SECTION A – To be filled up by Student

Subject Code & Subject CPB21404 SEPARATION PROCESS

Title of Experiment Plate And Frame Filter Press
Date of Experiment 11/04/2019 Date of Submission 18/04/2019
Name & ID No. 1) MOHAMMAD NOOR FAHMIE BIN RAZALI (55213117104)
2) MOHAMAD IZZAT IMRAN BIN HOSNI (55213117054)
Group No: ( 5 )
3) WAN NAJWA RUSYDA BINTI WAN ABD MALIK (55213117031)
4) MOHD AFIQ BAZLI BIN BASIR (55213117107)
Name of Lecturer DR. NOR SHAHIRAH MOHD NASIR
*Penalty:
 For any late of submission, the mark will be reduced by 5% per day to a maximum of 3 days, after which
it will NOT BE ACCEPTED.
 Plagiarism will not be tolerated and will be given ZERO.

SECTION B – To be filled up by Lecturer

Very Satisfactory Good Excellent Marks

Poor
Criteria Poor (3) (4) (5)
(2)
(1)
Report format (5%)
1 2 3 4 5
1.Organization of the report.
Summary (10%) – max 1 page
1.Brief review on the objectives of the
2 4 6 8 10
experiment, major findings and significant
conclusions
Introduction & Theory (10%) –
max 2 pages
1. State the background to the
experiment conducted. 2 4 6 8 10
2. Summary of theories including
formulations related to the experimental
work.
Data & Results (10%)
1. Data are presented as deemed 2 4 6 8 10
suitable with complete labels and units.
Analysis & Discussion (40%)
1. Explanations of the referred table and
figure are presented after the table and
8 16 24 32 40
figure
2. Discuss on the findings and relations to
the theory and objective of experiment
Conclusion & Recommendation
(10%)
1.Summary of the results to relate the
findings or results with the theory 2 4 6 8 10
applicable to the experimental
2.Suggest improvements in apparatus or
measurement procedure, or experimental
procedures for future
References & Appendices (5%)
1. Cite references in the text.
2. References taken from books, journals
1 2 3 4 5
and articles. References from website are
not recommended.
3. Put raw data and sample calculation.
TOTAL (90%)
Laboratory Psychomotor Student 1 Student 3
Assessment (10%)
Individual practical skills Student 2 Student 4
Student 1 Student 3
TOTAL (100%)
Student 2 Student 4
 TABLE OF CONTENT
NO CONTENT PAGES

1.0 SUMMARY
1

2.0 INTRODUCTION & THEORY

2-3
3.0 DATA & RESULTS
4-7

4.0 ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

8-9
5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
10-11
6.0 REFERENCES & APPENDICES
12
1.0 SUMMARY

Filtration could be regarded as an operation that separate solids from fluids (liquids or
gases) by adding a medium through which only the fluid can pass; it is done in any of various
mechanical, physical or even biologically. Meanwhile, the fluid that passes through is called
the filtrate. In this session, students were assigned to operate the plate and filter press as it act
as a pressure filter designed to de-water chemically conditioned sludge on a batch basis by
using mechanically applied pressure to achieve high solid content sludge cakes. At the start
of the experiment, 3.0 kg of calcium carbonate, CaCO 3 powder were dissolved with water
before being transferred into the slurry tank. The first objective of the session was to study
the operation of filter press for filtration of CaCO 3 slurry. The filtrate were collected in a
beaker at 5 L interval while recording the time taken for each 5 L of filtrate drained. Based
on the pattern, the weight of dry cakes for all trays were significantly lower compared to their
wet cakes weight. These results indicated that the operation of the filter press were working
accordingly. Besides that, the second objective was to determine both medium and specific
cake resistance from the final filtration data obtained. Based on the viscosity and the density
of the filtrate chosen, the highest viscosity measured was obtained in the first 5 L whereas for
the latter, the highest density was obtained at 80 L of filtrate. This phenomenon indicated that
the viscosity of the slurry would decrease with time as the resistance of the slurry travelling
throughout the pipe influenced the viscosity significantly. Based on the final findings, it
could be concluded that the cake resistance increases as the filter medium resistance increases
which indirectly leading to higher pressure differences in the process.
2.0 INTRODUCTION & THEORY

