Introduction: Why Troubleshooting Matters

Filter presses are essential for industries handling slurries—mining, chemicals, wastewater, and food processing. But like any equipment, they face mechanical, hydraulic, or process-related issues over time.

Without proper filter press troubleshooting, small problems can snowball into costly breakdowns, downtime, and inefficient filtration. Knowing the warning signs and how to fix them can save thousands in repairs.

This guide covers the most common filter press problems and proven troubleshooting methods, based on insights from real-world operators and equipment experts.

1. Filter Press Won’t Build Pressure

One of the most frequent issues is the press failing to reach operating pressure. Without enough pressure, filtration efficiency drops and cycle times get longer.

Possible causes:

• Hydraulic fluid leaks
  
• Worn hydraulic pump
  
• Air in the hydraulic system
  

Fix: Regularly check for leaks, top up hydraulic oil, and bleed air from the system. If pressure problems persist, the pump seals or cylinder may need replacement.

2. Slurry Leakage from the Plates

Leaks around filter plates reduce efficiency and make the workspace messy. They usually happen when plates don’t seal properly.

Possible causes:

• Misaligned plates
  
• Worn or damaged cloths
  
• Overfilled chambers
  

Fix: Realign plates, inspect filter cloths for wear, and avoid overfeeding slurry. If gaskets are damaged, replace them to restore a proper seal.

3. Filter Cloth Blinding

Cloth blinding occurs when solids clog the pores of the filter cloth. This slows down filtration and increases cycle times.

Possible causes:

• Improper cloth cleaning
  
• Slurry too fine or oily
  
• Infrequent cloth replacement
  

Fix: Clean cloths with high-pressure water or chemical washing. For fine slurry, pre-coating the cloth can help. Replace cloths when washing no longer restores flow.

4. Uneven Cake Formation

A good cake should be uniform across the plate. Uneven cakes cause pressure imbalance and reduced filtration quality.

Possible causes:

• Uneven slurry distribution
  
• Blocked feed pump or pipe
  
• Damaged feed port
  

Fix: Inspect slurry feed pipes for blockages and repair damaged ports. A consistent feed rate helps distribute slurry evenly across the press.

5. Hydraulic System Overheating

If the hydraulic system overheats, the press can shut down or sustain damage.

Possible causes:

• Low oil level
  
• Contaminated hydraulic fluid
  
• Poor cooling system
  

Fix: Keep oil topped up and replace it regularly. Install or service cooling fans if needed. Clean or replace filters to maintain smooth operation.

6. Plates Sticking Together

When plates won’t open easily, it slows down operations and risks equipment damage.

Possible causes:

• Excessive cake buildup
  
• Worn plate surfaces
  
• Inadequate plate shifters
  

Fix: Clean plates after each cycle to prevent buildup. If plates are worn, resurfacing or replacement may be required. Lubricating moving parts of the shifting system also helps.

7. Slow Filtration Cycle

A longer-than-normal cycle time means something is wrong.

Possible causes:

• Thick or viscous slurry
  
• Blinded cloths
  
• Weak feed pump
  

Fix: Dilute slurry if possible and clean filter cloths. Check pump performance and replace worn parts to restore proper flow.

8. Excessive Moisture in Filter Cake

A high-moisture cake means poor separation and higher drying costs.

Possible causes:

• Low feed pressure
  
• Blinded cloths
  
• Worn plates or gaskets
  

Fix: Increase pressure to the recommended level, maintain clean cloths, and replace worn sealing parts.

Proactive Maintenance Matters

Most filter press problems can be avoided with proactive maintenance. A routine schedule that includes cloth cleaning, hydraulic checks, and plate inspection will keep your press running longer with fewer breakdowns.

Learn more about filter press maintenance to extend the life of your equipment.

FAQs 

1. How often should filter cloths be replaced?
Depending on usage, every 6–12 months. Replace sooner if cleaning no longer restores performance.

2. Why is slurry leaking from my filter press?
Most likely from misaligned plates, worn cloths, or damaged gaskets.

3. Can clogged filter cloths be restored?
Yes, with pressure washing or chemical cleaning. If not effective, replacement is needed.

4. What causes uneven cake thickness?
Uneven slurry feed or blocked feed lines are common culprits.

5. How do I prevent frequent breakdowns?
Follow a consistent maintenance schedule with inspections, cleaning, and timely part replacements.