Abstract: A system for rapidly dewatering sludge in large quantities makes use of a filter plate that is capable of supporting heavy mechanized removal equipment without damage to the filter plate. The filter plate is monolithic and includes granular filter material that is rigidified and bonded together. In the disclosed process, sludge is pretreated with a polymer coagulant that breaks up solids and flocculates the sludge particles. The flocculated sludge is then spread on a bed of filter plates. As the bed is being filled, the large coagulated sludge particles settle and water is drawn off by gravity. A vacuum is then applied to the bed and the sludge is rapidly dewatered. Upon completion of dewatering, front end loading equipment may be used to remove the dried sludge cake from the bed.

Abstract: A system for the rapid dewatering of sludge in large quantities makes use of a filter plate of design and construction capable of supporting heavy mechanized mobile equipment and without damage to the filter media. The filter plate features a monolithic plate of granular filter material used as the filtering medium in sludge beds for dewatering or reducing residual solids or sludge of potable water treatment systems. The filter material is made structurally rugged and with a smooth hard surface for the retention of sludge solids. The filter material is supported upon a substructure of aggregate providing approximately 40% internal voids for the gravity flow or drainage of filtrate and the back flow of chemicals and gases used in the rapid water reduction process. The assemblage is constructed of such strength as to allow for use of heavy handling equipment such as front end loaders in the removal of the dried sludge or cake upon the completion of the rapid water reduction process.

Abstract: A system for the rapid dewatering of sludge in large quantities makes use of a filter plate of design and construction capable of supporting heavy mechanized mobile equipment without damage to the filter media.The filter plate features a monolithic plate of granular filter material used as the filtering medium in sludge beds for dewatering or reducing residual solids or sludge of potable water treatment systems. The filter material is made structurally rugged and with a smooth hard surface for the retention of sludge solids. The filter material is supported upon a substructure of aggregate providing approximately 40% internal voids for the gravity flow or drainage of filtrate and the back flow of chemicals and gases used in the rapid water reduction process. The assemblage is constructed of such strength as to allow for use of heavy handling equipment such as front end loaders in the removal of the dried sludge or cake upon the completion of the rapid water reduction process.