High-Efficiency Depth Filtration Solutions
Purecowater is proud to distribute ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premier solution for solid-liquid separation. Designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters, these lenticular cartridges (modules) offer a totally enclosed, sanitary, and user-friendly depth filtration system. Whether you are filtering distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or industrial fluids, the Pak® design ensures high solids loading capacity and superior particle retention.
What is Pak® Lenticular Technology?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge is a modular depth filter system. It consists of stacked lenticular filter cells—typically ranging from 5 to 18 cells per module—assembled into a single unit. Each cell is constructed from two sheets of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with edges sealed using a patented polypropylene process. This stacked design resembles a series of double convex lenses, maximizing surface area in a compact footprint.
Unlike open plate and frame presses, these modules fit inside sealed stainless steel housings (available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters). This design eliminates leakage and exposure to the environment, making it ideal for applications requiring hygiene and rigorous containment.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed System: Prevents product loss and protects operators from exposure to process fluids.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes compared to the hours required for plate and frame presses.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters to suit various flow rates.
- Versatile Media Options: Compatible with cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), perlite, and activated carbon media.
- Robust Construction: Features heavy-duty polypropylene cores and chemical-resistant gaskets (EPDM, Viton, etc.).
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12" (30.5 cm) and 16" (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal retention from 0.25 to 15 microns |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (DOZT) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Number of Cells | 5 to 18 cells per module |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically up to 180°F (82°C), depending on media/gasket |
Media Formulations
ErtelAlsop cartridges are available with specific media formulations tailored to your industry needs:
- AlphaMedia®: 100% cellulose media. Ideal for dielectric oils, gelatin, and applications where no Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or inorganic filter aids are permitted.
- MicroMedia®: Contains filter aids (DE/Perlite) for high-efficiency haze removal and fine particle retention. Common in food and beverage processing.
- MicroClear®: Impregnated with activated carbon for color and odor removal without handling loose carbon powder.
Common Applications
Because of their versatility and high retention efficiency, Pak® Lenticular Filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries:
- Food & Beverage: Polishing syrups, wine, distilled spirits, and preventing haze.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids in ethanol extraction processes (Winterization).
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and sterile pre-filtration.
- Industrial: Filtration of lubricating oils, coolants, and chemical intermediates.
Why Choose Lenticular over Plate & Frame?
While plate and frame filters are effective, they are labor-intensive and prone to dripping. ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges utilize the same high-quality media found in filter sheets but package it in an easy-to-handle module. This allows facilities to seamlessly transition their process specifications to a more modern, leak-free, and labor-saving format.
Ready to upgrade your filtration process?
At Purecowater, we help you select the precise micron rating, media type, and housing configuration for your operation.