Filter press adapter

Abstract

The filter press apparatus includes a support frame and elongated side rails arranged horizontally and parallel to the support frame. A driven head assembly is disposed at one end of the support frame, and the driven head assembly is movably disposed at the other end of the support frame. The elongated side rails support a combination of filter plates of various sizes via one or more adapters. The adapter plates are positioned between adjacent filter plates of different sizes to provide fluid communication between the different sized filter plates. TIFF2023529456000002.tif18773

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 036,718, filed on June 9, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Field of the Invention The present disclosure relates to filter press apparatuses. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an adapter for a filter press apparatus.

Background Art

[0003] Description of Related Art Filter presses are well known and widely used for separating solids from slurries. Briefly referring to FIG. 13, a conventional filter press apparatus will be described to aid in understanding the general operation of a filter press apparatus. The filter press 1300 utilizes a series of plates 1310 to filter a medium such as a slurry. The plates 1310 include filter plates 1312 and frame plates 1314 that are adjacent to each other and in an alternating configuration, with each frame plate 1314 adjacent to two filter plates 1312. The plates 1310 further include an end plate 1316 configured to contact and engage with one of a fixed head mechanism 1340 and a follower head 1352. Each plate 1310 is independently slidably supported by a pair of elongated side rails 1330 and is on a frame 1320. The support arm 1332 of each plate 1310 interacts with one of the elongated side rails 1330. Thus, the lateral distance between the elongated side rails 1330 defines the size of the plates 1310 that can be used in the filter press 1310.

[0004] The driven head mechanism 1350 includes a driven head 1352 that abuts against the end plate 1316, and optionally a controller 1354 and a hydraulic cylinder 1356, which together provide power and commands to the driven head 1352. The space defined between each filter plate 1312 and the frame plate 1314 is lined with filter material such as filter cloth or membrane. The internal cavity is defined by the frame plate 1314, with filter material lined on both sides of the frame plate 1314.

[0005] Each plate 1310 includes one or more openings that allow fluid communication between the filter plate 1312 and the frame plate 1314. Thus, the filtration surface area increases proportionally to the number of filter plates 1312 and frame plates 1314 used in the filter press 1300. The slurry is pumped into the filter press 1300 via a fixed head mechanism 1340 and / or end plate 1316, passes through the filter press 1300, and collects solid matter in the form of cakes in the internal cavities defined by the frame plates 1314. One or more inlets are provided in each frame plate 1314 to introduce slurry into the internal cavities upstream of the filter media, and one or more outlets communicate with each internal cavity downstream of the filter media. Once the internal cavities of the frame plates 1314 are filled with slurry, the discharge pressure of the incoming slurry is adjusted so that the liquid components are moved through the filter media and solid particulate matter is retained in the internal cavities upstream of the filter media. The filtered liquid, or filtrate, moves to the outlet where it is discharged. The filtering cycle continues until it is complete.

[0006] In some embodiments, when competition occurs, the driven head 1352 retracts from the plate 1310. The plates 1310 move away from each other to an open position, allowing the cake to be discharged and collected on the frame plate 1314. To enable the plates 1310 to move to the open position, a plate shift mechanism is usually provided on adjacent opposing sides of the filter press 1300, allowing the movement of the plates 1310 and the discharge of the cake to be controlled automatically or manually.

[0007] While filter presses are available in various sizes, each is limited to accepting a specific range of plate sizes. This limitation arises because each plate is individually supported on the elongated side rails of the filter press, and the distance between these rails is fixed and defined by the filter press. Plates exceeding the size limit will be too large to fit between the side rails, while smaller plates will slip through because their support mechanism cannot reach both sides of the rails. Furthermore, even if smaller plates could be accommodated on the side rails, the plate's inlet and outlet would not align with the medium's inlet and outlet, preventing proper fluid communication within the filter press.

[0008] Therefore, prior to this disclosure, there was a need to modularly incorporate filter plates of different sizes into conventional filter presses of different sizes.

[0009] The information disclosed in this “Background Art” is for the sole purpose of providing a general understanding of the background of the present invention and should not be construed as an acknowledgment or any suggestion that this information constitutes prior art already known to those skilled in the art. [Overview of the project]

[0010] overview Advantageously, the systems and methods detailed in this disclosure address the shortcomings of the prior art detailed above. This disclosure discloses a filter press apparatus capable of accommodating plates of different sizes. The filter press apparatus includes a support frame. A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are arranged parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively. A fixed head assembly is located at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails. The fixed head assembly includes a first channel array defined by a first length. A driven head assembly is located at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails. The driven head assembly is movable both forward toward the fixed head assembly and backward toward the fixed head assembly along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails. Multiple plates are supported by one or more frame adapters on and between a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail. One or more adapters slidably connect each of the multiple plates to the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Each of the multiple plates includes a second channel array defined by the first and second. Each of the multiple plates further includes a first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from the opposing side of the plate. Each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Furthermore, each support arm is housed by a frame adapter within one or more frame adapters. The multiple plates move back and forth between a fixed head assembly and a driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. An adapter plate is placed between the multiple plates and the fixed head assembly.The adapter plate includes a first surface that abuts adjacent surfaces of the end plates of the plurality of plates, and a second surface that faces the first surface and abuts adjacent surfaces of the fixed head assembly. Furthermore, the adapter plate includes a plurality of channels. Each of the plurality of channels traverses from the first surface to the second surface, connecting a corresponding channel in a first array on the channel on the first surface to a corresponding channel in a second channel array on the second surface. In this way, fluid communication is provided between the plurality of plates and the fixed head via the adapter plate.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of one or more frame adapters includes a support frame adapter. The support frame adapter includes a first enclosing portion and a second enclosing portion. The second enclosing portion is opposite to the first enclosing portion and is detachably coupled thereto. Each of the first and second enclosing portions of the support frame adapter includes a first groove, a second groove, and a coupling mechanism. The first groove is located on the first edge portion of the enclosing portion and is configured to accommodate a portion of the support arm. The coupling mechanism is configured to detachably couple with the corresponding coupling mechanism on the opposing enclosing portion of the support frame adapter. The second groove is located on the second edge portion of the enclosing portion and is configured to support the respective plates on a member selected from a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail.

