Vacuum Filter Press

JWI has won an exclusive license for a one-step dewatering/drying system from Bertram's Group (Muttenz, Switzerland). The patented J-Vap system is being manufactured and marketed by JWI for applications in such chemical applications as pigments, catalysts, pharmaceuticals, biotech products, metal precipitates and others.

J-Vap combines a series of filter-cloth chambers with a vacuum system. Slurry is pumped into the chambers, where free liquid is removed by hydraulic pressure. Then a vacuum cycle commences as the chambers are pressurized with 150-180°F water and vacuum commences. The drying cycle can be extended as long as desired. With biologicals, some degree of sterilization can also be achieved. Finally, the chambers are separated, and the filtercake usually simply falls out off the cloth. In many cases, no scraping is needed.

Dryness levels in excess of 90% are readily achieved. In some cases, the plant operator can connect the unit to existing energy or hot-water systems. Equipment sizes range from 1.5 to 16,000 liters.

JWI Inc., 2155 112th Ave. Holland, MI 49424. Tel: 616-772-9011.