WO2021110483A1 - Device for filtering components out of a fluid - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for separating components out of a fluid, the device comprising at least one, in particular elongate or tubular, filter module having a filter housing and a membrane element arranged therein, wherein the at least one filter module has a first end face and a second end face opposite the first end face, and wherein the filter module provides, for the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module, a capillary side and a sheath side for generating a capillary flow and a sheath flow in each of the filter modules. The device also comprises a first filter cap on the first end face of the at least one filter module, having a first chamber and a second chamber and at least one filter module receptacle, and comprises a second filter cap on the second end face, opposite the first end face, of the at least one filter module, having a further filter module receptacle. The first chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the capillary sides of the filter module, and the second chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the sheath sides of the filter modules, such that the capillary flows of the filter module(s) are mixed together in the first chamber and the sheath flows of the filter module(s) are mixed together in the second chamber.

Description

Device for filtering components from a fluid

Description Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a filtration device, a filter for a filtration device and a filter cap, in each case in particular for the purpose of dialysis

Background and general description of the invention

Dialysis is best known as a method of treating kidney failure. Dialysis is actually the exchange of substances by diffusion across a semipermeable membrane, with dissolved molecules migrating from highly concentrated liquids into weakly concentrated solutions (dialysis solution). There are also technical separation tasks in which, for example, the gentle separation of substances from mostly liquid mixtures is required. Such a mixture can be a disperse medium or, for example, a solution in which further constituents are dissolved in a base material. An example of such an application can be the separation of alcohol from beer to produce alcohol-free beer. A particularly gentle process enables alcohol to be removed with minimal impairment of the taste. Particularly in the area of these technical applications, there is currently intensive search for further developments, for example to increase the throughput of the medium to be filtered, or to further reduce costs. In contrast to medical devices, much larger membrane areas are required for technical systems.

Dialyzers also serve as the basis for further refinements. For example, dialyzers can be used to refine the membranes on the lumen side with a proprietary coating. The dialyzers refined in this way can therefore be used for forward osmosis.

In general, the flow guidance within the dialyzer is important for the resulting performance. Due to their construction, dialyzers have very good prerequisites.

Dialyzers are commercially available almost exclusively for hemodialysis.

The quality is very good and the prices based on the membrane area are affordable. However, the size of the dialyzers is tailored to the medical application and, with a membrane area of just a few square meters, is very small. To such units for technical applications or to use them for applications with a higher fluid throughput, complex reworking is necessary in order to produce larger units from the relatively small units, which can be usefully used in technical systems with greater processing capacity.

Another limitation is the limited mechanical and chemical stability. Since dialyzers are optimized for medical use under very gentle operating conditions on the human body, they cannot withstand higher loads such as high temperatures (up to 60 ° C) or high transmembrane pressures (over 3 bar) for long periods of time without damage. With high volume flows on the “shell side”, there is a risk of mechanical overloading of the membranes in the area of the side port due to the cross flow occurring there. High flow velocities repeatedly lead to membrane damage in this area. Aggressive chemicals, at least used for cleaning, also attack dialyzers and lead to short operating times.

Also, because of the medical target application, certifications for e.g. food or drinking water use are practically impossible to obtain.

Another limitation lies in the specified geometries for membrane capillaries and dialyzers. Adjustments to requirements from litigation for z. B. high viscosities and / or low pressure losses in the flow are practically impossible.

The present invention has therefore set itself the task of solving the aforementioned problems or at least introducing improvements thereto. Specifically, the invention has set itself the task of making dialysis accessible for technical requirements. For this purpose, the task has also been set to increase the filter throughput and to improve the service life of the system, i.e. to increase the time between possible failures of dialyzers.

In addition, the present invention is also concerned with increasing the economic efficiency of the use of dialyzers, particularly in technical areas, so that, if necessary, new applications can only be developed for the use of dialyzers or the process costs are reduced. Another aspect of the underlying problem is to design a device that is easy to handle for a user and that can also be cleaned well, for example, which is an important requirement in the food sector in particular. The object is achieved by the subjects of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

The improvements proposed in this specification focus from a technical point of view, among other aspects, on providing a device which is suitable for separating components from a fluid. Such a separation is, for example, the filtration of a fluid, i.e. the leaching of substances from a solution, the stripping or separation of suspended matter from a disperse medium such as a suspension, or also for osmosis, especially forward osmosis.

The device according to the invention comprises at least one, in particular elongate or tubular, filter module with filter housing and membrane element arranged therein, in particular membrane capillaries. The at least one filter module has a first end face and a second end face opposite the first end face, the filter module providing a capillary side and an envelope side for the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules. In other words, it is preferred if in the filter module a first fluid flows on the capillary side and a second fluid flows on the shell side.

The capillary flow is the flow on the first side of the filter layer, that is, typically on the inside of the filter layer. In the case of capillary tubes, that is to say membrane capillaries or membrane tubes, the capillary flow is inside the membrane element, which is called the capillary side or also called the lumen side. In this case, a multiplicity of membrane capillaries or membrane tubes are typically included in the membrane element. In the case of a membrane absorber, this is a first side of the membrane absorber.

The envelope flow is the flow on the second side of the filter layer, that is, typically on the outside of the filter layer, also known as the “shell side”. In the case of capillary tubes, the envelope flow is therefore on the outside of the capillary envelopes, or along the envelope of the filter module. In the case of the membrane absorber, this is a second side of the membrane absorber.

The capillary flow can flow in the same direction as the envelope flow or, depending on the application, also in the opposite direction. The envelope flow or the capillary flow can also flow comparatively slowly, or quasi stand still, so that a flow velocity difference between the envelope flow and the capillary flow consists. The flow velocities are set so that an optimal exchange can be achieved in the dialyzer or in the filter device.

The device also has a first filter cap on the first end face of the at least one filter module with a first chamber and a second chamber and at least one filter module receptacle. The filter module or the filter modules are plugged into the filter module receptacle (s), for example, so that part of the housing protrudes into the filter cap.

The filter cap is designed in such a way that the first chamber of the filter cap is connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules and at the same time the second chamber of the filter cap is connected to the envelope sides of the filter modules. The capillary flows of the filter module or modules mix with one another in the first chamber, and the envelope flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the second chamber.

