V-Fold
V-FOLD Folding Belt Filter Press
The V-FOLD is similar to a conveyor, using filter fabric as the belt. It differs from other belt presses by utilizing a single belt made from conventional filter fabrics with a reinforced center hinge. As it moves forward, the belt folds vertically along the hinge forming a V-shaped cavity which contains the slurry.
Initial dewatering occurs in the gravity drainage zone. Solids are then contained and compressed within the belt as it follows as serpentine path through a series of compression rollers. Increasing pressure forms a filter cake.
Industries in the small to medium size range often experience variable wastewater quality. The V-FOLD is “forgiving” of variations in feed composition that can disrupt conventional dewatering equipment. The feed cavity simply fills more or less depending on slurry conditioning. This can mean the difference between frequent operator intervention and the ability to leave the filter running almost unattended.
The combination of horizontal and vertical rollers ensures the filter belt is inherently self-tracking.
No additional tracking devices are required on the V-FOLD, simplifying operation and reducing maintenance.
Slurry feeding is unusually simple to automate. An optional V-FOLD automation package uses ultrasonic level sensing over the feed cavity to control the feed rate. This maintains the desired slurry level for effective dewatering while also enabling alarms to signal process upsets.
V-FOLD units are available in a range of models to suit different process automation requirements—from “bare” units for site-supplied electrical wiring and control, to fully integrated dewatering system control models.
Advanced control models feature a highly flexible electrical panel capable of monitoring and controlling ancillary equipment commonly used in conventional dewatering systems. In many applications, this level of automation makes reliable unattended operation a practical reality.
A compact footprint (from approximately 3 m × 1 m), combined with optional factory mounting of ancillary equipment and control packages onto the filter frame, makes installation straightforward.
Where slurry conditioning is required, polyelectrolyte can be dosed into a “serpentine” mixer/flocculator that is factory-fitted to the V-FOLD.
The unique design also allows certain Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) and clarifier processes to feed slurry directly to the V-FOLD, eliminating the need for an intermediate storage tank.
The simple design, 316 stainless steel frame, and slow-moving belt combine to deliver a reliable filter requiring minimal maintenance. Power requirements are very low, allowing the belt drive to operate on single-phase power.
The forgiving nature of the V-FOLD reduces the need for operator intervention, helping to minimize labour costs.
V-FOLD units are available as economical “bare” models or can be factory-fitted with a wide range of options to suit specific application needs.
The V-FOLD filter is capable of dewatering a wide range of feed materials. Three sizes are available, each offering various options to suit specific customer requirements.
As with all dewatering equipment, performance depends on the characteristics of the feed slurry. The V-FOLD operates effectively with slurries ranging from approximately 1% to 10% dry solids (DS), with feed rates up to 12m3 per hour.
