阅读说明：本技术 用于从液体和气体中分离出固体的设备 (Apparatus for separating solids from liquids and gases ) 是由 K·维特 P·穆勒 于 2019-07-03 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明说明了一种用于从液体或气体中分离出固体以及用于固体排出的设备。本发明包括压力容器(1)和至少一个过滤元件(10),其中,所述至少一个过滤元件(10)被布置在柔性容器(8)内,所述柔性容器被布置在所述压力容器(1)内并且相对于这一压力容器被紧密地封闭。所述压力容器(1)包括至少一个用于固体排出的出口(6),所述柔性容器(8)包括至少一个排出接口(14),其中,所述柔性容器(8)的所述排出接口(14)通过所述压力容器(1)的出口(6)来引导,并且相对于所述压力容器(1)被紧密地封闭。同时,所述出口(6)和所述柔性容器(8)的所述排出接口(14)可借助密封结构(7、7)相对于所述柔性容器(8)和所述压力容器(1)外部的周围环境(3)被紧密地密封。(The invention relates to a device for separating solids from liquids or gases and for discharging the solids. The invention comprises a pressure vessel (1) and at least one filter element (10), wherein the at least one filter element (10) is arranged within a flexible container (8) which is arranged within the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly closed with respect to this pressure vessel. The pressure vessel (1) comprises at least one outlet (6) for solids discharge, the flexible vessel (8) comprises at least one discharge interface (14), wherein the discharge interface (14) of the flexible vessel (8) is guided through the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly closed with respect to the pressure vessel (1). At the same time, the outlet (6) and the outlet connection (14) of the flexible container (8) can be tightly sealed by means of sealing structures (7, 7) with respect to the flexible container (8) and the surroundings (3) outside the pressure container (1).)

1. A device for separating solids from a liquid or gas, comprising a pressure vessel (1) with at least one filter element (10), wherein the at least one filter element (10) is arranged within a flexible vessel (8) which is arranged within the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly sealed with respect to this pressure vessel, characterized in that the pressure vessel (1) comprises at least one outlet (6) for solids discharge and the flexible vessel (8) comprises at least one discharge interface (14), wherein the discharge interface (14) of the flexible vessel (8) is guided through the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly sealed with respect to the pressure vessel (1), and wherein the outlet (6) and the discharge interface (14) of the flexible vessel (8) can be sealed with the aid of a sealing mechanism (7), 7', 7 ") is tightly sealed with respect to the flexible container (8) and the surrounding environment (3) outside the pressure vessel (1).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing structure (7) is a clamping device.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing structure (7) is a pinch valve.

4. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing between the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8) and the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) is achieved by means of a sealing gasket.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the sealing gasket is an O-ring or a planar gasket.

6. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the diameter of the outlet (6) for solids discharge is at least 15mm, in particular at least 20mm, preferably at least 25 mm.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the diameter of the outlet (6) for solids discharge is the same size as the diameter of the pressure vessel (1).

8. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one filter element (10) is arranged suspended.

9. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a plurality of filter elements (10), wherein the filter elements (10) are each designed as a flat sheet and are arranged next to one another and connected to one another in a filter group, wherein, between the individual filter elements (10), a gap is present over a substantial part of their vertical longitudinal extent, the filter elements (10) being compressible against one another.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the at least one filter element is designed to be circular.

11. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible container (8) is removable from the pressure vessel (1).

12. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one outlet (6) for solids discharge and the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8) are arranged in a lower region of the pressure vessel (1) and the flexible container (8).

13. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible containers (8) can be pressed together by external pressure.

14. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible container (8) has an input and output interface (13 ', 13 "), and that the input and output interface (13', 13") is provided with hoses inside the flexible container (8).

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the hose terminates with a nozzle on the flexible container (8).

16. Use of a device according to any of the preceding claims for filtering solids from liquids and gases and for discharging solids from the device.

