At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex filtration challenges by offering top-tier equipment from industry-leading manufacturers. Among our most versatile depth filtration solutions are the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. Designed to combine the superior retention of depth filter media with the ease of use of a cartridge system, these modules are an essential component for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage.
What Are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridge (also known as a module) is a depth filtration unit that offers a totally enclosed, leak-free alternative to traditional plate and frame filter presses. Originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, this format packs the surface area and solids-loading capacity of depth filter sheets into a compact, stacked-disc configuration [ertelalsop.com].
Each module consists of multiple lenticular cells—typically 5 to 18 cells per stack—assembled using a pair of depth filter media sheets. The edges are sealed using a patented process (often polypropylene), creating a unit that resembles a stack of double convex lenses. This design allows for high flow rates and high solids loading capacity within a small footprint.
Key Advantages
- Enclosed System: Unlike plate and frame filters, lenticular housings are sealed, preventing leakage and minimizing exposure to the atmosphere. This is critical for sanitary applications and handling hazardous fluids.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, allowing for linear scalability from pilot testing to full-scale production.
- Ease of Use: The cartridge format allows for rapid change-outs, significantly reducing downtime compared to manually changing sheets in a press [ertelalsop.com].
- Versatile Media Options: Compatible with various ErtelAlsop media grades, including MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, and MicroClear® (carbon).
Product Configurations and Media Types
We supply ErtelAlsop Pak® filters in several distinct media formulations to suit specific liquid processing needs.
Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®)
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the lenticular line. Manufactured with MicroMedia® (cellulose, diatomaceous earth/perlite, and wet strength resin), it provides a high positive zeta potential, making it highly efficient at retaining ultra-fine particles and removing haze [clearsolutionscorp.com]. It is ideal for botanical extracts, maximizing flow rate while efficiently removing waxes and lipids.
Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®)
For applications where mineral filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) are not permitted, the Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®. This is a 100% cellulose media perfect for dielectric oils, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications where media purity is paramount [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Technical Specifications
Below is a summary of the standard specifications for ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters available through Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks: 5 to 18 cells |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (222/226 style) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, etc. |
| Max Operating Temperature | Dependent on media and gasket selection (typically up to ~176°F / 80°C for standard builds) |
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular design makes it suitable for a wide array of industrial and sanitary processes. By choosing the correct media grade, operators can target specific contaminants such as particulate, haze, or even color (using carbon-impregnated MicroClear® media).
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of syrups, distilled spirits, wine, and beer.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of lipids, waxes, and biomass from solvent-based extractions.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, API processing, and protection of downstream membrane filters.
- Chemicals & Utilities: Filtration of dielectric oils, coolants, and process water.
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
Why Choose Lenticular Depth Filtration?
Depth filtration is distinct from surface filtration. While surface filters capture particles only on the top layer, depth filters utilize a tortuous path through a thick matrix of fibers. This allows the filter to capture a high volume of solids throughout the entire depth of the media, preventing premature blinding and extending service life.
When high solids loading is required to protect expensive downstream equipment—such as Reverse Osmosis units or sterile membrane cartridges—ErtelAlsop Pak® filters provide an economical and effective pre-filtration step.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you are upgrading from a plate and frame press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct ErtelAlsop Pak® configuration for your process. As a distributor/OEM for major brands including Veolia and WTS, we have the expertise to handle your toughest solid and liquid separation problems.
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