Complete Product Overview: ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industrial applications requiring superior depth filtration with high solids loading capacity, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter stands out as a market leader. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to solve complex liquid filtration challenges across pharmaceutical, chemical, and food and beverage industries. This guide details the specifications, operating principles, and advantages of the Pak® Lenticular series.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
The Lenticular Pak® cartridge, originally innovated by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, is a modular depth filter designed to replace traditional plate and frame filter presses. Ideally suited for applications where a sealed, sanitary, and easy-to-handle system is required, these modules consist of individual “cells” stacked on a central core. Each cell is comprised of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with sealed edges. The resulting stack resembles a series of double convex lenses, giving it the name “lenticular.”
According to [ertelalsop.com](https://ertelalsop.com/lenticular-pak-cartridges/), this design provides a totally enclosed, operator-friendly depth filtration system that offers the same filtration quality as plate machinery but with significantly reduced leakage and maintenance time.
Key Features and Technology
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is renowned for its versatility and efficiency. Below are the core technical advantages:
- Zeta Potential & Micro-Media: Many Pak® modules, such as the Zeta-Pak®, utilize Micro-Media formulated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and cellulose. This creates a rigid, porous structure with electrokinetic (zeta) potential, allowing for the retention of ultra-fine particles and haze that are smaller than the mechanical rating of the filter, as noted by [store.clearsolutionscorp.com](https://store.clearsolutionscorp.com/products/pak-lenticular-filter).
- Broad Chemical Compatibility: Constructed with polypropylene supports and available with EPDM gaskets, these filters are compatible with a wide range of solvents and chemicals.
- Zero Leakage Design: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular modules operate inside specific housings (such as the 12″ and 16″ industrial or sanitary housings), ensuring a leak-free process environment.
- Scalability: Modules are available in standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), making it easy to scale from pilot testing to full production.
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the standard operating specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, combining data from various suppliers and the manufacturer.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Available Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Media Types | MicroMedia® (Cellulose/DE), AlphaMedia®, MicroClear® (Carbon) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), Buna-N, Viton, Silicone available |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
Primary Applications
Due to their high solids loading capacity and polish capabilities, these filters are used extensively in industries requiring high-purity liquids.
1. Botanical Extracts & CBD Oil
Lenticular filters are a “workhorse” in botanical extraction. The Micro-Media series containing diatomaceous earth is particularly effective at removing waxes, lipids, and fine particulate matter from ethanol-based extracts without affecting the odor or taste of the final product [store.clearsolutionscorp.com](https://store.clearsolutionscorp.com/products/pak-lenticular-filter).
2. Pharmaceuticals (API)
For applications such as removing platinum from carbon catalysts or general solvent clarification, the Pak® modules provide reliable performance in API production environments. Advanced housings are available for pharmaceutical-grade requirements.
3. Food & Beverage
From distilled spirits to syrups, the Pak® filters ensure clarity and stability. The enclosed design prevents oxidation and contamination, critical for maintaining flavor profiles.
4. Industrial Chemical Filtration
Used in conjunction with Industrial Filter Housings (Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel), these modules handle specialty chemicals, silicone production, and dielectric fluids [ertelalsop.com](https://ertelalsop.com/depth-filtration-equipment/lenticular-filter-housings/industrial-filter-housing/).
Comparison: Lenticular Modules vs. Plate & Frame
While both technologies utilize depth filter media, the Pak® Lenticular format offers distinct operational advantages:
| Features | Plate & Frame Press | Pak® Lenticular Module |
|---|---|---|
| Leakage | Open drip potential | Totally enclosed / Zero leakage |
| Change-out Time | High (Labor intensive) | Low (Quick cartridge swap) |
| Footprint | Large | Compact |
| Cleaning | Requires manual plate cleaning | Disposable modules / CIP Housing |
Integration with Filter Housings
ErtelAlsop Pak® modules must be installed in appropriate housings. Purecowater can assist in housing selection, ranging from:
- Sanitary Housings: For pharmaceutical and food-grade applications (high polish).
- Industrial Housings: For chemical applications (Carbon Steel, 304/316 SS).
- Utility Housings: For electric utility insulating oil filtration [ertelalsop.com](https://ertelalsop.com/category/filter-media/filter-module/).
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
If you are looking to upgrade your current filtration system or require replacements for ErtelAlsop Pak® modules, Purecowater ensures you get the exact configuration for your process needs. We help tackle solid and liquid filtration problems with expertise in OEM and distribution.
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