The device also has a second filter cap on the second end face of the at least one filter module, which is opposite the first end face, with a further filter module receptacle. In one example, the second filter cap can be mirror-symmetrical to the first filter cap, that is, it can be constructed in the same way as the first filter cap. With regard to the flow guidance, the second filter cap can preferably also be designed in such a way that it is designed for the fluid supply into the filter module and the first filter cap is designed for the fluid discharge from the filter module. The second filter cap can be arranged on the underside of the filter module or modules. In that case, the second filter cap can have fastening or support means in order to stabilize the device or to stabilize it in a set-up arrangement.

The first filter cap can have a first connection which is connected to the first chamber in a communicating manner. For example, the first connection is designed as a drain so that the fluid can flow out there. The first connection can also be designed as an inlet. The connection can be implemented, for example, as a hose connection, a screw connection or a flange, so that a pipe or a hose or the like can be connected to it in order to lead the first fluid to the first filter cap or to lead it away from the first filter cap.

The first filter cap can have a second connection, that is to say, for example, a second outlet or second inlet which is connected in a communicating manner with the second chamber. In other words, the connection can be designed so that a supply of Fluid is enabled. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid flows through the filter module in the same direction both on the capillary side and on the shell side, so that the first connection is a first outlet and the second connection is a second outlet.

A sealing element is preferably arranged between the first chamber and the second chamber to seal off the capillary flow from the envelope flow. This sealing element can be arranged on the outside of the housing of the filter module so that it is arranged between the first chamber and the second chamber when the filter module is inserted into the filter cap and seals the two chambers from one another.

The sealing element can thus be arranged in such a way that it seals the first chamber against the second chamber when the filter module or modules is / are inserted into the filter module receptacle.

The first and / or the second filter cap can furthermore have an outer, in particular axial, capillary flow channel which connects the first connection to the first chamber.

The first and / or the second filter cap can also have a capillary flow opening on the radial side for this purpose. In addition, the first and / or the second filter cap can have an envelope flow opening on the radial side.

The filter module can have a plurality of envelope flow openings arranged on the circumference of the filter housing, so that the envelope flow is distributed over the plurality of envelope flow openings. In this way, a distributed inflow of the envelope flow into the filter module or a distributed outflow of the envelope flow out of the filter module can be implemented. In particular, if the envelope flow openings are distributed uniformly over the radial direction of the filter module, the load, such as pressure load on the membrane element, can be significantly reduced by uniform flow distribution. A lower mechanical load on the membrane elements can mean an increased reliability of the device if the membrane elements can achieve longer service lives.

At least some of the radial envelope flow openings are preferably arranged in a common plane along the radial length of the filter housing. They are therefore arranged in a common plane which is perpendicular to the direction of extent of the filter module, and are distributed, for example, radially around the filter housing. For example, two envelope flow openings are arranged opposite one another, so that the The pressure surge that sets the inflow or outflow of the enveloping medium is reduced, possibly even canceling out each other, and thereby the mechanical load on the membrane element decreases.

The first and / or the second filter cap can furthermore have a support receptacle for receiving a support element connecting the first to the second filter cap. Such a support element can be a rod-shaped connecting element which is screwed, welded or glued into the first filter cap, for example, and to which the second filter cap can be attached and screwed, for example, with a connecting means such as a screw nut. A screw connection enables the same to exert a pressing force between the two filter caps on the filter module, so that if necessary the tightness can be increased and / or a tight fit can be achieved in pressure applications in which, for example, there are fluid pressures that are higher than the ambient pressure , for example in the range from 2 to 10 bar.

The support receptacle is arranged in particular between the filter modules. The support receptacle can comprise a screw sleeve which is glued, welded or otherwise fastened into one of the filter heads, for example. The support receptacle can further or alternatively comprise at least one securing element. This securing element can be arranged on the filter housing. For example, the securing element can comprise a snap ring or several snap rings.

The support receptacle is preferably at a distance from the fluid flows, so that the support element is not in contact with the fluid flows in the installed state.

Depending on the application, the size of the device or the filter modules, more than one support receptacle can also be provided, so that the support elements can also stabilize the device at the same time. For example, two or four support receptacles can be provided per filter cap. The support receptacles can each be arranged between two filter modules. The support receptacles can also all be arranged in an inner area between the filter modules, so that the filter modules are arranged around the support receptacles on the outside.

The filter module receptacle of the first or second filter cap can have a lateral collar to cover a filter module inserted into the filter module receptacle beyond a radial-side envelope flow opening, so that the end capillary flow opening and the radial-side envelope flow opening into the filter cap can be inserted and the fluid connection of the capillary flow with the first chamber and the envelope flow with the second chamber takes place during insertion.

The first and / or second filter cap can each have a filter module stop for each filter module receptacle. A filter module can, for example, rest with its front end against the filter module stop when it is completely inserted or pushed into the filter module receptacle. For example, the correct mounting of the filter module in the filter module mounting can then be ensured using the filter module stop. The filter module cannot be inserted too deeply if this should be possible otherwise, so that, for example, the capillary flow is not impaired.

The device typically comprises two or more filter modules which are inserted jointly into the first filter cap on the first end face. These can in particular be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or a plurality of filter modules which are in particular arranged next to one another and in particular have substantially identical dimensions or at least the same length to one another.

The filter modules are preferably arranged symmetrically or concentrically around the support receptacle

Each filter module can have a fluid barrier, in particular made of potting compound, on at least one side. The fluid barrier separates the capillary flow inside the filter module from the envelope flow. For example, the end of the membrane can also be welded to the fluid barrier, so that the capillary side and the shell side are separated.

The fluid barrier can preferably be designed to stabilize the membrane element. This can be achieved when the fluid barrier is placed on the membrane element. The fluid barrier preferably produces a mechanical connection between the membrane element and the housing, in particular between the filter capillaries and the housing.

The device can furthermore have a filter element fixing device for fixing the filter element or elements in the filter cap. For example, the filter element fixing is designed as a disk or mounting plate, with at least some of the filter elements being passed through openings in the filter element fixing device and, in particular, being fixed on or in the opening.

For this purpose, the filter element fixing device can have at least one screw thread, for example. Alternatively or cumulatively, the filter element fixing device can have one or more bayonet connectors and / or one or more locking pins for pairable connection or securing of the respective filter element to the filter element fixing device.

