Abstract: A filter press (11) defined by a closable stack of filter plates defined by a first plurality of membrane filter plates (21) alternately disposed with a second plurality of heating-type filter plates (22). The membrane plates (21) have chamber-defining recesses on opposite sides thereof, with each recess (36) having a flexible membrane (39) associated therewith which can be pressurized from the rearward side so as to effect squeezing of the cake in the filtration chamber. Each heating plate (22) also has chamber-defining recesses (74) on opposite sides thereof, and the main center bottom wall (76) of each recess (74) has a metal heat transfer surface (77) associated therewith, the rear side of which is in intimate contact with a chamber or passage (79) which receives therein a high-temperature heat transfer fluid.