17. Method for filtering solids from liquids or gases and discharging solids by means of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising the steps of:

a. applying a pressure difference between the interior of the flexible container (8) and the filtrate outlet;

b. filling the flexible container (8) with a suspension or gas;

c. -applying a negative pressure in the filtrate outlet or an overpressure in the flexible container (8);

d. -extruding the flexible container (8);

e. thoroughly washing the solids with a washing liquid or a washing gas;

f. the solids are washed by the filter element (10);

g. opening the sealing mechanism (7, 7') and discharging the solids on the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) through the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8).

18. The method of claim 17, wherein steps a through g are repeated one or more times.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a device for separating solids from liquids and gases and for discharging the solids, consisting of one or more filter elements and a discharge mechanism in a pressure vessel, for example a flexible vessel made of a film or flexible plastic, and to the use thereof.

Background

Numerous filtration systems with flexible containers are known, most of which fall under the definition of "single-pass systems" or "single-use". The advantages of these systems include sterility of the single pass elements, less investment costs, less cleaning and verification costs of the stainless steel support and pressure vessel, no risk of contamination between the two production cycles, and high flexibility and rapidity in production changeover.

EP 2283907a1 describes a device for filtering liquids comprising a filter element in the form of a scroll which is tightly surrounded by a plastic film and which runs within a holding container. During the process of filtration, solids are contained within the scroll and can no longer be removed or removed from the flexible container. This type of filtration is used for suspensions with a low solids content due to the limited size of the filtration area.

In WO2012/007222a1 a filter module for single use is described, which consists of a preferably horizontally lying disc-shaped filter element which is tightly surrounded by a flexible, rotatable jacket. For operation, the unit is placed in a positioning frame which allows the flexible casing to be supported within the unfiltered space by the internal pressure applied when it is extended and limits its stretching. The flexible container cannot be squeezed out by applying pressure and can only be detached by means of a vacuum. Furthermore, due to the geometrical extension of the disc-shaped gasket, the filter surface is not necessarily cleanable and solids discharge may not be successful.

DE 3807828 discloses a device for filtering liquids in a closed container, comprising a multi-part welded-together cover made of thermoplastic and a plastic-film hose with a filter insert arranged therein. The top cover and the filter element are connected through threads. A plastic hose can be installed within the housing and sealed from the surrounding environment by compressing the top cover, while the filter cartridge is located within the flexible plastic hose. The apparatus does not provide any solution for residue filtration, solids cleaning, solids drying or solids discharge. Even without any interface for the discharge of concentrated or dried solids.

The solutions shown, which are known from the prior art, allow solids to be separated from liquids and gases in a sterile area separated from the surroundings by a flexible partition wall. No real discharge and cleaning and harvesting of solids is provided. The flexible container is often cut open for use to discharge solids. This has the disadvantage that the solids are contaminated or enter the surroundings as a result of the interruption of the sterility. Furthermore, as the flexible container is damaged, it is no longer possible to recycle it.

Disclosure of Invention

Objects of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for separating solids from liquids and gases which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks and provides a simplified filtration system which is reusable and which enables solids to be separated from liquids and gases in flexible containers under sterile conditions and in areas sealed from the surroundings, possibly including cleaning, dehumidification and subsequent discharge from the apparatus. The advantage of the solids discharge is that the filter surface is freed and the filter vessel is regenerated, so that the filtration can be operated again in the same filter vessel.

These devices are used, for example, in the food industry or in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Specification

The invention relates to a device for separating solid particles from liquids and gases, comprising a pressure vessel and at least one or more filter elements, wherein the filter elements are arranged in a flexible container made of plastic, which container is arranged inside the pressure vessel and is tightly closed with respect to this pressure vessel and the environment outside the pressure vessel. The flexible container is preferably removable from the pressure vessel. According to the invention, the pressure vessel comprises at least one outlet for solids discharge and the flexible vessel comprises at least one discharge interface, wherein the discharge interface of the flexible vessel is guided through the outlet of the pressure vessel and is tightly closed off with respect to the pressure vessel. Wherein the outlet of the pressure vessel and the discharge interface of the flexible vessel are tightly sealable by means of a sealing mechanism.

The device according to the invention makes it possible to obtain solids which are as dry as possible, a slurry of solids which is concentrated by a filtration process in a flexible container, and to achieve complete emptying of the filtration container and regeneration of the filtration surface for reuse of the filtration device.

