Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial filtration, precision and efficiency are paramount. For industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage, achieving high-purity results requires equipment that can handle strictly defined retention requirements while maintaining optimal flow rates. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the pinnacle of depth filtration technology, offering a versatile, enclosed solution for critical processing applications.
At Purecowater, we distribute top-tier filtration systems to solve your most complex solid/liquid separation challenges. This guide explores the capabilities, specifications, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, a workhorse in depth filtration.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A lenticular filter module, often called a “cake” or “disc” stack, combines the filtration efficiency of traditional depth filter sheets with the convenience of a cartridge design. The ErtelAlsop Pak® consists of stacked filter cells—typically ranging from 5 to 18 cells per unit—assembled into a reliable, pre-compressed cartridge.
Each cell is constructed from two discs of Micro-Media®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear® depth filter media. The edges are sealed using a patented process with polypropylene supports, creating a robust unit that resembles a stack of double convex lenses.
Key Advantages over Plate and Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and external contamination, crucial for sanitary applications.
- Quick Changeout: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters to fit various housing sizes and flow requirements.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® systems are designed to accommodate a wide range of operating conditions and retention needs. Below are the standard specifications available for these modules.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Standard grades include 1.0, 2.5, 5 µm) |
| Filter Media Types | Cellulose, Micro-Media® (Pro), AlphaMedia®, MicroClear® (Carbon) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| End Configurations | Double O-Ring, Flat Gasket |
Key Applications and Industries
The versatility of the Pak® lenticular cartridges makes them suitable for “virtually any application” requiring depth filtration. The media matrix allows for high solids loading capacity and excellent particle retention.
1. Botanical Extracts & Essential Oils
One of the most popular uses for the Zeta-Pak® series is in the filtration of botanical extracts. The filters are often pre-impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE). This rigid, porous structure effectively:
- Removes lipids and waxes (dewaxing) without affecting flavor profiles.
- Handles high particulate loads common in ethanol extraction.
- Provides high flow rates required for production scalability.
2. Distilled Spirits and Beverages
For spirits, wine, and beer, clarity and stability are non-negotiable. ErtelAlsop filters help remove haze-causing proteins and particulates ensuring a polished final product. The enclosed housing prevents alcohol evaporation and product loss compared to open press systems.
3. Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences
When purity is critical, Pharma-grade media options meet strict compliance standards. These filters are used for API filtration, solvent cleaning, and catalyst removal (e.g., removing platinum or carbon catalysts).
Understanding the Media Technologies
The effectiveness of a lenticular filter depends heavily on the media composition. ErtelAlsop offers several proprietary formulations:
- Zeta-Pak®: The standard for fine filtration, utilizing electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta potential) to capture sub-micron particles that mechanically pass through other filters.
- Micro-Media®: A high-performance depth filter sheet containing cellulose and filter aids (like DE or Perlite) for superior haze removal.
- AlphaMedia®: A pure cellulose media for applications where mineral filter aids are not desired.
- MicroClear®: Impregnated with activated carbon, allowing for decolorization and odor removal in a convenient cartridge format, eliminating the mess of loose carbon powder.
Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Choosing between 12-inch or 16-inch modules, or deciding between flat gaskets and double O-rings can be complex. The team at Purecowater is here to guide you through the sizing and selection process to ensure your filtration line operates at peak efficiency.