[0012] In some embodiments, for each enclosing portion of the support frame adapter, each coupling mechanism includes a through-hole positioned on the surface of the enclosing portion and aligned with a corresponding through-hole in the opposing enclosing portion of the support frame adapter. The through-hole accommodates a connector that passes through each through-hole of the support frame adapter.

[0013] In some embodiments, each of one or more frame adapters includes a surrounding frame adapter that surrounds a first outer surface of each of the plates among a plurality of plates. The surrounding frame adapter includes through holes that define a second outer surface and an inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter. The inner surface corresponds to the first outer surface of each plate and is configured to accommodate the plate. Furthermore, the second outer surface includes a first surrounding adapter support arm extending outward from a first side surface of the outer surface, and a second surrounding adapter support arm extending outward from a second side surface opposite the first side surface of the outer surface. Each surrounding adapter support arm supports each plate on a member selected from a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail.

[0014] In some embodiments, the surrounding frame adapter is formed integrally with the plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the encircling frame adapter further includes a gasket positioned around the inner surface of the encircling adapter, the gasket being placed between the inner surface of the encircling adapter and the suspension frame of the filter plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of one or more frame adapters includes a first sleeve frame adapter and a second sleeve frame adapter. Each of the first and second sleeve frame adapters includes a first groove and a second groove. The first groove is located on a first edge of the sleeve frame adapter facing the first outer surface of each of the multiple plates. Furthermore, the first groove accommodates a member selected from a first support arm or a second support arm for each of the multiple plates. The second groove is located on a second edge of the sleeve frame adapter and supports the multiple plates on a member selected from a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail.

[0017] In some embodiments, the disclosure provides another filter press apparatus including a support frame. A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are arranged parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively. A fixed head assembly is located at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails. The fixed head assembly includes a first channel array defined by a first length. A driven head assembly is located at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails. The driven head assembly is movable both forward toward the fixed head assembly and backward toward the fixed head assembly along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails. Multiple plates are supported on and between the first and second elongated side rails by one or more frame adapters. One or more adapters slidably connect each of a plurality of plates to a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail. Each of the plurality of plates includes a second channel array defined by the first and second. Each of the plurality of plates further includes a first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from the opposing side of the plate. Each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Furthermore, each support arm is housed by a frame adapter within one or more frame adapters. The plurality of plates move back and forth between a fixed head assembly and a driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. An adapter plate is placed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly. The adapter plate mechanism includes a first adapter plate and a second adapter plate. The first adapter plate includes a first surface that abuts against adjacent surfaces of the end plates of the plurality of plates, and a second surface that faces the first surface and is in contact with the third surface of the second adapter plate.The first adapter plate further includes a first plurality of channels, each channel of the first plurality of channels being aligned with a corresponding channel in the second channel array and traversing from the first surface to the second surface. The second adapter plate includes a third surface, a fourth surface facing the third surface and facing the fifth surface of the fixed head assembly, and a second plurality of channels. Each channel in the second plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel in the first channel array and traverses from the first surface to the second surface. Further, the adapter plate mechanism includes a plurality of tubes. Each tube of the plurality of tubes extends from a corresponding channel from the first plurality of channels and a corresponding channel from the second plurality of channels. In this way, fluid communication is provided between the plurality of plates and the fixed head via the adapter plate mechanism.

[0018] In some embodiments, each tube of the plurality of tubes is a flexible tube.

[0019] In some embodiments, the adapter plate mechanism further includes a plurality of spacers. Each spacer of the plurality of spacers extends horizontally and is disposed between the first adapter plate and the second adapter plate.