The outlet for solids discharge is preferably a connection head and is arranged on the vessel bottom, on the vessel shell or on the vessel top cover of the pressure vessel. The connection head allows the discharge connection, preferably an extension, of the flexible container to be guided through the pressure container wall and to be tightly sealed.

A sealing means is arranged next to the outlet or the connection head for solids discharge.

In a preferred embodiment, the sealing mechanism for opening and sealing the outlet for the solids discharge is a clamping device, preferably a clamping valve. The sealing means preferably seals the extension of the flexible container or the attached hose in a contactless manner. This is particularly advantageous in aseptic applications, as no matter is in contact with the valve within the flexible container. In another embodiment, the sealing mechanism comprises a valve, preferably a pressure operated valve or a manual valve, such as a ball valve, which may be connected to the flexible container. The sealing mechanism acts to seal the flexible container from an ambient environment external to the pressure vessel. In one embodiment, the sealing mechanism also seals the region between the flexible filter container and the pressure vessel from the surrounding environment.

The outlet connection of the flexible container may be a part or an extension of the flexible container or a hose connected to the flexible container, which may be guided and fixed by the connection head of the pressure container and the sealing mechanism.

In a special embodiment, the sealing between the outlet connection of the flexible container and the outlet of the pressure vessel is preferably achieved by means of a sealing gasket. The sealing gasket is preferably an O-ring or a flat gasket.

The outlet for solids discharge, the so-called connection head and the discharge connection of the flexible container are preferably arranged in the lower region of the pressure vessel and the flexible container. This makes it possible to simply discharge the solids that have settled and have accumulated in the region below the container during cleaning due to gravity. In another embodiment, the outlet for solids discharge and the discharge interface of the flexible container are arranged in a side or upper region of the pressure vessel and the flexible container. For solids with a strong sedimentation effect, it is advantageous to guide the solids discharge in the lower region of the vessel. The dimensions of the outlet for the discharge of solids are selected such that the solids are formed to flow out as unimpeded as possible. For very dry solids, the diameter of the outlet, i.e. of the respective connecting head and of the sealing means, is therefore selected to be as large as possible. Preferably the diameter of the outlet for solids discharge is at least 15mm, more preferably at least 20mm, especially preferably at least 25 mm. In one embodiment, the outlet for solids discharge has the same diameter as the pressure vessel, in particular as the vessel shell of the pressure vessel. In this embodiment mode, it is particularly preferred that the outlet for solids discharge is located in the lower region of the pressure vessel and that the entire pressure vessel bottom is replaced by a sealing mechanism.

Preferably, the one or more filter elements are arranged suspended within the pressure vessel.

In one embodiment, the plurality of filter elements are each designed in planar form and are arranged side by side in a suspended manner, so that a large ratio of total filter area to volume is formed, which is very advantageous for the throughflow and filter efficiency of the device. Furthermore, the filter elements arranged next to one another can be pressed together. For this purpose, they are connected to one another to form a filter group having a plurality of filter elements, wherein between the individual filter elements, in each case a predetermined gap is present in the largely perpendicular longitudinal extent thereof.

In a further embodiment, the at least one filter element is designed as a circle. In the following, circular is understood to mean that the diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the filter element is circular. In this embodiment, the at least one filter element is designed, for example, as a hose. In a further embodiment, the at least one filter element is designed in the form of a disk. In the following, disc-shaped is understood to mean that the at least one filter element has the shape of a plane disc and can be arranged so as to be stackable on top of one another or to be suspended side by side.

The filter group consisting of a plurality of flat, round or hose-type filter elements arranged side by side can be pressed together due to the interspaces between the filter elements and the tough, elastic properties of the plastic material inserted for the interior of the container. The elasticity of the filter group thus formed is therefore advantageous when the filter container is emptied, for example during the course of a residual filtration or solids discharge, since this filter group can be compressed together to a greater extent. Furthermore, the elasticity and tightness of the filter element improve the drainage of the residual material and reduce the raw material content.

