Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
For industries requiring high-performance liquid filtration with superior easy-of-use, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters stand out as a premier solution. As a leading distributor, Purecowater provides these versatile depth filter modules to tackle complex solid and liquid filtration challenges.
The ErtelAlsop Pak® depth filter cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters. By utilizing a totally enclosed design, they eliminate the leakage and cleaning difficulties associated with old-fashioned presses while retaining the high contaminant-holding capacity of depth media.
What Are Pak® Lenticular Filters?
A “Pak” consists of stacked lenticular filter cells ranging from 5 to 18 cells per module. Each cell is constructed from a pair of depth filter sheets (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) with edges sealed by a patented polypropylene process. The resulting stack resembles double convex lenses—hence the term “lenticular.”
This design allows for a high surface area in a compact footprint and ensures that 100% of the liquid passes through the filter media, providing consistent and reliable particle retention.
Key Features and Benefits
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters.
- Broad Retention Range: Nominal retention ratings from 0.25 to 15 microns.
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers and particles in the depth media allows for significant contaminant holding capacity before a change-out is needed.
- Leak-Free Operation: The totally enclosed housing design prevents external leakage and protects operators from exposure to the fluid.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in a fraction of the time required for plate and frame filters, minimizing downtime.
Technical Specifications
Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications for ErtelAlsop Pak® modules available through Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12″ and 16″ |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm – 15 µm |
| Filter Media Types | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Max Operating Temp | Dependent on Housing/Gasket (Typically up to 180°F for standard industrial housings) |
Available Media Formulations
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media grades to suit different filtration goals:
- Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®): The “workhorse” of the series. These contain cellulose and filter aids (like DE) and possess a positive Zeta Potential, making them excellent for retaining ultra-fine particles and haze haze-causing contaminants. Ideally used in pharmaceutical, biotech, and food & beverage applications.
- AlphaMedia™: A pure cellulose media (no DE or Perlite) designed for applications where inorganic extraction is a concern. excellent for haze removal in spirits.
- MicroClear®: Activated carbon-impregnated media used for decolorization, odor removal, and correcting flavor profiles without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Common Applications
These lenticular filters are trusted across a wide spectrum of industries due to their robust construction and versatility.
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of wines, spirits, syrups, and soft drinks.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids (dewaxing) in cannabis and hemp oil extraction.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of API solvent-based solutions and catalyst removal.
- Chemicals: Filtration of silicone, resins, and specialty chemicals.
- Cosmetics: Clarifying perfumes and essential oils.
- Electric Utility: Filtering insulating oils (AquaKv-Pak®) to remove water and moisture.
Why Upgrade to Lenticular Filtration?
If you are currently using a plate and frame press, upgrading to a lenticular housing system can significantly reduce labor costs. The “Pak” design allows existing process specifications to be translated directly from sheets to modules, ensuring product consistency while gaining the benefits of a closed system.
Need Assistance with Filtration Sizing?
Purecowater specializes in solving difficult solid-liquid separation problems. Whether you need standard Zeta-Pak® modules or a custom housing solution, our team is ready to help.