Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industries requiring precision, reliability, and ease of use in liquid filtration, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a significant evolution from traditional plate and frame filtration methods. Purecowater is proud to offer these advanced filtration solutions, designed to handle high solids loading while maintaining strict retention standards.
These lenticular modules—often referred to as cartridges—combine the proven efficiency of depth filter media with the convenience of a closed, sanitary housing system. They are engineered to serve a wide range of critical applications, from pharmaceutical processing to distilled spirits and chemical manufacturing.
How the Information Functions: The Lenticular Design
The term “lenticular” refers to the shape of the filter cells, which resemble a stack of double-convex lenses. An ErtelAlsop Pak® is assembled from varying numbers of these cells (typically ranging from 5 to 18 stacked cells) to create a single, cohesive cartridge unit [ertelalsop.com].
Key Design Features:
- Edge Sealing: Each filter cell consists of a pair of depth filter media sheets. The edges are sealed using a patented process with polypropylene to prevent bypass and ensure liquid passes through the media, not around it [ertelalsop.com].
- Core Construction: The cells are stacked on a rigid polypropylene core, available in standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters.
- End Cap Configurations: Available in Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring designs to fit various housing specifications [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Technical Specifycations and Performance
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is renowned for its versatility. The modules utilize a complex matrix of fibers and filter aids (such as Diatomaceous Earth) to create a tortuous path for fluid, capturing particles throughout the depth of the media rather than just on the surface.
General Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Operating Temperature | Max 180°F (82°C) typically |
Filtration Mechanisms
These cartridges rely on two primary mechanisms for particle removal:
- Mechanical Sieving: Physical capture of particles larger than the pore size.
- Electrokinetic Adsorption (Zeta Potential): The media exhibits a positive Zeta Potential, allowing it to attract and capture negatively charged sub-micron particles (like bacteria or haze colloids) that might otherwise pass through the physical pores [store.ertelalsop.com].
Media Varieties and Configurations
Different applications require different media compositions. ErtelAlsop offers several specific brands within the Pak® format:
| Media Brand | Focus Application |
|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | The “workhorse” industrial and pharmaceutical grade media containing cellulose and Diatomaceous Earth for general heavy-duty filtration. |
| Bio-Pak® | Designed for biological and pharmaceutical applications requiring high purity and low extractables. |
| AquaKv-Pak® | Specialized for removing water and moisture from dielectric fluids and transformer oils in the electric utility sector [ertelalsop.com]. |
| MicroClear® | Incorporates activated carbon for decolorization, odor removal, and chemical purification. |
Applications and Industries
The enclosed design helps prevent contamination and leakage, making these filters ideal for sensitive or hazardous environments. Common applications include:
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, elimination of haze, and pre-filtration for sterile lines.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids from extracts; the high surface area allows for high flow rates while maintaining clarity [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of distilled spirits, syrups, and edible oils.
- Chemicals: Catalyst recovery and solvent filtration (compatible with polypropylene and EPDM).
- Electric Utilities: Insulating oil purification.
Why Switch from Plate & Frame to Lenticular?
While plate and frame filters are traditional powerhouses, lenticular Pak® cartridges offer distinct operational advantages:
Decreased Downtime: Changing out a Pak® cartridge takes a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press.
Closed System: The cartridges are housed in sealed vessels, eliminating leakage and reducing operator exposure to the product and fumes [ertelalsop.com].
Scalability: Since the modules use the same media as the sheets, processes developed on a laboratory scale or plate press can be easily scaled up to a lenticular housing configuration.
To determine the correct ErtelAlsop Pak® configuration for your specific flow rate and retention requirements, or to inquire about housing compatibility, reach out to the our team today.