INTRODUCTION

Filter presses or also can be known as Plate-and-Frame Filters as it describes the

pioneer of style filters developed since 1800’s. In industries, filter processes involve
chemical, food or even pharmaceutical produces products, which are in liquid-solid
suspensions or slurries; these mixtures are resemblance of a little like a runny mud or mil-
shake. It is a filter designed to remove water chemically conditioned sludge on a batch basis
by using mechanically applied pressure in order to achieve high solid content of sludge cakes.
It consists of a series of chambers containing square or rectangular filter plates supported in a
structure frame. Each plate is covered by a material or membrane that acts as the initial filter
when the press is in operation.

In the beginning of the experiment, 3.0 kg of calcium carbonate were dissolved with
tap water before pouring them into the slurry tank. After opening the air regulator outlet
valve, both hydraulic pump air valve and operation valve (knob) were released in order to
release the hydraulic pressure. During operation, the hydraulic closing device compressed the
plate pack. After a moment, the recessed camber formed the cake space between the
individual plates, in which the suspended solids were then retained. As the solid filter cake
builds up, the cake added to the removal of fine particles. The slurry were fed by slurry pump
in which pressure subjected to the allowable pressure required for filtration before being
filtered.

During filtration cycle, the filtrate passed through the filter cloth and drained along a
grooved rib of the plates while the solid was retained within the cake chamber. The volume
of filtrate, collected in litres, which are taken at different time intervals are recorded at a
given pressure drop. After reaching the filtration pressure, the filtrate discharge were reduced,
the compressed air was introduced to inflate the membrane for speeding up the filtration
processes. As the filtrates were reduced to droplets, the compressed air was freed to release
the hydraulic pump. At the end of the experiment, the residue from the filter cloth were
cleaned with a plastic scrubber by opening up the press as well as shifting the filter plates
manually.
THEORY

By definition, filtration is the elimination of solid particles from a fluid by passing the
fluid through a filtering medium on which the solids are deposited. In industrial filtrations,
the processes ranged from simple straining to highly complex separations. The fluid is either
liquid or gas, whereas the valuable stream from the filter is may be the fluid or solid or even
both. The solid content of the feed ranges from a trace to a very high percentage.

The plate and frame filter operates under pressure using the process of cake filtration.
The process involves sending the slurry through the press that is equipped with filter cloths.
The cloths will collect the particles in the slurry and allow the solvent or water to pass
through. The cake then builds up and assists the filtration process as more slurry moves
through the press; its rate is depending on the viscosity of the liquid, μ, the thickness and
resistance of the cake, the density of the filtrate, ρ and the pressure drop, ∆P across each
plate. A positive displacement pump permits the plate-and-frame filter to be fed with a
suspension either at a uniform rate or by adjusting a bypass valve while the pressure is
maintained.

Consequently, layers of solids build up in the frame while the filter passes through the
press. Nonetheless, the rate of filtration will be slower as more solids are developed in the
frame. As the cakes in the frames achieve its sufficient thickness, the filtration is stopped and
the press is ready to be dismantled in order to collect the cakes from the frames.
Theoretically, the resistance of the cake produced is proportional with time, t as the resistance
increases with time. This is due to the cake produced in the frames become thicker; the rate of
forcing the filtrate through the cake is lower as it becomes harder. Meanwhile, the resistance
to the flow of filtrate is proportional to the volume of the filtrate, V that passed through the
cake.

