For industries requiring superior liquid clarification, haze removal, and product polish, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the tier-one standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for premier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these high-efficiency modules to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
This article details the specifications, operating principles, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Zeta-Pak® and associated lenticular modules.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
Lenticular filtration technology bridges the gap between traditional plate and frame filters and modern cartridge filtration. It utilizes the superior filtration media found in depth filter sheets but packages it in a pre-assembled, enclosed cartridge format (the “Pak®”).
The ErtelAlsop Pak® design consists of deeply stacked lenticular cells—typically 16 cells per module—creating a large surface area within a compact footprint. This design offers the clarification power of depth media with the convenience of a leak-free, easy-to-change cartridge system.
The Zeta Potential Advantage
The “Zeta” in Zeta-Pak® refers to the electrokinetic charge (zeta potential) applied to the filter media during manufacturing. Most particulate contaminants, such as bacteria, haze, and fine colloids, carry a negative charge. The Zeta-Pak® media is modified with a wet-strength resin that imparts a strong positive charge.
This allows the filter to remove particles smaller than its mechanical pore size through electrokinetic adsorption. It acts like a magnet for contaminants, making it exceptionally effective for:
- Removing sub-micron haze in spirits and wines.
- Filtering botanical extracts (wax and lipid removal).
- Protecting downstream sterile membrane filters.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop modules are versatile and manufactured to fit standard lenticular housings. Below are the core specifications for the Zeta-Pak® series.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Media Component | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin |
| Micron Ratings | Range from 0.25 µm to 10+ µm (Nominal) |
| Diameters Available | 12-inch and 16-inch |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DOE) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM (Standard), Buna-N, Viton, Silicone |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Typical Flow Rate | High flow rates due to lenticular cell design |
Key Applications and Industries
The Pak® Lenticular Filter is a “workhorse” across several demanding industries due to its high solids loading capacity and scalability.
1. Botanical Extracts & Cannabis
In extraction processes, removing waxes, lipids, and fine particulates is critical. The Pak® filter, specifically those impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE), provides a rigid cake that efficiently sieves out these impurities without affecting the flavor profile or odor of the extract [clearsolutionscorp.com].
2. Distilled Spirits & Beverages
For producers of whiskey, vodka, and other spirits, “chill haze” and fatty acids can ruin shelf appeal. The Zeta-Pak® excels at polishing these fluids ensuring crystal-clear aesthetics [gwkent.com].
3. Pharmaceuticals & Life Sciences
Used often for pre-filtration to protect expensive final membrane filters (0.2 µm or 0.45 µm), these modules reduce bioburden and particulate load, extending the life of downstream sterilizing filters.
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak filters are designed to work seamlessly with multiple housing types, including:
- Horizontal Housings: Allow for ergonomic loading at waist height, ideal for larger systems [ertelalsop.com].
- Industrial Vertical Housings: Cost-effective solutions for chemical and standard industrial applications [ertelalsop.com].
- Sanitary Housings: Polished stainless steel for food, beverage, and pharma compliance.
Why Choose Purecowater for Depth Filtration?
As an authorized distributor, Purecowater ensures you receive genuine ErtelAlsop media tailored to your specific flow rate and retention requirements. Whether you are scaling up from a pilot lab to full production or troubleshooting a difficult haze issue, our team can help select the correct micron rating and gasket configuration.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?
Contact our engineering team to discuss your solid & liquid filtration needs.