When precision and reliability are paramount in industrial liquid filtration, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters stand out as a premier solution. Available through Purecowater, these depth filter modules combine the clarifying power of traditional plate and frame filtration with the convenience and safety of a totally enclosed cartridge system.
Whether you are operating in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, or chemical sectors, the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges provide superior particle retention, high solids loading capacity, and a leak-free design that modernizes your process line.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, often referred to as lenticular modules, are constructed from stacked discs of depth filter media. Imagine a plate and frame filter compressed into a convenient, single-use or multi-use cartridge. Each module consists of 5 to 18 individual filter cells stacked vertically.
Inside the module, each cell is comprised of a pair of heavy-duty depth filter sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®). The edges are sealed using a patented injection-molding process with polypropylene, creating a unit that resembles a stack of double convex lenses—hence the name “lenticular.”
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Totally Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the liquid, ensuring a cleaner and safer work environment.
- Quick Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Using the exact same media formulation as laboratory discs and large-scale sheets allows for easy scale-up from pilot testing to full production.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is designed for versatility. These cartridges fit into specifically designed housings (both vertical and horizontal) and are available in industry-standard sizes.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Cell Count per Module | 5 to 18 Cells |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (matches support structure) |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically approx. 176°F (80°C) depending on gasket/media |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (standard industrial fits) |
| Seal Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
Media Grades and Applications
One of the primary strengths of the ErtelAlsop line is the diversity of media available within the lenticular format. This ensures compatibility with a vast array of fluid types.
1. MicroMedia® (High Performance)
Reinforced with cellulose and containing filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite, this series offers high solids loading and distinct zeta potential for capturing ultra-fine particles and haze.
- Best for: Clarification of botanical extracts, spirits, hazes in beverages, and removing lipids or waxes.
2. AlphaMedia® (Cellulose Only)
A pure cellulose media free from inorganic filter aids. This is ideal for applications where minimizing extractables is critical.
- Best for: Pharmaceutical API filtration, dielectric oils, cosmetics, and applications requiring high chemical purity.
3. Carbon-Impregnated Modules
MicroClear® media incorporates activated carbon directly into the matrix, eliminating the mess of loose carbon powder.
- Best for: Decolorization, odor removal, and correcting flavor profiles in syrups or spirits.
Housing Compatibility: Vertical and Horizontal
Purecowater can support your installation with the appropriate ErtelAlsop housing hardware. The modules are designed to fit into two main housing types:
| Housing Style | Features | Ideal Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Housing | Small footprint, sanitary design available, cost-effective for smaller flows. | Standard batch filtration, tight floor spaces. |
| Horizontal Housing | Ergonomic loading height, “Lock and Load” system, easier handling of multiple modules. | Large scale production where operator safety and change-out speed are critical. |
Why Partner with Purecowater?
As a distributor and OEM for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater understands that a filter is only as good as the system it integrates into. We help you select the precise micron rating, media type, and housing configuration to solve your specific liquid/solid separation challenges.
Whether you need to replace your old plate and frame press with a cleaner Pak® system or require a new skid for a WTS application, our team is ready to assist.
Need help selecting the right lenticular module?
Contact our engineering team to discuss your flow rates, viscosity, and retention requirements.