Abstract: A method of retrofitting a filter plate including a filtration zone and a frame surrounding the filtration zone for use in a filter press. The frame of the filter plate is altered to removably receive a filtrate cartridge, the filtrate cartridge constructed and arranged to facilitate flow out of a filtration chamber of the filter press associated with the filtration zone to a discharge port. The filtrate cartridge is inserted in the frame. Related filter plates and filter presses are also disclosed.

Abstract: A filter press includes a plurality of filter plates, a hydraulic cylinder, a follower plate through which the hydraulic cylinder is configured to apply pressure to the plurality of filter plates, and a spacer rod configured to transfer force from the hydraulic cylinder to the follower plate. The spacer rod is coupled to the follower plate by a moveable support that is displaceable between a home position in which the spacer rod is aligned with the hydraulic cylinder and a disengaged position in which the spacer rod is unaligned with the hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: A filter press includes a plurality of filter plates, a hydraulic cylinder, a follower plate through which the hydraulic cylinder is configured to apply pressure to the plurality of filter plates, and a spacer rod configured to transfer force from the hydraulic cylinder to the follower plate. The spacer rod is coupled to the follower plate by a moveable support that is displaceable between a home position in which the spacer rod is aligned with the hydraulic cylinder and a disengaged position in which the spacer rod is unaligned with the hydraulic cylinder.