Vacuum Filter System for Continuous Solid-Liquid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-liquid separation technologies, particularly pressure filters, are limited by batch operation, difficulty in cake washing and drying, and high costs due to expensive pressure vessels, which restrict their application and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum filter system with a mobile filter assembly and vacuum transfer system that allows continuous operation, independent control of filtration and washing stages, and reduced wash liquor consumption, enabling larger filtration areas and versatile applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pressure filters (candle filters, plate filters) are used for solid-liquid separation, then filtration can be performed, but the system can only operate in batch mode and requires expensive pressure vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pressure-based mechanical system with a vacuum-based system. Instead of using pressure vessels to force slurry through filters, the invention uses vacuum pressure differential to draw slurry through the filtration medium, eliminating the need for expensive pressure vessels while enabling continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs vacuum (pneumatic) pressure to drive the filtration process. A vacuum source creates negative pressure on the filtrate side of the filter medium, causing slurry to be drawn continuously through the filter, replacing the mechanical pressure vessel approach with a pneumatic system
2Ease of operation
If pressure vessels are used to maintain pressure for filter cake retention, then cake can be retained during filtration, but cake washing and drying cannot be easily performed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the system dynamic by allowing continuous movement of the filter assembly through different process zones (filtration zone, washing zone, drying zone). The filter cake remains retained on the moving filter medium while the system transitions between operations, enabling continuous washing and drying without batch interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous operation where the filter assembly moves continuously through filtration, washing, and drying stages. The useful action of filter cake formation, washing, and drying occurs continuously without batch interruptions, as the moving filter medium passes through different functional zones
3Productivity
If large filtration area is required, then throughput increases, but pressure vessel size and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a confined pressure vessel geometry to an extended linear configuration where multiple filter elements are arranged in series along a continuous path. This dimensional change allows large total filtration area to be achieved without increasing the volume of any single containment vessel
Solution Approach 2:
The filtration system is divided into multiple discrete filter elements or modules that can be arranged in series. Each module provides a portion of the total filtration area, and they can be configured in a compact arrangement, eliminating the need for a single large pressure vessel
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves higher throughput, reduced capital and operating costs, and improved efficiency in solid-liquid separation, enabling continuous operation and efficient cake washing and drying without the need for expensive pressure vessels.
Implementation Method 1
applying a vacuum to the interiors of the filter cells through a vacuum transfer system
Data Source
AI summary
A method for filtering solids from a slurry includes placing a filter assembly into a filtration tank containing the slurry. The filter assembly includes a plurality of filter cells each having a filter medium at an exterior and a cavity at an interior. The solids are filtered by moving the slurry through the filter mediums into the interiors of the filter cells to form a filter cake at the exteriors of the filter cells. The filter assembly is moved while applying a vacuum to the interiors of the filter cells through a vacuum transfer system including a mobile part and a stationary part. The mobile part moves along with the filter assembly and is sealed with respect to the stationary part.