Advanced Depth Filtration for Industrial Applications
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and reliability are paramount. For facilities transitioning away from labor-intensive plate and frame filters, or for those seeking superior particle retention in a closed system, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a best-in-class solution. As a trusted distributor for major engineered solutions, Pureco Water is proud to offer these high-performance depth filter modules.
This guide breaks down the specifications, media options, and operational benefits of ErtelAlsop Pak cartridges, designed to tackle the most challenging solid-liquid separation problems.
What is a Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge (also known as a lenticular filter module) is a depth filtration unit assembled from varying numbers of stacked filter cells. Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the outer layer, these “lenticular” modules utilize a thick, complex matrix of fibers to trap particles throughout the depth of the media.
The design resembles a stack of double convex lenses. Each cell consists of two filter sheets joined at the outer and inner edges. This construction offers a massive surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high solids loading capacity and exceptional flow rates.
Key Design Features
- Diameters: Available in standard 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) formats.
- Cell Count: Stacked configurations ranging typically from 5 to 18 cells per module.
- Sealing: Patented process using polypropylene to seal edges, preventing bypass.
- Core: Rugged polypropylene core for structural integrity.
Product Specifications
To identify the right filter for your process, review the technical capabilities of the Pak® series below.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Depth Filter Module (Lenticular) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Max Operating Temp | Dependent on media selection & gaskets (typically up to 180°F/82°C) |
| Sterilization | In-line steam sterilization or hot water sanitization capable |
Media Formulations
One of the strengths of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series is the versatility of the media. Pureco Water can supply modules tailored to your specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals.
1. AlphaMedia™ (Cellulose)
- Composition: 100% Cellulose.
- Ideal For: Applications requiring pure cellulose with no inorganic fillers (like DE or Perlite). Excellent for dielectric oils, perfumes, and syrups.
2. MicroMedia® (Filter Aid Impregnated)
- Composition: Cellulose containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite, plus a wet strength resin.
- Zeta Potential: Possesses a positive electrokinetic charge (Zeta Potential) that attracts negatively charged contaminants (like bacteria and haze) smaller than the mechanical pore size.
- Ideal For: Haze removal in beverages, botanical extracts, and removing ultra-fine particulate.
3. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
- Composition: Immobilized activated carbon within a cellulose matrix.
- Ideal For: Decolorization, odor removal, and reduction of trace organic contaminants without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Why Switch from Plate & Frame to Lenticular Paks?
Many facilities still use traditional plate and frame presses. While effective, they are open systems that can suffer from leakage and require significant downtime for cleaning. The Lenticular Pak® offers a modern alternative:
- Closed System: Housings are totally enclosed, preventing product loss and eliminating exposure to the atmosphere.
- Rapid Change-out: “Lock and Load” designs allow operators to change a module in minutes rather than hours.
- Scalability: Specifications from lab-scale tests can be easily scaled up to production-size 12″ and 16″ modules.
Common Applications
ErtelAlsop Pak filters are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries where clarity and purity are non-negotiable.
| Industry | Use Cases |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of broths, API filtration, LVP/SVP processing. |
| Food & Beverage | Haze removal in distilled spirits, sugar syrup polishing, fructose filtration. |
| Botanical Extracts | Lipid and wax removal (winterization) using DE-impregnated media. |
| Chemicals & Utilities | Insulating oil purification, chemical clarification, water filtration. |
Get Technical Support for Your Filtration Process
Choosing the correct depth media, micron rating, and gasket usage is critical for maximizing throughput and product quality. Pureco Water’s engineering team is ready to assist you in selecting the right ErtelAlsop configuration for your specific stream.
Need help sizing a lenticular housing or selecting media?
Contact Pureco Water Today