ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters: Precision Depth Filtration Modules

Advanced Depth Filtration for Modern Industries

When it comes to liquid filtration, efficiency, cleanliness, and ease of operation are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a significant evolution in depth filtration technology. Originating from the robust design of plate and frame filters, these lenticular modules streamline the process into a totally enclosed, easy-to-handle cartridge format. Purecowater is proud to supply these precision-engineered solutions to industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage.

What Are ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters?

The ErtelAlsop Pak® system is a depth filtration module consisting of individual filter cells stacked and sealed into a single unit. These modules—often referred to as cartridges—utilize the same high-quality filter media found in traditional plate and frame presses but package it in a convenient, disposable, or regenerable format. This design eliminates the common issues associated with open filter presses, such as leakage, exposure to the atmosphere, and labor-intensive change-outs.

The “Lenticular” name comes from the lens-like shape of the stacked cells. Each module typically contains 16 cells in 12-inch or 16-inch diameters, providing a large surface area for filtration within a compact footprint.

Key Features and Benefits

• totally Enclosed System: Prevents product loss and eliminates exposure to the atmosphere, making it ideal for sanitary applications and dealing with volatile liquids (like spirits or solvents).
• Scalable Technology: Formats range from small laboratory capsules (MicroCap®) to large-scale production modules (12″ and 16″), allowing for easy scale-up without changing media properties.
• Variety of Media: Available with various media compositions, including the popular Zeta-Pak® (cellulose and diatomaceous earth/perlite) which offers high zeta potential for removing ultra-fine particles and haze.
• Rapid Change-Out: Unlike plate and frame filters that can take hours to dress, lenticular modules can be swapped in minutes, significantly reducing downtime.

Technical Specifications

The ErtelAlsop Pak® modules are designed to fit a wide range of housings and process requirements. Below are the standard specifications for these versatile filters.

Feature	Specification
Module Diameters	12-inch (305 mm) & 16-inch (406 mm)
Filter Area (approx.)	18.5 ft² (12″) / 39.5 ft² (16″) per 16-cell module
Core Material	Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel options available
Gasket Material	EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone
End Configurations	Flat Gasket (Standard), Double O-Ring (DO)
Micron Ratings	0.25 µm to 10.0+ µm (Nominal)
Max Operating Temperature	Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on media/gasket

Product Variants and Applications

ErtelAlsop offers several distinct product lines within the Pak® family to target specific filtration challenges.

Zeta-Pak® Series

The workhorse of the industry, the Zeta-Pak® incorporates cellulose fibers with inorganic filter aids (Diatomaceous Earth or Perlite). It relies on electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential) to attract and hold negatively charged contaminants, such as bacteria and haze-forming proteins.

Best For: Pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetic fragrances, and botanical extracts.

Bio-Pak® Series

Designed for critical biological applications, Bio-Pak modules are often used for the removal of particulate and microorganism reduction where high purity is required.

Best For: Biologics, vaccines, and plasma fractionation.

Disc-Pak® Series

A cellulose-only option utilized when inorganic filter aids are not desired.

Best For: Specific food applications and dielectric fluids.

Industries Served

Food & Beverage	Reliably removes haze from wines, distilled spirits, syrups, and soft drinks.
Botanical Extracts	Efficiently removes waxes and lipids from ethanol extractions (winterization).
Cosmetics	Polish filtration for perfumes, colognes, and lotions.
Electric Utility	Purification of insulating oils and transformer fluids.
Pharmaceuticals	Clarification of APIs and pre-filtration for membrane protection.

Housing Options: Vertical vs. Horizontal

To complement the Pak® modules, ErtelAlsop manufactures robust stainless steel housings available in two primary configurations:

• Domed (Vertical) Housings: The traditional orientation. These are compact and utilize a simple V-band clamp or swing bolt closure. They are ideal for smaller footprints.
• Horizontal Housings: Designed for ergonomics and safety. The horizontal orientation allows operators to load and unload modules at waist height (“Lock and Load” design), eliminating the need for overhead hoists and reducing risk of injury. This design is highly recommended for larger multi-round systems.

Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak Filters?

Transitioning to ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters means upgrading your process reliability. Whether you are dealing with a complex chemical slurry or polishing a high-value spirit, these filters provide consistent results with minimal product hold-up. Their compatibility with existing sanitary and industrial standards makes them a seamless addition to any production line managed by Purecowater.