Heinkel Introduces Comber Pressofiltro Agitated Nutsche Filter-Dryer

Heinkel’s Comber Pressofiltro PF Series Nutsche Filter-Dryer is designed to meet the demanding requirements of multipurpose pharmaceutical and chemical production facilities for filtration-separation and drying. The units reportedly meet a wide range of stringent cGMP and FDA guidelines.

The units are built with CIP systems to achieve good cleaning and to permit optimal inspection after the cleaning process. All product contact wetted surfaces are designed with smooth transitions of internals and no dead areas or bolted connections. The filters are equipped with a base plate that opens for access to the internals for cleaning and inspection.

The agitator shaft sealing features a double mechanical seal and a convoluted bellows. The agitator arms utilize a special tooth design to achieve very low friction when pressing or smoothing the cake layer, according to the company. Simultaneous rotational and vertical agitator motions result in an efficient and even mixing of the product mass for mixing and drying. The agitator arms are S-shaped for improved product discharge

All product wetted surfaces are heated to obtain the greatest possible heat exchange area for short drying times and low final moisture levels. The product is discharged through a hydraulically operated side discharge valve. The valve plug is contoured to match the curvature of the vessel internal wall. The solids discharge valve features a metal-to-metal seal design. The sealing surfaces are arranged outside the product flow path with interchangeable seal rings. The product can also be discharged through an active or passive isolator (glove box). On smaller filter units, the isolator permits contained sampling, product discharge and heel removal all in one system. Different heel break-up and heel removal devices are available for larger units.