Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
For industrial applications requiring high-efficiency solids removal and liquid clarification, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters combine the superior filtration quality of depth media with the ease of use of a cartridge system. Distributed by Purecowater, these modules are designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters, offering a totally enclosed, leak-free, and hygienic solution for critical processing needs.
Whether you are operating in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, or chemical sectors, the Pak® design (originally invented by Alsop Engineering) ensures reliable particle retention and high throughput.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A “lenticular” filter module works on the principle of depth filtration. Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, depth filters utilize a thick matrix of fibers (often cellulose, diatomaceous earth, or perlite) to trap particles throughout the entire medium.
The ErtelAlsop Pak® consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter sheets sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. This assembled unit resembles a stack of double convex lenses, creating a robust structure that prevents bypass and edge leakage.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are fully sealed, preventing product loss and exposure to the environment.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match batch sizes and flow rates.
- Broad Chemical Compatibility: Media options range from 100% cellulose to formulations with filter aids or activated carbon.
- Rapid Change-Out: The “Pak” format allows operators to change filters in a fraction of the time required for plate and frame presses, significantly reducing downtime.
Technical Specifications
The versatility of the ErtelAlsop manufacturing process allows for a wide range of configurations. Below are the standard specifications available for these modules.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Diameters | 12″ (30.5 cm) and 16″ (40.6 cm) |
| Cell Count | Standard stacks of 5 to 18 cells |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
Media Formulations
Choosing the right media is critical for optimal performance. ErtelAlsop offers several media families compatible with the Pak® format:
- AlphaMedia™: 100% cellulose media. Ideal for applications requiring pure cellulose with no inorganic filter aids. Perfect for dielectric oils, syrups, and cosmetic perfumes.
- MicroMedia®: Contains cellulose mixed with high-performance filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. These provide tight retention and high solids loading capacity, making them suitable for haze removal in spirits and botanical extracts [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- MicroClear®: Activated carbon-impregnated media. This allows for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of handling loose carbon powder.
Common Applications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters are engineered to handle diverse liquid filtration challenges across multiple industries.
| Food & Beverage | Clarification of wines, spirits, syrups, and removal of haze causing proteins. |
| Pharmaceuticals | API purification, catalyst removal, and filtration of viscous liquids. |
| Chemicals | Clarification of solvents, silicones, resins, and inks. |
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes and lipids from extractions using DE-impregnated media. |
| Utility | Filtration of dielectric oils and coolants in power generation equipment. |
Why Choose Purecowater?
Purecowater acts as your technical partner for solving complex filtration issues. We supply genuine ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges and can help you determine the correct media grade, micron rating, and housing configuration for your specific process stream.
If you are looking to upgrade your existing plate and frame system or need a new sanitary filtration skid, our team is ready to assist.
Start Optimizing Your Filtration Process
Do you need help selecting the right lenticular module for your application? Contact Purecowater today for pricing, technical specifications, and availability.