If the filter elements have no or only a slight temperature difference to the filter cap, they can have a larger diameter than the inner diameter of the filter element receptacle. This makes it possible to thermally fix the filter elements on or in the filter cap, for example by heating the filter cap before the filter elements are inserted and thereby expanding it. On the other hand, the filter elements can also be cooled before being installed in or on the filter cap. In other words, a temperature difference between the filter cap and the filter elements is applied to or in the filter cap before the filter elements are installed.

The invention further comprises a filter module for a device for separating components from a fluid, in particular as described above. The filter module comprises an, in particular elongate or tubular, filter housing, a membrane element arranged in the filter housing, the filter module having a first end face and a second end face opposite the first end face.

For the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module, the filter module provides a capillary side and an envelope side for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules. The filter module also has a plurality of envelope flow openings arranged on the circumference of the filter housing, which are arranged in a plane along the radial length of the filter housing, so that the envelope flow is distributed radially over the plurality of envelope flow openings.

The invention further comprises a filter cap for a device for separating components from a fluid, in particular as described above, which can in particular be arranged on a plurality of filter modules, as explained above. The filter cap comprises a first chamber, a second chamber, and at least one filter module receptacle, the first chamber of the filter cap being connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules inserted into the filter cap when the filter modules are inserted into the filter cap, and the second chamber of the first Filter cap is connected to the envelope sides of the filter modules when the filter modules are inserted into the filter cap, so that the capillary flows of the filter modules are mixed with one another in the first chamber and so that the envelope flows of the filter modules in the second chamber are mixed with one another. The invention finally comprises a method for producing or providing a device for separating components from a fluid, in particular as described above, with the steps of providing a first filter cap with a first chamber and a second chamber and at least one filter module holder; Introducing (for example, plugging in or screwing in) at least one, in particular elongated or tubular, filter module with filter housing and membrane element arranged therein, in particular membrane capillaries, with a first end face into a filter module receptacle of the first filter cap; Attaching a second filter cap to the second end face of the at least one filter module opposite the first end face, the filter module providing a capillary side and an envelope side for the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules; and wherein the first chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules and wherein the second chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the envelope sides of the filter modules, so that the capillary flows of the filter module or modules in the first chamber are mixed with one another and so that the Envelope flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the second chamber.

Furthermore, the step of frictional connection of the first filter cap to the second filter cap by means of a support element can be included.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the figures, with identical and similar elements in some cases being provided with the same reference symbols and the features of the various exemplary embodiments being able to be combined with one another.

Brief description of the figures

Show it:

1 side view of a device for filtering a fluid,

2 perspective view of a device,

Fig. 3 plan view of a filter cap of a device,

4 shows a side view of a further embodiment of a device, FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of a filter module,

6 top view of a filter module, ok

7 a sectional view of a detail of a device,

8 a sectional view of a detail of a further embodiment of the device,

9 a sectional view through a section of the device,

Fig. 10 sectional view through a filter cap along the line B-B,

11 shows a sectional view through the filter cap along the line C-C,

12 is a perspective view of a filter module,

13 shows a perspective detail of an end face of a filter module,

14 detailed section of a filter module,

15 detailed section of a further embodiment of a filter module,

16 side view of a further embodiment of a filter module,

17 shows a sectional view of a further embodiment of a detail of a device with

Filter modules according to Fig. 16,

18 shows a side view of a device with a filter element fixing device,

19a is a perspective view of a filter element fixing device,

19b shows a further perspective view of a filter element fixing device,

20 a plan view of a further embodiment of a filter cap,

FIG. 21 a section along the line D from FIG. 18,

Fig. 22 Section along the line C from Fig. 18,

FIG. 23 Section along the line A from FIG. 18,

24 side view of a filter element with detail A,

24a a detailed view of the area A from FIG. 24,

FIG. 25 a sectional view along the line B of FIG. 20,

26 shows another embodiment of a device for filtering a fluid with four filter elements,

FIG. 27 shows a detailed view of section A of FIG. 26,

FIG. 28 a sectional view along the line B of FIG. 26,

29 detailed view of a further embodiment of a filter module,

30 sectional view of a device of a further embodiment,

31 a sectional view of a further embodiment of a device,

32 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a filter cap,

32a an embodiment of a filter module suitable for use in the filter cap according to FIG

Fig. 32, 33 shows a further embodiment of a filter cap,

Fig. 33a filter module suitable for use in the filter cap according to Fig. 33,

34 sectional view of a device according to a further embodiment,

35 sectional view of a further embodiment of the device,

36 shows a further sectional view through a further embodiment of the device,

37 shows a section through yet another embodiment of the device.

Detailed description of the invention

1 shows a first embodiment of a device 30 for filtering a fluid in a side view, two filter modules 1 being shown in the device 30. The device 30 shown can comprise, for example, two or four filter modules 1, whereby the representation shown would not differ. The embodiment of FIG. 1 is intended to include four filter modules 1. The filter module or modules 1 can be designed, for example, as a cartridge 1, more specifically as an exchangeable cartridge 1, with a filter module 1 being exchangeable as a unit, for example in the event of a defect or wear.

The filter modules 1 are connected laterally (in the illustration in FIG. 1) or at their respective end faces 22 via filter caps 2, 2a. The filter caps 2, 2a or filter caps 2, 2a ensure the desired fluid flow. A connection to the “shell side” 23, 23a or to the envelope flow and to the “lumen side” 24, 24a or to the capillary flow is arranged on each filter cap 2. In this embodiment, the filter modules 1 are designed to be interchangeable with one another, that is to say in particular have identical or approximately the same external dimensions. This has the practical advantage that each filter module 1 can be exchanged with any exchange module (see e.g. Fig. 5).

Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the device 30 in a perspective view. In this embodiment, 4 filter modules 1 are “interconnected” and inserted into the common filter caps 2, 2a. To guide the fluid in the filter cap 2, a distribution channel 6 is formed on the outside and integrally with the filter cap 2a, which is connected to each capillary connection of the filter modules 1 inside the filter cap 2a. The enveloping flow is connected via the connection 23, that is to say discharged from the filter cap 2a or introduced into the filter cap 2a, depending on the connection direction. The embodiment of the device 30 shown is universal in this regard with regard to the direction (s) of flow shown, so it can be operated in all flow combinations, both in countercurrent and co-flowing, both "from top to bottom" (in the illustration) and "from bottom to top". This universality increases the profitability of production, since the same device 30 can be used for a wide variety of applications.

