ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters: Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters

At Purecowater, we understand that achieving superior liquid clarity is a critical step in industrial processing, whether for food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing. As a premier distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, we are proud to feature the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. These depth filter cartridges represent a significant evolution in filtration technology, combining the efficiency of traditional plate and frame filter presses with the convenience of a totally enclosed, leak-free cartridge system.

The “Pak” format, originally invented by Alsop Engineering, utilizes a stack of lenticular cells to provide a high surface area in a compact footprint. This design ensures highly efficient particle retention and high solids loading capacity, making it an ideal choice for challenging depth filtration applications ertelalsop.com.

How Lenticular Filtration Works

Lenticular filtration operates on the principle of depth filtration. Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, depth filters utilize a thick media matrix to trap particles throughout the depth of the material. The ErtelAlsop Pak® consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is constructed from two discs of filter media sealed at the edges, resembling a double convex lens (hence “lenticular”).

Fluid enters the housing, surrounds the cartridges, and passes through the media into the center core. This tortuous path ensures that contaminants—ranging from visible particulates to haze-causing colloids—are effectively removed. Key technologies such as Zeta-Potential (an electrokinetic charge) further enhance filtration by attracting negatively charged particles that are smaller than the physical pore size of the media store.clearsolutionscorp.com.

Key Features and Benefits

• Totally Enclosed System: Prevents fluid loss and protects the product from external contamination, a significant upgrade over open plate and frame presses.
• Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells typically), allowing for easy scale-up from pilot lab testing to full-scale production.
• Variety of Media: Compatible with MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, and MicroClear® (carbon) to suit specific chemical and physical requirements.
• Robust Construction: Features polypropylene cores and supports, with options for Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket end caps to fit various sanitary and industrial housings clearsolutionscorp.com.

Product Series Breakdown

ErtelAlsop offers distinct series within the Pak® family to target specific applications. Below is a guide to selecting the right cartridge for your process.

Series	Media Composition	Primary Application
Zeta-Pak®	Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Resin	The “Workhorse.” General purpose, pharmaceuticals, botanical extracts, and fluids with haze. High flow and retention.
Disc-Pak®	100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia)	Applications sensitive to silica/DE (e.g., dielectric oils, specific spirits). Fixed pore structure.
Bio-Pak®	High-purity Media	Biological and pharmaceutical applications requiring low extractables.
MicroClear®	Activated Carbon	Decolorization and odor removal without dealing with loose carbon powder.

Technical Specifications

When selecting a Pak® cartridge, consider the following specifications to ensure compatibility with your existing housings and process parameters.

Micron Retention Ratings	0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal)
Diameters Available	12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm)
Standard Gasket Material	EPDM (others available upon request)
Core Material	Polypropylene
End Configuration	Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket
Sterilization	Most units are steam-sterilizable/autoclavable (check specific datasheet).

Common Applications

The versatility of the ErtelAlsop Pak series allows it to function effectively across various markets. The Zeta-Pak is particularly noted for its use in botanical extraction, where it efficiently removes waxes and lipids while maintaining high flow rates store.clearsolutionscorp.com.

• Food & Beverage: Polishing syrups, wine, distilled spirits, and edible oils.
• Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, API filtration, and pre-filtration for membrane protection.
• Cosmetics: Perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
• Utilities: Dielectric oil and cooling fluid maintenance clearsolutionscorp.com.