ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters: Precision Depth Filtration Modules

For industries requiring high-purity filtration with heavy solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular modules to replace messy plate and frame filter presses with a streamlined, enclosed system.

This guide covers the technical specifications, media configurations, and operational benefits of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, helping you determine how they fit into your purification process.

What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?

ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are stacked depth filters designed to retain contaminants through a thick media matrix. Unlike surface filters that only trap particles on the exterior, these modules trap particles throughout the entire depth of the media, allowing for significantly higher dirt-holding capacity and longer service life.

The unique design consists of multiple filter cells stacked on a central core. Each cell is formed by two discs of filter media sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. These cells resemble double convex lenses, giving the technology its name: Lenticular.

Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters

• Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the atmosphere, crucial for sanitary and hazardous applications.
• Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than the hours required to dress a plate and frame press.
• Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 16+ cells) to match flow rate requirements.
• Zero Bypass: The pre-compressed and sealed edges ensure 100% of the liquid passes through the media.

Series & Media Configurations

ErtelAlsop offers distinct formulations to target specific filtration challenges, from botanical extracts to industrial oils.

1. Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media® Series)

The Zeta-Pak® is the industry workhorse. It utilizes Micro-Media®, which incorporates cellulose, high-purity diatomaceous earth (DE), and wet-strength resins. The addition of DE creates a tortuous path for superior retention of fine particles and haze.

• Best For: Botanical extracts (wax/lipid removal), biopharmaceuticals, beverages, and general haze removal.
• Mechanism: Electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta Potential) + Mechanical straining.

2. Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia™ Series)

The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia™, a 100% cellulose composition containing no inorganic fillers like DE or Perlite. This is critical for applications where minimal extractables are required or where abrasive silica must be avoided.

• Best For: Dielectric oils, lubricating oils, perfumes, and colloids where active ingredients must be preserved without adsorption by DE.
• Mechanism: Mechanical depth filtration.

Technical Specifications

Below represents the standard operating specifications for the Pak® Cartridge systems.

Specification	Details
Available Diameters	12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm)
Micron Ratings	0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal)
Core Material	Polypropylene (Standard)
Short Term Max Temp	176°F (80°C)
End Cap Configurations	Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (222/226)
Gasket Materials	EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N

Applications by Industry

The versatility of the Pak® system allows it to serve various sectors. The table below outlines common use cases where depth filtration excels.

Industry	Application Goal	Recommended Series
Life Sciences	Clarification of cell cultures; removal of lipids.	Zeta-Pak® (Pharma Grade)
Food & Beverage	Haze removal in spirits, syrups, and flavorings.	Zeta-Pak®
Power Utilities	Purification of transformer dielectric oils.	Disc-Pak®
Cosmetics	Polishing perfumes and essential oils; color correction.	Zeta-Pak® / Disc-Pak®
Chemicals	Catalyst recovery and solvent polishing.	Zeta-Pak® (Carbon impregnated)

Housing Integration

ErtelAlsop Pak filters are compatible with both vertical and horizontal housing orientations. Purecowater recommends the Horizontal “Lock and Load” design for ease of use. This horizontal orientation allows a single operator to slide cartridges in and out without the need for overhead hoists, drastically reducing maintenance downtime.

Get a Quote for ErtelAlsop Filtration

Whether you need to retrofit an existing filtration skid or require filter modules for a new process line, Purecowater provides the engineering expertise to select the correct media and micron rating for your stream.