Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industrial applications requiring high-efficiency solids removal, superior retention, and ease of use, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter stands out as a premier solution. As a scalable alternative to traditional plate and frame filters, these lenticular modules offer the benefits of depth filtration in a convenient, enclosed cartridge format.
Purecowater supplies these high-performance filtration modules to industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and botanical extraction to food and beverage processing. Below, we detail the technical specifications, media options, and operational advantages of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series.
What is a Lenticular Filter Module?
The “Pak” concept revolutionized depth filtration by stacking filter cells (individual discs) into a single, cohesive unit. Each module consists of multiple dual-layer filter cells. The edges of these cells are sealed using an advanced polypropylene injection molding process, creating a robust, leak-free unit.
This design functions like a stack of double convex lenses (“lenticular”). Liquid flows from the outside of the module, through the filter media, and into the central core. This enclosed system eliminates the leakage and exposure risks often associated with open plate and frame filter presses.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed for versatility. They are available in industry-standard diameters and configurations to fit most existing lenticular housings.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Zeta Potential | Positive charge (Zeta-Pak®) for enhanced fine particle removal |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket (DOE) or Double O-Ring |
| Construction Materials | Polypropylene Core & Edge Seal |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), Buna-N, Viton, Silicone |
Media Formulations
One of the strongest advantages of the ErtelAlsop line is the variety of media available within the lenticular format. This allows operators to target specific contaminants, from haze and lipids to particulate solids.
- Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media®): Composed of cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and perlite. It features a high positive zeta potential, making it ideal for removing ultra-fine particles and haze in fluids like botanical extracts and spirits.
- AlphaMedia™: A pure cellulose media (no DE). It provides excellent depth filtration for applications where mineral migration is a concern.
- MicroClear®: Incorporates activated carbon into the filter sheet, allowing for decolorization and odor removal in a single pass without handling loose carbon powder.
Key Application Areas
Due to their high solids loading capacity and ease of change-out, these filters are used extensively across several high-purity sectors.
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes, lipids, and fine particulates (winterization) using Zeta-Pak® media. |
| Distilled Spirits | Haze removal and polishing for shelf-stability without stripping flavor. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of broths, API filtration, and catalyst removal (e.g., Platinum recovery). |
| Chemicals & Utilities | Filtration of dielectric fluids, transformer oils, and specialty chemicals. |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak®?
The “Lenticular” design offers scalability. Processes developed on a 12″ module can easily straightforwardly scale to 16″ multi-cartridge housings without changing retention characteristics. Furthermore, the user safety aspect is significant; operators handle a single, self-contained unit rather than scraping individual filter frames, reducing exposure to process fluids.
Looking for sizing assistance or a quote?
Whether you are filtering botanical oils, spirits, or industrial chemicals, Purecowater can help you select the correct micron rating and media type for your housing.