ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters: High-Performance Depth Filtration Solutions

Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Technology

For industries requiring rigorous clarification and purity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as depth lenticular filter modules) offer a superior alternative to traditional flat sheet filtration. Designed to combine the filtering capability of plate and frame filter presses with the convenience of a cartridge system, these modules provide a totally enclosed, operator-friendly solution for liquid processing.

The term "lenticular" refers to the unique design where filter cells are stacked and look like double convex lenses. Each module acts as a self-contained filtration unit, utilizing ErtelAlsop’s renowned depth filter media to ensure maximum particle retention and high solids loading capacity.

Key Features and Technologies

ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are engineered for versatility and efficiency. Whether you are dealing with botanical extracts, distilled spirits, or pharmaceutical fluids, the Pak® design ensures consistent results.

• Precision Construction: Modules are assembled from 5 to 18 stacked filter cells, available in standard 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters.
• Edge Seal Technology: A patented manufacturing process seals the edges of the media using polypropylene, minimizing bypass and ensuring structural integrity.
• Media Generosity: These cartridges utilize the same high-quality media found in plate and frame filters, including MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, and MicroClear® brands.
• Advanced Core Design: The rigid polypropylene core and support structure provide durability even under demanding flow conditions.

Technical Specifications

Below is a breakdown of the standard operating specifications for ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges. These specifications allow for seamless integration into existing sanitary and industrial housings.

Feature	Specification Details
Diameter Options	12" (30.5 cm) and 16" (40.6 cm)
Micron Ratings (Nominal)	0.25 µm to 15 µm
End Configurations	Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226 styles)
Filter Media Types	MicroMedia® (Cellulose/DE), AlphaMedia® (Pure Cellulose), MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
Gasket Materials	EPDM, Neoprene, Silicone, Viton®, Buna-N
Cell Count	Variable (typically 5 to 18 cells per stack)

Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters

While plate and frame filters are traditional workhorses, they often present challenges regarding leakage and cleaning labor. The ErtelAlsop Pak® system solves these issues through its enclosed housing design.

• Leak-Free Operation: Unlike open press systems, lenticular housings are sealed vessels, eliminating product leakage and reducing exposure to the atmosphere.
• Rapid Change-Out: Swapping out a saturated cartridge takes a fraction of the time compared to restacking a filter press, significantly reducing downtime.
• Scalability: Since the modules use the same media as the sheets, processes can easily be scaled from lab-scale CylinderLab™ units to full-scale production housings.

Common Applications

ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters are widely used across multiple sectors due to their ability to handle high solid loads and their compatibility with various chemical environments.

Industry	Typical Application
Food & Beverage	Haze removal in wines, spirits, vinegars, and syrups.
Pharmaceuticals	Clarification of antibiotics, vaccines, and blood fractionalization.
Botanical Extracts	Removal of waxes and lipids; high flow rates with DE impregnated media.
Cosmetics	Polishing of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
Chemicals	Filtration of solvents, inks, paints, and process water.

Housing Compatibility

These cartridges are designed to fit a wide range of industry-standard housings. ErtelAlsop offers them in both vertical and horizontal configurations. The horizontal housing options often feature a "Lock and Load" system, simplifying the loading process and requiring just a single operator.

Whether you need a high-polish finish for distilled spirits or effective particulate removal for industrial chemicals, the Pak® Lenticular system provides a robust, scalable, and efficient solution.