The truly flexible container is constructed of a flexible plastic material in which the one or more filter elements are disposed. The filtration process is carried out entirely within the isolated, sealed space of the flexible inner vessel, while the liquid and gas to be treated are only in contact with the plastic of the inner flexible vessel, respectively. This has significant advantages when corrosive media and aseptic processes are involved.

Preferably, the inner flexible container together with the filter element can be removed as a whole from the pressure vessel without the gas or the liquid coming into contact with the pressure vessel. This enables the apparatus to form a single pass system. Thus, the apparatus does not require costly cleaning and sterilization. The invention also enables a multi-pass system to be achieved in that the solids can be thoroughly cleaned with a cleaning liquid or gas and cleaned by the filter element and then discharged from the apparatus. The device can thus be used several times for the same suspension, and the flexible container can be removed from the pressure vessel without having to be removed after each throughflow.

The flexible inner container, together with the filter element and the actual filter container, are made entirely of plastic, preferably a tough, elastic material, can be folded compactly, can be stored, and can be recycled after use or cleaned entirely by burning out. The outer pressure vessel is used to provide stability to the system and the necessary pressure drop for pre-filtration, main filtration and residual filtration.

Corresponding fittings on the pressure vessel allow for routing through input and output interfaces on the flexible vessel for filling and emptying thereof. These connections are each sealed in such a way that, also in the interior of the pressure vessel, a sealed region is present between the pressure vessel inner wall and the outer wall of the flexible container, which region can be filled with an overpressure or vacuum. For this purpose, additional connections are present on the pressure vessel.

The device according to the invention can be implemented in different variants, wherein these variants differ mainly in the arrangement of the interface and the sealing mechanism. Depending on the application, it is advantageous if the inlet and outlet, also referred to as connections, can be arranged in the upper, side or lower region of the pressure vessel, respectively. The inlets and outlets on these pressure vessels allow to lead through the input and output interfaces on the flexible vessel, so that the vessel is filled or emptied with suspension, washing liquid or gas, for example to let filtrate out. These connections are each sealed in such a way that a sealed region is also present in the interior of the pressure vessel between the pressure vessel inner wall and the outer wall of the flexible container, which region can be filled with an overpressure or vacuum. For this purpose, additional connections are provided for the introduction of compressed air at the pressure vessel, which connections can optionally be defined above, laterally or below, or at least at one location. This has advantages in terms of process flexibility and filtration and emptying efficiency of the vessel.

The filter vessel is manufactured in such a way that this vessel can be installed in the pressure vessel in a user-friendly manner and can be removed after use. In one variant of the invention, the container inlet can be provided with a hose made of flexible plastic inside the container. This optimizes the filling process of the container. The suspension can be introduced into the interior of the flexible container, for example, by means of a hose, during the filtration process, without the solids layer formed on the filter surface being destroyed or the solids being washed away by the filter element. For solids with a strong sedimentation effect, it may be advantageous to introduce the suspension into the flexible container by means of a hose in such a way that the solids are flushed away, so that the solids do not sediment and the suspension is mixed as homogeneously as possible. In one variant, an innermost end of the tube is provided with a nozzle which can advantageously influence the inflow of the suspension.

In a further variant of the invention, the container outlet can be provided with a hose made of flexible plastic inside the container. This enables the suspension or solid slurry to be discharged from the flexible container. The advantage of this arrangement is manifested, for example, in the case of a blockage of the filter surface, in which residual suspension has to be removed from the container and discharge through the discharge connection is not desired.

During the filtration process, in particular during thickening, it is often necessary to back-flush the filter element in order to be able to wash out the solid particle layer formed on the filter element. The arrangement of a plurality of planar filter elements enables better backwashing and stripping of the solid particles from the filter elements. The back-flushing of the filter element can avoid the formation of thick solid particle layers and thus lead to a higher filtrate throughflow.

One known problem in the filtration process is dealing with the excess within the filtration system. The device according to the invention can be used to reduce the residual volume in the pressure vessel by using the system in such a way that the flexible filter vessel is pressed together with external pressure and is thereby partially emptied to its full extent. First, for very expensive media, this avoids the extremely high excess costs. Furthermore, for a further improved emptying, the filter container can be thoroughly cleaned with gas (for example sterile air).

