Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and sterility are paramount. At Purecowater, we specialize in providing top-tier filtration solutions, including the industry-leading ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. These depth filter cartridges—often referred to as lenticular modules—are designed to offer a superior alternative to traditional plate and frame filter presses, combining high retention efficiency with ease of use.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or chemical, the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges provide a scalable, enclosed solution that minimizes product loss and exposure.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge consists of stacked lenticular filter cells. Each cell contains a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®), with edges sealed specifically to prevent bypass. The result resembles a stack of double convex lenses.
Unlike surface filters which only trap particles on the top layer, these depth filters utilize a complex matrix of fibers and particles to trap solids throughout the media’s thickness. This design allows for:
- High Solids Loading: Capable of holding significant amounts of contaminant before requiring change-out.
- Total Enclosure: The modules fit inside a sealed housing, preventing leakage and external contamination—a significant upgrade from open plate and frame systems.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
Key Product Specifications
Selecting the right filter module is critical for process optimization. Below are the standard specifications for ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges available through Purecowater.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Connection Types | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (locking) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene / Stainless Steel options |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, etc. |
| Media Types | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Carbon |
Popular Media Configurations
ErtelAlsop offers several media formulations to target specific contaminants. As a distributor, Purecowater can help you select the exact grade for your application.
- Zeta-Pak®: The industry “workhorse.” These modules incorporate wet strength resins and retain particles via mechanical straining and electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential). Ideal for difficult-to-filter liquids requiring haze removal.
- Bio-Pak®: A premium, pharmaceutical-grade option. It features a totally non-metallic construction (polypropylene core) and Double O-Ring seals to ensure zero bypass, crucial for sterile applications.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon media, used for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of bulk carbon powder.
Applications and Industries
Lenticular filtration is versatile, bridging the gap between coarse filtration and final membrane sterilization. Common applications include:
| Food & Beverage | Clarification of syrups, juices, and removal of haze. |
| Distilled Spirits | Particulate removal and “chill haze” stabilization in whiskey, vodka, and cognac. |
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes and lipids (winterization) using DE-impregnated media. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Parenteral solutions, vaccines, and blood fractionation processing. |
| Cosmetics | Filtration of perfumes, colognes, and essential oils. |
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are compatible with a wide range of housings, including:
- Sanitary Housings: 316L Stainless Steel with high polish finishes and sanitary fittings, perfect for pharma and food applications.
- Industrial Housings: Rugged designs available in vertical or horizontal orientations.
- Horizontal “Lock and Load”: A unique ergonomic design that allows operators to load cartridges horizontally, reducing lifting strain and simplifying change-outs.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Choosing the right depth filter configuration can dramatically improve your throughput and product quality. Purecowater is here to assist with technical selection, sizing, and supply of ErtelAlsop products.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?