Vacuum filtration equipment identification:\nWhich of the following is a vacuum filter commonly used for continuous solid–liquid separation?

Introduction / Context:
Industrial solid–liquid separation relies on vacuum, pressure, or centrifugal driving forces. Being able to name which devices are vacuum filters—and which are not—helps quickly shortlist equipment for continuous vs. batch duties, cake washing, and scale-up in minerals and chemicals processing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We compare common devices used in practice.
• Continuous operation is often required at large throughput.

Concept / Approach:
Rotary disc (and rotary drum) filters are classic continuous vacuum filters: a rotating element carries sectors through filtration, washing, and drying zones under vacuum. Plate-and-frame filter presses operate in batch mode using pressure, not vacuum, while basket centrifuges use centrifugal force. Nutsch filters may be operated under vacuum or pressure in batch service; when operated by gravity only, they are not vacuum devices. Pressure leaf filters are pressure-driven, not vacuum-driven.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Equipment manuals designate rotary drum/disc units as continuous vacuum filters with defined filtration, wash, and dry arcs of rotation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Filter press/pressure leaf: pressure-driven batch or semi-continuous.
• Basket centrifuge: centrifugal, not vacuum.
• Nutsch (gravity-only): no vacuum applied.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “tank filter” always means vacuum; many Nutsch filters operate by gravity or pressure instead.

Final Answer:
Rotary disc vacuum filter