Due to the completely sealed sterile filter element, the higher filter area, the resulting high filter efficiency, the complete filtration with less residual components and the simple discharge of dry solids or solid slurries, the device according to the invention enables a cost-effective filter device, with a high throughput, minimized cleaning costs and a short changeover time at a production changeover.

In addition, the invention includes the use of the apparatus according to the invention for filtering solids from liquids or gases and for discharging solids from the apparatus.

A method according to the invention for filtering solids from a liquid or gas and discharging the solids by means of a device according to the invention comprises the following steps:

a. applying a pressure differential between the interior of the flexible container and the filtrate outlet;

b. filling the flexible container with a suspension or gas;

c. applying a negative pressure in the filtrate outlet or an overpressure in the flexible container;

d. extruding the flexible container;

e. thoroughly flushing the solids with a flushing liquid or a flushing gas;

f. the solids are washed by the filter element;

g. opening the sealing mechanism and discharging the solids on the outlet of the pressure vessel through the discharge port of the flexible vessel.

The above process steps a to g may be repeated one or more times.

The filling of the flexible container with the suspension or gas in step b can be carried out, for example, by a pressure drop produced by a pump or by an underpressure produced between the pressure container wall and the flexible container.

Combinations of two or more of the above-described embodiments and variants are conceivable and are within the scope of the invention.

Drawings

The invention will be further elucidated by means of an embodiment shown in the drawing. Wherein:

FIG. 1 is a longitudinal section of the apparatus including a pressure vessel;

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section of the flexible inner container of the device, including in one embodiment a planar, suspended filter element, during an uninstalled and unfilled state;

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal section of the apparatus including the flexible container installed within the pressure vessel during filling;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section of the apparatus including the flexible container installed within the pressure vessel during filtration;

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the apparatus including the flexible container installed within the pressure vessel during the pressing together of the flexible container and filtration of the excess;

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the apparatus including the flexible vessel installed within the pressure vessel during backwash of the filter element and stripping of the solids;

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the apparatus including the installed flexible vessel within the pressure vessel during the solids discharge and regeneration of the filter element;

FIG. 8 is a longitudinal section of the apparatus including the flexible container installed within the pressure vessel during the flexible container packing together and solids discharge;

figure 9 is a longitudinal section through a cut-out of the apparatus including a sealing mechanism with a sealed clamping device in a variant;

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal section through a cut-out of the apparatus including a sealing mechanism in a variant with a pressure operated valve and additional sealing of the discharge outlet on the flexible container;

FIG. 11 is a longitudinal section through part of the apparatus including a sealing mechanism in a variation with a manual valve and additional sealing of the discharge outlet on the flexible container;

figures 12A to D are longitudinal section views of a cut-out of the apparatus in the closed state, including different sized sealing mechanisms;

figures 13A to D are longitudinal section views of a cut-out of the apparatus in an open state including sealing mechanisms of different sizes;

fig. 14A to B are longitudinal sectional views of a cut-out of the apparatus including a sealing mechanism with a discharge connection in the area below the side of the pressure vessel.

Detailed Description

In fig. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a pressure vessel which can be closed with a top cover 1' and in which a pressure vessel region 2 is formed which is sealed off from the external environment 3. At least one connection for a pressure line 4 in the vessel head or preferably in the vessel shell of the pressure vessel 1 can be used to charge the inner pressure vessel region 2 with pressure 4' or to vent it with vacuum 4 ″. At least one inlet connection 5 ', one outlet connection 5 "and one filtrate outlet connection 5 '" are present in the pressure vessel wall, preferably in the head cover 1 '. A further outlet 6 for discharging solids and liquids is preferably located in the lower region of the pressure vessel 1. A sealing mechanism 7 is arranged attached to said discharge outlet 6.

