For industries requiring rigorous clarification and sterilization of liquids, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor/OEM for premium filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to help tackle complex liquid filtration problems, offering a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional methods.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® depth filter cartridges—commonly known as lenticular modules—are robust filtration units designed for critical liquid processing. A single cartridges is constructed from multiple lenticular filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell consists of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) with edges sealed via a patented polypropylene process.
This design resembles a stack of double convex lenses, creating a “lenticular” shape that maximizes surface area within a compact footprint. These modules are available in industry-standard 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters, containing anywhere from 5 to 18 cells per stack depending on the surface area requirements [ertelalsop.com].
(Image Placeholder: Cutaway view of a Lenticular Pak stack showing the internal cell structure and flow path)
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
The lenticular format was originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s to provide a user-friendly alternative to the Plate & Frame filter press. While plate and frame systems are effective, they are often labor-intensive and prone to leakage. The Pak® Lenticular Cartridge solves these issues by housing the media inside a totally enclosed vessel.
Comparison: Lenticular Modules vs. Plate & Frame
| Feature | Plate & Frame Filter | ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular |
|---|---|---|
| System Design | Open system (potential for dripping) | Totally enclosed (leak-free, sanitary) |
| Change-out Time | Hours (manual sheet replacement) | Minutes (drop-in cartridge) |
| Product Loss | Higher (edge leakage) | Minimal (sealed housing) |
| Handling | Messy, open air exposure | Clean, contained capability |
Because these modules use the same high-quality filter media found in filter presses, transitioning from an existing plate and frame process to a lenticular setup is seamless, requiring no changes to process specifications [ertelalsop.com].
Technical Specifications and Configurations
ErtelAlsop cartridges are versatile and can be configured to meet pharmaceutical grades, industrial needs, or specific chemical compatibilities. They are typically available in two main end-cap configurations: Flat Gasket and Double O-Ring (often used in the Bio-Pak® line for stricter sanitary requirements).
Performance Data
- Micron Ratings: Nominal retention ranges from 0.25 to 15 microns.
- Diameters: 12″ and 16″.
- Core Material: Polypropylene (standard) or Stainless Steel options.
- Gasket Material: EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, silicone, etc.
- Media Options:
- MicroMedia®: Cellulose/Perlite/DE blend for high solids loading.
- AlphaMedia®: 100% Cellulose for non-mineral applications.
- MicroClear®: Carbon-impregnated media for adsorption applications.
For applications involving botanical extracts, such as hemp or cannabis oil, modules often utilize Micro-Media impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE). This allows for rapid removal of waxes and lipids while maintaining high flow rates [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Applications and Use Cases
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters makes them a preferred choice across various sectors. The enclosed design is particularly critical for handling expensive or hazardous fluids.
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotech: Sterile filtration, API processing, and large volume parenterals.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, wine polishing, soft drinks, and juice clarification.
- Cosmetics: Filtration of perfumes, oils, and lotions.
- Chemical Processing: Removal of particulates from solvents, resins, and inks.
- Botanical Extraction: Winterization and lipid removal in ethanol extraction processes.
Compatible Housing Systems
To maximize the efficiency of these cartridges, they are paired with specialized housings. ErtelAlsop offers:
- Sanitary Vertical Housings: Featuring 316L stainless steel, high polish, and sanitary fittings for pharma applications [ertelalsop.com].
- Horizontal Filter Housings: A “Lock and Load” design that allows for single-person loading and eliminates the need for overhead hoists, enhancing safety and speed [ertelalsop.com].
Contact Purecowater for Depth Filtration Solutions
Whether you are upgrading from a manual filter press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct lenticular media and housing for your process. As an distributor/OEM for major filtration brands, we ensure you get the precise specification required for your facility.
Need help selecting the right size or micron rating?
Contact Us Today