Abstract: A cartridge containing a plurality of hollow fiber membranes is disclosed. The cartridge comprises a plurality of fibers arranged in a bundle and at least one end of the bundle embedded in a tubesheet. The tubesheets are fitted with end caps to provide a chamber for the permeate. A feed tube extends longitudinally through the bundle and a permeate discharge tube is housed, preferably concentrically, within a feed tube. The cartridge does not require a high pressure seal, such as an O-ring seal, against the inner wall of the pressure vessel. The cartridge is configured as a single unit adapted for simple drop-in installation into a pressure vessel. Multiple cartridges may readily be inserted into a pressure vessel, and arranged so as to operate in series or in parallel. The hollow fiber membrane cartridge is adapted for industrial performance with high volumetric efficiency and high solute rejection.

Abstract: A hollow-fiber membrane fluid-separation apparatus containing a plurality of hollow-fiber bundles is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a single-pressure container with a center chamber located in between facing ends of each bundle. The center chamber is in communication with an annular space around adjacent bundles and a discharge tube concentrically housed within a feed tube. The hollow-fiber membrane fluid separation apparatus is adapted for industrial performance with high volumetric efficiency and high solute rejection. A process for separation of fluids is also provided.