Frequently Asked Filtration Questions

What is Filtrate?

The filtrate is the liquid which is separated from the solid-liquid suspension by the action of filtration.

What is Filter Cake?

Filter cake is the solid which is separated from the solid-liquid suspension by the action of filtration.

What is a Rotary Drum Vacuum Filter?

Quite simply, a rotary drum vacuum filter is a multi-panel drum which is covered in a filter medium and partially immersed in a solid-liquid suspension. When vacuum is applied to the drum, the solids are retained on the filter medium whilst the liquid [filtrate] passes into the drum. The filtrate is removed from the drum via a special valve arrangement. By slowly rotating the drum, the filtered solids can be continuously removed from the filter medium.

How is the Rotary Drum Vacuum Filter area determined?

The filtration area can only be calculated once the filtration flux rate has been established for the suspension. The filtration flux rate is expressed as m3/m2/hr and is obtained by carrying out filtration tests on representative suspension samples.

Do Rotary Drum Vacuum Filters require a lot of maintenance?

Generally, no. Provided that the filter is correctly lubricated, the slow drum rotation speed of the drum and gentle oscillation of the trough agitator means that component wear is minimal.

How fast does the rum rotate on a Rotary Drum Vacuum Filter?

Typical drum rotation speeds are between 0.1 and 1.0 rpm, although this range can be modified to suit the filtration characteristics of the suspension.

If we did not manage to answer a question you may have, then feel free to get in touch and we will be happy to answer any other questions.