Introduction to Lenticular Depth Filtration
For industrial applications requiring superior solids loading and high-efficiency particle retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters provide a robust solution. As a leading distributor for top-tier filtration engineers, Purecowater is proud to offer these advanced depth filtration modules. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional plate and frame filters and modern cartridge convenience, the Pak® system offers a totally enclosed, hygienic, and easy-to-use alternative for liquid processing.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, distilled spirits, or industrial chemicals, the lenticular design ensures a consistent flow rate and exceptional filtrate clarity.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® (also known as a lenticular module) consists of depth filter sheets sealed into a compact, stacked cartridge format. The term "lenticular" refers to the lens-like shape of the stacked cells. Each module is assembled from multiple filter cells—typically ranging from 5 to 18 cells per stack—incorporating a designated filter media such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®.
Unlike standard surface filtration, depth filtration relies on a complex matrix of fibers to trap particles throughout the thickness of the media, not just on the surface. This results in substantially higher dirt-holding capacity and the ability to remove haze and ultra-fine particulates effectively.
Key Features and Benefits
Switching to ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges offers several operational advantages over traditional presses and standard cartridge filters.
- Totally Enclosed System: The sealed housing prevents leakage and minimizes product loss, making it ideal for managing valuable fluids (like spirits or essential oils) or hazardous chemicals.
- Scalable Formats: Available in industry-standard 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters to fit various housing sizes.
- Rapid Change-Out: The pre-assembled module design reduces downtime. Operators can replace a Pak® cartridge in a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press.
- Versatile Media Options:
- MicroMedia®: Impregnated with alumino-silicates or DE (diatomaceous earth) for haze removal.
- AlphaMedia®: 100% cellulose for high purity applications.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon for color and odor correction.
- Bio-Pak®: Pharmaceutical grade for critical biologic applications.
Product Specifications
The flexibility of the ErtelAlsop Pak® line allows it to serve a wide range of micron ratings and flow requirements. Below are the general specifications for the standard industrial modules available through Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12" (30.5 cm) and 16" (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 to 15 Microns |
| Cell Configuration | 5 to 18 stacked cells (Standard: 16 cells) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone |
| End Cap Styles | Double O-Ring (DOE equivalent) or Flat Gasket |
| Filtration Mechanism | Depth Filtration, Zeta Potential, Adsorption |
Applications by Industry
Due to the variety of media grades, these filters are ubiquitous in industries requiring clarification and polishing.
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of corn syrup, sugar blends, distilled spirits (whiskey, vodka), wine, and beer. Excellent for removing haze causing lipids and waxes.
- Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics: Used for perfumes, colognes, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where purity is paramount.
- Botanical Extraction: Highly effective for winterization and lipid removal in ethanol extraction processes [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Industrial & Chemical: Clarification of dielectric oils, varnishes, and other viscous fluids.
The "Lock and Load" Housing Advantage
While the cartridges themselves are the workhorse, the housing system is equally important. ErtelAlsop offers both vertical and horizontal housings. The horizontal design often features the "Lock and Load" system, which utilizes alignment guides to make loading heavy, wet filters safer and easier for a single operator [ertelalsop.com].
Optimize Your Filtration with Purecowater
ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a versatile, high-capacity solution for controlling particulate matter and ensuring product quality. Whether you are replacing a legacy plate and frame press or upgrading your current cartridge system, Purecowater can assist in sizing the correct media and housing for your process.
Have questions about sizing or compatibility?
Contact Purecowater Today