A process for producing microcrystalline cellulose comprised of the steps of contacting a paper grade pulp with an alkali hydrolysis agent, washing the hydrolyzed pulp and contacting the hydrolyzed pulp with an acid hydrolysis agent and washing the acid hydrolyzed product. The weight sensor arrangement includes conductive members spaced apart from one another such that a capacitance develops between opposed ones of the conductive members upon incorporation of the conductive members in an electrical circuit. The apparatus may include a tube configured to place the downstream differential pressure sensor port in fluid contact with a uniform flow region of the fluid conduit downstream of the particulate filter. The overriding element prevents disengagement of the latch if there is a malfunction in the power actuator and ensures that power unlatching can be initiated only by the release member.