Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex solid and liquid filtration challenges. As a distributor for industry leaders, we are proud to offer ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. Designed as a superior alternative to traditional plate and frame filtration, these lenticular modules provide a totally enclosed, leak-free, and highly efficient depth filtration solution.
Whether you represent the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, or chemical utility sector, understanding the capabilities of the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges can significantly optimize your process workflow. This guide details the specifications, media options, and operational advantages of this technology.
What is a Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The Pak® Lenticular Cartridge (also known as a lenticular module) is a depth filtration unit consisting of stacked filter cells. Originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, this design combines the filtration mechanics of depth filter sheets with the convenience of a cartridge format.
Each module allows fluid to flow through a depth media matrix—typically comprised of cellulose, diatomaceous earth, or activated carbon—retaining particles within the tortuous path of the media. The term “lenticular” refers to the lens-like shape of the stacked cells. This configuration maximizes surface area and solids-loading capacity within a compact footprint.
Key Advantages over Plate & Frame Filters
While traditional plate and frame filters are effective, they often present challenges regarding leakage, cleaning time, and vapor exposure. The ErtelAlsop Pak® system addresses these issues directly:
- Closed System Design: The modules are housed in a sealed vessel, eliminating edge leakage and preventing product loss or external contamination. This is critical for sanitary applications and hazardous fluids.
- Rapid Change-Out: Replacing a lenticular module takes a fraction of the time required to redress a plate and frame press, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: With over 300 precision dies available, these cartridges can be scaled from laboratory testing to full industrial production using the same media formulations.
Media Formulations and Technology
The core performance of the Pak® filter lies in ErtelAlsop’s proprietary media. Depending on your retention requirements, modules can be manufactured with various media grades:
| Media Series | Composition | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| MicroMedia® (Zeta-Pak®) | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin | High Zeta Potential (positive charge) for removing ultra-fine particles and haze; excellent for critical applications. |
| AlphaMedia™ | Cellulose | General purpose depth filtration where DE is not required. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Adsorption applications such as color removal, odor reduction, and declorination without loose carbon dust. |
Zeta Potential and Efficiency
The Zeta-Pak® series creates a kinetic electro-positive charge within the media matrix. This “zeta potential” attracts negatively charged contaminants (like bacteria, endotoxins, or colloidal haze) smaller than the mechanical pore size of the filter, enhancing retention efficiency beyond simple sieving.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop cartridges are manufactured to fit industry-standard housings and are available in configurations to suit diverse piping setups.
| Standard Specification Data | |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (industry standard) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (standard), Stainless Steel options available |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Surface Area | Varies by number of cells (typically 16-cell configurations offer max surface area per module) |
Common Applications
Due to their versatility and robust construction, Pak® Lenticular Filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries:
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotech: Cell removal, pre-filtration for chromatographic columns, and API polishing.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, wine polishing, syrup clarification, and flavor extraction.
- Cosmetics: Removal of waxes and lipids (Winterization) in botanical extracts and essential oils.
- Chemical Utilities: Insulating oil reconditioning and particulate removal in process water.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Sizing
Selecting the correct media grade and micron rating is essential for maximizing throughput and ensuring product quality. Purecowater can assist in identifying the exact ErtelAlsop configuration for your specific stream.
For inquiries regarding pricing, availability, or technical support on ErtelAlsop products: