Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and ease of use are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a significant evolution in depth filtration technology. Often described as the modern alternative to traditional plate and frame filters, these lenticular cartridges (or modules) offer a totally enclosed, leak-free, and sanitary solution for critical filtration applications.
At Purecowater, we understand that selecting the right filtration media is crucial for your process stability and product quality. As a distributor for industry leaders, we bring you the comprehensive capabilities of ErtelAlsop’s depth filtration technology.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A “lenticular” filter gets its name from the shape of its sub-components. The module is constructed from a stack of filter cells. Each cell is formed by two sheets of depth filter media sealed around the edges to create a double convex lens shape. These cells are then stacked on a central core and compressed to form a single, robust cartridge.
This design maximizes surface area within a compact footprint and allows for flow from the outside of the cartridge into the center core (or vice versa, depending on housing design), ensuring that all liquid passes through the depth media matrix.
Key Advantages
- Closed System: Unlike open filter presses, lenticular housings are fully enclosed, preventing leakage and minimizing exposure to the atmosphere.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match your batch size and flow rate requirements.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the thickness of the pad, not just on the surface.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit a wide range of housings and applications. Below are the standard specifications for these versatile modules.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) | 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Number of Cells | 5 to 18 stacked cells per module |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket | Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard), others available upon request |
| Filtration Type | Depth Filtration |
Media Formulations
One of the strengths of the ErtelAlsop line is the variety of media available to target specific contaminants. Using the right media ensures optimal throughput and retention.
1. MicroMedia® (Zeta-Pak®)
The workhorse of the product line. These filters are impregnated with high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and wet-strength resins. They exhibit a positive Zeta Potential, which allows them to electrokinetically attract negatively charged particles (like bacteria and haze colloids) that might otherwise pass through the physical pores.
- Best For: Haze removal, microbial reduction, general clarification.
- Applications: Beverages, biopharmaceuticals, chemicals.
2. AlphaMedia® (Disc-Pak®)
Premium cellulose filtration with no inorganic aids (no DE or Perlite). This makes AlphaMedia ideal for applications where mineral extractables are a concern or where active ingredients must be preserved.
- Best For: Viscous fluids, dielectric oils, perfumes, and applications requiring low leachables.
- Applications: Cosmetics, transformer oils, syrups.
3. MicroClear®
These modules incorporate activated carbon directly into the filter matrix. This allows for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of handling loose carbon powder.
- Best For: Decolorization, deodorization, impurity adsorption.
- Applications: API purification, spirits finishing, chemical processing.
Applications and Industries
Lenticular technology bridges the gap between laboratory filtration and large-scale process filtration. Its versatility makes it a staple in numerous sectors.
| Industry | Typical Applications |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals & Biotech | Cell harvest clarification, post-fermentation haze removal, activated carbon treatment. |
| Food & Beverage | Distilled spirits polishing, syrup clarification, wine and beer filtration, flavor correction. |
| Chemicals | Solvent filtration, catalyst recovery, resin clarification. |
| Cosmetics | Perfume filtration, essential oil clarification, removal of particulate from viscous lotions. |
| Botanical Extracts | Winterization, lipid and wax removal, ethanol recovery. |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak®?
For facilities dealing with difficult-to-filter liquids, the complex matrix of fibers and filter aids in these cartridges provides high throughput and excellent retention. The ability to switch between Flat Gasket and Double O-Ring end caps means these modules can likely retrofit into your existing lenticular housings, regardless of the brand.
Furthermore, the variety of grades (from roughing filters to sterilizing-grade pre-filters) allows for a staged filtration approach, protecting expensive downstream membrane filters and extending their lifespan.
Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Choosing between MicroMedia, AlphaMedia, or MicroClear requires understanding your specific fluid properties and target contaminants. Purecowater is here to assist you with technical expertise and product sizing.
Maximize your filtration efficiency today.