Introduction to Lenticular Depth Filtration
For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration with substantial solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor/OEM partner, Purecowater provides these advanced filtration modules to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges across pharmaceutical, chemical, and food & beverage sectors.
The lenticular cartridge format, originally innovated by Alsop Engineering, combines the premium filtration quality of plate and frame filter presses with the convenience and hygiene of an enclosed cartridge system. This article outlines the operational benefits, media configurations, and technical specifications of the Pak® Lenticular Filter series.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Cartridge?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (often referred to as depth filter modules) are assembled from varying numbers of filter cells stacked on a central core. Each cell consists of two disks of depth filter media sealed at the edges. This creates a unit that resembles a stack of double convex lenses—hence the term "lenticular."
Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the outer layer, these depth filters utilize a complex matrix of cellulose fibers, resins, and filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth) to trap contaminants throughout the thickness of the media. This results in:
- Higher Solids Loading: Capable of holding significantly more particulate than standard pleated cartridges.
- Zeta Potential: Positively charged media (Zeta-Pak®) attracts and retains negatively charged particles like bacteria and endotoxins.
- Enclosed System: The cartridges fit inside sealed housings, preventing leakage and atmospheric exposure—a major upgrade from traditional leaky plate and frame presses.
Media Configurations and Series
Selecting the right media is critical for process optimization. The Pak® cartridges are available in several proprietary media formulations:
| Series Name | Composition | Ideal Application |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media®) | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin | General purpose, haze removal, microbial reduction. High Zeta Potential for capturing sub-micron particles. |
| Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®) | 100% Cellulose (No DE, No Resins) | Applications sensitive to extractables, such as dielectric oils, fragrances, and certain pharmaceutical preparations. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without the mess of bulk carbon powder. |
Technical Specifications
The Pak® Lenticular Filters are designed to be versatile, fitting into most standard 12-inch and 16-inch housings. Below are the standard operating specifications available through Purecowater.
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | 5 to 18 stacked cells per cartridge |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (locking) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Surface Area | Up to 1.8 m² per 12" module Up to 3.6 m² per 16" module |
Key Applications
Due to their robust construction and range of media, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are utilized in critical process steps:
- Botanical Extracts: Used extensively for winterization and dewaxing, removing lipids and waxes from ethanol extracts.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of cell cultures and removal of endotoxins via Zeta potential.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for distilled spirits, syrups, and edible oils to remove haze.
- Chemical Industry: Removing particulate from solvents, resins, and inks.
Upgrade Your Filtration System
Moving from a plate and frame press to a lenticular housing system reduces change-out time from hours to minutes and eliminates product loss due to dripping. Purecowater can assist in sizing the correct housing and selecting the optimal Pak® cartridge for your specific stream.
For pricing, availability, and technical consultation on ErtelAlsop products, please reach out to our engineering team.