Methods and apparatus for removing solids from a membrane module

摘要

A membrane filtration module (5) includes membranes (7) extending longitudinally between vertically spaced upper and lower headers (8, 9) into which the ends of the membranes (7) are potted. The membranes (7) have a permeable wall which is subjected to a filtration operation wherein feed containing contaminant matter is applied to one side of the membrane wall and filtrate is withdrawn from the other side of the membrane wall. At least the lower headers 9 has openings (10) through which the feed can be flowed for application to the membrane wall. A cleaning process to dislodge contaminants can be performed on the membranes. The cleaning process includes flowing the feed, at least in part, through the openings (10) in the lower header for application to the membrane wall and removing the contaminant material through the openings in the lower header.