Filter media for heavy-duty filter presses–a novel solution to an old problem

摘要

Novel filter fabrics for heavy-duty filter presses are presented. The newly developed monofilament filter fabric consists of three elements that are described and illustrated by SEM pictures and drawings as follows: rn1. Filter layer consisting of fine monofilament wires rn2. Support and drainage layer consisting of coarse monofilament wires rn3. Sealing area consisting of multifilament threads, for example rnSEFAR Inc. Filtration Division has applied for a patent covering the sealing method, the production and the application of such monofilament filter fabrics. Monofilament filter fabrics are widely accepted on standard filter presses for various applications as their surface filter properties and mechanical performance offer a much better and trouble-free service life compared to multifilament or staple fibre fabrics. rnThe wide-spread use of monofilament fabrics on heavy-duty filter presses has up to now been hinderd by the triple requirements of high mechanical resistance, fine pore size and affordable costs for the entire filter fabric (naturally including the sealing area at the edge of the filter press). The new SEFAR Inc. development which combines the filter fabric, support and drainage as well as the sealing area in one fabric having pore sizes down to 10 micrometers and below will influence the application of heavy-duty filter presses in the near future. rnResults of first trials in the Mining and Refining Industry on heavy-duty filter presses are presented and discussed. Possible future developments in polymers, pore sizes and surface characteristics are briefly illustrated. Trends in lifetime and costs per ton of dewatered goods, as key element for the industry, are shown.