Abstract: A roller is provided with ribs directed outwardly from its face which permit the formation of cavities between the circumferential surface of the roller and the screen belts entrained thereon so that continuous channels are formed on the circumferential surface of the roller which conduct the filtrate axially outwards. The ribs are hollow tubular members having an opening along the surface of the roller which captures additional liquid, preventing it from falling back onto the belt, and allowing it to be conducted off and drained by allowing the liquid to flow laterally only.