Filtration technology is critical for ensuring the purity and quality of liquids across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage. Among the most versatile and efficient solutions available today are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. As a distributer/OEM for premier filtration brands, Purecowater is proud to offer these advanced depth filtration modules designed to optimize your process workflow.
This article explores the technical capabilities, configurations, and industrial applications of ErtelAlsop’s Lenticular Pak® cartridges.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge—commonly referred to as a lenticular module—is a depth filtration system consisting of stacked circular filter cells. The term “lenticular” refers to the lens-like shape of the cells. Each module is constructed from multiple filter cells stacked vertically on a central core. Each cell is made of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges using a patented molding process.
This design combines the high dirt-holding capacity of traditional plate and frame filter presses with the convenience and hygiene of an enclosed cartridge system.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the atmosphere, preventing product loss and contamination.
- Quick Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes compared to the hours required for manual plate and frame presses.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match batch sizes.
Product Configurations and Media Types
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media formulations to target specific filtration challenges. The two most prominent configurations available are the Zeta-Pak® and the Disc-Pak®.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is constructed using Micro-Media® series depth filter sheets. These sheets contain cellulose, high-purity diatomaceous earth (DE) or perlite, and a wet-strength resin. The resin provides a positive Zeta Potential, creating an electrokinetic attraction that captures sub-micron particles (like bacteria and haze) that are smaller than the pore size of the media.
Ideal For:
- Pharmaceutical grade filtration
- Haze removal in distilled spirits
- Bio-reduction
2. Disc-Pak® (High Purity)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, which is composed of 100% cellulose without any inorganic filter aids (no DE, perlite, or glass fibers) and zero resins. This makes it the standard for applications where minimum extractables are required or where the chemistry is sensitive to silica or aluminum.
Ideal For:
- Dielectric oils (transformer oils)
- Cosmetics and perfumes (essential oils)
- Applications typically utilizing filter paper
Technical Specifications
Understanding the specifications is crucial for selecting the right module for your housing and process. Below is a detailed breakdown of the ErtelAlsop Pak® parameters.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks range from 5 to 18 cells |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Code 222/226 style) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton, PTFE Encapsulated |
| Sterilization | In-situ steam sterilization capable (check specific limits) |
Common Applications
Due to their high solids loading capacity and versatility, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are utilized in a wide variety of sectors.
| Industry | Typical Usage |
|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | Polishing filtration for syrups, removal of haze from distilled spirits, wine clarification, and edible oil processing. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of fermentation broths, removal of carbon fines (MicroClear®), and large volume parenteral filtration. |
| Cosmetics | Filtration of perfumes and colognes to ensure clarity and shelf stability without removing essential fragrances. |
| Chemicals & Industrial | Processing of correction fluids, inks, varnishes, and insulating oils. |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop via Purecowater?
Purecowater understands that industrial filtration requires precision. The ErtelAlsop Pak® design ensures that you upgrade your filtration efficiency without sacrificing product quality. Whether you need the electrokinetic power of the Zeta-Pak® for complex bio-fluids or the pure cellulose Disc-Pak® for sensitive oils, we can guide you to the correct configuration.
Our team works directly with engineers and facility managers to solve solid-liquid separation problems efficiently.
Ready to optimize your filtration system?
Contact us to discuss sizing, compatibility, and ordering for ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters.