Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industries requiring superior clarity, high solids loading capacity, and a sealed hygienic environment, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter represents the standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to replace traditional plate and frame systems, offering a cleaner, more efficient, and operator-friendly process.
The Lenticular Pak® format, originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, combines the filtration efficiency of depth media with the convenience of a cartridge design. This article details the specifications, applications, and operational benefits of integrating ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges into your workflow.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A lenticular filter module consists of stacked, circular filter cells. Each cell is constructed from two discs of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) sealed around the edges. These cells are stacked around a central core and compressed to form a single unit. The liquid flows from the outside of the module into the cells and exits through the center core, effectively trapping particulates within the depth of the media [ertelalsop.com].
This design functions similarly to a plate and frame filter but is housed inside a sealed vessel. This eliminates edge leakage, reduces oxidation exposure, and creates a cleaner working environment.
Key Features and Operating Benefits
- Closed System Design: Unlike open plate and frame presses, Pak® modules operate inside a sealed housing (vertical or horizontal), preventing product loss and protecting operators from vapor exposure.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix effectively retains a high volume of solids, making it ideal for clarification and polishing steps.
- Rapid Change-Out: The “Pak” design allows for modules to be changed out in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime compared to redressing a filter press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), systems can be scaled easily from pilot to production.
Filter Media and Configurations
ErtelAlsop Pak filters are highly versatile, utilizing various media compositions to target specific contaminants. The Zeta-Pak® series, for instance, serves as a workhorse in the industry. It typically incorporates Diatomaceous Earth (DE) to form a rigid, porous cake that sieves out ultra-fine particles while maintaining high flow rates [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12″ (30.5 cm) and 16″ (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, NBR, Viton, Silicone |
| Media Types | MicroMedia® (Cellulose/DE/Perlite), AlphaMedia® (Cellulose), MicroClear® (Carbon) |
Industry Applications
The ability to remove hazes, waxes, lipids, and fine particulates makes the ErtelAlsop Pak highly effective across several demanding sectors.
Botanical Extracts and CBD
In botanical extraction, removing waxes and lipids is critical for product purity. Pak lenticular filters, specifically those with Micro-Media containing diatomaceous earth, offer the large surface area required for high flow rates while efficiently retaining these semi-solids [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
Food and Beverage
From distilled spirits to syrups, these filters provide excellent polishing capabilities, ensuring the final product is visually clear and free of sediment without affecting taste or odor.
Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals
The enclosed environment is essential for processing Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and hazardous chemicals. The modules are also used in electric utility applications, such as the AquaKv-Pak®, which is designed to remove water and particulates from insulating oils [ertelalsop.com].
Compatible Housings
To maximize the efficiency of these cartridges, they are paired with specialized lenticular filter housings.
- Vertical Housings: Standard dome designs for general industrial use.
- Horizontal Housings: Feature a “Lock and Load” design that allows for single-person loading and unloading at waist height, eliminating the need for overhead hoists [ertelalsop.com].
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Sizing
Whether you are upgrading from a plate and frame press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater can assist in sizing the correct ErtelAlsop Pak® modules for your specific flow rate and retention requirements.
Need a quote or technical assistance? Contact Us today to discuss your solid and liquid filtration challenges.