what could be the efficient replacements for filter presses

[cpsp]

plz tell me abt new filteration technologies that can efficiently replace filter presses.also how to design these filters(if possible plz also refer some books or sites)

 

[TrevorP]

This depends on the properties of the material you are trying to filter. Important characteristics are:
Temperature
Pressure
Viscosity
Solids loading
Solids particle size
Solids characteristics (e.g. crystals / fibrous / amorphous etc.)
Quantity of solids allowed in liquid
Total flowrate
Whether the liquid or solid is waste or product.
Dryness of solids required
Hazardous nature of solids/liquids (e.g. is it Flammable/ toxic etc.)
Whether cake washing is required
Whether filter aid pre-coat / body aid is permitted.
Materials of construction

Once you have these, it should be easier to narrow down the best filter for your application, and these are the sorts of questions most filter manufacturers will ask.

 

[BRT549]

look up these guys

http://www.vsep.com

 

[RGCook]

cpsp,

TrevorP provides some good information regarding the considerations. Further to that great post, I would simply add that the amount of material can have a big impact on which technology is applied.

When the amount of material is very high and a continuous operation is warranted, a lot of people turn to things like the belt filter or the vacuum drum. Or even the horizontal decanter centrifuge. These devices tend to allow for more throughput but at the expense (generally speaking) of higher moisture in the dewatered cake.

In any event, the amount of solids is a very important consideration. If you are looking for alternated because the recessed press can't keep up, then you already know this. But if you shift gears, keep in mind that the other options generally aren't as effective at drying, especially if you have a high-pressure press, a.k.a. a membrane-type.

 

[spereira]

cpsp,
I agree with all that has been said before. Just wanted to add this: we've replaced a press filter last year. Our's was giving us a lot of headaches regarding down time and plate material and it affected severely plant throuhput. After looking at several alternatives we end up using a candle filter from DrM. we had the pilot unit in our plant for 2 weeks to run some tests to determine the effectiveness of this filter. We also tested a decantyer centrifuge but clarification levels were unsatisfatory.
Just one thing, from my experience without a trial run with a pilot unit it's difficult to safely design a filter from the books, unless, of course, it's a well know application.