Filter Press

A filter press is a solid-liquid separation device that is widely used in various industries for dewatering and sludge volume reduction. It efficiently separates solids from liquid by applying pressure to force the liquid through filter media, capturing the solid particles. Here are the key components and processes associated with a filter press:

Components of a Filter Press:

• Filter Plates: These are the main components that hold the filter media. They have a series of recessed or protruding chambers where the filter cakes are formed.
• Filter Cloth:Filter cloths are placed between the filter plates to capture the solid particles during the filtration process. The type and porosity of the cloth depend on the specific application.
• Hydraulic System: A hydraulic system applies pressure to the filter plates, squeezing the filter cakes and expelling the liquid (filtrate) from the chambers.
• Frame: The frame holds the filter plates together, and it provides support for the entire structure during the filtration and cake removal processes.
• Feed Pump: A pump is used to introduce the slurry or liquid-solid mixture into the filter press. The slurry fills the chambers formed by the recessed plates.
• Drip Trays: Drip trays collect the filtrate that drains from the filter press during the dewatering process.

Operation of a Filter Press:

• Filling (Feeding): The slurry is pumped into the filter press, filling the chambers formed by the filter plates.
• Filtration: The hydraulic system applies pressure, forcing the liquid (filtrate) to pass through the filter cloths and exit the filter press.
• Cake Formation Solid particles in the slurry are captured by the filter cloths, forming a layer of cake on the surface of each filter plate.
• Dewatering: The pressure is maintained until the majority of the liquid is expelled, leaving behind a dewatered filter cake.
• Cake Removal: The filter press is opened, and the solid filter cakes are removed from between the plates for disposal or further processing.
• Washing (Optional): In some applications, a washing process can be incorporated to remove residual impurities from the filter cakes.
• Closing and Starting a New Cycle: The filter press is closed, and a new filtration cycle begins.