At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex solid and liquid filtration challenges by partnering with top-tier manufacturers. We are proud to distribute ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premier solution for depth filtration applications. Whether you are in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, or chemical industry, these filter modules offer a robust, enclosed alternative to traditional plate and frame filtration.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
The Lenticular Pak® cartridge (or module) is a depth filtration unit designed effectively as a pre-filter or polishing filter. Originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, this technology has evolved into a highly efficient standard for industrial filtration.
A “Pak” consists of stacked lenticular filter cells. Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with their edges sealed using a patented polypropylene process. These cells are stacked to form a cartridge that resembles a series of double convex lenses—hence the name “lenticular”.
This design allows the units to be housed in totally enclosed vessels, eliminating the leakage and exposure issues often associated with open plate and frame presses. [ertelalsop.com]
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed System: The sealed housing prevents fluid loss and protects operators from exposure to process fluids.
- High Solids Loading: Generally offers higher dirt-holding capacity compared to pleated cartridges.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
- Efficient Change-outs: The cartridge format allows for rapid insertion and removal, significantly reducing downtime compared to manual plate and frame cleaning.
- Broad Chemical Compatibility: Options for polypropylene supports and various gasket materials (EPDM, Viton, etc.).
Available Media Formats
ErtelAlsop offers several media formulations to target specific contaminants. Choosing the right media is critical for optimizing your process.
| Product Series | Media Composition | Ideal Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose & Diatomaceous Earth (DE) | The “Workhorse” of the line. Excellent for botanical extracts, haze removal, and ultra-fine particle retention. High zeta potential. [clearsolutionscorp.com] |
| Disc-Pak® | 100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia™) | Applications requiring purity where no DE or Perlite is desired. Ideal for dielectric oils, perfumes, and syrups to preserve active ingredients. [clearsolutionscorp.com] |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Media | Biologic and pharmaceutical applications requiring low extractables and high purity. |
Technical Specifications
The following specifications apply to standard Pak® Lenticular configurations tailored for industrial and sanitary housings.
| Micron Ratings | Nominal retention generally ranging from 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Standard grades: 1, 2.5, 5, 10 µm) |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) or 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Maximum Operating Temp | Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on gasket selection |
Applications
Because of their versatility and enclosed design, ErtelAlsop Pak modules are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries:
- Food & Beverage: Clarification of syrups, distilled spirits, and wines.
- Botanical Extraction: Removal of waxes and lipids using DE-impregnated media.
- Pharmaceuticals: API filtration and pre-filtration for membrane protection.
- Cosmetics: Filtration of perfumes and essential oils without stripping aromatics (using Disc-Pak).
- Chemicals: Polishing of process fluids and inks.
Need help selecting the right filter module?
Purecowater can assist you in determining the correct micron rating, media type, and housing configuration for your specific stream. We offer comprehensive support for all Veolia, WTS, and ErtelAlsop products.