[0020] [Invention 1001] A filter press apparatus, the following: Support frame and; A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are positioned parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively; A fixed head assembly positioned at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rails and the second elongated side rails, comprising a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly positioned at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails, wherein the driven head assembly is movable along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly; A plurality of plates, each of which is supported on and between the first and second elongated side rails by one or more frame adapters that slidably connect to the first and second elongated side rails, Each of the aforementioned plates is A second channel array defined by the first and second, A first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from opposing sides of each plate, wherein each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, and each support arm is housed by a frame adapter in one or more frame adapters, and Equipped with, The plurality of plates move back and forth between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. The aforementioned plurality of plates and; An adapter plate placed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly, A first surface that abuts against the adjacent surfaces of the end plates among the plurality of plates, A second surface facing the first surface and in contact with the adjacent surface of the fixed head assembly, A plurality of channels, each of which traverses from the first surface to the second surface, connecting a corresponding channel in the first channel array on the first surface to a corresponding channel in the second channel array on the second surface, thereby providing fluid communication between the plurality of plates and the fixed head. The adapter plate and The filter press apparatus comprising the above-mentioned equipment. [Invention 1002] Each of the one or more frame adapters includes a support frame adapter, The aforementioned support frame adapter A first enclosing portion and a second enclosing portion opposite to the first enclosing portion and detachably coupled thereto Equipped with, Each of the first and second surrounding portions of the support frame adapter is, A first groove located at the first edge portion of the surrounding portion, which accommodates a part of the support arm, A coupling mechanism configured to be detachably coupled to the corresponding coupling mechanism of the surrounding portion on the opposite side of the support frame adapter, A second groove located at the second edge portion of the surrounding portion, which supports the plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The apparatus of the present invention 1001, comprising: [Invention 1003] Each surrounding portion of the aforementioned support frame adapter has a coupling mechanism, Through holes positioned on the surface of the surrounding portion and aligned with the corresponding through holes of the opposing surrounding portion of the support frame adapter. Equipped with, The through-holes accommodate connectors that pass through each of the through-holes in the support frame adapter. Apparatus according to the present invention 1002. [Invention 1004] Each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a surrounding frame adapter that surrounds the first outer surface of each of the plates among the plurality of plates, The surrounding frame adapter is provided with through holes defining the second outer surface and inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter, The inner surface corresponds to the first outer surface of each of the plates and is configured to accommodate the plates. The second outer surface comprises a first encirclement adapter support arm extending outward from a first side surface of the outer surface, and a second encirclement adapter support arm extending outward from a second side surface facing the first side surface of the outer surface, Each encircle adapter support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Apparatus according to Invention 1001. [Invention 1005] The apparatus of the present invention 1004, wherein the surrounding frame adapter is integrally formed with the plate. [Invention 1006] The aforementioned encircling frame adapter, A gasket positioned around the inner surface of the surrounding adapter, thereby placing between the inner surface of the surrounding adapter and the suspension frame of the filter plate. The apparatus of the present invention 1004, further comprising the above. [Invention 1007] Each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a first sleeve frame adapter and a second sleeve frame adapter, Each of the first sleeve frame adapter and the second sleeve frame adapter is, A first groove is located on the first edge of the sleeve frame adapter facing the first outer surface of each of the plurality of plates, and the first groove accommodates a member selected from the first support arm or the second support arm of each of the plurality of plates, A second groove located at the second edge of the sleeve frame adapter, which supports the plurality of plates on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The apparatus of the present invention 1001, comprising: [Invention 1008] A filter press apparatus, the following: Support frame and; A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are positioned parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively; A fixed head assembly positioned at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rails and the second elongated side rails, comprising a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly positioned at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails, wherein the driven head assembly is movable along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly; A plurality of plates, each of which is supported on and between the first and second elongated side rails by one or more frame adapters that slidably connect to the first and second elongated side rails, Each of the aforementioned plates is A second channel array defined by the first and second, A first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from opposing sides of each plate, wherein each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, and each support arm is housed by a frame adapter in one or more frame adapters, and Equipped with, The plurality of plates move back and forth between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. The aforementioned plurality of plates and; An adapter plate mechanism placed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly, A first adapter plate, A first surface that abuts against the adjacent surfaces of the end plates among the plurality of plates, A second surface facing the first surface and facing the third surface of the second adapter plate, A first plurality of channels, each channel in the first plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel in the second channel array, and the first plurality of channels and traverse from the first surface to the second surface. The first adapter plate comprises, A second adapter plate, The above third surface and A fourth surface facing the third surface and facing the fifth surface of the fixed head assembly, A second plurality of channels, each channel in the second plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel in the first channel array, and the second plurality of channels traverses from the first surface to the second surface. The second adapter plate comprises, A plurality of tubes, each of which extends from a corresponding channel from the first plurality of channels and a corresponding channel from the second plurality of channels, thereby providing fluid communication between the plurality of plates and the fixed head. The adapter plate mechanism comprises The filter press apparatus comprising the above-mentioned equipment. [Invention 1009] The apparatus of the present invention, wherein each of the tubes among the plurality of tubes is a flexible tube. [Invention 1010] The apparatus of the present invention 1009, further comprising a plurality of spacers, each of which spacers extends horizontally and is positioned between the first adapter plate and the second adapter plate. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent or be described in more detail from the accompanying drawings incorporated herein and the embodiments for carrying out the invention below, together which will help illustrate the specific principles of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0021] [Figure 1A] A diagram of an exemplary filter press apparatus including an adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 1B] A diagram of an exemplary filter plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 1C] A diagram of an exemplary frame plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 2] An exemplary support adapter and plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of an exemplary support adapter. [Figure 4] The diagrams show exemplary encirclement adapters and plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] The diagrams show exemplary encirclement adapters and plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 5 shows diagrams of several exemplary encirclement adapters. [Figure 7] The diagrams show exemplary sleeve adapters and multiple plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] A side view of an exemplary adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A shows a front view of an exemplary adapter plate. [Figure 9A] A side view of an exemplary adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 9B] An exemplary front view of an adapter plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 10] The diagrams show an adapter plate and a plurality of plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] The diagrams show an adapter plate and a plurality of plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] A diagram of an adapter plate according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. [Figure 12B]A diagram of an adapter plate according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. [Figure 13] This shows a conventional filter press. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] Please understand that the attached drawings are not necessarily to a fixed scale and represent various features illustrating the basic principles of the present invention in a somewhat simplified manner. Specific design features of the present invention disclosed herein include, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, and are partly determined by the specific intended use and environment.

[0023] In the drawings, reference numerals indicate identical or equivalent parts of the invention across several figures in the drawings. Furthermore, in the figures, dashed lines represent [specific details].