In this embodiment, the connections 23, 23a, 24, 24a are equipped with hose nozzles or hose connections, so that a hose can be pushed on there and, for example, fixed and sealed with a hose clamp or the like.

3 shows a plan view of a filter cap 2 of a device 30, the first and second connections 23, 24 being arranged on the top side of the filter cap 2. The second connection 24 is in fluid communication with the distribution channel 6. A fastening device 32 is arranged in the center, for example a threaded rod 33 can be passed there through the filter cap 2 from the inside of the device 30 and secured with a nut 34 from the outside. In Fig. 3, broken lines D and E are drawn, which the position of the drawings Figs. 7 and 9 symbolizes.

4 shows a further embodiment of the device 30 according to the invention with two filter modules 1, a first filter cap 2 and a second filter cap 2a. The connections 23, 23a, 24, 24a are each arranged to the side of the filter heads 2, 2a and are equipped, for example, with screw connections in order to connect corresponding pipe or hose lines to the connections 23, 23a, 24, 24a.

Throughout the description of the figures, the same reference symbols indicate the same objects, it being possible for the objects to be designed differently from one another, but to fulfill the same function.

FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a filter module 1 which has a filter housing 35 or jacket tube 35. Such a cartridge 1 has a membrane element 16 in the form of a capillary bundle 16 which is embedded in the cladding tube 35. The capillary bundle 16 is connected to the cladding tube 35 by a potting compound 20.

For fluid guidance, the cladding tube 35 is provided with radial openings 21 at the end of the capillary bundle, but on the inside of the potting compound 20 in order to enable access to the “shell side”, which in this embodiment is the area between the capillaries 16 within the cladding tube 35 . As FIG. 6 shows, the openings 21 can be distributed uniformly over the circumference of the cladding tube 35. The fluid flow entering or exiting is small due to the large open area which the openings 21 together provide, and the ones that occur Transverse forces that could act on the membranes 16 in the vicinity of the openings 21 are small compared to the prior art, even with high volume flows. This results in a low mechanical load on the membranes and thus a lower risk of membrane rupture and increased reliability in operation.

The capillaries 16 shown in FIG. 5 are open at the end faces 22. Here the fluid reaches the “lumen side” in the interior of the capillaries 16 or out of these and into the filter cap 2, 2a. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, the filter modules 1 have a groove 37 into which, for example, a sealing element can be inserted. The use of a sealing element in the groove 37 can be useful for use in the food industry, for example, because it can be designed in such a way that it can prevent or suppress the penetration of moisture such as cleaning solutions from outside into the device 30.

6 shows a side view of a filter module 1 with a filter housing 35 and the lateral openings 21 for connecting the envelope flow inside the filter module 1.

7 shows a sectional view of a detail of a device 30 assembled according to the invention, in which the ends 22 of the filter modules 1 are installed in module receptacles 42 of the filter cap 2. The “lumen side” connection 8 guides the fluid distributed via a distribution channel 6 and through openings 7 into the “lumen side” chambers 3. From there the fluid reaches the cartridge via the end faces 22 of the cartridges 1. The “shell side” chambers 4 receive the fluid through the “shell side” bores 9. From there the fluid reaches the “shell side” of the cartridges 1 via the lateral openings 21. The chambers 3, 4 are opposite each other and outwards corresponding seals 5 sealed. Stops 10 secure the cartridges 1 against axial displacement. Alternatively, the securing can also be implemented, for example, by means of snap rings on the cartridges.

8 shows a further sectional view of a detail of an alternative design of the device 30, wherein the fluids can be distributed directly via suitably designed chambers 3, 4. In the “shell side” chamber 4, the corresponding fluid is distributed to the cartridges 1 or taken up by the cartridges 1.

In Fig. 9, the spacer for the filter caps 2, 2a is shown. A securing means 34, here a nut, holds the filter cap 2, 2a tight, so that a distance established by the spacer 32 is maintained between the filter caps 2, 2a even during operation with increased internal pressure. The transition from the “shell side” connection to the distribution wells is also shown. For modules with 6 or more cartridges, more spacers should be used to relieve the larger filter caps evenly.

The distribution of the fluid within the filter cap 2 on the “lumen side” takes place through a distribution channel via openings 7. These openings are so large that the fluid can enter the “lumen side” chambers 3 without hindrance. In extreme cases, the openings are so large that the distribution channel is open along the entire length to the "Lumen Side" chambers.

FIG. 10 shows a sectional view through the filter cap 2 along the line B-B, as shown in FIG. The section shows the first chambers 3 of the filter cap 2; the individual chambers are brought together via the openings 7. The fastening device 32 is arranged in the center.

11 shows a sectional view through the filter cap 2 along the line C-C. The distribution of the fluid within the filter cap 2 on the “shell side” takes place in this embodiment through connection channels 11, for example designed as bores or provided by a casting or compression mold by means of molding. These connecting channels 11 are dimensioned in such a way that the fluid can enter the “shell side” chambers 4 without hindrance or can be removed from them. The connecting channels can be designed in such a way that the “shell side” chambers are connected to form a large chamber, so that the connecting channels form an integral part of the second chamber 4. The fluid supply to the cartridges 1 is preferably carried out in such a way that the transverse loading of the membrane capillaries 16 is as low as possible and thus membrane ruptures due to high transverse flows in the area of the “shell side” openings 21 can be avoided. The fluid can be diverted or fed into or out of the second chamber 4 by means of a bore 9 which, in this example, is arranged directly on one of the transverse channels 11.

Referring to FIG. 12, a perspective view of a filter module 1 is shown, the membrane capillaries 16 being open at the end faces 22. The envelope flow can be supplied or discharged via lateral openings 21. FIG. 13 shows a detail from FIG. 12, one possibility of arranging the membrane element 16 in the filter module 1 being shown. The membrane element 16 is designed as a bundle of membrane capillaries 16 lying next to one another, the enveloping flow being flushed through between the individual membrane capillaries and discharged or supplied at the lateral openings 21.

The cartridges 1 can be manufactured using the potting process. 13 shows an embodiment in which the connection between the cladding tube 35 and the membranes 16 to be connected by thermal welding or ultrasonic welding 20 to the end 12 of the capillaries 16 or tubes 16 at the respective end or ends 22 of the cladding tube 35.

