What is the minimum solid content in feed for filter press to work efficiently?
Belt filter presses need at least 1% solids content to operate efficiently, but this depends on the sludge and waste water characteristics. If the particles are small they will have a tendency to clog the belt and the flow rate will be drastically reduced and the belt will require more cleaning. Typical feed concentrations are 2 to 5% solids for biological treatment sludges. Belt filter presses rely on gravity and pressure from rollers and belt tension to force the water from the sludge. Typical dewatered sludge is 20 to 35% solids Plate filter presses can be effective on low solids waste streams but are more of a batch process. These rely on pump pressure to help dewater the sludge, but can deliver higher solids content that belt type presses. The plate filter press will need more operator intervention empty and clean the sludge from the press.