[0024] Detailed explanation Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings and described below. Although the present invention will be described in relation to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that this description is not intended to limit the present invention to those exemplary embodiments. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover not only exemplary embodiments but also various alternative forms, modifications, equivalents and other embodiments, which may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0025] Furthermore, while terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, it should be understood that these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the first plate may be referred to as the second plate, and similarly, the second plate may be referred to as the first plate. Both "first plate" and "second plate" are plates, but they are not "plates."

[0026] As used herein, the term “if” may be interpreted, depending on the context, as “when,” “upon,” “in response to determining,” or “in response to detecting.” Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined” or “if a stated condition or event” may be interpreted, depending on the context, as “upon determining,” “in response to determining,” “upon detecting,” or “in response to detecting.”

[0027] Furthermore, when a reference number is given the designation "i-th," the reference number refers to a general component, set, or embodiment. For example, a plate referred to as "plate i" refers to the i-th plate of a group of plates.

[0028] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in relation to filter press apparatus. The filter press apparatus of the present disclosure may be of various types, including concave filter presses, plate and frame filter presses, membrane plate filter presses, and viscose filter presses. The filter press apparatus of the present disclosure can also be used in a variety of applications, including pigment and / or dye production (e.g., finishing, desalination, waste neutralization, etc.), food and agricultural product processing (e.g., sugar processing), chemical processing (e.g., coolant recovery, etc.), recycling and environmental processing (e.g., industrial waste processing, flue gas desulfurization, etc.), pulp and / or paper processing (e.g., paint waste liquid processing, etc.), and mineral and / or mining processing. Furthermore, the filter press apparatus of the present disclosure can be oriented both vertically and horizontally.

[0029] Referring to Figures 1A-1B, exemplary filter press apparatus according to several embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. As shown, the filter press 10 includes a support frame (e.g., support frame 20) that forms the base of the filter press 10. The first and second elongated side rails, such as the first elongated side rail 30-1 and the second elongated side rail 30-2, are arranged parallel to each other on the first and second sides of the support frame 20, respectively. The elongated side rails 30 together accommodate a plurality of plates, such as a plate 110, which is placed between the elongated side rails 30 and slidably engaged.

[0030] A fixed head assembly, such as the fixed head assembly 40, is positioned at the first end of the support frame 20. In this manner, the fixed head assembly 40 is adjacent to each elongated side rail 30, with at least a portion of the fixed head assembly 40 resting between the elongated rails 30. The fixed head assembly 40 further includes one or more inlets for introducing slurry medium into the filter press device 10 and one or more outlets for collecting the filtrate of the medium from the filter press device 10. Collectively, the one or more inlets and one or more outlets of the fixed head assembly 40 define a first channel array.

[0031] A driven head assembly, such as a driven head assembly 50, is positioned at the second end of the support frame 20, facing the fixed head assembly 40 and adjacent to each elongated side rail 30. A portion of the driven head assembly 50 is slidably movable along the longitudinal direction (e.g., vertical direction) of the elongated side rail 30, thereby allowing the driven head assembly 50 to move forward toward the fixed head assembly 40 or backward toward the fixed head assembly 40 in accordance with commands provided to the filter press device 10. In some embodiments, the driven head assembly 50 includes a driven head, such as a driven head 52, and an actuator mechanism (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder 56, a controller 54, etc.) coupled to and controlling the driven head 52. Thus, the actuator mechanism facilitates power supply and / or control commands for the movement of the driven head 52. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0032] The filter press 10 includes multiple plates, such as plate 110, which are detachably supported on and placed between elongated side rails 30. Each plate 110 slides back and forth between the fixed head assembly 40 and the driven head assembly 50, for example, in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly 50. The plates 110 generally move as a collective unit due to the movement of the driven head assembly 50, but each plate 110 can move back and forth independently on the elongated side rails 30.

[0033] In some embodiments, the plate 110 includes both gasketed (e.g., sealed) and non-gasketed type plates. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the plate 110 of the present disclosure includes a concave chamber plate, a membrane (e.g., diaphragm) plate, and a frame plate. For example, in some embodiments, the plate 110 includes a plurality of filter plates, such as filter plate 112 (e.g., filter plate 112-i in Figure 1B), and a plurality of frame plates, such as frame plate 114 (e.g., frame plate 114-i in Figure 1C). Each frame plate 114 includes a corresponding filter plate 112 located on either side thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the plate 110 includes one or more end plates, such as an end plate 116, which is joined to one of a fixed head assembly 40 and a driven head assembly 50. In some embodiments, the end plate 116 includes one or more inlets for introducing slurry medium into the filter press device 10 and one or more outlets for collecting the filtrate of the medium from the filter press device 10. For example, in some embodiments, the inlet and outlet of the end plate 116 are aligned with and communicate with the inlet and outlet of the fixed head assembly 40. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0034] Each plate 110 includes a suspension frame, such as a suspension frame 118, which forms the support structure of the plate 110. The suspension frame 118 includes peripheral edge portions having first and second sides, each of which surrounds the central portion of the suspension frame 20. Each plate 110 further includes a second channel array (e.g., a first channel 140-1, a second channel 140-2, ..., a fourth channel 140-4), each channel located at the corresponding corner of the plate 110. The second channel array of each plate 110 defines inlets and outlets for the medium (e.g., slurry) of the filter press device 10 and, in combination with the fixed head assembly 40, provides fluid communication throughout the plate 110 for filtering the slurry in the filter press device 10.

