Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring rigorous solid-liquid separation, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a premier solution in depth filtration. As a distributor/OEM for leading filtration brands, Purecowater provides access to these high-performance filter modules designed to tackle complex filtration challenges.
The Pak® cartridge (or module) format was originally pioneered by Alsop Engineering. Today, it stands as a superior alternative to traditional plate and frame leaks, offering a totally enclosed, hygienic, and operator-friendly system. Whether for pharmaceutical grade filtration, food and beverage processing, or industrial chemical applications, these lenticular filters provide high solids loading capacity and exceptional particle retention.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
Lenticular filter modules consist of stacked filter cells—typically ranging from 5 to 18 cells per unit. Each cell is constructed from a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process.
The resulting assembly resembles a stack of double convex lenses, which gives the technology its “lenticular” name. This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high flow rates and efficient space utilization.
Key Features and Benefits
- Totally Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame filters, lenticular housings are sealed, preventing leakage and minimizing product loss. This is crucial for handling expensive or hazardous fluids.
- Rapid Change-Out: The modular cartridge design allows for significantly faster change-out times compared to changing individual filter sheets, reducing downtime and labor costs.
- Scalability: Existing process specifications from plate and frame filtration can be easily translated to the lenticular format using the same media formulations.
- Versatile Media Options: Available with various media compositions including cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), perlite, and activated carbon to suit specific chemical compatibility and retention needs.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are available in standard industry sizes and configurations to fit most filter housings. Below are the general specifications for the product line.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) and 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Cell Count | 5 to 18 stacked cells per module |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), others available upon request |
| Filter Media Types | MicroMedia® (DE/Perlite), AlphaMedia® (All Cellulose), MicroClear® (Carbon) |
Product Variants and Applications
The ErtelAlsop line includes specialized variations to target specific industry needs:
Zeta-Pak®
The workhorse of the product line, Zeta-Pak® incorporates wet strength resins and filter aids (DE) to provide a positive Zeta potential. This electrostatic attraction enhances the retention of ultra-fine particles and haze, making it ideal for:
- Life Sciences: Serum and vaccine filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in spirits, syrups, and juices.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids.
Disc-Pak®
Utilizing 100% cellulose media (AlphaMedia®), the Disc-Pak® is designed for applications where no inorganic filter aids (like DE or Perlite) are desired. This is essential for:
- Dielectric Oils: Transformer oil filtration.
- Cosmetics: Perfumes and essential oils.
- Pharmaceuticals: Applications sensitive to silica extractables.
Comparison: Lenticular vs. Plate & Frame
While both systems utilize depth filtration principles, the Lenticular Pak® offers distinct operational advantages.
| Factor | Plate & Frame Filter | Lenticular Pak® Filter |
|---|---|---|
| System Design | Open system (prone to drip/leak) | Enclosed Housing (Clean/Sanitary) |
| Labor Requirement | High (Manual sheet loading) | Low (Quick cartridge drop-in) |
| Product Yield | Variable due to leakage | High (Zero external leakage) |
| Maintenance | Frequent gasket checks | Minimal maintenance |
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex solid and liquid filtration problems. Whether you need to retrofit an existing system with ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges or require a complete new filtration skid, our engineering team is ready to assist.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?