrane modules, systems and processes

Abstract

Advanced submerged membrane systems are provided. Said submerged membrane systems have multiple membrane modules comprising of strips of flat sheet membrane, bundles of self-support hollow fiber membranes braided together for reinforcement, tubular membranes, and braid supported hollow fiber membranes. Said submerged membrane systems have alternating relay, or two-way floating switch or computer to control filtration and back flush/pulse cleaning. Said submerged membrane systems have an oscillating motor, and aerator which can generate liquid vortex (whirlpool) flow around membrane to keep membrane from fouling. The present invention provides advanced submerge membrane systems at very low cost for drinking water production, wastewater treatment and membrane bioreactors for biotech, pharmaceutical and other industries.

Claims13

Dependent claims

A submerged membrane system comprising:

a plurality of membrane modules releasably attached to a circular permeate top header, the top header movably attached to a motor-driven gear on a helical path in oscillating motion having simultaneous 360°-circular motion in horizontal plane and linear motion in vertical direction;
the membrane modules submerged in a tank of water;
each membrane module comprising a plurality of hollow fiber or flat sheet membranes;
and
an aerator which generates air bubbles and provides liquid vortex flow around the membrane modules.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Advanced submerged membrane modules, systems and processes

Life of this patent

Advanced submerged membrane modules, systems and processes

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims13