Introduction to Lenticular Depth Filtration
For industries requiring rigorous liquid filtration with high solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a premier solution. As a specialized deep-bed filtration technology, these lenticular modules bridge the gap between traditional plate and frame filters and modern cartridge filtration. Distributed by Purecowater, these filters are designed to handle complex applications ranging from pharmaceutical processing to botanical extraction and distilled spirits.
The lenticular design, originally invented by Alsop Engineering, utilizes a stacked-disc configuration. This unique structure allows for a totally enclosed, hygienic system that prevents leakage and product loss—common issues associated with older filtration methods.
How ErtelAlsop Pak® Filters Work
The core of the Pak® cartridge technology lies in its construction. Each module consists of multiple lenticular cells stacked vertically. Individual cells are comprised of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with their edges sealed using a patented polypropylene process.
This design functions similarly to a stack of double convex lenses. As liquid passes through the media, contaminants are trapped within the complex matrix of fibers and particles (depth filtration) rather than just on the surface. Key functional mechanisms include:
- Mechanical Sieving: Physical capture of particulates larger than the pore size.
- Electrokinetic Adsorption (Zeta Potential): The media often carries a positive charge (Zeta potential) that attracts and holds negatively charged sub-micron particles, such as bacteria and endotoxins, which might otherwise pass through the physical pores.
- High Solids Loading: The depth of the media allows for significant contaminant holding capacity before a pressure drop necessitates a change-out.
Technical Specifications & Configurations
Purecowater aims to provide the exact configuration required for your process. ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are highly versatile and available in various grades and materials.
Standard Specifications
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Filter Media Options | MicroMedia® (Cellulose/Perlite/DE), AlphaMedia® (Pure Cellulose), MicroClear® (Activated Carbon) |
| Cell Count | Standard stack includes 5 to 18 cells (16 is common) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226 styles) |
Media Variants
The performance of the Pak® cartridge is dictated by the media selection:
- Zeta-Pak®: The workhorse of the series, utilizing MicroMedia® impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. It offers superior retention of ultra-fine particles and hase.
- Bio-Pak®: Designed for pharmaceutical and biological applications requiring low extractables.
- Disc-Pak®: Often used for higher flow rates and coarser filtration duties.
- Carbon-Pak® (MicroClear): Impregnated with activated carbon, perfect for color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without dealing with loose carbon powder.
Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
Many facilities are upgrading from open plate and frame presses to lenticular housings for operational efficiency. The ErtelAlsop Pak® offers distinct advantages:
- Closed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the atmosphere, crucial for sanitary applications and protecting operators from hazardous fluids.
- Rapid Change-Out: Replacing a stack of cartridges takes a fraction of the time required to dress a filter press, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Since the media used in the cartridges is identical to ErtelAlsop’s filter sheets, processes developed on a lab scale or pilot press can be directly scaled up to full production lenticular housings.
Applications
Due to the versatility of the media—ranging from cellulose to DE and activated carbon—these filters are serviced across a wide spectrum of industries:
- Distilled Spirits & Wine: Removal of haze, chill filtration, and polishing.
- Botanical Extracts: Efficient removal of waxes and lipids (winterization) using DE-impregnated media.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, removal of endotoxins, and sterile pre-filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Syrup clarification, edible oil polishing, and soft drink filtration.
- Chemicals & Cosmetics: Filtration of perfumes, lotions, and industrial solvents.
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of housings, including standard vertical housings and the innovative Horizontal Filter Housing. The horizontal design features a “Lock and Load” system that simplifies loading and unloading, allowing for single-operator use and reducing the physical strain associated with overhead hoists.
Get a Quote for ErtelAlsop Pak Filters
Whether you need to replace existing modules or engineer a new depth filtration skid, Purecowater can assist with sizing, media selection, and housing integration.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?
References: ertelalsop.com, clearsolutionscorp.com