Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Technology
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter stands out as a premium solution for depth filtration applications. Designed to combine the superior filtration quality of plate and frame filter presses with the convenience of a closed cartridge system, these modules are essential for industries requiring high solids loading capacity and leak-free operation.
At Purecowater, we distribute these high-performance filtration modules to help facilities streamline their processes, from botanical extraction to pharmaceutical manufacturing. This guide details the specifications, operating principles, and diverse applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The “Lenticular” design refers to the shape of the filter cells. These cartridges are constructed from stacked discs (cells) containing depth filter media. The edges of these discs are sealed using a patented process (typically polypropylene), creating a unit that resembles a stack of double convex lenses.
Key Operational Benefits
- Closed System: Unlike traditional plate and frame filters, lenticular modules operate inside a sealed housing. This eliminates leakage, reduces oxidation/exposure, and provides a safer environment for operators handling hazardous fluids or solvents.
- Depth Filtration Mechanism: The media utilizes a complex matrix of cellulose fibers, resins, and inorganic filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth or Perlite) to trap particles not just on the surface but throughout the depth of the media.
- Scalability: Available in industry-standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, these modules can be stacked to increase surface area without expanding the system’s footprint significantly.
Zeta-Pak® and Media Formulations
One of the defining features of ErtelAlsop’s lineup is the variety of media grades available to target specific contaminants. The Zeta-Pak® is the most popular configuration, known as the “workhorse” of the series.
| Media Series | Composition | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose, Filter Aid (DE/Perlite), Wet Strength Resin | High efficiency, positive zeta potential for ultra-fine particle retention. Ideal for haze removal and sterilization protection. |
| AlphaMedia™ | 100% Cellulose | General purpose clarification where inorganic filter aids are not required. |
| MicroClear® | Activated Carbon & Cellulose | Color and odor removal without the mess of bulk carbon powder. |
| Bio-Pak® | High-purity Cellulose & Filter Aids | Pharmaceutical and biological applications requiring low extractables. |
The Zeta-Pak® series is particularly noted for its positive electrokinetic charge (zeta potential), which attracts properly charged contaminants (like bacteria and endotoxins) that might otherwise pass through the physical pore structure [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Technical Specifications
When selecting a lenticular module, compatibility and sizing are critical. Below are the standard specifications for the Pak® cartridges distributed by Purecowater.
General Operating Data
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per module (standard is often 16 cells for max area) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Stainless steel options available for specific needs) |
| Seal/Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (DOE) or Double O-Ring (222/226 style bayonet) |
| Maximum Temperature | Dependent on gasket/core selection (approx. 180°F / 82°C for Polypro) |
Note: Over 300 precision dies are available to fit virtually any filter press or housing configuration if custom adapters are required [ertelalsop.com].
Industrial Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters makes them a staple in high-purity industries. By combining high surface area with depth media, they handle high solids loading far better than pleated membrane cartridges.
Botanical Extracts & Distilled Spirits
In the extraction industry, particularly for hemp and botanical oils, wax and lipid removal (winterization) is a critical step. Lenticular filters impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) effectively trap these coagulated waxes while maintaining high flow rates. The enclosed design prevents solvent evaporation (e.g., Ethanol) and ensures operator safety [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Food & Beverage
From clarifying wine and beer to filtering sugar syrups, the Pak® modules provide polish filtration that ensures clarity and stability without stripping flavor.
Pharmaceuticals (API & Biopharma)
Used often as a pre-filter designed to protect expensive downstream membrane filters (0.2 micron final filters), the Zeta-Pak® reduces bioburden and removes colloidal haze that would otherwise foul absolute membranes rapidly.
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak®?
- User-Friendly: Change-outs take minutes rather than hours compared to plate and frame presses.
- Cost-Effective: High solids holding capacity means longer life cycles and fewer change-outs.
- Flexibility: The stackable nature allows you to scale up filtration area simply by adding more modules to your housing.
Need Sizing or Availability?
Purecowater is your trusted partner for industrial filtration solutions. Whether you need a specific micron rating or a compatible housing, our team can assist.