Complete Guide to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters

Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters

In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and reliability are paramount. Purecowater is proud to distribute the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter, a premier solution for depth filtration applications. Originally invented by Alsop Engineering in the 1940s, the lenticular cartridge format has evolved into a standard for industries requiring high solids loading capacity and superior particle retention [ertelalsop.com].

This guide explores the features, specifications, and advantages of using Pak® Lenticular Filters for your processing needs. whether you are in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, or chemical processing.

What is a Lenticular Filter?

The Pak® Lenticular Filter (often referred to as a module or cartridge) is a depth filtration unit designed to replace traditional plate and frame filter presses. It consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is constructed from a pair of depth filter media sheets—such as Micro-Media® or Alpha-Media®—sealed at the edges using a patented process [ertelalsop.com].

This design creates a rigid, totally enclosed system that functions like a stack of double convex lenses. The result is a filter that provides the high surface area and retention capabilities of a filter press but in a sealed, user-friendly cartridge format that prevents leakage and simplifies change-outs.

Key Features and Benefits

Switching to or utilizing ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges offers distinct operational advantages:

• Enclosed System: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are sealed, ensuring zero external leakage and maintaining a sanitary environment.
• High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix captures particles throughout its thickness, not just on the surface, allowing for significant contaminant retention.
• Scalability: Available in various cell counts (typically 5 to 18 cells) and diameters, allowing users to scale up from pilot to production easily.
• Versatile Configurations: Modules come in standard Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring end configurations to fit most housing types [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].

Technical Specifications

The ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are highly customizable to suit specific process requirements. Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications available.

Feature	Specification Details
Diameter Options	12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm)
Micron Ratings	0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) [ertelalsop.com]
End Configurations	Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring
Media Types	Processing options include: Micro-Media®: Cellulose/Perlite/DE blend with high zeta potential [store.clearsolutionscorp.com]. Alpha-Media®: Cellulose-based for general clarification. MicroClear®: Carbon-impregnated for adsorption.
Gasket Materials	EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N (EPDM is standard for many solvent types)
Core Material	Polypropylene

Media Technology

The performance of the Pak® cartridge is driven by the media significantly. For example, the Zeta-Pak® series utilizes Micro-Media, which typically contains Diatomaceous Earth (DE). This creates a porous cake that effectively sieves out particulate matter while maintaining high flow rates [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].

For applications involving botanical extracts, the polypropylene supports and EPDM gaskets ensure compatibility with various solvents, while the DE filter aid efficiently removes waxes and lipids.

Common Applications

Due to their versatility and enclosed design, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries:

• Food & Beverage: Clarification of syrups, juices, and edible oils.
• Distilled Spirits & Wine: Particulate removal and haze reduction without affecting flavor profiles.
• Pharmaceuticals (Life Sciences): API filtration and solvent clarification.
• Botanical Extracts: Removal of lipids, waxes, and fine particulates in extraction processes [store.clearsolutionscorp.com].
• Cosmetics: Purification of oils and fragrances.

Why Choose Purecowater?

As a distributor and OEM partner for leading brands like Veolia and Engineered Solutions, Purecowater understands the complexities of industrial filtration. We can help you select the precise micron rating, media type, and housing configuration ensuring your process runs at peak efficiency.