Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, precision and efficiency are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the evolution of depth filtration technology, combining the superior retention capabilities of traditional plate and frame filters with the convenience and safety of a totally enclosed cartridge system. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater is proud to offer these versatile modules designed to tackle complex solid and liquid separation challenges.
Originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, the lenticular cartridge format has become a standard in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to botanical extraction. By utilizing a stacked-disc design, these filters offer a high surface area in a compact footprint, ensuring high flow rates and exceptional particulate removal.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the environment, ideal for hazardous or hygienic applications.
- High Dirt Holding Capacity: Depth media structure traps particles throughout the matrix, not just on the surface.
- Scalability: Easy to scale from laboratory testing to full production using the same media formulations.
- Rapid Change-out: Modular design allows for quick replacement, minimizing downtime compared to filter presses.
Product Lines: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
ErtelAlsop offers distinct product lines within the Pak® family to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals. Understanding the difference between the Zeta-Pak® and Disc-Pak® series is crucial for selecting the right filter for your process.
1. Zeta-Pak® Lenticular Modules
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the series, incorporating Micro-Media® depth filter sheets. These filters are composed of cellulose, high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite, and a wet-strength resin. The inclusion of inorganic filter aids like DE creates a tortuous path for fluid, enhancing the mechanical interception of particles.
Additionally, the media possesses a positive Zeta potential, which electrokinetically attracts negatively charged contaminants such as bacteria, endotoxins, and colloidal haze. This makes Zeta-Pak® exceptionally effective for sub-micron filtration and haze removal.
Ideal Applications:
- Botanical Extracts: Excellent for dewaxing and lipid removal in ethanol extraction processes (clearsolutionscorp.com).
- Pharmaceuticals: API filtration and post-fermentation clarification.
- Distilled Spirits: Haze removal and polishing.
2. Disc-Pak® Lenticular Modules
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, which is 100% pure cellulose without inorganic filter aids or resins. This series is designed for applications where Diatomaceous Earth is not permitted or where “zero-ash” content is required. It provides excellent retention for light to medium viscosity liquids without altering the chemical composition of the filtrate.
Ideal Applications:
- Dielectric Oils & Coolants: Particulate removal in transformer oils (clearsolutionscorp.com).
- Food & Beverage: Syrups and flavorings where DE migration is a concern.
- Cosmetics: Perfumes and essential oils.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are available in industry-standard configurations, ensuring compatibility with most lenticular housings. Below is a detailed breakdown of the available specifications.
| Specification | Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media) | Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia) |
|---|---|---|
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm – 15 µm | 1 µm, 5 µm, 10 µm |
| Materials with Media | Cellulose, DE/Perlite, Resin | 100% Cellulose |
| Diameter | 12-inch or 16-inch | 12-inch or 16-inch |
| End Cap Config | Double O-Ring / Flat Gasket | Double O-Ring / Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard) | EPDM (Standard) |
Why Choose Lenticular Depth Filtration?
Depth filtration is distinct from membrane (absolute) filtration. While membranes largely sieve particles on the surface based on pore size, lenticular depth filters utilize the thickness of the media to trap contaminants. This “maze-like” path allows them to hold a significantly higher load of solids before blocking, making them excellent pre-filters for protecting expensive downstream membrane elements.
Advanced Construction Features
- Edge Seal Technology: The edges of the filter sheets are sealed using a patented process with polypropylene. This prevents liquid bypass and ensures that 100% of the fluid passes through the media.
- Core Design: The robust polypropylene core withstands hydraulic stress and temperature variations, ensuring structural integrity during operation.
- Surface Area: A standard 12-inch module typically contains 16 cells, providing substantial surface area for high-flow applications such as botanical extraction or large-scale batch processing.
Applications in Industry
ErtelAlsop’s versatile design allows these filters to act as a critical step in various manufacturing processes:
- Life Sciences: Reduces bioburden and removes endotoxins upstream of final sterilization.
- Chemicals: Filters amines, glycol, and resins.
- Cannabis & Hemp: specifically effective for removing waxes and lipids in winterized crude oil without stripping cannabinoids.
- Industrial Water: Polishing of process water to protect Reverse Osmosis (RO) units.
Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Choosing between micron ratings, media types (DE vs. Cellulose), and end-cap configurations can be complex. At Purecowater, we specialize in identifying the perfect filtration setup for your specific stream requirements. Whether you are replacing existing modules or designing a new skid, our team is ready to assist.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?
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