Abstract: A method is provided for continuously filtering liquids containing microorganisms, macromolecules and/or fine particles of solid matter as substances to be filtered out and collecting the substances that are filtered out. The liquid to be filtered is introduced from the top into an upright sieve basket where the filtrate is separated from the substances to be filtered out. A pressure is exerted on the liquid in the sieve basket by pressing means so that the filtrate leaves the sieve basket and the entire surface of the cake formed from the filtered-out substances always has approximately the same height in the sieve basket. The liquid in the sieve basket is pressed under an increasable counterpressure into the space underneath the pressing means in the sieve basket. When the backpressure of the liquid is higher than the pressure of the pressing means on the liquid, the pressing means is lifted a small distance above the cake in the sieve basket.

Abstract: There is disclosed an utensil that is useful for the separation of liquid from subdivided solid comestibles, typically, for the separation of oil and liquid from canned meats such as tuna and the like. The device comprises a generally cup-shaped member having a cylindrical wall conforming to the internal diameter of a standard can size and an end, circular wall which is perforated to provide permeability to liquid while blocking passage of subdivided solid comestibles. The side walls distally support tab means which project radially outwardly from the side walls to provide for grasping of the press whereby the press can be inserted into a can, compressed against the contents therein and then rotated into an inverted position to permit unimpeded drainage from the can.

Abstract: A press, including a frame, a pair of rigid side structures, means for pivotally connecting the side structures to said frame, a pair of rotor assemblies having confronting faces arranged at an angle to each other and defining a pressing zone, each of the rotor assemblies being mounted for rotation in a respective side member, means interconnecting the side structures to one another and serving to apply yieldable force to urge the side structures toward one another, the improvements basically comprising means for adjusting the pivotal connecting means to vary the pressing action of the rotor assemblies, a hydrostatic bearing means, which may be used in association with an annular thrust bearing, for lubricating and minimizing the friction between the rotor assemblies and the side structures, and a biased sealing means for preventing moisture in the feed materials from rewetting the pressed solids leaving the press.