For industries requiring high-performance depth filtration without the labor intensity of traditional plate and frame systems, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters offer a superior solution. Available through Purecowater, these lenticular modules (cartridges) combine the clarification power of depth filter media with the convenience of a totally enclosed, disposable modular design.
This article provides technical specifications, operational advantages, and application data for the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, specifically designed for pharmaceutical, chemical, cosmetic, and food & beverage processing.
What is the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The lenticular filter format—originally invented by Alsop Engineering—is designed to house depth filtration media in a sealed, vertical stack. Each module consists of multiple lenticular cells (typically 16) stacked on a central polypropylene core.
Unlike surface filters that only trap particles on the top layer, the ErtelAlsop Pak® utilizes depth filtration. The media matrix allows liquid to pass while trapping contaminants throughout the thickness of the pad. This design provides high solids loading capacity and excellent retention of ultra-fine particles, haze, and lipids.
Key Features & Benefits
- Scalable Technology: The Pak® modules use the exact same filter media as ErtelAlsop’s laboratory and production-scale plate and frame filters. This allows for easy scale-up from R&D to full manufacturing without changing retention characteristics.
- Totally Enclosed System: By placing the modules inside a housing (pressure vessel), the product is protected from atmospheric contamination, and the operator is protected from leakage—a common issue with open plate and frame presses.
- Rapid Change-Out: Replacing a lenticular module takes a fraction of the time required to redress a plate and frame filter, significantly reducing downtime.
- Zeta Potential: Many media grades, such as the Zeta-Pak®, possess a positive zeta potential (electrokinetic charge) that attracts and holds negatively charged contaminants like bacteria and endotoxins smaller than the mechanical rating of the filter.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is versatile, with configuration options to fit most standard industrial housings.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch and 16-inch |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Standard Media Type | Zeta-Pak® (Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Code 3, Code 8 styles) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), silicone, Viton available upon request |
| Cell Count | Typically 16 cells per module (lower cell counts available for spacing) |
The Zeta-Pak® Advantage
The Zeta-Pak® is the “workhorse” of the series. Incorporated with Micro-Media® containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE), these filters form a rigid, porous matrix. As noted in industry data, Zeta-Pak® modules utilize zeta potential to enhance the retention of ultra-fine particles, making them highly effective for applications requiring high optical clarity.
Common Applications
Purecowater recommends ErtelAlsop Pak® filters for applications where maintaining fluid integrity and removing haze is critical. The polypropylene supports and EPDM gaskets ensure compatibility with various chemical solvents and biological fluids.
| Industry | Specific Use Case |
|---|---|
| Botanical Extracts | Dewaxing & Lipid Removal: The high surface area and DE content efficiently trap waxes and lipids from ethanol extractions while maintaining high flow rates. |
| Distilled Spirits & Wine | Haze Removal: Removes particulate matter and chill haze without stripping color or flavor characteristics. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Pre-Filtration: Protects expensive downstream membrane filters by removing gross particulate and bio-burden. |
| Scent & Flavor | Clarification: Polishes essential oils and fragrances for a clear, finished product. |
Housing Compatibility
To operate these modules, a Lenticular Filter Housing is required. Housings are typically available in 12″ or 16″ diameters and can hold 1 to 4 modules high (stackable) depending on flow rate requirements. Purecowater can assist in specifying the correct stainless steel housing (sanitary or industrial grade) to match your piping and pressure requirements.
Housing Options Include:
- Sanitary Hemp/Pharma Housings: High polish finish for easy cleaning.
- Industrial Housings: Rugged design for chemical or utility use.
- Vertical or Horizontal Mounting: To fit existing facility footprints.
Contact Purecowater for Sizing and Logic
Selecting the correct micron rating and media grade (e.g., Zeta-Pak vs. Bio-Pak) depends heavily on your specific liquid stream and viscosity. As a distributor/OEM for Engineered Solutions, Purecowater provides expert guidance on filtration sizing to ensure optimal throughput and clarity.
Ready to upgrade your filtration process?