14 shows a further alternative embodiment in which a mechanical seal is implemented, for example by means of a sealing element 14 such as an O-ring 14 between the membrane bundle 16 and the cladding tube 35 For example, the tube sheet 13 can be constructed from thermoplastic plastic 20, in which case the membrane elements 16 are welded to the tube sheet 13 at their end 12, for example. The ends 12 of the membrane elements 16 remain open towards the capillary flow connection 15. For example, the membrane elements 16 in the area of the ends 12 can be welded robotically or manually on their outer sides in order to set the sealing effect for the envelope flow.

15 shows the use as a membrane absorber, for which the cartridge concept of the device 30 is also suitable. In this case, the flow guidance within the cartridge 1 is such that supplied fluid reaches the cartridge 1 via the “shell side” connection 21.

There the fluid penetrates the cartridge 1, in particular releasing ingredients to the absorber 18. The absorber 18 is designed as a hollow cylinder. The fluid exits at the other end of the module 1 through the “lumen side” connection 15 of the cartridge 1. Alternatively, both “LumenSide” connections 15 on the two end faces 22 of the filter module 1 can also be used for fluid entry and exit. In rinsing mode, both connections are used on the “shell side” to clean the outer absorber surface. The same applies to the two "Lumen Side" connections to clean the inner absorber surface. The absorber is connected to the cladding tube 35 via an end plate 19. These connections are made by gluing. Alternatively, the end plate 19 can also be manufactured as a potting block.

FIG. 16 shows a further embodiment of a filter module 1 which, for example, in contrast to FIG. 6, has a further groove 38. For example, a position securing element (see FIG. 17), such as a snap ring in particular, can be inserted into the further groove 38.

Finally, FIG. 17 shows a detail for a device 30 in which filter modules 1 according to the example in FIG. 16 are used. The filter cap 2 has in this Embodiment no filter stops 10. Rather, the filter modules 1 in this embodiment have a position securing element 39, by means of which the filter modules 1 can be securely installed in the filter cap 2.

For the construction of the cartridges 1, membrane capillaries 16, the potting compound and the cladding tube 35 are commercially available raw materials. A suitable selection of materials allows certificates to be obtained, e.g. for contact with food or drinking water. The choice of materials also determines the chemical resistance. The dimensioning of the capillary geometry (diameter, wall thickness), the cladding tube 35 and the potting block essentially determines the mechanical stability that is important for operation at higher pressures (> 2 bar). Together with the choice of material, the dimensioning determines the mechanical stability at elevated temperatures (e.g. 60 ° C). The same applies to dynamic loads.

The thickness of the potting block is 20% to 50%, preferably 25% to 40% of the cladding tube diameter. The cartridges 1 can therefore be adapted within wide limits in terms of diameter and length. A range of 10 mm to 160 mm, preferably 25 mm to 120 mm and particularly preferably 40 mm to 100 mm can be achieved for the diameters. The maximum length is only determined by the maximum length of the capillary or tube bundle 16. Sensible length ranges are 100 mm to 3,800 mm, preferably 200 mm to 1,800 mm and particularly preferably 250 mm to 1,200 mm. A range of 10 mm to 160 mm, preferably 25 mm to 120 mm and particularly preferably 40 mm to 100 mm can be achieved for the diameters. The maximum length is only determined by the maximum length of the capillary or tube bundle 16. Sensible length ranges are 100 mm to 3,800 mm, preferably 200 mm to 1,800 mm and particularly preferably 250 mm to 1,200 mm.

The built-in membrane capillaries 16 or membrane tubes can be suitable for a wide variety of membrane separation processes. In dialysis, FO, transmembrane distillation, gas drying or humidification or membrane contactors, the controlled fluid flow on both the “lumen side” and the “shell side” is beneficial in terms of good mass transfer. Likewise, membrane capillaries 16 or membrane tubes, made of polymeric or inorganic material, for ultrafiltration and microfiltration as well as nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, gas separation, pervaporation and vapor permeation can be used.

In the case of membranes 16 which have a coating, it is possible here to also apply this in situ. The cartridge concept is particularly advantageous here because the units are smaller coated and checked in quality control before they are assembled into larger units (modules).

Commercially available raw materials are available for the filter caps 2, 2a. The same relationships apply as for the cartridges 1. The filter caps 2, 2a can be manufactured in different ways. Suitable Fierstellverfahren are injection molding, machining, or also additive processes such as in particular 3D printing or combinations thereof. Semi-finished products produced with these processes can also be connected to one another by thermal processes such as joining or welding, ultrasonic or friction welding or by mechanical securing using seals in order to obtain the desired shape.

With these freedoms, membrane devices 30 can be designed and manufactured which can be adapted in wide areas to requirements from industrial processes. This applies to both operating conditions and module sizes and compliance requirements.

The number of cartridges 1 can be varied within wide ranges. It can be 1, 2,

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or more cartridges can be used. The maximum number of cartridges 1 is only limited by the maximum size of the filter caps 2, 2a provided in practice. For example, in one embodiment 7 cartridges 1 can be arranged concentrically, or 13 cartridges 1, which are arranged, for example, in two ring planes around a concentric center. In one example, 18 cartridges 1 can also be arranged concentrically around a cartridge 1 in the middle, that is to say six cartridges 1 in a first ring area and cartridges 1 in a second ring area 12, which are arranged around the first ring area. It is advantageous if the overall size of the device 30 can be kept small by means of a tightly packed arrangement. The flow distribution of the fluids through the cartridges 1 is preferably also taken into account here.

18 shows a further embodiment of a device 30 for filtering a fluid. In this embodiment, the device 30 has 19 filter elements 1, which are inserted with their front ends 22 into a common filter cap 2 and on the other side into a filter cap 2a. The device 30 has a filter element fixing device 43, 43a on each of the two filter caps 2, 2a, which secure or fix the filter modules 1 in the respective filter cap 2, 2a. As before, the filter caps 2, 2a take over the fluid distribution in the interior of the respective filter cap 2, 2a as well as the In this case 19 filter cartridges 1 are received. The filter cartridges 1 filter the fluid, but in the embodiment shown can also take on static tasks. The filter modules 1 thus keep the two filter caps 2, 2a at a defined distance and stabilize the device 30 as a whole. In such an embodiment of the invention, no further support or tensioning device is necessary in the device 30 in order to ensure the statics of the device. In other words, the filter modules 1 stabilize the device 30 in such a way that twisting, deformation or a divergence of the device 30 is prevented.

