The small-scale contained filter dryer from UK company PSL is said to be ideal for API chemical kilo labs requiring a solution for filtration and drying of slurry from multiple reactors of various sizes.
The lab-scale system has a 0.05m2 filtration area with 15-litre liquid capacity and typically 2-8 litre wet cake capacity. Typical batch sizes of 1-5kg can be handled with a compact system that can be easily relocated and receive slurry liquid from multiple reactors. Compact design enables the unit to be easily moved by a single person, within standard walkway widths, to ensure it can be easily moved between labs or rooms.
Containment is achieved via a top-mounted PSL ChargePoint, 100mm split valve for vessel charging. A tilting mechanism, which is integrated into the frame, allows complete inversion of the vessel for contained powder discharge via the same spilt valve. The PSL ChargePoint achieves <10µg/m3 containment; further ancillaries can be added to the standard valve to achieve <1µg/m3.
For added flexibility the base can be fitted with either filter cloth or sintered metallic mesh. Furthermore, the filter dryer is designed with C22 alloy product contacts for flexibility primarily in solvent usage; the ChargePoint can also be in C22 alloy. When the solvents to be used are known to be less aggressive, 316L vessel and split valve options are available.
To ensure minimum slurry losses, the unit has been designed with minimal height, enabling use in the tightest of areas and keeping pipe lengths between reactor discharge and filter dryer to a minimum.
The complete system, vessel and split valve, is pressure rated to 6 BarG. The vessel has integral spray balls for cleaning in place and a sight glass & light fitted to enable viewing of the process without breaching containment.
An ATEX-approved control panel is mounted on the trolley, and plugs and sockets allow easy connection and disconnection for quick and simple set up in different locations.
