Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, precision and scalability are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as lenticular modules or cartridges) represent a significant evolution from traditional plate and frame filtration. Designed to provide a totally enclosed, leak-free, and sanitary environment, these depth filter modules are the preferred choice for applications ranging from pharmaceutical processing to botanical extraction and food and beverage production.
At Purecowater, we understand that protecting downstream equipment and achieving high-purity results requires robust filtration technology. The ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers the versatility of depth filtration media—retaining solids within a porous matrix—packaged in a convenient, easy-to-change cartridge format.
How Lenticular Technology Works
Lenticular filtration combines the efficiency of depth filter sheets with the convenience of a cartridge. A “Pak” consists of stacked filter cells (discs). Each cell is comprised of two discs of filter media sealed around the edges. This design creates a complex, tortuous path for fluids, ensuring high retention of particulates.
The fluid enters the housing, surrounds the cartridge, and passes through the media into the center core. This inside-out or outside-in flow (depending on housing configuration, though typically outside-in for these modules) allows the media to capture deformable particles, haze, and solids effectively compared to surface filtration.
Key Advantages
- Totally Enclosed System: Prevents leakage and atmospheric contamination, ideal for sanitary applications or hazardous fluids.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing users to scale up from pilot to production easily.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure creates a high storage capacity for contaminants, extending service life before change-out.
- Rapid Change-out: Unlike plate and frame presses which are labor-intensive to strip and clean, lenticular cartridges can be swapped in minutes.
Media Configurations: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
ErtelAlsop offers diverse media formulations to target specific contaminants. Choosing the right media is critical for optimal system performance.
| Product Family | Media Composition | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose + Diatomaceous Earth (DE) / Perlite + Wet Strength Resin | Botanical extraction (wax/lipid removal), Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals. Offers positive Zeta Potential for mist removal. |
| Disc-Pak® | 100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia™) – No inorganic aids | Dielectric oils, Food & Beverage, Distilled Spirits. Ideal where DE cannot be used. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Media | Bioprocessing, Vaccines, Plasma Fractionation. Low extractables. |
Technical Specifications
The versatility of the Pak® Cartridge line lies in its wide range of physical and operational specifications. Whether you are retrofitting an existing housing or designing a new skid, these modules fit most standard lenticular housings.
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Filtration Surface Area | 1.8 m² to 3.7 m² (typical range depending on cell count) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional components) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, PTFE Encapsulated |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Code 8 style) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Temperature Rating | Typically up to 176°F (80°C) depending on media and core |
Industry Applications
Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals
The pharmaceutical industry utilizes Bio-Pak® and Zeta-Pak® modules for cell harvesting, clarification of fermentation broths, and removal of protein precipitates. The enclosed design ensures strict sanitary compliance.
Botanical & Cannabis Extraction
For ethanol-based extraction processes, the Zeta-Pak® is an industry standard for “dewaxing” or “winterization.” The Diatomaceous Earth (DE) within the media effectively adsorbs lipids, waxes, and fats at low temperatures, clarifying the extract before distillation.
Food & Beverage
From syrup clarification to the polishing of distilled spirits and wines, lenticular filters provide haze removal without stripping flavor. The Disc-Pak® is particularly useful for spirits, ensuring transparency and stability in the bottle.
Integration with Purecowater Solutions
Purecowater acts as a specialized distributor/OEM for high-tier filtration manufacturers. We can assist you in sizing the correct ErtelAlsop housing and selecting the appropriate Media Pak for your specific rheology and flow rate requirements. Whether you need a standalone housing or a complete skid integrated with pumps and controls, we have the expertise to execute the project.
Ready to optimize your depth filtration process?
Contact our engineering team to discuss your specific requirements.