Advanced Depth Filtration for Critical Applications
For industries demanding high-purity filtration, liquid clarification, and solids removal, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these versatile lenticular modules to solve complex solid-liquid separation challenges across pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and chemical sectors.
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge—originally conceptualized as a more convenient alternative to plate and frame filters—combines the superior retention mechanics of depth filter sheets with the ease of use of a modular cartridge design. This guide details the specifications, media options, and operational advantages of integrating these filters into your process workflow.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
A Lenticular Pak® functions as a stacked-disc module. It consists of multiple high-performance depth filter sheets cut into discs and sealed together using a patented polypropylene edge molding process. These individual cells are then stacked to form a cohesive cartridge.
The structure resembles a stack of double convex lenses (“lenticular”). This geometry maximizes surface area within a compact footprint, allowing for high flow rates and significant contaminant holding capacity. Unlike surface filters, depth media traps particles throughout the thickness of the pad, engaging mechanical sieving and electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta potential) to capture ultra-fine haze and sub-micron particles.
Key Design Benefits
- Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are totally enclosed, preventing leakage and effectively containing hazardous fumes or valuable liquids.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime and labor costs.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells) to match process volumes perfectly.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are engineered to fit a wide range of standard lenticular housings. Below are the core technical parameters utilized in system sizing.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention Ratings | Range from 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton, Teflon Encapsulated |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Sterilization | In-line Steam, Autoclave, Hot Water Sanitization |
Media Formulations
One of the strongest advantages of the ErtelAlsop line is the diversity of media available for the Pak® format. Purecowater can help you select the specific media grade tailored to your chemical compatibility and filtration goals.
- Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse): Composed of cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and wet-strength resin. It offers a strong positive Zeta Potential for removing negatively charged contaminants like haze, bacteria, and endotoxins. Ideal for pharmaceuticals and botanical extracts.
- Micro-Media®: Premium depth filter media designed for critical applications requiring high purity and consistent performance.
- AlphaMedia™: A pure cellulose media (no DE or resin) used where inorganic extractables must be minimized.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon media. This eliminates the mess of loose carbon powder, making it perfect for color removal, odor adsorption, and dechlorination.
- AquaKv-Pak®: Specifically engineered for the electric utility market to remove moisture and particulate from transformer oils.
Common Applications
The versatility of these modules allows them to be deployed across various industries.
| Industry | Typical Usage |
|---|---|
| Provisions & Spirits | Haze removal in distilled spirits, wine polishing, syrup clarification. |
| Botanical Extracts | Winterization, dewaxing, and lipid removal using Zeta-Pak® media. |
| Pharmaceuticals | API filtration, catalyst recovery, and pre-filtration for membrane protection. |
| Cosmetics | Perfume clarification, oil filtration, and gel particle removal. |
| Chemicals & Utilities | Dielectric fluid maintenance, silicone oil filtration, and solvent purification. |
Why Upgrade to ErtelAlsop Pak®?
If you are currently using filter presses, switching to a lenticular setup can revolutionize your floor operations. The Pak® modules reduce system footprint and eliminate the manual labor of scraping plates. If you are using standard pleated cartridges but experiencing rapid clogging, the depth matrix of the Pak® offers significantly higher solid loading capacity, extending service life before change-out.
Need Sizing or Media Advice?
Choosing the right cell count, micron rating, and media composition is critical for maximizing throughput. Purecowater is here to support your process optimization.