An oil filter press works by using pressure to separate solids from liquids (in this case, oil containing solid contaminants) using a series of filter cloths and plates. Here's a breakdown of the process:
The Process Explained
-
Slurry Input: The process begins with a slurry (a mixture of oil and solid contaminants) being pumped into the filter press.
-
Chamber Filling: The slurry is pumped into a series of chambers formed by filter plates and filter cloths. These plates are arranged in a sequence to create a series of cavities.
-
Pressure Application: A feed pump continuously builds pressure within the chambers. This pressure forces the liquid (oil) through the filter cloths, which act as a barrier, trapping the solid particles.
-
Cake Formation: As the liquid passes through the filter cloths, the solid particles are retained, gradually building up within the chambers to form a "filter cake." This cake becomes increasingly dense as more slurry is pumped in.
-
Filtration Continues: The pressure from the feed pump is maintained to ensure maximum liquid extraction. The clean oil passes through the filter cloths and is discharged from the press.
-
Cycle Completion: The filtration cycle is complete when the chambers are completely full of solid cake. This is usually determined by a pressure switch or timer.
-
Cake Discharge: Once the cycle is complete, the filter press is opened, and the solid filter cakes are discharged. This can be done manually or automatically, depending on the design of the press.
-
Cleaning and Resetting: The filter cloths are cleaned (often by backwashing or washing systems) and the filter press is reset for the next cycle.
Simplified Analogy
Think of an oil filter press like a giant, reusable coffee filter. Instead of manually pouring water through coffee grounds, the filter press uses powerful pumps to force the oil through filter cloths, leaving behind the unwanted solids. The coffee grounds are analogous to the "cake" formed in the filter press chambers.
Benefits of Oil Filter Presses
- High Solid-Liquid Separation: They are highly effective at separating solids from liquids.
- Dry Cake Formation: They produce a relatively dry solid cake, reducing disposal costs.
- Versatile Applications: They can be used for a wide range of oil types and solid contaminants.
