Filter Press Plates: Types and Manufacturing Process

Filter press plates are essential components of a filter press, playing a crucial role in the separation of solids from liquids in various industrial applications. Among the different types of filter plates, three are prevalent: plate frame type, chamber filter plate, and membrane filter plate. Understanding the filter plate type difference, is vital for selecting the right plate filter for your specific filtration needs.

Types of Filter Press Plates:

Plate Frame Type: This type consists of a frame and a plate, which holds the filter clothes or filter papers. And the filter frame provides a space for the solid storage. It is a traditional design for filtration processes but may not has higher separation efficiency compared to other types.

Chamber Filter Plate: it's known as a recessed filter plate, this design features a recessed area that creates a chamber for the sludge to accumulate during the filtration process. The recessed design allows for a greater volume of filter cake to be collected, making it ideal for applications where large amounts of solids are present. The chamber filter plate is particularly advantageous for its ability to enhance cake discharge and improve overall filtration efficiency.

Membrane Filter Plate: This type incorporates a membrane sheet that allows for further control over the filtration process. The external membrane can be inflated after filtration to compress the cake, resulting in drier solids and reducing the amount of liquid remaining in the filter cake. This feature makes membrane filter plates suitable for applications requiring high solids recovery and optimal dryness of the final product.

Among above 3 filter plate types, the chamber filter plates are most popular in the market. How they are produced? The production of chamber filter plates involves several meticulous steps to ensure quality and performance. Here’s a detailed look at the manufacturing process:

1. Preparation of Raw Materials: The first step in making a chamber filter plate is to gather the necessary raw materials, primarily polypropylene (PP), along with other additives tailored to meet specific requirements. These materials are chosen for their durability and chemical resistance, making them ideal for filtration applications.

2. Heating the Material: The raw PP and other components are then heated to their melting point. This process transforms the solid materials into a viscous liquid that can be easily molded.

3. Molding Under Pressure: The molten polypropylene is transferred into a mold within a press machine. Under high pressure, the material takes the shape of the chamber filter plate, ensuring that it is formed accurately and consistently.

4. Cooling the Filter Plate: Once the molding is complete, the newly formed filter plate is cooled. This step solidifies the polypropylene, ensuring the plate maintains its shape and structural integrity.

5. Milling for Flatness: To achieve a flat and uniform surface, the filter plate undergoes a milling process. This ensures that the surfaces are smooth, which is crucial for effective sealing and filtration.

6. Drilling Technical Holes: Various technical holes are drilled into the filter plate to facilitate filtrate discharge and to accommodate additional functions, such as cake blowing and washing. These holes are essential for optimizing the filtration process and enhancing cake removal.

7. Installation of Handles: Finally, handles are installed on the filter plates for easy handling and transportation during the operation. These handles ensure that the plates can be easily mounted and dismounted from the filter press system.

Filter press plates are integral components of the filter presses, and understanding the different types—particularly chamber filter plates—can greatly influence the efficiency and effectiveness of the filtration process. The careful manufacturing process, from material selection to final assembly, ensures that these plates meet the demands of various industrial applications. By investing in high-quality filter press plates, industries can enhance their filtration operations, leading to improved product quality and operational efficiency.