Buying a filter press

[TylerMcT]

Buying my first filter press, grandfather has always been a dominion Grimm guy. Just wondering what are the top choices when it comes to brand name. Going with a full bank 7".

[500592]

I bought the dominion and Grimm one because the hollow plates are way thicker and the quality is excellent I have run 30 plus gallons of dirty syrup through a short bank. I've aslo had the pressure needle go all the way back to zero except on the other side so it was 110 or something psi and I didn't even notice it but we did shut it right down and changed the papers.

[TylerMcT]

What is the limits on a short bank just wondering if I need a full bank would like to do 20+ gallon batches with ease

[500592]

With that much I would go to a full bank you can always use less plates.

[maple flats]

I have a short bank 7" that I added 2 extra sets of plates so I now have 5 sets. Early season syrup I've run over 40 gal on a set, sometimes up to 60 gal. Late season is about 20-30 gal on a set of papers. I get perfectly clear syrup.
Much of the amount you get is determined by how much DE you use. I used to use far more than I do now. With 5 sets I now use about 1.5 cups to charge the plates, in about 4 gal. Then after that I use about 3/4 cup in 6 gal with early season syrup. As the season gets older I need to use more DE, not much different to charge the plates, but I need about 1.25 cups in 6 gal after charging. This is what fills up the cavities.