High-Performance Depth Filtration Solutions
For industries requiring critical liquid clarification and high-solids retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular cartridges to help facilities tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges ranging from pharmaceutical processing to botanical extraction.
The ErtelAlsop Pak® (also known as a lenticular cartridge) is a modular depth filter designed to provide the high filtration area of a plate and frame filter press within a closed, convenient, and leak-free cartridge housing. Whether you are removing haze from distilled spirits or winterizing botanical extracts, these filters offer a scalable and efficient solution.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
A “lenticular” filter consists of individual filter cells stacked on a central core. Each cell is comprised of two discs of depth filter media sealing the edges continuously. The assembled unit resembles a stack of double convex lenses, which is where the name “lenticular” originates.
Unlike surface filters which trap particles only on the top layer, ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges utilize depth filtration. This means particles are trapped throughout the tortuous path of the media matrix, allowing for significantly higher solids loading capacity and longer service life compared to standard pleated cartridges.
Key Features and Benefits
- High Solids Retention: The complex matrix of fibers and filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth) provides exceptional dirt-holding capacity.
- Zeta Potential: Many media options, such as the Micro-Media® series, possess a positive zeta charge, attracting and holding negatively charged fine particles (haze) that are smaller than the micron rating.
- Zero-Leakage Design: ErtelAlsop utilizes a patented process to seal the edges of the media, preventing bypass and ensuring filtrate integrity.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing users to scale up easily from pilot settings to full production.
Available Media Formulations
Selecting the correct media is critical for optimal performance. ErtelAlsop cartridges are available with three primary media types:
| Media Series | Composition | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-Media® | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin | Haze removal, fine particulate retention, botanical winterization, and spirits filtration. High Zeta Potential. |
| AlphaMedia® | 100% Cellulose | Applications requiring no organic or inorganic additives. Ideal for pharmaceutical grades or gentle filtration. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without the mess of bulk carbon powder. |
Technical Specifications
These cartridges are designed to fit into standard lenticular housings. Below are the general specifications for the Pak® series.
| Nominal Micron Ratings | 0.25µm to 15µm |
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Code 222 style) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Number of Cells | Typically 9 to 16 cells (customizable) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton |
Primary Applications
The versatility of ErtelAlsop lenticular filters makes them a “workhorse” across various sectors:
- Botanical Extraction: Specifically effective for winterization and wax removal. The DE-impregnated media efficiently traps lipids and waxes while maintaining high flow rates.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for distilled spirits, syrups, soft drinks, and wines to ensure clarity and stability.
- Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics: Ensuring product purity and removing fine contaminants in perfumes, active ingredients, and process water.
- Chemical Processing: Filtration of specialty chemicals where solid particulate must be removed from liquid streams.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you need to replace existing lenticular modules or engineer a new depth filtration skid, Purecowater provides the expertise and OEM access you need. We can help select the precise micron rating and media formulation to optimize your process throughput.