Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring high-performance liquid filtration, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the intersection of efficiency, scalability, and reliability. As a distributer/OEM for premier filtration brands, Purecowater provides these advanced depth filtration modules to tackle complex solid and liquid separation challenges. Whether you are processing botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, or industrial oils, the Pak® lenticular cartridges offer a user-friendly alternative to traditional plate and frame filters without compromising on filtration quality.
What is Lenticular Depth Filtration?
Lenticular filtration technology combines the advantages of depth filter media (high solids loading capacity and fine particle retention) with the convenience of a vertical cartridge design. A “Pak” or module consists of multiple filtration cells stacked vertically. Each cell is composed of two discs of depth filter media sealed around the edges. This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, resembling a stack of double convex lenses.
Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, ErtelAlsop’s depth media traps contaminants throughout the thickness of the pad. This complex matrix, often enhanced with electrokinetic properties (Zeta potential), effectively captures ultrafine particles, hazes, and lipids.
The Pak® Product Family
ErtelAlsop offers several formulations of their lenticular cartridges to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals. Below is a breakdown of the primary series available through Purecowater.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the industrial standard for general-purpose depth filtration. Manufactured with Micro-Media® (cellulose, diatomaceous earth, and wet strength resin), these modules exhibit a positive Zeta potential. This allows them to attract and hold negatively charged particles smaller than the mechanical pore size.
- Best For: Botanical extracts (dewaxing/winterization), food & beverage, chemicals, and cosmetics.
- Key Feature: High solids loading capacity and removal of ultrafine particles down to 0.25 microns.
2. Bio-Pak® (Pharmaceutical Grade)
Designed for critical applications, the Bio-Pak® was the first US-manufactured double O-ring lenticular format. It ensures a bypass-free seal, critical for high-purity streams.
- Best For: Biopharmaceuticals, plasma fractionation, and culture media.
- Key Feature: Pharmaceutical-grade media with validation guides available.
3. Disc-Pak® (100% Cellulose)
When resin binders or inorganic filter aids (like DE) are not suitable, the Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, which is 100% pure cellulose.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, fragrances, syrups, and applications sensitive to extractables.
- Key Feature: Extremely low extractables and high chemical compatibility.
4. ZetaDri-Pak® & AquaKv-Pak® (Water Removal)
These specialized cartridges prevent water contamination in oils. They are designed to absorb free and emulsified water while simultaneously filtering particulate matter.
- Best For: Transformer oils, insulating oils, and turbine lube oils.
- Key Feature: Holds up to 148 ounces of water per 16-cell module (ZetaDri-Pak).
Technical Specifications
Understanding the physical capabilities of these filters is essential for system sizing. The table below outlines the standard specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® series.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) and 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | Configurable from 5 to 18 cells per module |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 to 15+ microns |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) or Stainless Steel Straps |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Buna-N, Neoprene, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (Bayonet) |
Flat Gasket Configuration
Double O-Ring Configuration
Primary Applications
The versatility of the Pak® lenticular filters makes them a preferred choice across various sectors. Their ability to handle high particulate loads while maintaining flow rates is superior to standard pleated cartridges.
- Botanical Extraction: Ideal for winterization and dewaxing. The Diatomaceous Earth (DE) in the Zeta-Pak aids in removing lipids and waxes efficiently from ethanol extracts.
- Distilled Spirits: Used for haze removal and polishing filtration to ensure product clarity and stability without stripping flavor.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used for cell debris removal, PKA reduction, and pre-filtration for membrane protection.
- Utilities & Power: Reconditioning of insulating oils in transformers and circuit breakers (using AquaKv-Pak).
- Food & Beverage: Clarification of syrups, juices, vinegars, and edible oils.
Why Upgrade to Lenticular Modules?
- Sealed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular modules operate inside a closed housing, eliminating leakage and protecting operators from volatiles or hot fluids.
- Changeout Efficiency: Swapping out a stack of modules takes a fraction of the time compared to restacking and cleaning a filter press.
- Scalability: Housings can accommodate 1, 2, 3, or 4 high stacks, allowing you to increase filtration area as your production scales.
Get Expert Filtration Support
Selecting the correct media formulation and micron rating is critical for optimizing your process. Whether you need to remove water from transformer oil or polish a botanical distillate, Purecowater provides the technical expertise and inventory you need.