For industries requiring rigorous liquid filtration standards—from pharmaceutical production to distilled spirits—ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a premier solution in depth filtration technology. As a distributor/OEM partner tackling complex solid and liquid filtration problems, Purecowater is proud to feature these advanced modules that bridge the gap between traditional plate and frame filters and modern cartridge convenience.
What Are Pak Lenticular Filters?
Invented by Alsop Engineering (the predecessor to ErtelAlsop) in the 1940s, the lenticular format revolutionized depth filtration. A Pak® consists of multiple lenticular filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges acting like a double convex lens—hence the name “lenticular.”
These modules are designed to be used in a totally enclosed housing, which eliminates the leakage and exposure issues often associated with traditional plate and frame filter presses. This design ensures a hygienic, closed system suitable for critical applications including ErtelAlsop pharmaceutical and food-grade processes.
Key Capabilities
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix captures particles throughout its thickness, not just on the surface, allowing for greater retention capacity.
- Zeta Potential: Many media options, such as the Zeta-Pak®, possess a positive zeta potential, enhancing the removal of ultra-fine negatively charged contaminants like haze and bacteria.
- Leak-Free Operation: The sealed module design, often using double O-rings or flat gaskets, prevents bypass and external leakage.
Technical Specifications
The Pak® Lenticular Filters are versatile workhorses available in various configurations to match specific flow rates and retention requirements.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Filter Media Types | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel options available |
| End Configurations | Double O-Ring, Flat Gasket |
Data sourced from manufacturer specifications [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Applications and Industries
Due to their enclosed design and media versatility, ErtelAlsop Pak filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries.
Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals
Used for API solvent filtration, catalyst removal, and clarification of biologicals. The closed system protects operators from hazardous fluids and protects the product from contamination.
Botanical Extracts
Especially effective for winterization and lipid removal. The diatomaceous earth media aids in efficiently removing waxes from extracts while maintaining high flow rates [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Food & Beverage
Ideal for haze removal in distilled spirits, syrups, and wines. The depth media captures sediments without affecting the odor or taste of the liquid.
Electric Utility
Specialized modules like the AquaKv-Pak® are designed to remove water and moisture from insulating oils in transformers and circuit breakers [ertelalsop.com].
Why Upgrade from Plate & Frame?
While plate and frame filters have been the standard for decades, Pak Lenticular Filters offer significant operational advantages:
- Reduced Downtime: Changing out a stack of modules takes a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press.
- Scalability: Housings can accommodate 1, 2, 3, or 4 high stacks (up to 16 modules), allowing processors to scale up filtration surface area easily.
- Operator Safety: The enclosed housing design minimizes exposure to fluids, vapors, and odors.
- Horizontal Housing Option: ErtelAlsop offers horizontal “Lock and Load” housings that allow for single-person loading at waist height, eliminating the need for overhead hoists [ertelalsop.com].
Get the Right Configuration for Your Process
Choosing the correct micron rating, media type (e.g., MicroMedia vs. AlphaMedia), and gasket material is critical for optimal performance. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts or industrial chemicals, Purecowater provides the technical expertise to integrate ErtelAlsop solutions into your workflow.
Need assistance selecting the right depth filter module?
Contact Purecowater today to discuss your specific filtration requirements and receive a quote.