The flexible container is shown in an uninstalled and unfilled state in fig. 2. The flexible container wall 8 provides a tight isolation of the inner region, the region 9, from the outer surroundings. Inside said flexible container 8, one or more filter elements 10 are arranged. Filtrate outflow channels are located in the filter elements, which filtrate outflow channels are connected in the collecting member 11. The filtrate flows through the filter channel during the filtration process to the collecting element and is discharged via the connected filtrate outflow connection 12. Wherein the filtrate outflow connection 12 passes through the flexible container wall 8 and is tightly connected 8' to this container wall. The flexible container 8 preferably has at least two further connections 13', 13 "in the upper region, which allow the suspension, cleaning liquid or gas to enter the inner region 9 or allow the suspension, cleaning liquid or gas to exit from the inner region 9. An extension 14, preferably in the lower region of the flexible container 8, facilitates the discharge of solids and of the unfiltered suspension from the inner region 9. This outlet port 14 can be either an extension of the flexible container 8 or a flexible tube made of a film or an elastic material connected to the flexible container wall 8.

In fig. 3 to 8, partial flow filling, filtration, residual filtration and cleaning, backwashing and regeneration of the filtration surfaces, solids discharge and complete emptying and corresponding changeover of the apparatus are shown. These flows may be performed in various sequences, particularly iteratively, over a plurality of cycles.

Fig. 3 shows the pressure vessel 1 including the flexible filter vessel installed during the process of filling the flexible filter vessel 8 with suspension. The outlet connection 14 of the flexible container 8 is guided by the outlet connection 6 and isolates the inner pressure container region 2 from the outer surroundings 3. The outlet connection 14 is sealed by the sealing means 7, whereby the inner region of the filter container is also sealed from the external environment 3. The two inlet and outlet connections 13 ', 13 "of the filter vessel 8 are guided via the inlet and outlet connections 5', 5" of the pressure vessel 1 and are likewise connected tightly to the pressure vessel wall. The filtrate outlet connection 12 of the filter vessel is likewise guided in a sealing manner via the filtrate outlet connection 5 ″ of the pressure vessel. In this arrangement, the inner region 9 of the filter container is filled with suspension via the inlet port 13'. At the same time, the inner region 9 can be deflated via the output port 13 ". The suspension consists of the liquid 15 to be filtered together with the solids 16 to be separated. In the broader sense, a suspension is also understood to mean a gas with solids adhering thereto, wherein the gas to be filtered is denoted by the reference numeral 15 and the solids to be separated are denoted by the reference numeral 16. During the filling process, the inner pressure vessel region 2 is vented via the connections 4 and 4 ″, and the flexible wall of the filter vessel 8 can thereby be adapted to the contours of the pressure vessel 1 and supported by these contours and limited in its further extension. In a further development of the invention, the flexible filter container can be mounted in an evacuated shape and can be enlarged and filled by applying a negative pressure in the connection 4 and thus between the pressure container wall 1 and the flexible container 8 (i.e. the inner pressure container region 2).

In fig. 4, the actual filtering of the device according to the invention is shown. The suspension is filtered by applying a pressure drop between the inner region 9 of the filter vessel and the filtrate side 12. Or the pressure drop is made by: an overpressure is produced into the container interior 9 or a negative pressure is produced in the filtrate outlet 12 via the inlet connection 13'. The filtrate flows through the filter element 10, mixes in the collecting element 11 and is conducted away through the filtrate outflow connection 12. Wherein the solids 16 accumulate on the filter element 10. The connection 13 "can be used during the filtration process to conduct the suspension or for degassing the inner region 9.

Continued residual filtering is shown in fig. 5. An overpressure is applied to the inner pressure vessel region 2 via the connections 4 and 4', whereby the flexible filter vessels 8 can be pressed together. By opening the filtrate outflow connection 12, more filtrate can be conducted out until the filter container is completely collapsed and no more liquid is present in the filter container 9. In addition, the external force pushes out the individual filter elements 10 and the solids 16 collected thereon. As a result, the volumes between the filter elements 10 and within the filter elements themselves are reduced, so that the suspension remaining in these volumes can be better removed. In a further development of the invention, the solid body can still be cleaned and/or dried with more cleaning liquid or gas introduced through the connection 13' or 13 ″. In one development of the invention, the suspension can be discharged through the connection 13' and 13 ″ during the pressing together of the flexible container 8.

