For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration with high solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters provide a superior solution. As a specialized distributer for premium filtration technologies, Purecowater offers these depth filter modules to replace cumbersome plate and frame systems with a streamlined, totally enclosed design.
This guide creates a comprehensive overview of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, detailing its specifications, media configurations, and operational advantages for applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to botanical extracts.
What is the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge (or module) is a depth filtration system constructed from stacked filter cells. Each cell consists of two sheets of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process. These cells are stacked to form a unit that resembles a series of double convex lenses, giving rise to the name “lenticular.”
Designed to fit into vertical or horizontal housings, these cartridges offer the surface area and retention capabilities of traditional filter presses but within a leak-free, closed system. This design significantly reduces fluid loss and simplifies maintenance.
Key Features
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers within the depth media captures particles throughout the thickness of the sheet, not just on the surface.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
- totally Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure associated with open plate and frame filters, enhancing safety and hygiene.
- Versatile Media Options: Compatible with cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), perlite, and activated carbon media.
Technical Specifications
The flexibility of the Pak® system allows it to be tailored to specific viscosity and retention needs. Below are the standard specifications for the ErtelAlsop Lenticular Pak® series.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) or 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks from 5 to 18 cells |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Chemical resistant) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226 styles available) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Filter Rating Type | Depth / Nominal |
Sources: [ertelalsop.com](https://ertelalsop.com/lenticular-pak-cartridges/), [clearsolutionscorp.com](https://www.clearsolutionscorp.com/product/disc-pak-lenticular-filter)
Popular Pak® Configurations
ErtelAlsop manufactures several series of Pak® cartridges, each optimized for different industrial fluids.
1. Zeta-Pak® (General Purpose & Botanical)
The Zeta-Pak® is the “workhorse” of the series. Incorporating Micro-Media+ (cellulose, diatomaceous earth, and wet strength resin), it provides a high positive charge (zeta potential) to attract negatively charged contaminants like bacteria and hazes.
- Best For: Botanical extract filtration, removal of waxes/lipids, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
- Benefit: The Diatomaceous Earth (DE) facilitates rigid cake formation for sieving ultra-fine particles.
2. Disc-Pak® (Oils & Viscous Fluids)
Constructed with 100% cellulose AlphaMedia®, the Disc-Pak® adds no mineral components (like DE or Perlite) to the filtrate. This purity is essential for specific industrial oils and food products.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, lubricating oils, coolants, syrups, spirits, and fragrances.
- Benefit: Excellent solids retention without altering the active ingredients of the product.
3. Bio-Pak® & Pharmaceutical Grade
Designed for critical applications requiring low extractables and high purity. These modules often utilize pharmaceutical-grade filter media suitable for biological fluids and injectables.
Housing Compatibility
One of the primary advantages of the Pak® system is its compatibility with user-friendly housings. Unlike plate and frame presses which are labor-intensive to clean and reload, lenticular housings allow for rapid module change-outs.
- Vertical Housings: Standard industrial or sanitary designs.
- Horizontal Housings: Feature the “Lock and Load” system for easy single-person operation and reduced product loss.
If you are currently using a plate and frame press, existing process specifications can typically be translated directly to a Pak® format, upgrading your facility to a closed, leak-free operation.
Applications
The versatility of the ErtelAlsop Pak® makes it a staple in various sectors:
- Food & Beverage: Polishing syrups, spirits, and wines; removal of haze.
- Life Sciences: Filtration of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
- Chemicals: Clarification of solvents and process fluids.
- Energy & Utilities: Purification of transformer oils and coolants.
- Cannabis/Hemp Extraction: Efficient removal of lipids, fats, and waxes from winterized ethanol extracts.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Purecowater assists facilities in selecting the correct lenticular media, micron rating, and housing configuration. Whether you are upgrading from traditional filter presses or designing a new filtration skid, our team provides the technical expertise to optimize your process.