Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring high-performance liquid filtration, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as lenticular cartridges or modules) offer a superior depth filtration solution. As a completely enclosed system, the Pak® design overcomes the limitations of traditional plate and frame filters, offering leak-free operation and rapid change-outs while maintaining excellent particle retention.
At Purecowater, we specialize in providing advanced filtration technologies. This guide details the specifications, media types, and operational benefits of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series to help you determine the best fit for your liquid processing needs.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A “Pak” or lenticular module consists of a stack of individual filter cells. Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with their edges sealed using a patented polypropylene molding process. These cells are stacked to resemble a series of double convex lenses, which is where the term “lenticular” originates.
This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high solids specific loading and efficient throughput.
Key Benefits vs. Plate & Frame Filters
- Zero Leakage: The cartridges are sealed inside a housing, eliminating the dripping and leakage often associated with plate and frame presses.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime and labor costs.
- Product Safety: Enclosed systems protect the product from atmospheric contamination and protect operators from exposure to process fluids.
- Scalability: Specifications from laboratory trials on flat sheets can be directly scaled up to full-production lenticular modules.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit a wide range of housings and industrial applications. Below are the standard specifications for these depth filter modules.
General Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | 5 to 18 stacked cells per module |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal retention from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (industry standard) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (standard), Stainless Steel options |
| Max Temperature | Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on gasket/media |
Media Formulations and Variants
ErtelAlsop manufactures various grades of depth media to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration requirements. Choosing the right media formulation is critical for process efficiency.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® module incorporates Micro-Media®, which contains cellulose, high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE), and a wet-strength resin.
Best For: Applications requiring high zeta potential for removing ultra-fine particles, haze, and biological contaminants. Common in pharmaceuticals, botanical extracts, and beverages.
2. Disc-Pak® (Cellulose Only)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, a 100% cellulose formulation free from inorganic filter aids like DE or Perlite.
Best For: Filtering dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and lubricating oils where DE might alter the product or is not permitted.
3. Bio-Pak® and Pharma Grades
Designed for critical applications, these modules meet strict pharmaceutical standards for extractables and biosafety. They are often used for cell harvest, broth clarification, and final filtration steps.
4. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
These modules utilize immobilized activated carbon within the filter matrix.
Best For: Color removal, odor adsorption, and dechlorination without the mess of handling loose bulk carbon.
Primary Applications
Because of their versatility and high solids holding capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are a staple in several major industries:
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of distilled spirits, wine, beer, syrups, and edible oils.
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotech: Clarification of cell cultures, removal of precipitates, and bulk active ingredient filtration.
- Chemicals: Processing of resins, inks, paints, solvent recovery, and chemicals.
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
- Cannabis & Hemp: Highly effective for wax and lipid removal in winterization processes (dewaxing) using Zeta-Pak® modules.
Optimize Your Filtration Process
Whether you need to replace an aging plate and frame press or are designing a new closed-loop filtration skid, the ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers a robust solution. The combination of precision-engineered media and a user-friendly cartridge format ensures consistent effluent quality and lower operational costs.
Purecowater is ready to assist you in sizing, selecting, and implementing these filtration solutions for your specific facility.
Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Contact our team of experts to discuss your application or request a quote for ErtelAlsop Pak® Filters.