Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and containment are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as Lenticular Pak® Cartridges) represent a premium solution for depth filtration applications. Designed as an upgrade to traditional plate and frame filtration, these modules offer a totally enclosed, hygienic, and easy-to-handle format without sacrificing the filtration quality of high-grade depth media.
At Purecowater, we supply these advanced filtration modules to help industries range from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage tackle complex separation challenges. Whether you need to remove haze from distilled spirits, purity fine chemicals, or protect downstream membrane systems, the Pak® Lenticular series delivers reliable performance.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The “Lenticular” design gets its name from the shape of the filter cells, which resemble double convex lenses. A Pak® cartridge is assembled from multiple stacked filter cells. Each cell consists of two discs of depth filter media sealed around the edges.
Liquid enters the housing and flows from the outside of the stack into the cells. As the fluid passes through the depth media, contaminants are trapped within the tortuous path of the cellulose and filter aid matrix. The filtrate then collects in the center core and exits the module. This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high flow rates and significant solids loading capacity.
Key Advantages over Plate & Frame Filters
- Zero Leakage: The totally enclosed housing prevents leakage, protecting operators and product.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be changed in minutes rather than the hours required to dress a traditional filter press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to scale from pilot to full production.
- Regenerable: In many applications, the modules can be backwashed or cleaned to extend service life.
Media Formulations and Options
One of the strengths of the ErtelAlsop line is the variety of media available for the Pak® cartridges. Depending on your specific fluid and contaminant, you can select the ideal composition.
| Media Brand | Composition | Key Characteristics | Ideal Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media®) | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin | High positive zeta potential; excellent retention of ultra-fine particles and haze. | Pharmaceuticals, Distilled Spirits, Bio-Tech, Botanical Extracts. |
| Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®) | 100% Cellulose | No mineral components (DE/Perlite). Pure cellulose for low-extractable requirements. | Dielectric oils, Perfumes, Cosmetic fragrances, Sensitive chemical fluids. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Cellulose & Filter Aids | Manufactured to strict standards for critical bio-pharmaceutical applications. | Vaccines, Blood plasma, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). |
| MicroClear® | Activated Carbon Impregnated | Combines depth filtration with adsorption capabilities. | Color removal, Odor removal, Decolorization of syrups/spirits. |
Technical Specifications
When selecting a lenticular module, it is crucial to match the physical specifications to your housing and process parameters. The ErtelAlsop Pak® filters fit most standard lenticular housings.
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) and 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per stack |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (plug-in style) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Nitrile, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Surface Area | Up to ~1.8 m² (approx 20 ft²) per 16″ 16-cell module |
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters allows them to serve a wide array of heavy-duty industries.
Food & Beverage
In the beverage industry, visual clarity is essential. Zeta-Pak® modules are frequently used for the “polishing” filtration of wines, spirits, and syrups. They effectively hold back yeast, haze colloids, and particulates without stripping flavor (unless carbon media is used for that purpose).
Botanical Extraction
For cannabis and hemp processing, lenticular modules are the industry standard for winterization and dewaxing. The depth media efficiently removes coagulated waxes and lipids from ethanol extracts at high flow rates, ensuring a clean distillate.
Chemicals and Utilities
Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose) filters are vital for filtering insulating oils in electric utilities, as they do not introduce mineral contaminants. They are also used for varnishes, resins, and light-viscosity lubricating oils.
Why Partner with Purecowater?
As a distributor and OEM, Purecowater does not just sell a part number; we provide a solution. We can help you determine the correct micron rating, media type, and housing configuration for your specific stream. Whether you are replacing existing modules or sizing a new housing vessel, our team ensures compatibility and performance.
If you are experiencing short filter life, breakthrough, or flow issues, let us review your filtration train.