At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex liquid filtration challenges through premier partnerships with industry leaders. Among our top-tier depth filtration solutions are the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. Designed for critical applications requiring high solids retention and superior clarity, these modules represent the evolution of depth filtration technology.
This guide explores the technical capabilities, specifications, and diverse applications of ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters to help you determine the right fit for your process needs.
What is a Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter is a depth filtration module that combines the filtration efficiency of traditional plate and frame filter presses with the convenience of a cartridge system. The design consists of multiple depth filter sheets (cells) stacked and sealed onto a central core. This “lenticular” configuration maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high flow rates and exceptional dirt-holding capacity.
These filters are typically housed in a stainless steel dome housing, creating an enclosed system that eliminates leakage and ensures a sanitary process environment.
The Power of Micro-Media® Technology
The core performance of the Pak® series comes from ErtelAlsop’s proprietary Micro-Media®. Unlike standard cellulose media, Micro-Media® is formulated with:
- High-Purity Cellulose: The structural backbone of the media.
- Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite: Filter aids that form a rigid, porous cake to mechanically sieve out particulate matter.
- Wet Strength Resin (Zeta Potential): A charge modifier that imparts a net positive charge (Zeta Potential) to the media.
Why Zeta Potential Matters
The positive Zeta Potential allows the filter to electromagnetically attract and capture negatively charged sub-micron particles—such as haze, bacteria, and colloids—that are smaller than the micron rating of the filter itself. This adsorption capability makes the Pak® series significantly more efficient than simple mechanical strainers.
Detailed Product Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is versatile, available in various sizes and configurations to fit existing housings and specific process chemistries.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12-inch (1.8 m² area approx.) 16-inch (3.6 m² area approx.) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Common ratings: 1µm, 2.5µm, 5µm) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Nylon or Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| End Cap Configurations | Double O-Ring (DOE) Flat Gasket |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM (Standard), Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
| Cell Count | Standard modules typically contain 16 cells (sheets) |
| Filter Type | Depth Filtration (Deep bed retention) |
Key Applications
The ability to remove waxes, lipids, haze, and ultrafine particulates makes the Pak® Lenticular Filter a “workhorse” across several industries. Below is a breakdown of common use cases.
1. Botanical Extracts & Essential Oils
One of the most popular modern applications for the Pak® series (specifically the Zeta-Pak®) is in the winterization and dewaxing of botanical extracts. The Diatomaceous Earth media successfully sieves out waxes and lipids while maintaining high flow rates, ensuring a clear, high-quality distillate or oil.
2. Food & Beverage
From distilled spirits to syrups, these filters are used for polishing and clarification. The media components are listed in the CFR as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food contact (21CFR 176.170), ensuring no adverse effects on taste or odor.
3. Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics
In applications ranging from perfumes to active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the positive zeta potential is critical for removing haze and bio-burden to protect downstream membrane filters.
4. Chemical & Industrial
Suitable for light to medium viscosity fluids, including dielectric oils, coolants, and solvents. Note: For applications requiring 100% cellulose without DE (to prevent altering active ingredients), the Disc-Pak® variant is recommended.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
- Scalability: Easily scale from lab-top trials to full-scale production using 12″ or 16″ modules.
- Cleanliness: The enclosed housing system prevents exposure to air and leakage, which is critical for volatile solvents or sanitary applications.
- Ease of Change-out: Changing a lenticular module takes minutes compared to hours for a plate and frame press.
- High Solids Loading: Depth media can hold a significant amount of contaminant before reaching terminal pressure drop.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you require the aggressive clarification of the Zeta-Pak® with DE or the pure cellulose compatibility of the Disc-Pak®, Purecowater can help you engineered the perfect solution for your facility.
Ready to optimize your filtration process? Contact Us at Purecowater today to discuss your specific requirements and get a quote.