Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
At Purecowater, we understand that achieving superior liquid purity requires reliable, scalable, and efficient filtration technologies. One of the most versatile solutions in our portfolio for tackling solid and liquid filtration problems is the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter. Combining the high-capacity performance of depth filtration sheets with the ease of use of a cartridge design, these filters are an industry standard for applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to distilled spirits.
This guide explores the specifications, benefits, and applications of ErtelAlsop Lenticular Pak® Cartridges to help you determine if this technology is the right fit for your process.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, also known as lenticular filter modules, are depth filtration units designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters. They consist of stacked “lenticular” cells—disc-shaped filter units—assembled into a single cartridge format.
Each cell utilizes ErtelAlsop’s renowned depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®), where the edges are sealed using a patented polypropylene process. This design creates a hermetically sealed unit that prevents leakage and bypass, a common issue with older plate and frame presses. The result is a system that provides the high solids-loading capacity of depth media with the enclosed, hygienic, and easy-changeout benefits of a cartridge housing [ertelalsop.com].
Key Features and Benefits
- High Solids Loading Capacity: The complex matrix of fibers and particles in the depth media allows these filters to retain a significant amount of solids before plugging, making them ideal for hazy liquids or fluids with high particulate loads.
- Leak-Free Design: Unlike open plate and frame systems that can drip or leak, lenticular cartridges are housed in sealed vessels (vertical or horizontal), ensuring a clean and safe operating environment.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing users to scale up easily from pilot to production.
- Versatile Media Options: Compatible with various media grades, including cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and activated carbon options for color and odor removal [clearsolutionscorp.com].
Technical Specifications
Understanding the technical capabilities of the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges helps in selecting the correct configuration for your filter housing.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Code 222/226 style equivalents) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton, etc. |
| Cell Count per Stack | Standard 16 cells (options for 5-18 cells) |
Available Media Grades
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media series to suit different chemical and filtration requirements:
- AlphaMedia™: A 100% cellulose media ideal for applications where no DE or Perlite is desired. It is excellent for dielectric oils, perfumes, and removing haze.
- MicroMedia®: Incorporates cellulose with filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. This series provides high retention efficiency and zeta potential for capturing ultra-fine particles and haze [clearsolutionscorp.com].
- MicroClear®: Contains immobilized activated carbon, used for decolorization and odor removal without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Primary Applications
Due to their robust design and high filtration efficiency, ErtelAlsop lenticular filters are widely used across several critical industries:
| Industry | Application Use Case |
|---|---|
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes, lipids, and biomass from ethanol extracts (winterization). |
| Distilled Spirits | Chill Haze removal, polishing filtration for whiskey, vodka, and gin. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of syrups, API slurries, and active ingredients. |
| Food & Beverage | Clarifying juices, soft drinks, and removing haze from sugar syrups. |
| Cosmetics | Filtration of perfumes, colognes, and lotions for clarity and shelf stability. |
Integration with Filter Housings
Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into ErtelAlsop’s specialized Lenticular Filter Housings. These housings are capable of holding up to four 16-inch modules tailored to your flow rate requirements. The horizontal housing design, in particular, allows for ergonomic loading and unloading at waist height, significantly reducing labor during change-outs compared to vertical housings or plate presses [ertelalsop.com].
Need Help Sizing Your Filtration System?
Whether you are replacing an old plate and frame press or designing a new process line, Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct ErtelAlsop media grade and housing configuration for your throughput.
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