Product description
Support filter sheets are structural filtration media used in plate-and-frame filtration systems to support precoat filtration processes. These sheets act as a stable base layer onto which filtration aids such as diatomaceous earth (D.E.) or other filter powders are deposited to form a filtration cake.Technical overview
Support filter sheets are engineered for high mechanical strength and permeability. They provide a rigid support structure that allows filtration aids to form a uniform precoat layer while maintaining stable flow through the filtration system. Unlike depth filter sheets, support sheets are not intended to perform the primary particle retention. Instead, they function as a durable substrate that holds the precoat filtration cake in place during operation. These sheets are typically installed in plate-and-frame filter presses where filtration aids are continuously or batch-applied to build a filtration cake on the sheet surface.Operating principle
During precoat filtration, a filtration aid such as diatomaceous earth is mixed with liquid and circulated through the filter press. The filtration aid particles accumulate on the surface of the support sheet, forming a porous filtration cake. The support sheet provides:- A mechanically stable base for the filtration cake
- Uniform liquid distribution across the filter plate
- Structural strength to maintain the cake during filtration cycles
Material options
Support filter sheets are typically constructed from:- Selected cellulose fibers
- Synthetic microfibers (grade dependent)
- Specially treated resin binders
Available micron ratings
Support filter sheets are not designed with defined micron retention ratings. Filtration performance is primarily determined by the precoat filtration layer formed from filtration aids such as:- Diatomaceous earth (kieselguhr)
- Perlite filtration powder
- Other precoat filter aids
- Flow rate: ~3200 L/m²/min at 100 kPa
Design and construction
Support sheets are manufactured with high structural integrity to withstand repeated filtration cycles. Typical construction characteristics include:- Sheet weight: approximately 1000 g/m²
- Thickness: approximately 3.7 mm
- High wet strength for repeated reuse
- Surface optimized for successful filtration aid pre-coating
Typical applications
Support filter sheets are commonly used in precoat filtration systems across several industries:- Brewery filtration
- Sugar processing
- Food and beverage filtration
- Industrial liquid clarification
- Filtration processes using diatomaceous earth or other filter aids
Key benefits
- High wet strength supporting repeated filtration cycles
- Excellent permeability allowing efficient precoat filtration
- Surface structure optimized for uniform filtration aid deposition
- Reduced leakage risk in plate-and-frame filters
- Reusable support media depending on process conditions
- Easy removal of precoat filtration layers after operation
Configuration and quotation
To specify the correct support filter sheet for your filtration system, provide the following parameters:- Plate-and-frame filter model and sheet dimensions
- Required sheet size (length × width)
- Filtration aid type (e.g., diatomaceous earth or perlite)
- Operating temperature and sanitization requirements
- Expected filtration cycle duration
- Number of sheets required per filtration system