Advanced Depth Filtration for Industrial Applications
In the landscape of industrial liquid filtration, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters stand out as a versatile and robust solution. Designed for applications requiring high efficency, superior solids loading capacity, and precise particle retention, these depth filter modules are the “workhorse” of modern filtration setups. Whether you are refining distilled spirits, clarifying botanical extracts, or managing pharmaceutical processes, the lenticular configuration offers significant advantages over traditional plate and frame systems.
At Purecowater, we understand that selecting the right filtration media is critical for your process stream. This guide details the technical capabilities, specifications, and operational benefits of ErtelAlsop’s Pak® technology.
What Are Pak® Lenticular Filters?
The Pak® Lenticular Cartridge is a pre-assembled depth filter module. It consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is composed of two discs of depth filter media (such as Micro-Media® or AlphaMedia®) sealed together at the edges using an injection-molded polypropylene rim. This design creates a “lenticular” (lens-like) shape.
Unlike surface filters that only catch particles on the top layer, these depth filters utilize a tortuous path through a complex matrix of cellulose fibers and filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth). This structure allows them to retain particles throughout the entire thickness of the media, significantly increasing the dirt-holding capacity and lifespan of the filter.
Key Features and Technologies
One of the defining features of the ErtelAlsop media used in these Paks is the enhanced Zeta Potential. The media is treated with a wet-strength resin that imparts a positive electrokinetic charge. This charge attracts and captures negatively charged contaminants—such as haze-forming colloids and ultra-fine particles—even if they are smaller than the filter’s micron rating.
- Enclosed System Design: Lenticular modules are housed in sealed vessels. This eliminates the edge leakage often associated with plate & frame presses and prevents the fluid from being exposed to the environment—crucial for sanitary applications and preventing product loss.
- Rapid Change-Out: Swapping a saturated Pak module takes a fraction of the time required to dress a filter press, reducing downtime and labor interaction.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 16+ cells), allowing for linear scalability from pilot testing to full-scale production.
Technical Specifications
Below is a breakdown of the standard configurations and materials available for ErtelAlsop Pak® Filters. These specifications ensure compatibility with a wide range of chemical and temperature requirements.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm – 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Standard Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Filter Media Options |
Micro-Media®: Cellulose + Diatomaceous Earth (DE) / Perlite AlphaMedia®: Pure Cellulose (No DE) MicroClear®: Activated Carbon impreganted |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM (Standard), Buna-N, Silicone, Viton |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Code 3, Code 8) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Surface Area (12″ Module) | Approximately 1.5 m² (varies by cell count) |
Primary Applications
The versatility of the Pak® design makes it suitable for numerous industries. By utilizing different media grades, these filters can handle everything from rough primary filtration to final polishing.
Food & Beverage
Lenticular technology is a standard in the beverage industry for haze removal and biological reduction. In distilled spirits, they remove fatty acids and fusel oils that cause cloudiness (floc) at low temperatures. In wine and cider, they polish the liquid prior to bottling, protecting downstream membrane filters from premature fouling.
Botanical Extracts & Cannabis
For extraction processes, specifically winterization, Pak® filters utilizing Micro-Media® containing Diatomaceous Earth are highly effective. They remove waxes, lipids, and fine particulate matter from ethanol or hydrocarbon extracts while maintaining high flow rates.
Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals
In critical process streams, these filters serve as reliable pre-filters for sterile filtration. The enclosed housing ensures that hazardous chemicals are contained, and the high zeta potential aids in the removal of endotoxins and other fine colloidal contaminants.
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak® Over Plate & Frame?
While plate and frame filters have their place, the trend in modern manufacturing is shifting toward lenticular modules due to operational efficiency.
- Hygiene: No external dripping or exposure to air.
- Footprint: Vertical stacking allows for a smaller footprint relative to filtration area.
- Maintenance: Modules are disposable and easy to replace, eliminating the labor-intensive cleaning of filter plates and cloths.
Contact Purecowater for a Quote
Integrating ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters into your process line can significantly improve your product quality and operational throughput. As a distributor and partner for leading filtration technologies, Purecowater is equipped to assist you with sizing, media selection, and housing requirements.
Ready to optimize your filtration system?
Sources: clearsolutionscorp.com, ertelalsop.com, gwkent.com