What this equipment does
Filter presses are batch dewatering machines used in coal preparation to dewater fine tailings, producing a stackable filter cake suitable for co-disposal or backfill, and clear filtrate that can be recycled to the plant. Modern plants commonly use membrane-squeeze presses, which apply mechanical compression to the cake at the end of the filtration cycle to reduce final moisture content.
At a Glance
- Equipment Type
- Filter press
- Material Handled
- Coal preparation tailings, fine slurries
- Capacity Range
- 1–80 m³ filter chamber volume
Common Applications
- Coal tailings dewatering
- Fine coal recovery
- Mine water treatment sludge dewatering
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Chamber Volume | 1–80 | m³ |
| Plate Type | Recessed, membrane | |
| Filtration Pressure | up to 16 | bar |
| Membrane Squeeze | up to 30 | bar |
| Cycle Time | 15–60 | min |
| Cake Moisture | 18–28% |
Selection Factors
- Slurry solids content and particle size
- Required cake moisture
- Cycle time and daily throughput
- Filter cloth material
- Cake discharge automation (shaker, flap)
Maintenance and Wear Notes
Filter cloths are the primary wear item and are replaced periodically as flux declines. Plate sealing surfaces should be inspected for damage. Hydraulic systems on the closing mechanism require routine maintenance.