For industrial filtration applications requiring high solids loading, leak-free operation, and superior particle retention, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter stands out as a premier solution. As a leading distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater is proud to offer these advanced depth filtration modules to solve complex liquid clarification challenges.
This product guide details the specifications, operating mechanisms, and application benefits of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, including the popular Zeta-Pak® and Disc-Pak® configurations.
What is the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® is a depth filter cartridge—often referred to as a lenticular module—designed to provide the filtration area and depth of a plate and frame filter press but within a totally enclosed, leak-proof housing.
The design consists of stacked, lenticular (lens-shaped) filter cells. Each cell is comprised of two sheets of depth filter media sealed around the edges. These cells are stacked on a central core and compressed to form a single cartridge. This configuration allows for easy handling and rapid change-outs compared to traditional loose filter sheets.
Key Advantages
- Totally Enclosed System: Prevents fluid loss and protects operators from exposure to process fluids.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
- High Dirt Holding Capacity: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the matrix, not just on the surface.
- Versatility: Compatible with various housing orientations (vertical and horizontal).
Technical Specifications
The versatility of the Pak® series lies in its wide range of media options and configurations. Below is the standard specification data for these modules.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) | 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | Stackable from 5 to 18 cells (Standard 16-cell modules common) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| End Adaptors | Flat Gasket (DOE) or Double O-Ring (222/226 Bayonet) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton®, Buna-N |
| Filter Media Types | MicroMedia® (DE/Perlite), AlphaMedia® (Pure Cellulose), MicroClear® (Carbon) |
Popular Media Configurations
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® utilizes the Micro-Media® series filtration sheets. These are composed of cellulose and filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. The inclusion of DE creates a rigid, porous cake that excels at mechanical straining and electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta Potential).
- Best For: Haze removal, difficult-to-filter liquids, and applications requiring high efficiency retention of ultra-fine particles.
- Industry Use: Botanical extracts, biopharmaceuticals, and distilled spirits.
2. Disc-Pak® (Cellulose Only)
Disc-Pak® modules utilize AlphaMedia®, which is made from 100% cellulose without inorganic filter aids. This is critical for applications where DE or Perlite might leach or are chemically incompatible.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, lubricating oils, syrups, and cosmetic perfumes.
- Advantage: Very low extractables and high chemical compatibility.
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of standard lenticular housings. Purecowater can supply housings in multiple configurations to suit facility floorspace and safety requirements.
| Housing Type | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Housing | Conventional upright dome design. | Small footprint, standard industry design. |
| Horizontal Housing | Oriented horizontally with a “Lock and Load” tray system. | Single-operator changeout; no overhead hoist required; safer loading height. |
Common Applications
Because they combine the filtration quality of sheets with the convenience of cartridges, ErtelAlsop Paks are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries:
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, removal of activated carbon, and pre-filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for wines, spirits, syrups, and flavorings.
- Botanical Extraction: Dewaxing and lipid removal in ethanol extraction processes (winterization).
- Chemical & Utility: Filtering transformer oils, process water, and chemical intermediates.
Need help sizing a lenticular housing or selecting the right micron rating?
The team at Purecowater specializes in configuring filtration skids and replacement media for Veolia, WTS, and ErtelAlsop systems.