[0035] For each filter plate 112, each side of the peripheral edge portion includes a textured surface configured to draw the filtrate toward one or more outlets of the filter plate 112. For each frame plate 114, each side of the peripheral edge portion is recessed inward toward the central plane of the suspension frame 118, forming an internal cavity for forming a cake or filtrate from the slurry. A first filter material and, optionally, a second filter material extend across the surfaces of the first and second sides of the peripheral edge portion, respectively, and such an internal cavity is defined by the frame plate 114, with the filter material lining both sides of the frame plate 114. Thus, the slurry is introduced through the inlet channel of the frame plate 114 and filtered through the filter material toward the filter plate 112 forming a cake within the internal cavity of the frame plate 114.

[0036] Each plate 110 includes a first support arm and a second support arm, such as a first support arm 120-1 and a second support arm 120-2, which removably connect the plate 110 to the filter press device 10. Each support arm 120 extends outward from opposing sides of the suspension frame 118 toward one of the elongated side rails 30. In some embodiments, the support arm 120 supports the plate 110 on the elongated side rail 30 by joining with the upper end portion of the elongated side rail 30. In this way, the plate 110 is removably connected to the filter press 10. In some embodiments, each support arm 120 includes a surface that abuts and joins with a corresponding portion of the elongated side rail 30, so that the support arm 120 and thus the plate 110 can slide along the elongated side rail 30. Therefore, when the driven head assembly 50 moves toward the fixed head assembly 40, the plate 110 is pushed along with the movement of the driven head assembly 50 and compressed between the fixed head assemblies 40. Similarly, when the driven head assembly 50 moves away from the fixed head assembly 50, a gap may be formed between one or more adjacent plates 110. In some embodiments, the plates 110 include gaskets, such as gaskets 132, that form a seal between adjacent plates 110 to prevent fluid leakage between the plates 110.

[0037] Each plate 110 is defined by its size, such as the length and width of the suspension frame 118 (e.g., 20 cm x 20 cm, 30 cm x 30 cm, 40 cm x 40 cm, L1 x L2, etc.), the thickness of the suspension frame 118 (e.g., 25 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, etc.), or a combination thereof. Thus, the elongated side rails 30 are configured to support plates 110 of a particular size based on the lateral distance between the elongated side rails 30. Each size of plate 110 generally has its own channel array, as the channels of each plate 110 are located at the edges (e.g., corners) of the plate. For example, referring briefly to Figure 12A, the first size of plate 110 has channels 1200 (e.g., channel 140) located at L1 x L1, and the second size of plate 110 has channels 1200 located at L2 x L2. Furthermore, this disclosure enables various configurations of plates 110 of the same size but with different thicknesses (for example, a first plate 110-1 measuring 20cm x 20cm with a thickness of 5cm, a second plate 110-2 measuring 20cm x 20cm with a thickness of 1cm, etc.).

[0038] To filter the medium, fluid communication between adjacent plates 110 must be maintained during the operation of the filter press device 10. However, if the operation using the filter press device 10 requires plates 110 of different sizes, the channels of the end filter plate 116 will not align with the mating surfaces of the fixed head assembly 40 and / or driven head assembly 50, stopping fluid communication within the filter press device 10. Therefore, an adapter plate, such as an adapter plate 60, is positioned between the mating surfaces of the plate 110 and the end filter plate 116. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is positioned between the mating surfaces of the end filter plate 116 and the fixed head assembly 40. The adapter plate 60 includes a mechanism (e.g., one or more tubes, such as tube 1010 in Figure 10, one or more channels 830 in Figure 8) that provides fluid communication between the plate 110 and the end plate 116 configured to mat with the fixed head assembly 40. In some embodiments, the elongated side rails 30 support the adapter plate 60 through a pair of support arms (for example, support arms 900 in Figure 9B) extending outward from the adapter plate 60. In this way, the adapter plate 60 is configured to slide back and forth along the elongated side rails 30, similar to the support arms 120 of the plate 110.

[0039] Conventional filter presses can only accommodate plates 110 of a predetermined size. Referring again to Figures 1A-1B, the frame adapter 70 allows these filter presses to accommodate plates 110 of different (e.g., smaller) sizes that would otherwise not be accommodated by the filter press 10, without modifying the structure of the filter press 10. Thus, the frame adapter 70 supports each, or optionally several, of the plates 110 on the elongated side rails 30. The frame adapter 70 engages with the plates 110 with the suspension frame 118, or a portion of the suspension frame 118 such as the support arm 120. In this way, the elongated side rails 30 of the filter press 10 can support various combinations of plates 110 of different sizes by providing the elongated side rails 30 and, optionally, an extended linkage to the plates 110, without requiring any modification of the existing structure of the filter press 10. In some embodiments, the frame adapter 70 includes a frame adapter 70 corresponding to each plate 110 utilized by the filter press 10, such as the frame adapter 250 in Figures 2-4. In this way, each plate 110 and its corresponding frame adapter 250 are configured to move independently of the other plates 110.

[0040] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, in some embodiments, the frame adapter 70 includes a support frame adapter, such as a support frame adapter 250, which is removably joined to each plate 110. The support frame adapter 250 includes a first enclosing portion 252-1 and a second enclosing portion 252-2 opposite the first enclosing portion 252-1. Collectively, the enclosing portions 252 house and join each support arm 120 of the corresponding plate 110. In some embodiments, the first enclosing portion 252-1 and the second enclosing portion 252-2 are removably engaged with each other via a coupling mechanism such as a coupling mechanism 254 (e.g., a screw 254-1, screw holes 256-1 and 256-2, a pin, a bayonet catch, etc.). However, in other embodiments, the enclosing portions 252 are formed integrally with each other (e.g., formed as a single element). In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism 254 includes through holes 256 that penetrate the outer surfaces of the enclosing portions 252-1 and 252-2. In some embodiments, the through holes 256 house connectors, such as screws 254, that penetrate the through holes 256 and connect the first enclosing portion 252-1 and the second enclosing portion 252-2. Thus, the coupling mechanism 254 allows for a removable engagement between the enclosing portion 252 and the support arm 120 using a mechanism that is easy to operate. Furthermore, the enclosing portion 252 does not require any modification to either the filter press device 10 or the structure of the plate 110 in order to connect with the plate 110 or the elongated side rail 30. This removable engagement allows the support frame adapters 250 to be placed on different plates 110 without altering the integrity of the suspension frame 118 of the plate 110. Moreover, each support frame adapter 250 consumes a minimal volume, thereby preventing the use of extra plates 110 that would otherwise be unused. Furthermore, since the support frame adapter 250 connects to only a portion of the support arm 120 of the plate 110, material consumption for manufacturing is significantly reduced.

