Advanced Depth Filtration for Critical Applications
For industries requiring high-efficiency solids removal and superior particle retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for premium filtration solutions, Purecowater offers these versatile cartridges to address complex liquid processing challenges ranging from pharmaceutical purification to botanical extraction.
The Lenticular Pak® design combines the benefits of traditional depth filter sheets with the convenience of an enclosed cartridge format. This article details the specifications, media options, and operational advantages of integrating ErtelAlsop lenticular technology into your process workflow.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Cartridge?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® is a depth filter module available in 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters. Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the outer layer, these lenticular modules utilize a thick, complex matrix of fibers to trap contaminants fast throughout the entire depth of the media.
Design Construction:
- Stacked Cells: Each cartridge consists of 5 to 18 stacked “cells.”
- Lenticular Shape: A cell is formed by two depth filter sheets sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process, creating a double convex (lenticular) shape.
- Sealed System: The stacked cells are assembled onto a rigid core, eliminating the leakage and bypass often associated with traditional plate and frame filter presses.
How Technical Depth Filtration Works
ErtelAlsop Pak® filters operate using two distinct mechanisms to ensure high-purity filtrate:
- Mechanical Straining: The complex matrix of cellulose and filter aids creates a tortuous path, physically trapping particles larger than the pore size.
- Electrokinetic Adsorption (Zeta Potential): The media is formulated with a wet strength resin that imparts a positive charge (Zeta Potential). This charge attracts and binds negatively charged contaminants—such as bacteria, endotoxins, and haze-forming colloids—that are often smaller than the filter’s micron rating.
Product Specifications
These modules are designed to retrofit into most standard lenticular housings. Below are the standard specifications for the Pak® series.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12″ (30.5 cm) and 16″ (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks range from 5 to 18 cells |
Media Formulations
One of the primary strengths of the ErtelAlsop line is the variety of media compositions available to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals.
1. Micro-Media® (Zeta-Pak®)
The “workhorse” of the industry. This series integrates cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), or Perlite with a resin binder. It offers high solids loading capacity and strong zeta potential.
Best for: Haze removal, microbial reduction, general clarification.
2. AlphaMedia®
A pure cellulose media free from diatomaceous earth and perlite. This is ideal for applications where mineral extractables effectively need to be zero.
Best for: Pharmaceutical applications sensitive to mineral leaching.
3. MicroClear®
Impregnated with activated carbon. This allows for adsorption of color, odor, and organics without the mess of handling loose carbon powder.
Best for: Color correction, odor removal, decolorization of spirits or APIs.
Key Applications
The versatility of the Pak® lenticular cartridges makes them a preferred choice across several high-purity sectors.
Botanical Extracts & Winterization
In the processing of botanical oils, removal of waxes, lipids, and plant particulates is critical. The Zeta-Pak® series is particularly effective for winterization dewaxing. The Diatomaceous Earth (DE) content aids in forming a porous cake that sieves out lipids while maintaining high flow rates, preventing premature clogging.
Food & Beverage
- Distilled Spirits: Removal of char and fatty acids (chill haze) without stripping flavor.
- Sugar Syrups: Clarification of viscous liquids.
- Wine and Beer: Polishing filtration prior to final stabilization.
Pharmaceutical & Bio-Tech
- Post-fermentation clarification.
- Removal of colloidal silica and protein haze.
- Protection of downstream membrane filters (Ro/Ultrafiltration).
Why Switch to Lenticular Modules?
If you are currently using traditional plate and frame filters or standard spun-bond cartridges, upgrading to ErtelAlsop Pak® modules offers significant operational improvements:
- Ease of Changeout: Modules can be changed in minutes within a closed housing, significantly reducing downtime compared to the labor-intensive cleaning of filter presses.
- Zero Leakage: The edge-sealed discs prevent external leaking and bypass, a common issue with open filter presses.
- Safety: Enclosed housings protect operators from exposure to hazardous fluids or high temperatures.
- Scalability: The technology scales linearly from lab-scale 12″ housings to multi-module 16″ production skids.
Solving Your Filtration Challenges
Whether you require the high dirt-holding capacity of the Zeta-Pak® or the carbon adsorption of MicroClear®, Purecowater can spec the correct ErtelAlsop module for your housing. Our team specializes in diagnosing flow rate issues and optimizing filtration trains for maximum throughput.
Ready to optimize your depth filtration system?