Discover the key features and advantages of using a vertical pressure leaf filter system v a filter press.
In the food industry, efficient filtration is crucial for maintaining product quality and operational safety. Choosing the right filtration system — be it a vertical pressure leaf filter system or a filter press — can significantly impact your plant’s efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. In this comparison, we’ll explore the features, benefits for both systems to help you make an informed decision.
Vertical Pressure Leaf Filter System

Features and Benefits
- Closed System: Ensures a cleaner process and a safer operation by reducing contact between filter media, solids, and operators.
- Low Manual Labor Requirement: Limited manual intervention needed, reducing labour costs and maintenance.
- Energy Efficiency: Uses a vibrator for dry cake discharge, which requires energy consumption, but avoids manual operation contributing to a safer working environment.
- Space Efficiency: Requires limited footprint while offering a greater filtration area, optimizing space utilization within the plant.
- Durability: Filter elements have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years, depending on handling of pressure filter leaves during cake discharge and on-going maintenance.
- Flux Rate: Operates at pressure differences less than 4.5 bar, providing efficient flux rates suitable for various applications.
Limitations
Not Suitable for Polishing Applications: Mesh filter leaves cannot capture fine particles, limiting its use for polishing tasks.
Filter Press

Features and Benefits
- Open System: While lacking the safety of a closed system, it provides flexibility in operations.
- Flexible Cake Discharge: Back pulse mechanism available for efficient wet and dry cake discharge, especially for challenging cakes.
- High Pressure Capability: Operates up to 15 to 20bar, allowing for a higher flux rate and potentially reducing filtration area requirements.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for polishing applications and high solid contents, catering to diverse filtration needs.
- Pre-Coating Efficiency: Customizable filter cloths can reduce or eliminate the need for pre-coating, saving costs.
Limitations
Manual Operations: Typically not automated, increasing the need for manual oversight unless further investments are made.
Space Requirements: Horizontal layout demands significant space, making it unsuitable for plants with limited floor area.
Higher Operational Costs: Numerous moving parts increase the risk of wear and tear, requiring more frequent maintenance and replacements.
Common Features
Both systems utilize external pumps to transfer liquids, facilitating easy access for replacement and maintenance. Additionally, they support dry cake filtration when the filtrate product maximizes production output and simplifies disposal.
Recommendations
- Choose a Vertical Pressure Leaf Filter System if your priorities include a safer, cleaner operation with minimal manual intervention and footprint efficiency. This system is ideal for applications requiring a dry cake and when looking to achieve a lower energy consumption.
- Select a Filter Press if your needs involve high-pressure filtration or a polishing application. Note that this comes with higher operational costs and space requirements.
Ultimately, the choice between a vertical pressure leaf filter system and a filter press depends on your specific operational needs, space constraints, and budget considerations. Evaluate these factors carefully to determine which system aligns best with your plant’s objectives.
Contact us to discuss your filtration requirements