[0041] Each enclosing portion 252 includes a first groove, such as a first groove 300-1, located on the first edge portion of each enclosing portion 252. The first groove 300 accommodates and engages a portion (e.g., part or all) of the support arm 120 such that the surface of the support arm 120 engages with a portion of the first groove 300. The first groove 300 is substantially the same size as the portion of the support arm 120 (e.g., within a tolerance range of 1 mm to 0.005 mm). In this way, excessive movement of the support arm 120 within the support frame adapter 250 is prevented while allowing a removable engagement between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250. Thus, the first groove 300 provides an interaction area between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250, allowing the support frame adapter 250 to support the load of the plate 110 with minimal movement between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a second groove, such as a second groove 258, is positioned on the second edge portion of each enclosing portion 252. The second groove 258 supports the plate 110 on the elongated side rail 30 by joining with the upper end portion of the elongated side rail 30. Thus, in some embodiments, the shape (e.g., curvature) of the second groove 258 corresponds to the shape of the elongated side rail 30, allowing for smooth (e.g., stable) and varied movement of the plate 110 along the elongated side rail 30 via the support frame adapter 250.

[0042] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in some embodiments, one or more frame adapters include a surrounding frame adapter, such as a surrounding frame adapter 500. The surrounding frame adapter 500 surrounds a portion of the suspension frame 118 of the plate 110 and can provide additional leak protection during the operation of the filter press device 10. In some embodiments, the surrounding frame adapter 500 includes through holes, such as through holes 502, that define the outer and inner surfaces of the surrounding frame adapter 500. In some embodiments, the inner surface defined by the through holes 502 has substantially the same circumference as the suspension frame 118, allowing the surrounding frame adapter 500 to house and surround the plate 110 within its inner surface. Furthermore, the through holes 502 of the surrounding frame adapter 500 expose adjacent surfaces of the filter plate 112 and the frame plate 114, allowing a cake to form between these adjacent filter plates 112 and the frame plate 114, and subsequently allowing the cake to be removed from the filter press device 10.

[0043] In some embodiments, the encirclement adapter 500 includes a first support arm and a second support arm (e.g., a first support arm 530-1 and a second support arm 530-2), such as a support arm 530. The support arm 530 extends outward from the outer surface of the encirclement adapter 500 and joins with the elongated side rail 30 so that the plate 110 is supported on the elongated side rail 30. This support provided by the support arm 530 is similar to the support provided by the support arms of the support frame adapter described above (e.g., using interaction areas such as a first groove, a second groove, and groove 532 in Figure 5). Thus, the support arm 530 of the encirclement adapter 500 allows smaller sized plates 110 to be used in larger sized filter presses 10 (e.g., a 20cm × 20cm plate 110 on a filter press 10 designed to accommodate a 40cm × 40cm plate 110). Smaller sized plates 110 would otherwise not be supported by the elongated side rails 30 due to their shorter size. In some embodiments, the encirclement adapter 500 includes a gasket (e.g., gasket 132 in Figure 4) positioned on one or more sides of the through-hole 502, which also provides an additional layer of leak prevention between the encirclement adapter 500 and the plate 110. In some embodiments, the encirclement adapter 500 includes a first and second portion that removably engage with and encircle the plate 110-i and form the encirclement adapter 500. In some embodiments, the end of the encirclement adapter includes a deformable damper configured to engage with a driven head 52. In this way, the driven head 52 applies force to the plate 110 via the damper rather than directly to the encirclement adapter 500. Furthermore, by applying force to the plate 110, the plate 110 can move independently of the encirclement adapter 500. Therefore, the encirclement adapter 500 allows plates 110 of different sizes to be used in a larger filter press 10 with a minimum number of elements.

[0044] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the frame adapter includes one or more sleeve frame adapters, such as a sleeve frame adapter 700 (e.g., a first sleeve frame adapter 700-1 and a second sleeve frame adapter 700-2). The sleeve frame adapter 700 houses support arms 120 for one or more plates 110. The support provided by the sleeve frame adapter 700 is similar to the support provided by the support arms of the aforementioned support frame adapters (e.g., using a first groove, an interaction region, and a second groove). In some embodiments, the support arms 120 are slidable within the sleeve frame adapter 700, allowing the plates 110 housed in the sleeve frame adapter 700 to move independently of the sleeve frame adapter 700 in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly 50. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sleeve frame adapter 700 can support any number of plates 110, so that the sleeve frame adapter 700 can support two or more plates 110 on the elongated side rail 30 with a minimum number of parts.

