For industries requiring high-efficiency particulate retention and superior solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a trusted distributor, Purecowater supplies these advanced filter modules to help facilities tackle complex solid and liquid separation challenges, offering a robust alternative to traditional plate and frame systems.
What Are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
Lenticular filters, often referred to as filter modules or depth cartridges, utilize the same high-quality filter media found in plate and frame presses but package it in a convenient, totally enclosed format. The design gets its name from the “lenticular” (lens-like) shape of the stacked filter cells.
An ErtelAlsop Pak® is assembled from varying numbers of filter cells—typically between 5 and 18—stacked on a central core. Each cell is comprised of two discs of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with edges sealed by a patented polypropylene process. This construction ensures that liquid passes through the media matrix for effective depth filtration while preventing bypass.
Key Features and Benefits
Switching to or utilizing ErtelAlsop Lenticular Paks offers distinct operational advantages, particularly for pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and chemical applications.
- Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame filters, lenticular modules operate inside a sealed housing (vertical or horizontal). This prevents leakage, reduces oxidation, and protects operators from exposure to the fluid.
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers and particles in the depth media allows for substantial contaminant holding capacity before a changeout is required.
- Efficient Particle Retention: With nominal retention ratings ranging from 0.25 to 15 microns, these filters can handle everything from rough clarification to fine polishing and microbial reduction.
- Rapid Change-Out: Swapping out a spent module takes a fraction of the time required to dress a filter press, significantly reducing downtime and labor costs.
Technical Specifications
The flexibility of the Pak® system allows it to be tailored to specific process needs. Below are the standard configurations available through Purecowater.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Plug-in) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, etc. |
| Media Options | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
Primary Applications
ErtelAlsop Paks are versatile “workhorses” used across various industries. Their ability to remove haze, lipids, and fine particulates makes them ideal for:
1. Botanical Extracts and CBD Oil
Lenticular filters are highly effective for winterization and dewaxing. Paks impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) efficiently remove waxes and lipids from ethanol extracts while maintaining high flow rates.
2. Pharmaceuticals and Biotech
When paired with sanitary housings, these modules serve critical roles in API processing and large-volume parenterals. The Bio-Pak® configuration offers a double O-ring seal to ensure zero bypass, crucial for high-purity requirements.
3. Food and Beverage
From distilled spirits to sugar syrups, lenticular filtration provides polishing to ensure clarity and stability in the final product without affecting flavor or odor profiles.
4. Chemical and Industrial
Used for the clarification of oils, resins, and inks, providing a clean filtrate and protecting downstream equipment from fouling.
Media Types: Choosing the Right Grade
- AlphaMedia®: A pure cellulose media ideal for applications where low extractables are required.
- MicroMedia®: Contains filter aids like DE or Perlite to enhance haze removal and solids capacity.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon media for decolorization and odor removal without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Whether you need to upgrade an existing housing or design a new skid for botanical extraction, Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct micron rating and media composition for your specific stream.
Ready to improve your filtration process?