For industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage, the transition from traditional plate and frame filtration to more enclosed, hygienic systems is a critical upgrade. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the pinnacle of this evolution. As a distributor for high-performance filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these versatile lenticular cartridges to tackle complex solid and liquid filtration problems.
This guide explores the specifications, benefits, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series and why they are the preferred choice for depth filtration.
What Are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® depth filter cartridges (also known as modules) are assembled units designed to provide a sealed, user-friendly alternative to standard filter sheets. They consist of multiple lenticular filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter media sheets—such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®—sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process.
The resulting structure resembles a stack of double convex lenses, creating a “lenticular” shape. This design allows for high surface area and efficient flow while eliminating the leakage and exposure risks associated with open filter presses.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed System: Unlike plate and frame filters, lenticular Paks operate inside a sealed housing, preventing fluid loss and protecting operators from exposure to process fluids.
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers provides significant dirt-holding capacity, making them ideal for clarifying liquids with high particulate loads.
- Rapid Change-Out: Swapping out a cartridge takes a fraction of the time required to redress a plate and frame press, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Available in standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match your batch size and flow rate requirements.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers a wide range of configurations to suit specific chemical compatibility and retention needs. Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications available through Purecowater.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Cell Count | 5 to 18 stacked cells per module |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone |
| End Cap Types | Double O-Ring, Flat Gasket |
Filtration Media Options
Selecting the right media is crucial for optimizing your filtration process. The Pak® cartridges utilize three primary types of media:
1. AlphaMedia® (Cellulose)
Premium cellulose filter media designed for light to medium viscosity liquids. It contains no resins, binders, or inorganic aids, making it ideal for dielectric oils, syrups, and applications where purity is paramount. clearsolutionscorp.com
2. MicroMedia® (with Filter Aids)
Incorporates diatomaceous earth (DE) or perlite to form a rigid, porous structure. This media offers high zeta potential and superior retention of ultra-fine particles and haze. It is excellent for botanical extracts, spirits, and haze removal in beverages.
3. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
Modules containing immobilized activated carbon for decolorization, odor removal, and correcting flavor profiles without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Common Applications
Due to their versatility and robust “Lock and Load” design capability (when used with horizontal housings), ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are used extensively in:
- Food & Beverage: Distilled spirits, syrups, soft drinks, and edible oils.
- Pharmaceuticals: API processing, large volume parenterals (LVPs), and biotech fluids.
- Chemical Industry: Resins, paints, inks, and solvent recovery.
- Cosmetics: Perfumes, lotions, and botanical extracts.
- Utilities: Dielectric oil purification for transformers and turbines. ertelalsop.com
Why Partner with Purecowater?
At Purecowater, we understand that filtration is not just about equipment; it is about process optimization. Whether you need to replace old plate and frame presses or install a new sanitary lenticular housing system, our team can guide you to the correct micron rating and media composition for your specific stream.
Ready to Upgrade Your Filtration Process?
Contact our experts today to discuss how ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters can improve your throughput and product quality.