Advanced Depth Filtration for Industrial & Sanitary Applications
For industries requiring rigorous liquid clarification and solids removal, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier engineered solutions, Purecowater is proud to offer these high-performance, totally enclosed filtration modules designed to replace messy plate and frame filter presses while delivering superior throughput and retention.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceutical fluids, or food and beverage products, the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges provide a scalable, operator-friendly solution that minimizes product loss and maximizes efficiency.
What is a Pak® Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak®—also known as a lenticular module—consists of stacked filter cells housed within a totally enclosed vessel. Each cell acts like a double convex lens (hence “lenticular”), comprised of two sheets of commercial-grade depth filter media sealed at the edges.
Unlike surface filters that only trap particles on the top layer, these depth filters utilize a complex matrix of cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), or activated carbon to trap particles throughout the entire thickness of the media. This results in significantly higher dirt-holding capacity and flow rates compared to standard pleated cartridges.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Totally Enclosed System | Eliminates leakage and exposure to the atmosphere; ideal for sanitary and hazardous applications. |
| High Solids Loading | Depth media matrix retains more particulate per square foot than surface filtration. |
| Quick Change-Outs | Modules can be replaced in minutes compared to the hours required for plate and frame presses. |
| Scalable Design | Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match batch size. |
Media Formulations & Configurations
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are available with a variety of proprietary media formulations to suit specific liquid chemistry and filtration goals:
- MicroMedia® (Zeta-Pak®): The workhorse of the industry, containing cellulose and diatomaceous earth (DE) for excellent haze removal and retention of ultra-fine particles.
- AlphaMedia® (Disc-Pak®): A pure cellulose option ideal for applications where DE is not permitted. Perfect for dielectric oils and pharmaceutical applications.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon media for decolorization and odor removal without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the specifications is crucial for selecting the right module for your housing and process line.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Retention Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Module Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (plug-in) |
| Construction Materials | Polypropylene Core & Supports; EPDM, Silicone, or Viton Gaskets |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per module (stack height varies) |
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filter makes it suitable for a wide array of industries served by Purecowater:
- ✅ Botanical Extraction: Highly effective at removing waxes, lipids, and fine particulates from ethanol or CO2 extracts.
- ✅ Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of biopharmaceuticals and active ingredients utilizing Pharma-grade media.
- ✅ Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, syrups, vinegar, and edible oils.
- ✅ Chemicals: Filtration of bulk chemicals, resins, and solvents.
- ✅ Cosmetics: Purification of lotions, perfumes, and oils.
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop cartridges are designed to fit into standard lenticular housings. These housings can be oriented Vertically (standard footprint) or Horizontally. The Horizontal Housing with the “Lock and Load” system is particularly popular for operator safety and ease of loading, allowing a single operator to slide cartridges onto the center post without heavy lifting or overhead hoists.
Need assistance sizing the right depth filter for your process? Purecowater specializes in solving complex solid and liquid filtration challenges.