Introduction to Lenticular Filtration
At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex solid and liquid filtration challenges. Among our premier offerings are the ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters. These depth filter modules represent a significant evolution in filtration technology, combining the high-capacity performance of traditional depth filtration media with the convenience and safety of an enclosed cartridge system.
Originally invented by Alsop Engineering (a predecessor to ErtelAlsop) in the 1940s, the lenticular cartridge format was designed to overcome the limitations of plate and frame filter presses. Today, these filters are essential for industries requiring high particulate retention, product clarity, and sterile protection.
How ErtelAlsop Pak Filters Work
The Pak Lenticular Filter consists of multiple individual filter “cells” stacked on a central core. Each cell is formed by two discs of depth filter media (such as ertelalsop.com MicroMedia® or MicroClear®), with their edges sealed to prevent bypass. This assembly creates a robust module that fits inside a sealed housing.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, the lenticular format is installed in a totally enclosed housing. This eliminates leakage, reduces oxidation, and prevents atmospheric contamination—critical for pharmaceutical and food applications.
- Rapid Changeout: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, these modules allow processes to scale easily from pilot to full production.
The Zeta-Pak® Advantage: Electrokinetic Adsorption
One of the standout products in this line is the ertelalsop.com Zeta-Pak®. While mechanical sieving removes larger particles, the Zeta-Pak® utilizes Zeta Potential—an electrokinetic charge modification applied to the media.
The wet strength resin in the media imparts a positive charge, which attracts and captures negatively charged contaminants such as bacteria, endotoxins, and colloidal haze that are smaller than the filter’s physical micron rating. This makes Zeta-Pak® ideal for protecting downstream membrane filters and clarifying difficult fluids like botanical extracts or hazy spirits.
Product Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak filters are versatile and compatible with a wide range of housings. Below are the standard specifications for the Zeta-Pak® and standard Pak modules.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch, 16-inch |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25µm, 0.45µm, 1.0µm, 2.5µm, 5µm, 10µm, 15µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Media Composition | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Carbon, Wet Strength Resins |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Surface Area | Approx. 1.8 m² (16-inch module) / 1.5 m² (12-inch module) |
Applications
Due to their high solids loading capacity and fine retention, these filters are used extensively across various sectors:
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of cell cultures, removal of lipids, and pre-filtration for sterility.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in beer and wine (gwkent.com), syrup clarification, and cider processing.
- Botanical Extracts: Efficient removal of waxes and lipids from cannabis and herbal extracts (clearsolutionscorp.com).
- Cosmetics: Purification of perfumes, lotions, and oils.
- Chemicals: Polishing of inks, paints, and specialty chemicals.
Housing Compatibility
Purecowater can supply ErtelAlsop housings designed specifically for these modules. Options include:
- Vertical Housings: Standard sanitary designs for 1 to 4 modules high.
- Horizontal Housings: Featuring the “Lock and Load” system which allows for single-operator loading without overhead hoists (ertelalsop.com). These are ideal for larger systems requiring multiple modules.
Get Support for Your Filtration System
Whether you are upgrading from a plate and frame press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater provides the technical expertise and supply chain reliability you need. We distribute OEM solutions for Veolia, WTS, and Engineered Solutions, ensuring top-tier performance for your facility.