Advanced Depth Filtration for Critical Applications
When it comes to solid and liquid filtration, precision and reliability are non-negotiable. Purecowater is proud to supply ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premium solution designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters while enhancing operational efficiency. Whether you are dealing with botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, or industrial process fluids, these lenticular depth filter modules offer a totally enclosed, leak-free, and scalable filtration system.
This guide explores the engineering behind Pak® cartridges, the specific media options available (such as Zeta-Pak® and Disc-Pak®), and why they are the preferred choice for industries requiring high solids loading and superior clarity.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® is a depth filter cartridge, often referred to as a “module.” Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, these depth filters utilize a tortuous path through a complex matrix of fibers to capture particles throughout the entire media thickness. This design allows for significantly higher solids loading capacity and ultrafine particle retention.
The “Lenticular” design consists of filter cells stacked on a central core. Each cell is made of two discs of filter media sealed at the edges, resembling a double convex lens. This innovative stacking method provides a massive surface area in a compact footprint, available in standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
While plate and frame filters have been an industry standard for decades, they often suffer from leakage, labor-intensive change-outs, and open-air exposure. The Lenticular Pak® system solves these issues:
- Zero Leakage: The totally enclosed housing design prevents product loss and messy drips.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be swapped in minutes rather than hours, reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Over 300 precision media formulas are available, scaling easily from lab to full production.
- Operator Safety: Minimizes exposure to fluids and protects the product from atmospheric contamination.
Product Configurations: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
Choosing the right media is critical for optimal filtration. ErtelAlsop offers several distinct media formulations within the Pak® family.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the most versatile option, incorporating cellulose fibers and filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite. It features a positive Zeta potential, which electrokinetically attracts negatively charged particles such as bacteria and haze colloids.
- Best For: Haze removal, microbial reduction, botanical extracts (wax/lipid removal), and general clarification.
- Micron Ratings: 0.25 to 15 microns.
2. Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia™, a 100% cellulose formulation free from mineral filter aids like DE. This is crucial for applications where mineral leaching is a concern or where active ingredients must be preserved.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and pharmaceutical applications sensitive to adsorption.
- Features: High purity, no inorganic extractables.
Technical Specifications
Below is a quick reference guide to the standard specifications for ErtelAlsop Lenticular Cartridges supplied by Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention (Nominal) | 0.25 µm – 15 µm (Common: 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 µm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Code 3, Code 8 styles) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Number of Cells (Stack Size) | Typically 5 to 16 cells per module |
| Max Operating Temperature | ~180°F (82°C) (Dependent on gasket/media selection) |
Primary Applications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries due to their ability to handle variable retention requirements.
| Industry | Application Case |
|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | Clarification of syrups, distilled spirits, and wine; removal of haze and yeast. |
| Botanical Extraction | Using the Zeta-Pak® to remove waxes, lipids, and fine particulates from ethanol or CO2 extracts. |
| Pharmaceuticals | Pre-filtration for membrane protection, API purification, and reduction of endotoxins. |
| Industrial & Chemical | Filtering lubricating oils, coolants, inks, and paints. |
| Cosmetics | Polishing perfumes and lotions to ensure crystal clarity and shelf stability. |
Housing Compatibility
These cartridges are designed to fit into standard Lenticular Filter Housings. Purecowater can assist in sourcing both vertical and horizontal housings. The horizontal housing orientation is particularly popular for larger systems as it allows for significantly easier loading and unloading (“Lock and Load” design) at waist height, reducing injury risk and labor costs.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Purecowater is your trusted distributor/OEM for high-performance filtration technologies, including ErtelAlsop, Veolia, WTS, and Fil-trek. If you need assistance selecting the correct micron rating, media type, or housing configuration for your specific process, our engineering team is ready to help.
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