Abstract: Disclosed are multi-cartridge hollow fiber membrane apparatuses and methods for gas separation using them. Each external pressure type membrane apparatus contains one or more series of cartridges wherein the cartridges within each series are arranged sequentially. The retentate gas generated by each preceding cartridge in the series is used as a feed gas to the next cartridge in the series, and the permeate gas generated by a cartridge following the first cartridge in the series is used as a sweep gas on the permeate side of the preceding cartridge. The multicomponent gas mixture is separated into one or more products by the method of the invention with improved product recovery and/or product purity.

Abstract: Methods, structures, devices, systems and functionally associated machine executable instructions for industrial material processing. There may be provided flange structures and flange assemblies for interconnecting pipes carrying a working fluid across the interconnection. The flange assemblies may include first and second flange structures fastened to one another along respective flange structure interface surfaces and in alignment of respective flange structure pipe openings, wherein each of said flange structures includes a body portion with at least one heat transfer material channel disposed upon or within said body portion.