High-Efficiency Depth Filtration for Industrial Applications
For industries utilizing depth filtration, the transition from traditional plate and frame presses to enclosed lenticular modules represents a significant upgrade in process efficiency, cleanliness, and ease of operation. The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter series offers a versatile, high-retention solution designed to handle complex filtration challenges across pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and chemical sectors.
At Purecowater, we understand that selecting the right filtration media is critical for product quality. This guide details the operational benefits, specifications, and applications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® Depth Filter Cartridges.
What Are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, also known as lenticular modules, act as a totally enclosed alternative to standard plate and frame filters. The innovation lies in the design: a “Pak” consists of stacked filter cells (discs) assembled into a pre-compressed cartridge unit.
Each cell is comprised of a pair of depth filter sheets—such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®—sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. This construction creates a double convex lens shape (hence the term “lenticular”).
The result is a sealed, leak-free filtration system that utilizes the same high-quality media found in filter presses but in a format that vastly reduces change-out times and labor costs. [ertelalsop.com]
Key Features and Benefits
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers significantly increases the capacity to hold contaminants compared to surface filters.
- Scalability: Modules are available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, allowing for scalable flow rates and throughputs.
- Enclosed System: Unlike open filter presses, lenticular housings are fully enclosed, preventing evaporation, leakage, and exposure to the atmosphere—crucial for volatile or sanitary applications.
- Versatile Media Options: Available in various media grades, including those containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE) for haze removal or 100% cellulose for applications where mineral migration is a concern.
Product Specifications
The flexibility of the Pak® system allows it to fit virtually any standard lenticular housing. Below are the standard specifications for these modules.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 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 | Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard) |
Available Media Configurations
Choosing the correct media composition is essential for optimal filtration performance. The ErtelAlsop line includes specialized series for specific needs:
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the most common configuration, utilizing Micro-Media® containing Diatomaceous Earth (DE). It provides excellent zeta potential for retaining ultra-fine particles and haze. This series is ideal for botanical extracts, oils, and general clarification. [clearsolutionscorp.com]
2. Disc-Pak® (Pure Cellulose)
For applications where mineral extractables (like DE or Perlite) are prohibited, the Disc-Pak® uses 100% cellulose AlphaMedia®. This is widely used in pharmaceutical applications, dielectric oils, and cosmetic fragrances where preserving the integrity of active ingredients is paramount. [clearsolutionscorp.com]
3. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
This series incorporates powered activated carbon immobilized within the depth filter matrix. It is used for color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without the mess of handling bulk carbon powder.
Common Applications
The robust construction of ErtelAlsop Pak® filters makes them suitable for a wide range of industries:
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of distilled spirits, syrups, wines, and soft drinks.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, API processing, and blood plasma fractionation.
- Cosmetics: Polishing of perfumes and fragrances.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids in ethanol extraction processes (Winterization).
- Chemical & Utility: Filtration of dielectric oils, transformer oils, and chemical reagents.
Housing Options
These cartridges function within specialized Lenticular Filter Housings, available in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The Horizontal “Lock and Load” housing is particularly popular for its ergonomic design, allowing operators to slide cartridges in and out at waist height rather than lifting them vertically. [ertelalsop.com]
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you require the high-efficiency retention of the Zeta-Pak® or the purity of the Disc-Pak®, Purecowater can assist in dimensioning and supplying the correct depth filtration system for your facility. We specialize in solving solid and liquid filtration problems with top-tier OEM equipment.
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