[0045] Referring to Figures 8A to 9B, in some embodiments, an adapter plate, such as an adapter plate 60, is provided between the terminal plate 110 and the fixed head assembly 40, or optionally between the end plate 116 and the fixed head assembly 40, to provide fluid communication between the plate 110 and the fixed head assembly 40. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is placed between the terminal plate 110 and the end plate 116, as shown in Figure 1A. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 includes a first surface that abuts against the adjacent end plate 116 and a second surface that faces the first surface and abuts against the adjacent surface of the fixed head assembly 40. The first and second surfaces of the adapter plate 60 each include a plurality of openings, such as openings 810 and 820. Furthermore, a plurality of channels, such as a channel 830, traverse from one of the openings 810 to one of the openings 820 and align with the corresponding channel 140 of the adjacent plate 110. In this way, fluid communication is provided between the plate 110 and the fixed head assembly 40, even if the plate 110 is a different size from the size initially configured for the fixed head assembly 40. For example, consider a filter press device 10 configured to accommodate a first plurality of plates 110 of a first size (e.g., L1 × L1), then a second filter plate 110 of a second size (e.g., L2 × L2) is used with the filter press device 10. Thus, the second plurality of plates 110 are accommodated and joined to the elongated side rails 30 via frame adapters. An opening 810 is located at L1 × L1 from the center of the adapter plate 60 and corresponds to a channel 140 of the fixed head assembly 40, and an opening 820 is located at L2 × L2 from the center of the adapter plate 60. Furthermore, a channel 830 is formed across the adapter plate 60 and across the openings 810 and 820 so as to provide fluid communication between the plates 110. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 includes support arms such as support arms 900 (e.g., a first support arm 900-1 and a second support arm 900-2) that extend outward from the outer surface of the adapter plate 60.The support arm 900 engages with the elongated side rail 30 and the support adapter plate 60 in the same way as the support provided by the support arm of the support frame adapter described above (for example, using the first groove, interaction region, and second groove).

[0046] Referring to Figures 10 to 12B, in some embodiments, an adapter plate mechanism, such as adapter plate mechanism 1000, provides fluid communication between the plates 110. The adapter plate mechanism 1000 includes a first adapter plate and a second adapter plate, such as adapter plate 1002 (e.g., a first adapter plate 1002-1, a second adapter plate 1002-2). Each adapter plate 1002 includes opposing surfaces and a channel array that passes through the adapter plate 1002 and traverses between the opposing surfaces. In some embodiments, the surfaces include multiple channels, such as channels 1200 (e.g., a first channel 1200-1, a second channel 1200-2, etc.), which align with the corresponding channels 140 of the end plate 116, the fixed head assembly 40, the terminal plate 110, or a combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the adapter plate 1002 includes one or more channel arrays 1200 corresponding to specific sizes of the plate 110 (for example, a first channel array 1200 corresponding to an L1×L1 sized plate 110, a second channel array 1200 corresponding to an L2×L2 sized plate 110, and so on). For example, the channels 1200 in Figure 12A are formed at a first plurality of positions corresponding to a first size of the plate 110 (e.g., L1×L1), a second plurality of positions corresponding to a second size of the plate 110 (e.g., L2×L2), and a third plurality of positions corresponding to a third size of the plate 110 (e.g., L3×L3). By using channel arrays 1200 corresponding to different plate 110 sizes, any combination of plate 110 sizes can be used with the adapter plate mechanism 1000. Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more plugs, such as plug 1220, are removably engaged with the corresponding channel 1200, and plug 1220 stops or delays fluid communication through channel 1200. Plug 1220 typically engages with channels 1200 that are not used in immediate filter press operations.Furthermore, the plug 1220 minimizes the maintenance required for the plate 110 by preventing the medium from crossing the channel 1200, which would otherwise be exposed to the medium and require subsequent cleaning. In this way, the adapter plate mechanism 1000 allows for plates 110 of any size for use in the filter press device 10.

[0047] In some embodiments, one or more tubes, such as tube 1010, extend from a channel 1200 of a first adapter plate 1000-1 to a corresponding channel 1200 of a second adapter plate 1000-2. In some embodiments, tube 1010 is formed from a flexible (e.g., elastic) material. Tube 1010 extends the distance between the end plate 116 and plate 110 while maintaining fluid communication between the channels of plate 110. In some embodiments, tube 1010 is configured to prevent dead volume of the medium by tube 110 and reduce the generation of turbulent medium flow. In some embodiments, tube 1010 includes an expandable tube, allowing the distance between the adapter plates 1000 to be adjusted according to the designed application. In some embodiments, one or more spacers, such as spacer 1030, extend longitudinally and are placed between the outer edge portions of the adapter plates 1000. Spacer 1030 allows the user of the filter press 10 to adjust the length of tube 1030. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the spacer 1030 displaces forces acting on it, such as the force on the plate 110 compressing it between the fixed head assembly 40 and the fixed head assembly 50. In some embodiments, the spacer 1030 includes a cotter pin device (e.g., multiple through holes and cotter pins, hairpins, bowtie pins, etc.) that allows for manual adjustment of the spacer 1030 and temporary fixing of the distance between the adapter plates 1000. In some embodiments, the spacer 1030 provides rigidity to the filter press device 10.

[0048] Therefore, the filter press adapter of this disclosure enables increased facility capacity by allowing the use of plates of various sizes during the filter press operating process. The filter press adapter of this disclosure has a minimal number of components and a simple installation procedure, thereby improving handling for the user and reducing maintenance. The filter press of this disclosure engages detachably with conventional filter press equipment, so the integrity of the filter press equipment is not compromised. Furthermore, the detachable engagement feature of the filter press adapter also improves end-user precision when mounting the adapter to the frame.

