Overview of ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring high-efficiency depth filtration with the convenience of a cartridge system, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the ideal solution. Combining the superior retention capabilities of depth filter media with the ease of use of a totally enclosed system, these modules are designed to replace traditional plate and frame filter presses in pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and chemical applications.
Packet (Pak®) depth filter cartridges, often referred to as lenticular modules, are assembled from multiple stacked filter cells. Each cell contains high-performance depth filter media—such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®—sealed via a patented polypropylene process. The result is a robust, leak-free stack that resembles double convex lenses, optimizing surface area and flow rates within a compact footprint.
Why Upgrade to Lenticular Filtration?
Historically, the plate and frame filter press was the standard for depth filtration. While effective, it often presents challenges regarding open-air exposure, leakage (drip losses), and labor-intensive change-outs. ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges solve these issues by incorporating the exact same high-quality media found in sheets into a closed, sealed module.
- Totally Enclosed System: Eliminates exposure to the environment, crucial for sanitary and hazardous applications.
- Reduced Labor: Change-outs take minutes rather than hours compared to stripping and dressing a filter press.
- Zero Leakage: Prevent product loss and maintain a cleaner production floor.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match batch sizes.
Technical Specifications
The versatility of the Pak® cartridge line lies in its wide range of configurations. Whether you require fine particulate removal, haze reduction, or activated carbon treatment, there is a specification to meet the process requirement.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Filter Media Options | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Plug-in) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel optional on some models |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
| Zeta Potential | Positive charge options (Zeta-Pak®) for enhanced removal of negatively charged contaminants like endotoxins |
Filter Media Technologies
ErtelAlsop leverages distinct media formulations to target specific filtration challenges:
1. MicroMedia® Series (Cellulose & Filter Aid)
High-performance media incorporating diatomaceous earth or perlite.
Best for: Haze removal, high solids loading, and polishing filtration.
2. AlphaMedia® Series (Pure Cellulose)
Contains no inorganic filter aids.
Best for: Applications sensitive to extractables or where ion release must be minimized.
3. MicroClear® Series (Activated Carbon)
Impregnated with activated carbon.
Best for: Decolorization, odor removal, and correcting flavor profiles without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Common Applications
The totally enclosed design makes these filters suitable for highly regulated and industrial environments alike.
| Industry | Typical Usage |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | API filtration, large volume parenthetereals (LVP), serum fractionation, and post-fermentation clarification. |
| Distilled Spirits | Chill haze removal, charcoal treatment (vodka/whiskey), and final polishing before bottling. |
| Food & Beverage | Sugar syrup clarification, edible oil polishing, and soft drink concentrate filtration. |
| Cosmetics | Perfume clarification, essential oil filtration, and liquid soap processing. |
| Botanical Extracts | Wax and lipid removal (winterization) using DE-impregnated media. |
| Utilities | Insulating oil and transformer oil reconditioning. |
Housing Configurations
To complement the Pak® cartridges, a variety of housing styles are available to suit the physical space and sanitary requirements of the facility.
- Sanitary Vertical Housings: 316L Stainless Steel with highpolish finish, no internal threads, and sanitary tri-clamp fittings. Ideal for pharma and food applications.
- Industrial Vertical Housings: a robust, cost-effective design for general chemical and utility filtration.
- Horizontal Housings: Allows for waist-level loading and unloading (“Lock and Load” system), significantly improving operator ergonomics and safety for larger systems.
Contact Purecowater for Sizing and Quotes
Choosing the correct media grade and housing configuration is critical for maximizing throughput and minimizing consumable costs. As a distributor for top-tier filtration OEMs, Purecowater provides expert guidance on integrating ErtelAlsop solutions into your process.
Need help selecting the right lenticular stack for your application?