Filter-Drying Equipment for Downstream Stages of Bio-processing

The Agitated Nutsche Filter Dryer(ANFD) is one of the key pieces of equipment in

the downstream processing stages of bio-processing. It integrates two essential unit

operations: solid-liquid separation and drying into a single unit.

This equipment is commonly used in bio-processing for the treatment of output

streams (such as solids, liquids, slurries, etc.), as well as for the recovery and

purification of target products.

ANFD is typically used when solid products in a bio-process need to be separated

from a liquid stream and dried to a specific moisture content.

Applications include the recovery of biomass from fermentation broths, separation of

solid intermediates or products from enzymatic reactions, or the recovery of

precipitated proteins or other bio-products.

Considerations for Agitated Nutsche Filter Dryer

Process Integration

The filter-dryer needs to be effectively integrated with both upstream and downstream

processes. The upstream process should generate a feed that is suitable for filtration,while the downstream process must be capable of handling the output from the

filter-dryer.

Product Characteristics

Understanding the characteristics of the product, such as particle size, moisture

content, thermal sensitivity, and chemical stability, is crucial for the design and

operation of the filter-dryer. This can be tested during the equipment evaluation phase,

where a 5-liter trial machine is used at our facility to assess the performance.

Feed Characteristics

The characteristics of the feed, including viscosity, solid content, and particle size

distribution, can significantly affect the performance of the filter-dryer. These factors

must be carefully considered during both the design and operation of the equipment.

Filter Media Selection

Selecting the appropriate filter media is essential. The media should be able to

effectively separate solids and liquids, while also remaining stable under drying

conditions without degradation or clogging. Common filter media sizes available

range from 5μm, 10μm, 20μm, to 100μm and so on .

Operating Parameters

The operating parameters of the filter-dryer, such as filtration pressure and drying

temperature, can be optimized through testing to yield relatively stable data that

enhances efficiency and product quality.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical to maintaining the performance of the

filter-dryer and preventing contamination. During design and operation, consideration

should be given to the ease of cleaning and the frequency of required maintenance.

Regulatory Compliance

For bio-processes intended for food, pharmaceutical, or other regulated industries, the

filter-dryer must comply with relevant regulatory standards. This includes ensuring

product safety, maintaining cleanliness, and providing process validation.

Advantages of ANFD

Integrated form

One of the primary advantages of filter-dryers is the integration of filtration and

drying operations into a single unit. This significantly saves space, reduces capital

costs, and simplifies operations.

Scale selectivity

Filter-dryers can easily be scaled up from laboratory-scale to industrial-scale

operations. Wuxi Zhanghua currently produces ANFD ranging from DN150 to

DN3600, and we have extensive experience in manufacturing high-quality units.

Flexibility

ANFD are highly versatile and can handle a wide range of feed characteristics and

process conditions. They can be adjusted to manage different types of solid-liquid

separations and control the final moisture content of the product to meet specific

requirements.

Reduced Product Loss and Contamination

By performing both filtration and drying within the same unit, the need for

intermediate product transfers is eliminated. This reduces product loss during

transfers and minimizes the risk of contamination from exposure to the environment.

Filter-dryers are especially suitable for materials that cannot be exposed to air.

Efficient Energy Use

Since the filtration and drying processes are combined, the heat generated during

filtration can be used for the drying process. This improves energy efficiency and

reduces operational costs.

Improved Product Quality

Because the drying process occurs immediately after filtration, degradation of

heat-sensitive products is minimized. This typically results in better product quality

compared to processes where drying is carried out as a separate step.