For industries facing complex solid-liquid separation challenges, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter represents a significant evolution in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these high-efficiency modules to tackle demanding applications ranging from pharmaceutical purification to botanical extraction.
This guide explores the engineering behind the Pak® cartridges, their specific configurations (including Zeta-Pak® and Disc-Pak®), and why they are the preferred upgrade from traditional plate and frame filters.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® depth filter cartridges—often referred to as lenticular modules—are totally enclosed filtration units. They are constructed by stacking 5 to 18 individual filter cells, where each cell consists of a pair of depth filter media sheets sealed together. The resulting shape resembles a stack of double convex lenses, hence the name “lenticular” [ertelalsop.com].
These modules are designed to operate inside a sealed housing, offering a leak-free alternative to traditional plate and frame filter presses while utilizing the same high-quality filter media. This format ensures product integrity, operator safety, and rapid change-out times.
Core Benefits and Features
The transition to lenticular cartridges offers distinct advantages for processing facilities:
- Enclosed System: Unlike open-frame filters, lenticular housings are sealed, preventing loss of valuable liquid and protecting operators from exposure to process fluids [ertelalsop.com].
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix captures particles throughout its thickness, not just on the surface, allowing for high throughput and retention capacity.
- Versatile Media Options: Available in various media grades to suit specific chemical capabilities and retention needs.
- Scalability: Modules come in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, allowing for scalable flow rates from pilot to full production.
Product Configurations: Choosing the Right Pak®
ErtelAlsop offers several specialized series within the Pak® family to address different filtration requirements. Below is a breakdown of the primary options available through Purecowater.
1. Zeta-Pak®: The Workhorse
The Zeta-Pak® is the most versatile module, manufactured with Micro-Media® containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and high wet-strength resin. It provides superior retention of ultra-fine particles and haze removal due to its electrokinetic zeta potential.
- Best For: Botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, and general clarification [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Key Feature: Excellent for removing waxes and lipids in extraction processes.
2. Disc-Pak®: The Original Cellulose Filter
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia™, which is 100% cellulose and free from resins, binders, or inorganic aids like DE or Perlite. This makes it ideal for applications where media migration or specific chemical interactions with DE must be avoided.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, transformer oils, syrups, fragrances, and gelatin [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Key Feature: Does not strip active ingredients or alter flavor/odor profiles in sensitive fluids.
3. Bio-Pak®: Pharmaceutical Grade
Designed for critical applications, the Bio-Pak® features a highly sanitary design. It typically utilizes a double O-ring connection and a polypropylene core, eliminating stainless steel straps to ensure zero metal contact and bypass-free sealing [ertelalsop.com].
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the general specifications for the Pak® Lenticular series, helping you determine compatibility with your current housing systems.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | Stackable from 5 to 18 cells per module |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (plug-in) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, PTFE Encapsulated |
| Core Material | Polypropylene or Stainless Steel |
Applications by Industry
ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are engineered to meet the rigorous standards of various heavy industries and sanitary sectors.
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotech: API filtration, cell removal, and post-fermentation clarification.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in spirits, syrup polishing, and decolorization.
- Cosmetics: Purification of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
- Chemical & Industrial: Filtration of insulating oils, varnishes, and specialty chemicals.
- Cannabis & Hemp: Wax and lipid removal (winterization) in botanical extracts using the Zeta-Pak® series [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Compatible Filter Housings
To maximize the performance of Pak® cartridges, they should be paired with appropriate housings. Purecowater supplies ErtelAlsop housings in both Sanitary and Industrial designs.
- Sanitary Housings: Featuring 316L stainless steel, highly polished finishes, and sanitary fittings/vents. These housings often use the Double O-Ring seal design for critical biological applications [ertelalsop.com].
- Industrial Housings: Rugged carbon or stainless steel vessels designed for general processing and utility applications.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you are upgrading from a plate and frame press to a lenticular system or need to size a new filtration skid, Purecowater has the expertise to guide you. We act as your direct link to ErtelAlsop’s advanced filtration technologies.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?