Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
In the world of liquid filtration, the shift from traditional plate and frame presses to enclosed lenticular modules represents a significant upgrade in operational efficiency and safety. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, available through Purecowater, utilize a stacked disk design that combines the superior depth filtration technology of filter sheets with the ease of use of a cartridge system.
As a distributor for premium filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these modules to industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to food and beverage processing. The Pak® design minimizes leakage, reduces change-out time, and offers a scalable solution for high-solids loading applications.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The “Lenticular” format consists of individual filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is constructed from two circles of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with their edges sealed using a patented polypropylene process. This assembly resembles a stack of double convex lenses.
Fluid flows from the outside of the cartridge, through the depth media, and into the hollow central core. This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for:
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix traps particles throughout its thickness, not just on the surface.
- Leak-Free Operation: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are totally enclosed, preventing product loss and protecting operators from exposure.
- Scalability: Modules come in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match flow rate requirements.
Key Product Specifications
ErtelAlsop provides a wide array of configurations to suit specific chemical compatibility and retention needs. Below are the core specifications for the Pak® cartridges.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Available Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 micron to 15 micron (Nominal) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Plug-in) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Seal Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Nitrile |
| Media Types | MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, Bio-Pak®, Zeta-Pak® |
For detailed source information on configurations, please refer to the manufacturer data at ertelalsop.com.
Media Variants and Applications
The versatility of the Pak® system lies in the variety of filter media available. Purecowater can help you select the correct media based on your fluid characteristics.
Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® series utilizes cellulose fibers combined with diatomaceous earth (DE) and perlite. The media is formulated to have a positive Zeta potential, which enhances the capture of negatively charged sub-micron particles like haze and bacteria. This is ideal for:
- Botanical extracts and essential oils
- Distilled spirits and wine
- Pharmaceutical intermediates
Bio-Pak® (Pharmaceutical Grade)
Designed for critical applications, the Bio-Pak® cartridges feature a double O-ring design for maximum seal integrity. They are often used in sanitary housings required by the biotech industry. The construction minimizes metal usage (polypropylene core) for high chemical purity.
AlphaMedia™ (Cellulose Only)
For applications where inorganic filter aids (like DE) are not permitted or necessary, AlphaMedia offers a pure cellulose depth filter solution.
Housing Configurations
To maximize the performance of Pak® cartridges, ErtelAlsop offers specialized housings. The choice of housing impacts the ease of operation and the footprint of the system.
| Housing Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Housing | Standard industrial design, small footprint. | General chemical & utility filtration. |
| Horizontal (“Lock & Load”) | Cartridges load horizontally at waist height. Eliminates overhead lifting. | High-volume change-outs, single-operator use. |
| Sanitary Housing | 316L SS, highly polished, vent connections, no internal threads. | Pharmaceuticals, sterile filtration. |
The Horizontal Housing is particularly notable for its ergonomic design, allowing operators to slide cartridges in and out without heavy lifting equipment (ertelalsop.com).
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak®?
- Cost Efficiency: Reduced downtime during change-outs compared to plate and frame presses.
- Product Safety: Totally enclosed system prevents external contamination.
- Versatility: Over 300 precision dies available to fit various process needs.
- Compatibility: Polypropylene supports and EPDM gaskets ensure compatibility with solvents used in extraction (clearsolutionscorp.com).
Need Assistance with Sizing?
Selecting the right micron rating, media type, and housing configuration is critical for optimal process flow and clarity. Purecowater specializes in solving complex solid and liquid filtration problems.
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