Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industrial applications requiring superior liquid clarification and particle retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as lenticular cartridges or modules) represent the industry standard for depth filtration. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
Originally developed by ErtelAlsop in 1942, the lenticular format combines the high efficiency of depth filter media with the convenience of a cartridge system. Unlike traditional plate and frame filters, Pak® cartridges utilize an enclosed housing design, preventing leakage and ensuring a sanitary environment for sensitive applications like pharmaceuticals, distilled spirits, and botanical extracts [ertelalsop.com].
How It Works: The Lenticular Design
A Lenticular Pak® consists of multiple stacked lenticular cells. Each cell is formed by two discs of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed together at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. These cells are stacked on a central core, resembling a stack of double convex lenses.
This design creates a complex matrix of fibers and filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth or Perlite) that provides a tortuous path for fluid flow. This depth filtration mechanism captures particles not only on the surface but throughout the thickness of the media, resulting in high solids loading capacity and exceptional haze removal [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Key Features and Benefits
1. Zeta Potential for Haze Removal
One of the defining characteristics of ErtelAlsop media, particularly the Zeta-Pak® series, is its positive Zeta Potential. Through the use of wet strength resins, the filter media attracts and holds negatively charged particles (such as bacteria, endotoxins, and colloidal haze) that are often smaller than the physical pore size of the filter [gwkent.com].
2. Enclosed and Sanitary System
Lenticular housings are fully enclosed systems. This design eliminates the edge leakage and exposure to the atmosphere common with plate and frame presses. It is ideal for:
- Botanical Extracts: Preventing solvent evaporation and product loss [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Pharmaceuticals: Ensuring a sterile-grade environment.
- Food & Beverage: Maintaining hygiene and preventing oxidation in wines and spirits.
3. Scalability and Versatility
With over 300 precision dies available, these cartridges can fit virtually any filter housing. They are available in standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with various cell counts (typically 5 to 18 cells) to match specific flow rate and surface area requirements [ertelalsop.com].
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the general specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, including the popular Zeta-Pak® modules.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) [ertelalsop.com] |
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Filter Media Types | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activate Carbon, High-purity AlphaMedia™ |
| End Cap Configuration | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Code 3, Code 8) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (standard), ensuring chemical compatibility |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
Applications
ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are versatile workhorses used across distinct industries:
- Life Sciences & Pharma: Removal of precipitates, proteins, and clarification of cell cultures using pharmaceutical-grade media [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Distilled Spirits & Wine: Removal of haze and particulates without stripping flavor or color.
- Cannabis & Botanical Extraction: Specifically effective for dewaxing and lipid removal. The DE filter aid efficiently removes waxes while maintaining high flow rates [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Industrial & Chemical: Filtration of specialty chemicals, silicone oils, and catalyst recovery.
Comparing Lenticular vs. Plate & Frame
While both systems use depth media, the Lenticular Pak® offers distinct operational advantages:
| Feature | Lenticular Pak® | Plate & Frame Press |
|---|---|---|
| Change-out Speed | Fast (Minutes) | Slow (Hours) |
| System Type | Closed / Sanitary | Open Drip / Gasket dependent |
| Leakage | Zero edge leakage | Potential for edge leakage |
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Purecowater is your trusted partner for ErtelAlsop products and comprehensive filtration systems. Whether you need to retrofit an existing housing or design a new filtration skid, our team can help you select the correct micron rating and media formulation.