Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring precise liquid depth filtration, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters offer a proven, scalable, and efficient solution. As a key component in the Purecowater portfolio, these lenticular modules (often referred to as cartridges) bridge the gap between traditional plate and frame filtration and modern enclosed systems. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, distilled spirits, or industrial chemicals, the Pak® series provides superior retention efficiencies and ease of use.
The lenticular format, originally invented by Alsop Engineering, allows operators to utilize the same high-quality filter media found in filter presses but in a totally enclosed, sanitary, and easy-to-change cartridge format [ertelalsop.com]. This article explores the capabilities, specifications, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters available through Purecowater.
Key Features and Benefits
The ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are designed to address common challenges in liquid filtration, such as leakage, long change-out times, and exposure to the environment.
- Fully Enclosed System: Unlike open filter presses, lenticular housings are sealed, preventing loss of liquid and protecting the product from external contamination. This is critical for both sanitary applications and hazardous fluids.
- Scalability: The media used in Pak® cartridges is identical to ErtelAlsop’s depth filter sheets. This allows for seamless scale-up from laboratory trials using 47mm discs or small capsules to full-scale production using 12-inch or 16-inch modules [ertelalsop.com].
- Rapid Change-Out: The design minimizes downtime. Modules can be loaded and unloaded quickly compared to the labor-intensive process of dressing a plate and frame press.
- Variety of Media: Available with various media formulations to target specific contaminants, including Zeta-Pak® (with Diatomaceous Earth), Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose), and Bio-Pak® (Pharmaceutical Grade).
Product Configurations and Media Types
ErtelAlsop offers distinct product lines within the Pak® family to suit different chemical compatibility and filtration requirements.
Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media)
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the series. Incorporating Micro-Media, these filters are impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and a wet-strength resin. This combination creates a rigid cake with a positive zeta potential, making it highly effective at removing ultra-fine particles and haze [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Best For: Botanical extracts (wax/lipid removal), distilled spirits, and haze removal in beverages.
Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia, which is 100% cellulose and contains no inorganic filter aids like DE or Perlite. This is essential for applications where media purity is paramount or where silica leaching is a concern.
Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and applications requiring strict limits on extractables [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Bio-Pak®
Designed for critical applications, the Bio-Pak® features a double O-ring configuration and a polypropylene core with no stainless steel straps. This ensures positive sealing and facilitates sanitary compliance in pharmaceutical settings.
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the general specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular series.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (Diameter) | 12-inch and 16-inch |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | Typically 0.25 µm to 20 µm (Popular ratings: 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 µm) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Standard Cell Count | 16 Cells (standard), ranges from 5 to 18 cells typically available |
| Filtration Area | ~ 1.8 m² (16-cell 12″) / ~ 3.6 m² (16-cell 16″) |
Applications
Due to their versatility, ErtelAlsop Pak filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries.
Botanical Extract Filtration
In the processing of hemp and other botanical extracts, removing waxes and lipids is a primary concern. The Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media) is particularly effective here. The large surface area allows for high flow rates, while the DE content efficiently adsorbs waxes, resulting in a polished, clear distillate [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics
The sanitary design of the Bio-Pak® and the purity of the Disc-Pak® make them ideal for sensitive fluids such as perfumes, colognes, and pharmaceutical intermediates. The enclosed housing ensures that no external contaminants enter the process stream.
Food & Beverage
From clarifying syrups to polishing distilled spirits, these filters ensure product stability and clarity without affecting taste or odor. The Micro-Media formulation is designed to have virtually no effect on the sensory profile of the liquid [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of housings, which Purecowater can supply and configure for your facility. These include:
- Sanitary Housings: 316L Stainless Steel with sanitary fittings and high polish for pharma/biotech [ertelalsop.com].
- Industrial Housings: Rugged designs for chemical and utility applications.
- Horizontal Housings: Allow for safer, waist-level loading and unloading of cartridges, ideal for larger systems [ertelalsop.com].
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Selecting the right depth filter module requires careful consideration of fluid viscosity, solids loading, and chemical compatibility. Purecowater specializes in configuring ErtelAlsop systems tailored to your specific process needs.
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