Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, the transition from traditional plate and frame presses to enclosed systems has been driven by the need for efficiency, safety, and hygiene. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the pinnacle of this evolution. First invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, the lenticular module format combines the superior depth filtration technology of filter sheets with the ease of use of a cartridge system.
At Purecowater, we provide these robust filtration solutions to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges. This guide explores the capabilities, specifications, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, specifically designed for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to botanical extraction.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge is a depth filter module available primarily in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters. It consists of multiple lenticular cells stacked vertically. Each cell is constructed from two disks of filter media—typically Micro-Media® (cellulose with filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth or Perlite) or Micro-Clear® (activated carbon)—sealed together at the edges.
Unlike surface filters that only trap particles on the top layer, these depth filters trap contaminants throughout the thickness of the media matrix. This structure provides:
- High Solids Loading: Capable of holding significant amounts of particulate before fouling.
- Zeta Potential: The media often carries a positive electrokinetic charge (zeta potential), allowing it to attract and hold negatively charged ultra-fine particles smaller than the mechanical pore structure.
- Total Containment: The modules sit inside a sealed housing, preventing leakage and limiting operator exposure to aggressive fluids or contaminants.
Zeta-Pak®: The Industry Workhorse
Among the various configurations, the Zeta-Pak® is the most versatile option. Manufactured with Micro-Media® containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE), it creates a rigid, porous cake that excels at sieving out particulate matter.
According to CLEAR Solutions, these filters are “highly effective in botanical extract filtration due to their high flow rate and effective particulate removal.” The polypropylene supports and EPDM gaskets ensure compatibility with various solvents used in modern extraction processes.
Key Applications
ErtelAlsop lenticular filters are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries. ErtelAlsop highlights their effectiveness in replacing open plate and frame systems in the following sectors:
- Botanical Extracts & Hemp: Ideally suited for winterization and dewaxing. The DE media efficiently removes waxes and lipids while the large surface area maintains high flow rates.
- Food & Beverage: Used for haze removal in distilled spirits, syrups, and flavorings without altering taste or odor.
- Pharmaceuticals & Life Sciences: Critical for clarification steps requiring strict sanitary compliance and minimal leakage.
- Chemicals & Cosmetics: Effective for polishing filtration to ensure product clarity and stability.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the proper configuration is vital for optimizing your process. The Pak® modules come in various ratings and end-cap styles to fit standard industry housings.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12-inch, 16-inch |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Configurations | Double O-Ring, Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard) |
| Cell Count | Typically 16 cells per module (customizable) |
| Media Types | Micro-Media® (Cellulose + DE/Perlite), Micro-Clear® (Carbon) |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak?
1. Scalability
Because the filter media used in the Pak® cartridges is identical to that used in laboratory-scale discs and large-scale filter presses, scaling up from pilot testing to full production is seamless. Process specifications developed in the lab translate directly to the production floor.
2. Safety and Cleanliness
The enclosed housing design prevents liquid loss and external contamination. This is a significant upgrade over “leaky” plate and frame presses, especially when handling valuable fluids or hazardous solvents.
3. Reduced Downtime
Change-outs are significantly faster than disassembling a plate and frame press. Operators can simply remove the saturated module and replace it with a new one, reducing maintenance time from hours to minutes.
For more detailed product data, refer to manufacturer resources at ErtelAlsop or CLEAR Solutions.
Need Filtration Support?
Purecowater is your trusted partner for Veolia, WTS, and specialized filtration solutions like ErtelAlsop depth filters. Whether you are dealing with botanical extraction or industrial wastewater, our team can engineer the right solution for you.