Kinetics and optimization of pressure filtration of dilute slurries by stage-wise batch tests

Kinetics of pressure filtration of dilute slurry has been measured experimentally and analyzed theoretically as a function of relevant inputs and operating parameters. A method based on sequential stage-wise batch filtration is proposed to mimic on the laboratory scale the continuous filtration process on the plant scale. A kinetic model is developed, which simulates the stage-wise test closely. Based on tests for filtration of dilute alumina suspension, a correlation is proposed for specific cake resistance as a function of pressure, initial solid loading and initial suspension height. The model is employed to search for optimal conditions of pressure and slurry concentration for maximizing the throughput of the clarified liquor.