Figure 6 shows the regeneration of the filter element 10 by washing the solids 16. The solids 16 can be stripped off the filter element 10 by backwashing the filter element against the filter direction. For this purpose, filtrate, rinsing liquid or gas is introduced into the interior 9 of the flexible container 8 via the filtrate outlet connection 12 and the filter element 10. The solids 16 are flushed away here and the filter element 10 is now emptied again. In an extension, the filtration cycle can now be started from the front (fig. 3), or the concentrated solids can be emptied in the next step (fig. 7). In a development of the invention, the solids can additionally be washed away by introducing a liquid or gas through the connection 13', 13 ″. In a development of the invention, the backwashing can also be carried out in the filled state without residual filtration (fig. 5). In addition, the solids 16 are washed away by the filter elements 10, whereby these filter elements are emptied again for a new filtration.

Fig. 7 shows the discharge of the dried or concentrated solids 16 or residual suspension. The sealing mechanism 7 is opened and the solids 16 or residual liquid can be discharged through the outlet connection 14. Furthermore, the interior 9 of the filter container and the filter element 10 can be cleaned by introducing a liquid or gas through the connection 12, 13' or 13 ″.

In fig. 8, the flexible filter container is squeezed out by applying pressure in the inner pressure container region 2. The solids 16, the suspension or the final residue of the washing liquid can be removed via the outlet connection 14. The flexible filter vessel is now completely emptied and evacuated, and can now be removed from the pressure vessel 1 or used for refilling and subsequent filtration.

Fig. 9 to 11 show various embodiments of the sealing mechanism 7 and of the sealing of the inner pressure vessel region 2 against the surroundings 3. The illustrated schemes are merely examples and may be implemented in any combination.

The pressure vessel 1 is shown in fig. 9. The flexible container 8 is provided with an extension 14. In one embodiment, this extension 14 is made of the same material as the flexible container 8, for example a flexible plastic multilayer film. Inside the wall of the pressure vessel 1, a sleeve 6 is placed. These sleeves are preferably located in the lower region. The flexible container 8 is mounted within the pressure vessel 1, wherein the extension 14 is placed through the outlet 6 for solids discharge. Next to the discharge outlet 6, a sealing mechanism 7, preferably a clamping device, particularly preferably a clamping valve, is provided, which allows the extension 14 of the filter container to be tightly closed without direct contact with the solids or without the suspension entering the interior of the container. Furthermore, the sealing means seal the inner pressure vessel region 2 from the surroundings 3 at least in the closed state, preferably also in the open state.

Fig. 10 shows another embodiment of the discharge means together with the sealing means. The connecting piece 17 'is placed tightly on the flexible wall of the flexible container and, when the flexible container is mounted, is inserted into the discharge outlet 6 of the flexible container 1, while the inner pressure vessel region 2 is sealed from the surroundings 3 by means of a sealing gasket 18', here shown as an O-ring. The extension 14 is made of a plastic film hose or a flexible hose material, for example silicon, is tightly connected to the connection piece 17 'and is guided through the subsequent clamping device 7'. As another example, this is represented by a membrane which applies pressure to the extension 14 by applying pressure and seals it. Direct contact of the valve with the solid or liquid in the flexible container is also avoided here, which is advantageous for aseptic operation.

Fig. 11 shows another variant comprising a flat gasket 18 "as sealing means of said connection 17' to the pressure vessel 1. The extension 14 of the flexible container 8 is provided at its end with a further connection 19' which can be connected to a valve 7 ", for example a ball valve.

Fig. 12 and 13 show variants of the invention comprising different sizes of the sealing mechanism 7 in the closed (fig. 12A to D) and in the open (fig. 13A to D) state. For applications where the solids or solids slurry 16 is coarse in particles and especially where the solids are very dry, discharge is difficult especially if the outlet 6 for solids discharge or the discharge connection 14 is opened only minimally. For too small a discharge diameter, there is a risk that: the solids or solid slurry 16 do not readily or at all flow out of or clog the discharge interface 14. Therefore, the diameter adapted to the solids is selected for the discharge connection 6, the sealing means 7 and for the discharge connection 14 (in the open state).

Fig. 14A shows a variant of the invention comprising a side outlet 6 for solids discharge and a discharge connection 14. The solids 16 are emptied by opening the sealing mechanism 7 (fig. 14B). In addition, the flexible containers 8 can be compacted together by applying pressure in the region 2 by the interface 4, which facilitates complete discharge of the solids or solid slurry 16.

