High-Performance Depth Filtration Solutions
For industries requiring rigorous particulate removal and superior clarity, ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular modules to solve complex liquid filtration challenges. This guide explores the specifications, operational advantages, and diverse applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak series.
What are Lenticular Pak Filters?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® is a depth filter cartridge (or module) designed to provide a totally enclosed, leak-free filtration environment. Originally innovated by Alsop Engineering, this format stacks retention capabilities into a compact, easy-to-handle unit. Unlike traditional plate and frame filters, lenticular modules are housed in sealed vessels, preventing fluid loss and protecting operators from exposure to process fluids.
The cartridges are constructed from stacked lenticular cells—resembling double convex lenses. Each cell uses high-quality depth filter media, such as Millipore or ErtelAlsop’s proprietary Micro-Media®, sealed with polypropylene edges.
Did You Know? The Zeta-Pak® is considered the workhorse of the series, featuring media pre-impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) to form a rigid, porous cake that excels at sieving out ultra-fine particulates without affecting odor or taste.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak filters are versatile, designed to fit various housing sizes and chemical compatibility requirements. Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications available via Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Common stock: 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 µm) |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard) |
| Filtration Mechanism | Depth Filtration, Electrokinetic Adsorption (Zeta Potential) |
| Max Temperature | Dependent on media/gasket (Standard models tolerate sanitization temps) |
Key Features and Operating Principles
1. Zeta Potential Technology
The Micro-Media® used in these filters contains a wet strength resin that imparts a net positive charge (Zeta Potential). This electrokinetic attraction allows the filter to capture sub-micron particles that are theoretically smaller than the media’s pore size, ensuring superior retention efficiencies, particularly for hazes and colloids.
2. High Solids Loading
The depth filter matrix provides a tortuous path for fluid flow. This complex structure allows the Pak module to hold a significant amount of solids before plugging, resulting in longer production runs and reduced downtime compared to surface filters.
3. Chemical Compatibility
With polypropylene cores and supports, coupled with EPDM gaskets, these modules interact safely with a wide range of solvents, making them ideal for botanical extraction and chemical processing.
Common Applications
The adaptability of ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters makes them suitable for a wide array of industries. They are particularly favored where product integrity and clarity are paramount.
| 🌿 Botanical Extraction | Removing waxes, lipids, and fine particulates during winterization and dewaxing processes. The high flow rate helps maintain production speed without sacrificing purity. |
| 🍷 Food & Beverage | Clarification of distilled spirits, removal of haze in syrups, and general particulate reduction in beverages. The DE filter aid has virtually no effect on odor or taste. |
| 💊 Pharmaceuticals & Biotech | Used for API solvent filtration and catalyst removal (e.g., carbon catalyst removal). Sanitary housings ensure compliance with industry standards. |
| 🧪 Chemicals | Filtration of specialty chemicals, silicone production, and solvent recovery. |
| ⚡ Electric Utilities | The AquaKv-Pak® variant is specialized for removing water and carbon from insulating oils in transformers and circuit breakers. |
Why Choose Lenticular Modules over Plate & Frame?
While plate and frame presses have been used for decades, the Lenticular Pak format offers modern advantages for facility operators:
- Reduced Setup Time: Modules can be changed out in minutes rather than hours.
- Closed System: Eliminates leakage and evaporation, vital for volatile solvents or hazardous fluids.
- Scalability: Housings can accommodate 1, 2, 3, or 4-high stacks, allowing for easy scaling of filtration surface area.
- Small Footprint: Vertical stacking saves valuable floor space in the plant.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you are looking to upgrade your current filtration system or need replacements for existing housing, Purecowater provides expert support and access to the full line of ErtelAlsop products. We can help you determine the correct micron rating, media type, and end-cap configuration for your specific process.