The significant advantage of the replaceable membrane filter plate as well as the fixed welded membrane filter plate is, that the unproductive phase of the pressure filtration is replaced by squeezing with the membrane. Thus, the filtration phase is conducted in only the efficient stage of the filtration cycle.
Furthermore, the filtration cycle times are shorter and due to the even spread of pressure a homogeneous porosity is created within the cake and the grade of dewatering is profoundly higher.
The Replaceable as well as the Clip version of the Klinkau Membrane Filter Plate is manufactured with a core body plate and two single membranes tied to the body merely at the feed eye so the membranes can move freely around the sealing area. The core body plate takes over the mechanical demands of the chamber filter plate.
The membranes are supported by the core body and guarantees a gently controlled membrane movement during the filtration phase. The center core of the Membrane Plate is profiled to prevent the membrane from completely closing against the center core body.
The loose membranes of the replaceable design are fixed to the center body plate with stainless steel retaining rings.The clip design membrane is attched to the center body plate with a specially developed Clip connection. The membranes of both designs can be easily replaced even after years of operation without taking the plate out of the filter press.
The movement of the membrane causes bending stresses, which can adversely affect the membrane's ability to resist chemical attack. Klinkau Membrane Filter Plates have two defined hinge lines, therefore the risk of hinge failures has been minimized.
If a sufficient chamber filling due to the application is not possible, the replaceable type membrane filter plates are most suitable for the application. Both versions are »empty chamber« design. The »Empty Chamber« design allows squeezing into an empty or underfilled chamber without damage to the membrane.

Many filtration processes differ in solids content and filtering characteristics that may cause the risk of uncontrolled filling of the chamber which may initiate insufficient chamber fillings or empty chambers. Subsequently, this overstretching causes damage to the membranes.
The »Empty Chamber « design was developed so the membrane would be adequately supported not only during the pressure filtration filling phase but as well as squeezing into the empty chamber. The design prevents an overstretching and consequently prevents damage to the membrane.
Long-term testing with this special design confirmed this positive effect. After more than 20.000 cycles - the membrane was squeezed into the empty chamber with 16 bar pressure - no signs of damage showed up.
If cake washing after filtration is required the chambers have to be filled according our recommendations for Membrane Filter Plates Standard welded.
Membrane Filter Plates »empty chamber« designs are available in fixed welded and replaceable design.