The filter element fixation or cartridge holder 43 can be connected to the filter cap 2, 2a via fixings.

Referring to FIG. 19a, a perspective view of a filter element fixing device 43 is shown, which in this case is provided for receiving 19 filter modules 1 and accordingly has 19 filter element through openings 431 for inserting the filter elements 1. A receiving groove 48 for receiving a snap ring, e.g. 39, is arranged in a respective filter element through opening 431. In this embodiment, the filter element fixing device 43 is screwed tightly to the filter cap 2 with six fastening means 432.

FIG. 19b shows the further perspective view, referred to as the underside, of a filter element fixing device 43, which is also designed to accommodate 19 filter modules 1 and accordingly has 19 through openings 431. To stabilize and / or fix the filter element fixing device 43, it has fastening receptacles 44, each with four ribs 441, on the underside. For example, the filter modules 1 can each be fixed by means of a position securing element 39, in particular a snap ring, which is arranged between the filter cap 2 and the cartridge holder 43.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of a filter cap 2, prepared to accommodate 19 filter modules 1. A first connection 23 and a second connection 24 for supplying and removing fluids are arranged on the top of the filter cap 2. The fluid distribution of the lumen side takes place by means of channels 6. Screw elements 50 are inserted from above through the filter cap 2 to fix the cartridge holder 43 on the underside of the filter cap 2. The screw elements 50 are screwed into the fastening receptacles 44 (see FIG. 19b), for example. Referring to FIG. 21, a sectional view along the line D sketched in FIG. 18 is shown through a filter cap 2, the connection channels 7 for supplying the fluids of the lumen surfactants being shown. The distribution channels 6 branch off from the feed 24 to connecting channels 7 which contact the respective filter module 1. For example, the distribution channels 6 can branch out in the shape of a star or snowflake. The shell side fluid supply 23 is only visible as a passage in this plane. Fastening elements 50 extend through the cutting plane D, in particular for fixing the cartridge holder 43.

FIG. 22 shows a sectional view along the line C, which is shown in FIG. 18, to show the distribution of the shell side fluid in the filter cap 2. The fluid flows from the first connection 23 into a chamber-like region 4a, from where it flows through the transverse channel 11 and passages 9 to the filter modules 1 distributed. The filter modules 1 are supplied with the shell side fluid on their respective sides, or this is discharged laterally from the filter modules 1.

FIG. 23 shows a sectional view along the line A of the embodiment which can be seen in FIG. 18, a plan view of the underside of the cartridge holder 43 also being made possible here. The filter modules 1 extend through the through openings 431 in the cartridge holder 43 and are inserted in the filter cap 2 or connected to the filter cap 2. To fix it, the cartridge holder 43 has fastening receptacles 44 which are arranged between the filter modules 1. Arranged on the fastening receptacles or embodied integrally with the fastening receptacles 44, stiffeners 441 are attached in a star shape around the respective fastening receptacle 44. The stiffeners 441 are designed in the form of four ribs. In this embodiment, the stiffeners 441 are designed in such a way that they reinforce the fastening receptacle 44 and prevent the fastening means 50 from breaking out in the fastening receptacle 44, for example in the event that the filter element fixing device 43 is not arranged exactly flat on the filter cap 2 or in the Case that transverse forces act on the device 30. On the other hand, the arrangement of the stiffeners 441 on the underside of the filter element fixing device 30 can at the same time stiffen the filter element fixing device 30 as such and ensure increased stability. The underside of the filter element fixing device 30 denotes that side which points in the direction of the second filter element fixing device 30 when it is used, or in the direction of that filter cap 2, 2a on which the Filter element fixing device 30 is not adjacent, but rather to which it is arranged at a distance.

Referring to FIG. 24, a side view of a further embodiment of a filter module 1 is shown, the detail A of one end 22 of the filter module 1 being shown enlarged in FIG. 24a. In FIG. 24 a, a front end 22 of a filter module is shown, having a groove 37, a further groove 38 and a position securing element 39.

FIG. 25 shows a sectional view of part of the device 30, the section being made along the section line B indicated in FIG. A plurality of filter modules 1 are inserted into the filter cap 2. The filter element fixing device 43 is screwed on underneath the filter cap 2 by means of screw connections 50, the fastening screw 50 being screwed into the fastening receptacle 44 of the cartridge holder 43. The filter modules rest against the filter cap 2 with the position securing element 39, the cartridge holder 43 pressing against the same from underneath the position securing element 39 and thus securing the filter modules 1 on the filter cap 2.

For example, assembly with the cartridge holder 43 can be done in such a way that the cartridge holder 43 is first slipped over all filter modules together, then each or at least some of the filter modules 1 are equipped with the position lock 39 and then the filter cap 2 is attached to the top of the filter modules 1 and the cartridge holder 43 is secured with the fasteners 50.

FIG. 26 shows a further embodiment of a device 30 for filtering a fluid, four filter modules 1 being inserted into a respective filter cap 2, 2a at the respective end 22 of the filter module 1. The device 30 is equipped with two cartridge holders 43, 43a, which are connected to the respective filter cap 2, 2a. FIG. 27 shows a detailed view in the area of the marking “A” from FIG. 26, the arrangement of the cartridge holder 43a with ribs 441 and fastening receptacle 44a being illustrated.

FIG. 28 shows a sectional view along the line B shown in FIG. 26 through four filter modules 1 and thus a plan view at the same time of the underside of the cartridge holder 43a with fastening receptacle 44a and four symmetrically arranged ribs 441a. The ribs 441a serve at the same time to stiffen the cartridge holder 43a and to secure the fastening receptacle 44a, so that it can be subjected to a possible transverse load or shear loads can be supported. In particular, the ribs 441a can help prevent the fastening receptacle 44a from breaking out.

FIG. 29 shows a detailed view of a filter module 1 with its front end 22. The filter module 1 has a groove 37, a further groove 38, a position securing element 39, a further groove 40 and lateral openings 21.

Referring to FIG. 30, a section through a device 30 is shown, the cartridge holder 43 being fixed to the filter cap 2 with a central connector 50. This embodiment is characterized by additional sealing elements 45 and 46 which effectively separate the external environment from the interior of the device 30. A stopper 47, which covers the fastening means 50, is also arranged on the filter cap 2. This prevents undesired penetration of particles, such as dust or liquids, into the device 30 by closing transitions and covering gaps. In environments with increased hygiene requirements, such as in the food industry or biotechnology, it is advantageous to be able to clean the filters more easily from the outside without leaving residues in cavities that are difficult to access, which is why the embodiment of FIG. 30 is particularly suitable there.