The constant variables that are responsible throughout the experiment includes the
density of calcium carbonate and the total active filter area. As for the former, the density is
2.93 g/cm3, which is exactly as given in the lab manual whereas for the latter, the area is set
at 47 cm × 470 cm. These two components are crucial in evaluating the recorded data for
further analysis in the experiment.
3.0 DATA & RESULTS

Weight of wet cake(g) Weight of dry cake(g)

Tray 1 920 605

Tray 2 1080 830

Tray 3 1450 910
Table 1: Weight of wet cake and dry cake

Filtrate volume, V (litre) Viscosity (MPa.s) Density (D)

5 0.012 0.9770
45 0.008 0.9980
80 0.004 0.9985
Table 2: Viscosity and density of filtrate at 5, 40 and 80 liters

Weight fraction of calcium carbonate in slurry: 0.05%

Weight ratio of wet cake to dry cake : 1.47

Density of calcium carbonate : 2.93 g/cm3

Total active filter area : 22090 cm2

Pressure drop (ΔP) : 800 psi

Total filtration time : 946 s

Total volume of filtrate : 80 L

Filter Volume, V (L) Time, t (s) t / V (sL-1)

0 0.0 0.00

5 426.0 85.20

10 543.0 54.30

15 567.0 37.80

20 615.6 30.78

25 672.0 26.88

30 727.2 24.24

35 783.6 22.39

40 844.2 21.11

45 870.0 19.33

50 924.0 18.48

55 981.0 17.84

60 1032.2 17.20

65 1090.2 16.77

70 1145.4 16.36

75 1174.8 15.66

80 1227.0 15.34

Table 3: The volume, time and time per volume of the filter
 Time per volume (t/V) Vs Volume (V)
90
80
Time per Volume (t/V)

70
60
50
40
f(x) = − 1.94 x + 43.35
30
20
10
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80
Volume (V)

Figure 1: Graph of t/V versus V

Kc 1
The slope of each line is in seconds per liter and from the intercept of the line. The
2 qo

1
slope for each line, Kc is 3.8866 s/L and the intercept of the line, is 43.353 cm−2. The value
qo
of filter medium resistance (Rm) and cake resistance (α) were obtained from the equations,

1 µ Rm
=
qo A( ∆ P)

Rearrange equation:

1
A(∆ P)
qo
Rm =
µ
( 43.353 cm−2 ) ( 47 cm × 470 cm) ( 800 psi) 0.101325 MPa
¿ ×
8 MPa . s 14.696 psi

¿ 6.6029 x 105 s−1

 µcα
K c=
A2 ∆ P

Rearrange equation:

Kc A2∆ P
α=
µc

2.345 kg kg
c= =0.0293
80 L L
¿)

s [( 47 cm× 470 cm)¿¿ 2](800 psi) 0.101325 MPa

(
α = 3.8866
L ) kg
( 8 MPa . s ) (0.0293 )
×
14.696 psi
¿
L
6 cm2
¿ 2.0203 ×10
kg
4.0 ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSIONS

The objectives of the experiment are to; study the operation of filter press for filtration
of calcium carbonate slurry; determine filter medium resistance and specific cake resistance
from filtration data obtained. The experiment was not capped at any specific period or
volume and only depends on the reaction. Based on the result obtained, the endpoint of the
reaction was at 80L.

From Table 1, it showcased that masses of dry cakes for all trays were lighter
compare to it previous masses which were wet cakes; showing the operation of filter press
was accomplished. From Table 2, by using viscometer and graduated cylinder, viscosity and
density of each filtrate; 5L, 40L and 80L were calculated. These readings were also isolated
from others and dried overnight. In comparison, the highest viscosity obtained was from
5Lwhile the highest density obtained was from 80L. From Table 3, as the volume increased
and time progressed, the time per volume (t / V) decreased. Hence, filter volume of 80L has
the lowest value of time per volume (t / V). Thus, from the Figure 1, the relationship that can
be deduced between volume and time per volume (t / V) is inversely proportional. The line
equation constructed from the result obtained corresponded to y = mx + c. Prior to the second
objective; the filter medium resistance, Rm, calculated was 6.6029 x 105 s−1. Cake resistance
calculated was 2.0203 ×106 cm3 kg-1.

