For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration without the labor-intensive drawbacks of traditional methods, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a significant technological advancement. As a leading distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these depth filtration modules to solve complex contamination challenges in pharmaceutical, chemical, and food and beverage applications.
What are Lenticular Pak® Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as depth filter modules) are an enclosed, vertically stacked alternative to traditional plate and frame filtration. The design consists of individual filter cells—essentially pairs of depth filter sheets sealed at the edges—stacked on a central core. This configuration resembles a stack of double convex lenses, giving rise to the name “lenticular.”
These cartridges are designed to fit into sealed housings, preventing exposure to the atmosphere and leakage. This makes them ideal for applications involving hazardous solvents, high-value fluids, or strict sanitary requirements.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
While plate and frame filters have been the industry standard for decades, lenticular modules offer modern operational benefits:
- Closed System: Eliminates leakage and atmospheric exposure, crucial for volatile or sanitary applications.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than the hours required to dress a filter press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
- Media Versatility: Utilizes the same high-quality MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear® media found in filter sheets.
Note: ErtelAlsop invented the lenticular format in the 1940s. The Pak® design features a patented edge-sealing process using polypropylene, ensuring structural integrity even under pressure.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the capabilities of the Pak® cartridges is essential for selecting the right module for your process. Below are the standard specifications for the ErtelAlsop line.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Filtration Rating (Nominal) | 0.25 to 15 Microns |
| Filter Media Types | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226 styles) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, PTFE Encapsulated |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Max Operating Temperature | Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on media/gasket |
Product Guide: Choosing the Right Series
ErtelAlsop offers specific formulations to target different contaminants. Choosing the correct “Pak” ensures optimal throughput and retention.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the most versatile option, incorporating Micro-Media® (Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth, and Perlite). It provides high zeta potential, making it effective for retaining ultra-fine particles and haze.
- Best For: Botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, and general industrial filtration.
- Key Feature: Excellent solids loading capacity due to the complex matrix of fibers and filter aids.
2. Disc-Pak® (Pure Cellulose)
Constructed from AlphaMedia®, the Disc-Pak® is a 100% cellulose filter. It contains no inorganic filter aids like DE or Perlite.
- Best For: Applications where DE is prohibited, such as dielectric oils, perfumes, and certain food syrups.
- Key Feature: Minimizes extractables and protects active ingredients.
3. Bio-Pak® and Molded Modules
Designed for critical biological and pharmaceutical applications requiring low extractables and high purity.
4. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
These modules incorporate immobilized activated carbon within the media sheet, eliminating the mess of loose bulk carbon.
- Best For: Color removal, odor removal, and dechlorination.
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters allows them to serve a wide range of industries.
| Industry | Application Use Case |
|---|---|
| Botanical Extraction | Removal of waxes, lipids, and biomass from ethanol or hydrocarbon extracts. |
| Distilled Spirits | Haze removal (chill filtration) and polishing before bottling (Whiskey, Vodka, Gin). |
| Cosmetics | Clarification of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils. |
| Chemicals | Filtration of silicones, inks, paints, and specialty coatings. |
| Pharmaceuticals | API purification, LVPs, and SVPs. |
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you are upgrading from improved plate and frame systems or designing a new process line, the ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers a robust solution for depth filtration. Purecowater can help you select the correct micron rating, media type, and housing configuration for your specific needs.
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