Referring to FIG. 31, an alternative possibility of axially securing the filter modules 1 on the filter cap 2 is shown. Cartridges 1 can be paired with the filter caps 2 with pairs of threads 51. For example, right-hand threads can be used at one end of the filter modules 1 and left-hand threads at the other opposite end of the filter modules 1, so that the filter modules 1 are equally screwed into both filter caps 2, 2a with a screwing movement.

FIG. 32 shows a perspective view of a filter cap 2, an alternative form for axially securing the filter modules 1 on the filter cap 2 being shown. For this purpose, the filter element receptacles 42 have bayonet receptacles 53, the filter modules being pushed into the filter element receptacles 42 and rotated when the bayonet pin 52 hits the bayonet receptacle 53 in order to secure the position.

FIG. 32 a shows a suitable example of a filter module 1 with a bayonet pin 52, which is arranged laterally on the filter housing 35. The corresponding filter module 1 preferably has two bayonet pins 52 arranged opposite one another. Figure 33 shows yet another way of securing the filter modules 1 in the filter cap 2 and a perspective view of a filter cap 2 with four filter element receptacles 42. In this example, each filter element receptacle 42 has two locking pins 54, which one correspondingly in receptacle grooves 55 can be paired with equipped filter module 1 can be inserted. This also ensures that the filter modules are axially secured to the filter cap 2.

FIG. 33a shows a corresponding filter module 1, which is prepared for insertion into the filter cap 2 shown in FIG. 33, having a receiving groove 55 for at least one locking pin 54 of the filter cap 2. The receiving groove 55 is arranged radially around the filter module 1.

FIG. 34 shows yet another possibility of axially fixing the filter modules 1 in the filter cap 2, the filter modules being shrink-fitted in the filter cap 2. For this purpose, the fit between the sealing seats 56 of the filter cap 2 and the filter modules 1 is designed as a press fit. For assembly, for example, the filter cap 2 is heated to such an extent that there is a clearance fit and the filter modules 1 can be inserted into the filter cap 2 without resistance. After the filter cap 2 has cooled, a press fit is produced between the sealing seats 56 of the filter cap 2 and the filter housing 35 of the respective filter module 1. Additional sealing elements 5 can be used, but are not required in this example in order to produce sufficient tightness.

To further improve the axial fixation, the surfaces in the areas of the sealing seat 56 can be profiled. For this purpose, a sealing seat 57 is also set up on the respective filter module 1. Both the sealing seats 56 of the filter cap 2 and the sealing seats or the sealing seat 57 of the filter module 1 can be equipped with a corresponding profile.

FIG. 36 shows a sectional view through a device 30, the filter modules 1 being axially fixed in the filter cap 2 in that they are glued in the filter element receptacles 42. For this purpose, the filter element receptacle 42 has distribution rings 60 and potting channels 61 that run radially around the respective filter module 1. The fits can be designed as a press fit. The assembly can therefore be carried out as with the version with a shrink fit. In addition, an adhesive is introduced via the potting channels 61, which is pressed into the distribution rings 60 and which the filter modules 1 reliably with the after it has hardened Filter cap 2 connects. In this way, an axial fixation of the filter modules 1 on the filter cap 2 as well as a fluid seal is guaranteed at the same time.

Finally, FIG. 37 shows a further possibility of axially fixing the filter modules 1 on the filter cap 2 by means of a longitudinal section through the device 30. The connection between the filter module 1 and the filter cap 2 is produced by thermal welding. The filter modules 1 are inserted into the filter cap 2 for assembly, then welding elements 62, which are arranged in the filter element receptacle 42, are activated. In the form of an electrical resistance wire, the temperature in the welding element is increased by supplying electrical energy. If the melting point of the polymer used is reached, a reliable connection is created between the filter cap 2 and the filter module 1 in the filter element receptacle 42 of the filter cap 2.

It is evident to the person skilled in the art that the embodiments described above are to be understood as examples and that the invention is not restricted to them, but can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of protection of the claims. Furthermore, it can be seen that the features, regardless of whether they are disclosed in the description, the claims, the figures or otherwise, also individually define essential components of the invention, even if they are described together with other features. In all figures, the same reference symbols represent the same objects, so that descriptions of objects that are possibly only mentioned in one or at least not with regard to all figures can also be transferred to these figures, with regard to which the object is not explicitly described in the description .

Reference list:

1 filter module

2, 2a filter cap

3 first chamber, capillary side

4 second chamber, shell side

4a chamber-like area

5 sealing element

6 channel

7 connection channel

8 connection

9 Passage or bore

10 Filter stop 11 Cross channel 12 End (s) of the membrane element (s)

13 tube sheet

14 Sealing element or O-ring

15 end capillary flow opening of the filter module

16 membrane element or filter capillaries 18 membrane element or absorber

19 end plate

20 fluid barrier, separating element or potting compound 21 lateral openings 22 front end

23, 23a first connection

24, 24a second connection 30 device

32 Fastening device or spacer

33 threaded rod

34 Fuse or nut

35 filter housing or jacket tube 37 groove 38 more groove

39 Position securing element such as snap ring

40 2nd further groove 42 filter element receptacle 43, 43a filter element fixing device or cartridge holder

431 Through hole of the cartridge holder

44, 44a Fastening seat with ribs on the cartridge holder

441, 441a rib of the fastening seat

45 sealing element to the outside cartridge 46 sealing element to the outside filter cap

