Continuous filter with pressing means

Abstract

A method is provided for continuously filtering liquids containing microorganisms, macromolecules and/or fine particles of solid matter as substances to be filtered out and collecting the substances that are filtered out. The liquid to be filtered is introduced from the top into an upright sieve basket where the filtrate is separated from the substances to be filtered out. A pressure is exerted on the liquid in the sieve basket by pressing means so that the filtrate leaves the sieve basket and the entire surface of the cake formed from the filtered-out substances always has approximately the same height in the sieve basket. The liquid in the sieve basket is pressed under an increasable counterpressure into the space underneath the pressing means in the sieve basket. When the backpressure of the liquid is higher than the pressure of the pressing means on the liquid, the pressing means is lifted a small distance above the cake in the sieve basket. The apparatus for practicing the method includes a housing, and a sieve basket which is mounted in the housing, with the sieve basket being open at its top and bottom and situated on or closely above a cover for the housing. An axially movable disc is mounted in the sieve basket and divides the sieve basket into a lower chamber, which receives the liquid to be filtered, and an upper chamber, which is sealed from the lower chamber. An inlet line is provided into the housing and is connected to at least one bore in the disc to bring the liquid to be filtered into the lower chamber. Force applying means acts on the disc and together with the disc constitute a pressing means which exerts pressure on the liquid in the lower chamber of the sieve basket.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.