Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
At Purecowater, we specialize in providing top-tier industrial filtration solutions, including the industry-standard ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. As a distributor and OEM for major filtration brands, we understand the critical nature of liquid processing and solid-liquid separation. The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, often referred to as lenticular modules, represent a significant evolution in depth filtration technology, offering the high performance of plate and frame filter systems in a convenient, enclosed cartridge format.
Whether you are dealing with botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or food and beverage processing, these lenticular filters provide superior retention of ultra-fine particles, haze, and lipids.
What is a Lenticular Filter Module?
The Pak® Lenticular Filter is a depth filter module constructed from multiple lenticular cells stacked vertically. Each cell consists of two discs of filter media sealed together at the edges, usually with an internal separator. This design resembles a stack of double convex lenses, which maximizes the surface area within a compact footprint.
Unlike traditional surface filters, these depth filter modules utilize a tortuous path primarily composed of cellulose and filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. This structure allows the filter to retain substantial amounts of solids not just on the surface, but throughout the thickness of the media.
Key Advantages
- Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular modules operate inside a sealed housing, preventing leakage and minimizing exposure to the atmosphere.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to suit different flow rates.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix provides excellent holding capacity for particulate, gels, and haze.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes, significantly reducing downtime compared to redressing a filter press.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the specifications is crucial for selecting the right module for your housing. The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is designed to fit standard lenticular housings with versatile configuration options.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Common: 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 µm) |
| Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) & 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Configuration | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), silicone, and others available |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Cell Count | Typically 16 cells per module (customizable 5–18) |
| Filter Media Types | Micro-Media®: Cellulose + DE/Perlite AlphaMedia®: 100% Cellulose MicroClear®: Carbon-impregnated |
Industry Applications
The versatility of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series makes it a “workhorse” across various industries. Below are common applications where these filters excel.
| Industry | Application Focus |
|---|---|
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes, lipids, and fine particulate matter. The DE content aids in clarifying solvent-based extractions. |
| Distilled Spirits | Chill haze removal, barrel char filtration, and final polishing before bottling. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of broths, API processing, and pre-filtration for membrane protection. |
| Food & Beverage | Sugar syrup polishing, gelatin filtration, and haze removal in juices. |
| Cosmetics | Clarification of oils, perfumes, and removing impurities from liquid bases. |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Media?
The effectiveness of the Pak® cartridge lies in the media. Micro-Media® filter sheets, commonly used in these modules, are impregnated with high-quality filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth. This creates a rigid yet porous cake that mechanically sieves out particulate matter while utilizing electro-kinetic adsorption (zeta potential) to capture sub-micron contaminants that might pass through a simple sieve.
For applications where mineral content is a concern, AlphaMedia® offers a pure cellulose alternative with very low extractables, ideal for specific pharmaceutical or chemical applications.
Get the Right Solution for Your Process
Purecowater is dedicated to simplifying your industrial filtration projects. Whether you are replacing existing modules or engineering a new filtration skid, our team can guide you to the correct micron rating and media configuration for your specific stream.
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