Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and reliability are paramount. Purecowater is proud to distribute ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premier solution for depth filtration applications. These depth filter cartridges—often referred to as modules—are designed to provide high-performance particle retention in a totally enclosed, easy-to-handle format.
The Pak® Lenticular design was originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s and has since evolved into a standard for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage. Unlike traditional plate and frame filters, which can be open to the environment and labor-intensive, Lenticular Pak® cartridges offer a sealed, hygienic system that minimizes product loss and down time.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The term “lenticular” refers to the shape of the filter cells. A Pak® cartridge is constructed from stacked lenticular cells, resembling a stack of double convex lenses. Each cell consists of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with edges sealed by a patented polypropylene process.
This design creates a complex matrix of fibers and particles that traps solids not just on the surface, but throughout the depth of the media. This results in:
- High Solids Loading Capacity: Capable of handling fluids with heavy particulate loads.
- Efficient Haze Removal: Excellent for polishing liquids to a clear state.
- Operator Safety: The enclosed housing reduces exposure to fluids and fumes.
Product Configurations and Media Types
ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges are versatile and can be tailored to specific process needs. They are manufactured in standard 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters. Depending on the required surface area and flow rate, modules can include anywhere from 5 to 18 stacked cells.
Common Media Series
Choosing the right media is critical for optimizing filtration. Below is a breakdown of the primary media types available:
| Media Type | Composition | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose & Diatomaceous Earth (DE) | General clarification, haze removal, botanical extracts, bio-reduction. High zeta potential for fine particle capture. |
| Disc-Pak® | 100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia™) | Applications requiring no mineral migration (e.g., dielectric oils, syrups, perfumes). |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Color removal, odor removal, and decolorization without loose carbon dust. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Media | Critical biological applications and strict purity requirements. |
Technical Specifications
Integrators and engineers require precise specifications to fit these modules into existing housings. The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is compatible with most standard lenticular housings on the market.
Key Data Points
- Micron Ratings: Nominal retention ranges from 0.25 to 15 microns.
- End Cap Configurations: Available in Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring ensuring a secure seal within the housing.
- Core Material: Polypropylene (standard) or Stainless Steel (optional for high-temperature applications).
- Diameters: 12″ and 16″.
- Temperature & Pressure: Designed to withstand rigorous industrial processing conditions.
Applications and Industries
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filters makes them suitable for a wide array of markets. ErtelAlsop highlights their effectiveness in the following sectors:
- Food & Beverage: Polishing wines, distilled spirits, syrups, and flavorings.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, API processing, and sterile pre-filtration.
- Cosmetics: Filtration of perfumes, lotions, and oils for clarity and texture.
- Chemical & Utility: Reconditioning of insulating oil (transformer oil) and filtration of process chemicals.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids using DE-impregnated media source.
Housing Compatibility: The “Lock and Load” System
While the cartridges themselves are the heart of the filtration process, the housing dictates the ease of operation. ErtelAlsop offers both vertical and horizontal filter housings. The Horizontal Filter Housing is particularly notable for its “Lock and Load” system, which utilizes Teflon guides to allow a single operator to easily slide fully loaded cartridges in and out of the vessel, significantly reducing change-out times compared to vertical lifting.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Enclosed System | Eliminates leakage and exposure associated with plate and frame filters. |
| Scalability | Easily scale up from lab to production using consistent media grades. |
| Quick Change-Out | Modules can be replaced in minutes, increasing production uptime. |
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Pak Filters?
For facilities looking to upgrade from messy press filters or insufficient bag filters, the Lenticular Pak represents a modern, efficient standard. With over 300 precision dies available, ErtelAlsop ensures that there is a configuration to meet virtually any specific throughput or retention requirement.
When dealing with high-value liquids, the integrity of the filtration media is non-negotiable. The patented edge-sealing process of the Pak® cartridges ensures that no bypass occurs, guaranteeing that 100% of your liquid passes through the depth media for consistent quality.
Contact Purecowater Today
Are you looking to improve your filtration process with ErtelAlsop Lenticular technology? Purecowater is your trusted partner for sourcing and integrating these advanced filtration solutions. We handle everything from solid & liquid filtration problems to complete system design.