List of reference marks

1 pressure vessel

1' pressure vessel roof

2 pressure vessel area

3 ambient environment

4 pressure pipeline

4' compressed air inlet

4' vacuum air outlet

5' input joint

5' output joint

5' filtrate outflow joint

6 outlet, discharge joint for solids discharge

7 sealing mechanism

7' clamping device, clamping valve

7' valve

8 Flexible container

Connecting device of 8' filtrate outflow interface to flexible container

9 inner region of flexible container

10 Filter element

11 collecting member

12 filtrate outflow interface

13' input interface

13' output interface

14 extension, discharge connection

15 liquid or gas, filtrate

16 solid

17' connecting piece

18' O-ring

18' plane washer

19' valve interface

The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)

1. An apparatus for separating solids from liquids or gases, comprising a pressure vessel (1) with at least one inlet connection (5 ') for an inlet connection (13'), at least one filtrate outlet connection (5 ") for a filtrate outlet connection (12) and a plurality of filter elements (10), wherein the filter elements (10) are arranged next to one another and interconnected to form a filter group, wherein a gap is present over a substantial part of the vertical longitudinal extent of the individual filter elements (10), and wherein the filter elements (10) are arranged in a flexible container (8) which is arranged in the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly closed off with respect to this pressure vessel, wherein the pressure vessel (1) comprises at least one outlet opening (6) for solids discharge, the flexible container (8) comprises at least one discharge connection (14), wherein the discharge connection (14) of the flexible container (8) is guided through the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) and is tightly closed off with respect to the pressure vessel (1), wherein the outlet (6) and the discharge connection (14) of the flexible container (8) can be tightly sealed with respect to the flexible container (8) and the surroundings (3) outside the pressure vessel (1) by means of a sealing mechanism (7, 7 ', 7 "), characterized in that the filter elements (10) are designed such that they are pressed against one another for emptying of the flexible container (8), and wherein a pressure line (4) is placed on the pressure vessel (1) in order to load a pressure vessel region (2) inside the pressure vessel (1) with compressed air (4') and to load the filter elements (2) (10) Are pressed together in the flexible container (8).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing structure (7) is a clamping device.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing structure (7) is a pinch valve.

4. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing between the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8) and the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) is achieved by means of a sealing gasket.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the sealing gasket is an O-ring or a planar gasket.

6. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the diameter of the outlet (6) for solids discharge is at least 15mm, in particular at least 20mm, preferably at least 25 mm.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the diameter of the outlet (6) for solids discharge is the same size as the diameter of the pressure vessel (1).

8. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one filter element (10) is arranged suspended.

9. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter elements (10) arranged next to one another are each designed as a plane.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the filter element (10) is designed to be circular.

11. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible container (8) is removable from the pressure vessel (1).

12. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one outlet (6) for solids discharge and the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8) are arranged in a lower region of the pressure vessel (1) and the flexible container (8).

13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible container (8) has an input and output interface (13 ', 13 "), and that the input and output interface (13', 13") is provided with hoses inside the flexible container (8).

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the hose terminates with a nozzle on the flexible container (8).

15. Use of a device according to any of the preceding claims for filtering solids from liquids and gases and for discharging solids from the device.

16. Method for filtering solids from liquids or gases and discharging solids by means of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the steps of:

a. applying a pressure differential between the interior of the flexible container (8) and the filtration outlet;

b. filling the flexible container (8) with a suspension or gas;

c. -applying a negative pressure in the filtrate outlet or an overpressure in the flexible container (8);

d. -extruding the flexible container (8);

e. thoroughly washing said solids with a washing liquid or gas through said input interface (13');

f. -washing the solids by the filter element (10) through the filtrate outflow interface (12) for regeneration of the filter element (10) for the next cycle;

g. opening the sealing mechanism (7, 7') and discharging the solids on the outlet (6) of the pressure vessel (1) through the discharge interface (14) of the flexible container (8).

17. The method of claim 16, wherein steps a through g are repeated one or more times.