47 stopper

48 Snap ring holder

50 Fastening (screw) cartridge holder

51 Thread pairing 52 Bayonet pin

53 bayonet mount

54 locking pin

55 Groove locking pin

56 Sealing seat, filter cap. 57 Sealing seat, cartridge

60 Distribution ring 61 Potting channel 62 Welding elements 81 Hose fasteners

Claims

Patent claims: A device (30) for separating components from a fluid, the device comprising: - At least one, in particular elongated or tubular, filter module (1) with filter housing (35) and a membrane element (16) arranged therein, the at least one filter module having a first end face (22) and a second end face opposite the first end face, and wherein the filter module provides a capillary side and an envelope side for the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules, - A first filter cap (2) on the first end face of the at least one filter module with a first chamber (3) and a second chamber (4) and at least one filter module receptacle (42), - A second filter cap (2a) on the second end of the at least one filter module opposite the first end, with a further filter module receptacle, the first chamber of the first filter cap being connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules and the second chamber of the first filter cap being connected to the envelope sides of the Filter modules is connected, so that the capillary flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the first chamber and so that the envelope flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the second chamber. 2. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the membrane element (16) comprises filter capillaries, in particular membrane capillaries, and / or wherein the membrane element (16) comprises a membrane absorber. 3. Device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first connection (8, 24) which is connected in a communicating manner to the first chamber (3), in particular a drain and / or furthermore with a second connection (23) which is connected in a communicating manner with the second chamber, in particular a second outlet. 4. Device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sealing element (5) arranged between the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) in the first filter cap (2) for sealing the capillary flow against the envelope flow. 5. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the sealing element (5) is arranged in such a way that it seals the first chamber (3) against the second chamber (4) when the filter module or modules (1) are inserted into the filter module receptacle ( 42) is / are plugged in. 6. Device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, the first and / or the second filter cap (2, 2a) further with an outside, in particular axial, capillary flow channel (6) which connects the first outlet (24) to the first chamber (3) connects, or a radial-side capillary flow opening (24) and / or a radial-side envelope flow opening (21, 23). 7. Device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of envelope flow openings (21, 23) arranged on the circumference of the filter housing (35), so that the envelope flow is distributed over the plurality of envelope flow openings. 8. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least some of the radial envelope flow openings (21) are arranged in a plane along the radial length of the filter housing (35). 9. Device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, the first and / or the second filter cap (2, 2a) further with a support receptacle (33, 34) for receiving a connecting the first with the second filter cap Support element (32). 10. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the support receptacle (33, 34) is arranged between the filter modules (1), and / or wherein the support receptacle (33, 34) comprises a screw sleeve, and / or wherein the support receptacle at least comprises a securing element (11), and / or wherein the support receptacle is spaced apart from the fluid flows, so that the support element is not in contact with the fluid flows in the installed state. 11. The device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter module receptacle (42) has a lateral collar to cover a filter module (1) inserted therein beyond a radial-side envelope flow opening (21, 23), so that the end capillary flow opening (15) and the radial-side enveloping flow opening (21, 23) can be inserted into the filter cap (2, 2a) and the fluid connection of the capillary flow with the first chamber (3) and the enveloping flow with the second chamber (4) takes place during insertion. 12. The device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second filter cap (2, 2a) each has a filter module stop (10) for each filter module (1) or for each filter module receptacle (42), so that in particular, the filter module rests against the filter module stop when it is pushed into the filter module receptacle and the correct reception of the filter module in the filter module receptacle is ensured by means of the filter module stop. 13. The device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises two or more filter modules (1) which are inserted jointly into the first filter cap (2) on their first end face (22), in particular 2, 3, 4 , 5, 6, 7, 8 or a plurality of filter modules, which are in particular arranged next to one another and in particular essentially identical Dimensions or at least the same length to each other. 14. Device (30) according to at least one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the filter modules (1) are arranged symmetrically or concentrically around the support receptacle (33, 34). 15. The device (30) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein each filter module (1) has a fluid barrier (20) on at least one side, in particular made of potting compound, the fluid barrier separating the capillary flow inside the filter module from the envelope flow, 16. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fluid barrier (20) is designed to stabilize the membrane element (16) and to establish a mechanical connection between the membrane element and the filter housing (35), in particular between the filter capillaries and the filter housing . 17. Device (30) according to one of the preceding claims, the device further comprising a filter element fixing device (43) for fixing the filter element or elements (1) in the filter cap (2, 2a). 18. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the filter element fixing device (43) has at least one screw thread (51) and / or a bayonet connector (52) and / or a locking pin (54) for pairable connection or securing of the respective filter element (1 ) with the filter element fixing device. 19. Device (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter elements (1), if there is no or only a slight temperature difference between them and the filter cap (2, 2a), have a larger diameter than the inner diameter of the filter element receptacle (42 ). 20. Filter module (1) for a device (30) for separating components from a fluid, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an, in particular elongate or tubular, filter housing (35), a membrane element (16) arranged in the filter housing, wherein the filter module has a first end face (22) and a second end face opposite the first end face, and wherein the filter module provides a capillary side and an envelope side for the at least one fluid flowing through the filter module for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules, as well as a plurality of envelope flow openings (21) arranged on the circumference of the filter housing, which are arranged in a plane along the radial length of the filter housing, so that the envelope flow is distributed radially over the plurality of envelope flow openings. 21. Filter cap (2, 2a) for a device (30) for separating components from a fluid, in particular according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 19, which can be arranged in particular on a plurality of filter modules (1) according to the preceding claim, the filter cap comprising: a first chamber (3), a second chamber (4), and at least one filter module receptacle (42), the first chamber of the filter cap being connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules inserted in the filter cap when the filter modules are in the filter cap are used, and wherein the second chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the envelope sides of the filter modules when the filter modules are inserted into the filter cap, so that the capillary flows of the filter modules in the first chamber are mixed with one another and so that the envelope flows of the filter modules in the second chamber are mixed together. 22. A method for producing a device (30) for separating components from a fluid, in particular according to at least one of claims 1 to 15, with the following steps: Providing a first filter cap (2) with a first chamber (3) and a second chamber (4) and at least one filter module receptacle (42), Introduction of at least one, in particular elongate or tubular, filter module (1) with filter housing (35) and one arranged therein Membrane element (16), with a first end face (22) in the filter module receptacle of the first filter cap, Attaching a second filter cap (2a) to the second end face of the at least one filter module opposite the first end face, the filter module for the at least one flowing through the filter module Fluid provides a capillary side and an envelope side for generating a capillary flow and an envelope flow in each of the filter modules, and wherein the first chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the capillary sides of the filter modules and wherein the second chamber of the first filter cap is connected to the envelope sides of the filter modules, so that the capillary flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the first chamber and so that the envelope flows of the filter module or modules are mixed with one another in the second chamber. 23. The method according to the preceding claim, further comprising the step of frictionally connecting the first filter cap (2) to the second filter cap (2a) by means of a support element (32).