Theoretically, if the filter medium resistance is high, the pressure difference in the
filtration process will increase. This is due to fact that the difference in pressure act as driving
force to cause the fluid to flow. During the filtration process, as the fluid flows through the
filter medium, some large solid particles will build up at the surface of the filter medium
which called porous cake. At some point, the filter medium resistance increases due to
clogged or excessive buildup of porous cake. The major finding is, to relate the result
obtained, the cake resistance of 2.0203 ×106 cm3 kg-1 will required approximately 800psi of
pressure difference to allow the flow of the fluid.
 The advantages of plate and frame filter press is the unit produce high filtration
velocities. This is due to the pressure difference produced by the unit which will ensure the
smoothness of the flow. Secondly, the filter cake or porous cake formed is very low in
moisture content. High velocity prevents the moisture content in the cake to increase thus less
time required for frying. Thirdly, the unit has wider range in vast application compare to
other type of filters. Hence, the sensitivity is higher and more reliable as it can be used to
applied at range that no other filter can. Disadvantages of the plate and frame filter press is
the process occurred at intermittent operation; the interval and duration process are
unexpected and not continuously. Secondly, the operation required very high labor. The
space required, the time consumed and the safety of the workers at high stake cause the cost
of the operation is expensive. Thirdly, the operation is not a continuous reaction. Hence, in
the operating condition; to produce small quantity of product but in a higher rate of
production, other filter such as vacuum filter might be a better option. To sum up the
conclusion, the higher the cake resistance, the higher the filter medium resulting higher-
pressure difference in the process.
5.0 CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

CONCLUSION

The objectives of the experiment are to; study the operation of filter press for
filtration of calcium carbonate slurry; determine filter medium resistance and specific cake
resistance from filtration data obtained. Plate and frame filter press is an equipment to
remove the liquid from liquid-solid slurry. Filtrate, which is as unwanted product should be
drained down the surface of the plate, between the projections on the surface and escape from
the outlet. In this experiment, it is required to filter the calcium carbonate slurry. After
filtration process is done, the viscosity and the density need to be observed. Based on the
result that has been obtained, the highest viscosity was from 5L while the highest density
obtained was from 80L. That were recorded at the early state due to the slurry travelling
through the pipe has less resistance. Hence, high velocity prevents the moisture content in the
cake to increase thus, less time required for frying. So, it can be concluded that the resistance
of slurry travelling throughout the pipe effected the viscosity. The less viscous of the slurry at
the end of experiment shows that this filtration equipment is operate and filtrate well. Next,
as the volume increased and time progressed, the time per volume (t / V) will decreased as
the relationship is inversely proportional. Lastly, it can be conclude that, the higher the cake
resistance, the higher the filter medium resulting higher-pressure difference in the process.
This is due to fact that the difference in pressure act as driving force to cause the fluid to
flow.
RECOMMENDATION

From the experiment, there are some recommendations, which can be done to make
sure the experiment can run smoothly and to avoid errors. Firstly, the calcium carbonate
power must be fully mixed so that it can be enough slurry. Then, do not use sharp object to
clean the filter cloth to avoid any damage. Next, ensure that the feed process is completed.
When checking the viscosity, make sure use the correct data for the number of spindles used.
Besides, make sure the wet cake must be fully dry to get a better result. Lastly, make sure the
equipment used can function well so that the experiment can be conducted properly without
any damage.
6.0 REFERENCES & APPENDICES

REFERENCES

1. Sparks, T., & Chase, G. (2016). Filter Media. Filters and Filtration Handbook, 55–115.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-099396-6.00002-2
2. Filtration. (2017). Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved from:
https://www.britannica.com/science/filtration-chemistry
3. Filter Press guide. Working principle of filter press. Retrieved from:
http://www.filterpress.guide/working-principle-of-filter-press/ (Accessed date
18/4/2019).
4. H. Jung (Dec. 1928) Filter Press. Page 5.
杨玉环 (May 2014) How a filter press works (Haijiang Filter Press Group) Retrieved
from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsmIznS8upg (Accessed date 18/4/2019)

APPENDICES

1. Density of calcium carbonate : 2.93 g/cm3

2. Total active filter area : 47 cm x 470 cm
3. Filter medium resistance, Rm:-

1 µ Rm
=
qo A( ∆ P)

4. Cake resistance,α :-
µcα
K c=
A2 ∆ P