Abstract: A process for recycling and reconstituting flexographic inks from wash water resulting from cleaning the rollers and other components of a flexographic printing press. The process includes the steps of circulating the wash water through a cross-flow ultrafilter to separate an optically-clear filtrate from a first concentrate containing suspended ink solids, bacteria, and macromolecules. Thereafter, the filtrate is directed through a reverse-osmosis filter to separate from the filtrate a second concentrate containing dissolved ink components and the remaining bacteria. The first and second concentrates are then combined together with a compatible biocidal agent to form a stable, biologically-inactive additive that is mixed with fresh ink concentrate to form pressready flexographic printing ink.

Abstract: An improved fluid filter medium, including a fabric member having a plurality of folds that are seamed at the top and bottom to form a fabric sleeve with pockets, such pockets being configured to enclose the leaves of a filter element frame. A tubular seal is seemed to each end of the fabric sleeve and filled with a resilient material to form a compressible seal. Each tubular seal is configured to be compressed between the central cylindrical perforated core of the filter element frame and a sealing plate or flange such that, upon compression, the tubular seal forms a seal between the sealing plates or flanges and the fabric sleeve.

Abstract: The invention relates to filter plates of plate filter presses, particularly for freeing sewage sludge from water.The problem of premature failure of the filter cloth is overcome in that the filter cloth is fastened only at some of the support bosses surrounding the central inlet opening and is laid loose over the other bosses. Excessive bulging of the filter cloth when the cake is thrown off is thereby avoided. The filter cloth may be held by a subsequently fastened boss or by a cap engaging over the boss.

Abstract: A method is described for the absorption of a liquid in which one applies to a body of the liquid an absorbent material which contains dealginated, partially dewatered kelp residue. Other components, such as perlite, may also be present. The absorbent material will have a water content no greater than about 25%, preferably about 5%-10%. The absorbent material may be formed into a wide variety of shapes, including pellets, boards, blocks, granules, flakes, and the like, and in such forms may be applied in a variety of different manners to the liquid to be absorbed. The method is useful in the absorption of many types of liquids, but most importantly oil products.