Filtration technology is critical for ensuring product purity and process efficiency across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage. Among the most versatile and effective solutions available today are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these advanced depth filtration modules to help you tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
This guide explores the functionality, specifications, and applications of ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters, demonstrating why they are a superior alternative to traditional plate and frame filtration methods.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter (often referred to as a “module” or “cartridge”) is a depth filtration system designed to combine the advantages of traditional depth filter sheets with the convenience of an enclosed cartridge format. Invented originally by Alsop Engineering, this technology places filter media into a stacked disc configuration, sealed within a housing.
Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, depth filters trap particles fast and efficiently throughout the thickness of the media. This structure allows for:
- High Solids Loading Capacity: Captures more debris before clogging.
- Zeta Potential: Utilizing electrokinetic adsorption to capture sub-micron particles (like haze or endotoxins) that are smaller than the pore rating.
- Leak-Free Operation: The totally enclosed housing prevents leakage and vapor emissions, essential for valuable or hazardous fluids.
Key Features and Benefits
Lenticular filters are designed to replace the labor-intensive assembly of Plate and Frame filter presses while retaining the superior filtration quality of depth media. Below are the standout features of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series:
| User-Friendly Design | Modules are easy to load and unload, significantly reducing change-out time and labor costs compared to loose filter sheets. |
| Scalability | Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts, allowing linear scalability from lab testing to full production. |
| Product Safety | The enclosed system protects operators from exposure to process fluids and prevents outside contamination of the product. |
| Regenerable Options | Certain models allow for backwashing, extending the lifespan of the filter and reducing total cost of ownership. |
Mechanism of Action: The Zeta-Pak® Advantage
The “workhorse” of the series is the Zeta-Pak®. These modules are manufactured using varying grades of MicroMedia®, which incorporates cellulose, high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE), and wet-strength resins.
How It Works
- Mechanical Sieving: Larger particles are trapped physically within the depth of the filter matrix.
- Electrokinetic Adsorption: The media possesses a positive Zeta potential. Since most bacteria, haze colloids, and sub-micron particles carry a negative charge, they are attracted to and adsorbed by the filter media.
This dual-action mechanism makes Zeta-Pak® ideal for applications requiring haze removal and protection of downstream membrane filters.
Technical Specifications
When selecting a lenticular filter, matching the specifications to your process flow and retention requirements is vital. ErtelAlsop filters are compatible with most standard lenticular housings.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12 inch, 16 inch |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Common ratings: 0.45, 1.0, 5.0) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Safe-seal) |
| Construction Materials | Core: Polypropylene Gaskets: EPDM, Viton, Silicone, etc. |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on gasket selection |
| Cell Count | Standard 16 cells (customizable for surface area needs) |
Industry Applications
The versatility of the ErtelAlsop Pak series allows it to function effectively in numerous sectors. It is particularly renowned for its performance in Botanical Extraction.
Botanical Extract & Hemp Oil
In cannabis and hemp processing, removing waxes and lipids (winterization) is a critical step. The Zeta-Pak® excels here because the Diatomaceous Earth media effectively adsorbs lipids while the depth structure handles the high solids load associated with crude extracts. The result is a polished, clear gold oil ready for distillation.
Other Core Markets
- Distilled Spirits: Removal of haze and particulate matter to ensure shelf stability and visual clarity (Chill Filtration).
- Pharmaceuticals (API): Clarification of active pharmaceutical ingredients where strict validation and purity are required.
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of syrups, flavorings, and juices.
- Utilities: Dielectric oil filtration for transformers.
Ready to Optimize Your Filtration Process?
Whether you are transitioning from a plate and frame press to a closed lenticular system, or you need high-efficiency replacement modules for your existing housing, Purecowater has the expertise to guide you.
As a distributor for ErtelAlsop and other leading brands, we can specify the correct micron rating, media type, and housing configuration for your unique operational needs.