For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration with ease of operation, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor and OEM partner, Purecowater provides these versatile filter modules to solve complex solid and liquid separation challenges across pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and chemical sectors.
This guide details the specifications, media configurations, and operational advantages of the ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, helping you determine the right fit for your process line.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are essentially a stack of depth filter sheets assembled into a compact, enclosed unit. Unlike traditional Plate & Frame filters which can be labor-intensive and prone to leakage, the lenticular format offers a sealed, totally enclosed system that maximizes surface area in a small footprint.
Each module consists of stacked filter cells—typically ranging from 5 to 18 cells per unit. These cells are comprised of premium depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed with polypropylene edges. This design functions similarly to a stack of double convex lenses, directing flow through the media matrix to trap particulates effectively.
Key Advantages over Plate & Frame Filters
- Leak-Free Operation: The enclosed housing design eliminates the external dripping often associated with open plate and frame presses.
- Rapid Changeout: Modules can be replaced in minutes by a single operator, significantly reducing downtime.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure allows for substantial retention of solids before blinding.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters to fit various flow rate requirements.
Technical Specifications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters lies in their wide range of configurations. Below are the standard specifications available through Purecowater.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Cell Count | Standard stacks: 5 to 16 cells (customizable up to 18) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (DOE/SOE) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Viton, Buna-N, Silicone |
| Filtration Type | Depth Filtration (Adsorption & Mechanical Sieving) |
Media Configurations & Series
Selecting the correct media is critical for optimizing your filtration process. ErtelAlsop manufactures several proprietary media blends used in these cartridges, all of which are available via Purecowater.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the most common configuration, utilizing Micro-Media®. This media incorporates cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and perlite. It creates a rigid, porous structure that provides excellent zeta potential (electrokinetic attraction) to capture sub-micron particles and haze.
- Best For: General filtration, haze removal, botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals.
2. Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose)
The Disc-Pak® uses AlphaMedia®, which is 100% cellulose and free from inorganic aids like DE or Perlite. This is essential for applications where mineral leaching is a concern.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, distilled spirits, and applications requiring low extractables.
3. Bio-Pak® and AquaKv-Pak®
Designed for high-purity and biological applications, often used in pharmaceutical grades where low endotoxin and high validation standards are required.
Comparison of End-Cap Designs
Proper sealing is vital to preventing bypass. ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges generally come in two primary end-cap styles:
| Flat Gasket | Traditional design that sits flat against the housing base. Simple and effective for many industrial housings. |
| Double O-Ring | Provides a positive plug-in seal (often 222 or 226 style equivalent) particularly suited for sanitary housings where bypass prevention is critical. |
Applications by Industry
Due to their enclosed nature and high efficiency, these filters are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries.
- Botanical Extracts: Excellent for removing waxes and lipids (winterization) using Zeta-Pak® modules due to the high adsorption capacity of the DE media. [clearsolutionscorp.com]
- Food & Beverage: Polishing syrups, distilled spirits, wines, and soft drinks to remove haze and ensure shelf stability.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, pre-filtration for membrane protection, and API processing.
- Chemicals & Utilities: Filtration of dielectric oils, amine solutions, and process water.
- Cosmetics: Clarifying perfumes and lotions without altering the scent profile (Disc-Pak® is often preferred here).
Compatible Housings
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into Lenticular Filter Housings. These housings are available in:
- Vertical Orientation: Standard industrial footprint.
- Horizontal Orientation: Known as the “Lock and Load” system, this orientation allows for safer, single-operator loading at waist height, eliminating the need for overhead hoists.
Get a Quote or Technical Assistance
Whether you are retrofitting an old plate and frame press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater can assist with sizing, media selection, and housing configuration.