Advanced Depth Filtration for Critical Applications
For industries requiring rigorous liquid purification—from pharmaceuticals and botanical extracts to food and beverage processing—ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor and OEM, Purecowater provides these high-performance modules to replace labor-intensive plate and frame systems with a closed, leak-free, and user-friendly solution.
The Pak® Lenticular Cartridge (also known as a lenticular module) combines the high solids-loading capacity of depth filter sheets with the convenience of a disposable cartridge format. Designed to fit into enclosed housings, these filters eliminate edge leakage and external contamination, ensuring a pristine filtrate every time.
Ideally Suited For
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is versatile, engineered for applications requiring high throughput and superior retention of ultra-fine particles, haze, and microorganisms.
- Botanical Extraction: Excellent for wax and lipid removal in ethanol extraction (winterization) using media impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE).
- Pharmaceuticals (API): cGMP-compliant filtration for active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for distilled spirits, syrups, wines, and juices to improve clarity and shelf life.
- Industrial Oils: Filtration of dielectric oils, lubricating oils, and coolants.
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes and essential oils.
Key Advantages over Plate & Frame Filters
Historically, depth filtration relied on open plate and frame presses. While effective, they are prone to dripping, require time-consuming changeouts, and expose the process fluid to the environment. The Pak® Lenticular System solves these issues:
| Feature | Plate & Frame | Pac® Lenticular Cartridge |
|---|---|---|
| System Design | Open (Potential for leakage) | Totally Enclosed (Leak-free) |
| Changeout Time | Hours (Manual sheet handling) | Minutes (Quick module swap) |
| Product Loss | High (Drip pan losses) | Minimal (Heel recovery possible) |
| Sterility | Difficult to validate | High (Sanitary housings available) |
Media Configurations & Formulations
ErtelAlsop offers distinct formulations to target specific contaminants. The modules are constructed from stacked cells of their proprietary filter media, edge-sealed with polypropylene.
1. Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media®)
The workhorse of the industry. This media contains cellulose, high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE), and a wet-strength resin. It provides a net positive Zeta Potential, allowing it to electrokinetically attract negatively charged contaminants (like bacteria and haze) that are smaller than the physical pore size.
2. Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia™)
A 100% pure cellulose media with no inorganic fillers (no DE or Perlite). This is critical for applications where minimal extractables are required, or where the adsorption of active ingredients by DE must be avoided.
3. MicroClear®
Immobilized Activated Carbon media. This allows for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of handling loose bulk carbon powder.
Technical Specifications
These specifications ensure compatibility with most standard lenticular housings, including 12-inch and 16-inch industrial standards.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Module Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Cell Count per Module | 5 to 18 cells (Variable surface area) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, Teflon-Encapsulated |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Type 222/226 equivalent fit) |
| Max Operating Temp | 180°F (82°C) typical for Polypropylene core |
Need Assistance with Sizing?
Choosing the right micron rating and media type (Zeta-Pak vs Disc-Pak) is critical for process efficiency. Purecowater can help you calculate the necessary surface area and flux rates for your specific liquid stream.
Contact Purecowater
Whether you are upgrading from a plate and frame press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater provides the full range of ErtelAlsop housings and Pak® cartridges. Our engineering team can assist with compatibility checks and custom solutions.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?