[0049] For explanatory and precise definition purposes of the descriptions in the attached claims, the terms “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” “upward,” “downward,” “inside,” “outside,” “inward,” “outward,” “internal,” “external,” “front,” “rear,” “back,” “front,” and “rear” are used to describe features of exemplary embodiments with reference to the location of the features shown in the figures. Furthermore, it should be noted that the term “side” does not necessarily mean the outermost edge of an element in this disclosure.

[0050] Specific Exemplary Embodiments of the Invention The above description is presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the exact form disclosed, and many modifications and variations are obviously possible in light of the above teachings. The exemplary embodiments are selected and described to illustrate specific principles of the invention and their practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to create and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the invention, as well as various alternatives and modifications thereof. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A filter press apparatus, the following: Support frame and; A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are arranged parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively; A fixed head assembly positioned at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rails and the second elongated side rails, comprising a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly positioned at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails, wherein the driven head assembly is movable along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly; A plurality of plates, each of which is supported on and between the first and second elongated side rails by one or more frame adapters that slidably connect to the first and second elongated side rails, Each of the aforementioned plates is A second channel array defined by a second length, A first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from opposing sides of each plate, wherein each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, and each support arm is housed by a frame adapter in one or more frame adapters, and Equipped with, The plurality of plates move back and forth between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. The aforementioned plurality of plates; An adapter plate placed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly, A first surface that abuts against the adjacent surfaces of the end plates among the plurality of plates, A second surface facing the first surface and in contact with the adjacent surface of the fixed head assembly, A plurality of channels, each of which extends from the first surface to the second surface, connecting a corresponding channel in the first channel array on the first surface to a corresponding channel in the second channel array on the second surface, thereby providing fluid communication between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly. The adapter plate and The filter press apparatus comprising the above-mentioned equipment.

2. Each of the one or more frame adapters is equipped with a support frame adapter, The aforementioned support frame adapter A first enclosing portion and a second enclosing portion that is opposite to the first enclosing portion and detachably coupled thereto Equipped with, Each of the first and second surrounding portions of the support frame adapter is A first groove located at the first edge portion of the surrounding portion, which accommodates a part of the support arm, A coupling mechanism configured to be detachably coupled to the corresponding coupling mechanism of the surrounding portion on the opposite side of the support frame adapter, A second groove located at the second edge portion of the surrounding portion, which supports the plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

3. Each surrounding portion of the aforementioned support frame adapter has a coupling mechanism, Through holes positioned on the surface of the surrounding portion and aligned with the corresponding through holes of the opposing surrounding portion of the support frame adapter. Equipped with, The through-holes accommodate connectors that pass through each of the through-holes in the support frame adapter. The apparatus according to claim 2.

4. Each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a surrounding frame adapter that surrounds the first outer surface of each of the plates among the plurality of plates, The surrounding frame adapter is provided with through holes defining the second outer surface and inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter, The inner surface corresponds to the first outer surface of each of the plates and is configured to accommodate the plates. The second outer surface comprises a first encirclement adapter support arm extending outward from a first side surface of the second outer surface, and a second encirclement adapter support arm extending outward from a second side surface of the second outer surface facing the first side surface, Each encircle adapter support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the surrounding frame adapter is formed integrally with the plate.

6. The aforementioned encircling frame adapter, A gasket positioned around the inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter, thereby placed between adjacent plates for each of the plurality of plates. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising:

7. Each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a first sleeve frame adapter and a second sleeve frame adapter, Each of the sleeve frame adapters of the first sleeve frame adapter and the second sleeve frame adapter is A first groove is located on the first edge of the sleeve frame adapter facing the first outer surface of each of the plurality of plates, and the first groove accommodates a member selected from the first support arm or the second support arm of each of the plurality of plates, A second groove located at the second edge of the sleeve frame adapter, which supports the plurality of plates on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

8. A filter press apparatus, the following: Support frame and; A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are arranged parallel to each other and on the first and second sides of the support frame, respectively; A fixed head assembly positioned at the first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rails and the second elongated side rails, comprising a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly positioned at the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first and second elongated side rails, wherein the driven head assembly is movable along the longitudinal direction of the first and second elongated side rails toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly and toward the fixed head assembly; A plurality of plates, each of which is supported on and between the first and second elongated side rails by one or more frame adapters that slidably connect to the first and second elongated side rails, Each of the aforementioned plates is A second channel array defined by a second length, A first support arm and a second support arm extending outward from opposing sides of each plate, wherein each support arm supports each plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, and each support arm is housed by a frame adapter in one or more frame adapters, and Equipped with, The plurality of plates move back and forth between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly. The aforementioned plurality of plates; An adapter plate mechanism placed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly, A first adapter plate, A first surface that abuts against the adjacent surfaces of the end plates among the plurality of plates, A second surface facing the first surface and facing the third surface of the second adapter plate, A first plurality of channels, each channel in the first plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel in the second channel array, and the first plurality of channels and traverse from the first surface to the second surface. The first adapter plate comprises, A second adapter plate, The surface of 43, A fourth surface facing the third surface and facing the fifth surface of the fixed head assembly, A second plurality of channels, each channel in the second plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel in the first channel array, and the second plurality of channels traverses from the first surface to the second surface. The second adapter plate comprises, A plurality of tubes, each of which extends from a corresponding channel from a first plurality of channels and a corresponding channel from a second plurality of channels, thereby providing fluid communication between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly. The adapter plate mechanism comprises The filter press apparatus comprising the above-mentioned equipment.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein each of the tubes among the plurality of tubes is a flexible tube.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a plurality of spacers, each of which spacers extends horizontally and is positioned between the first adapter plate and the second adapter plate.

Images