Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
At Purecowater, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier filtration solutions for complex industrial challenges. As a distributor and OEM for leading brands like Veolia and WTS, we are excited to feature the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. These depth filter cartridges represent the evolution of filtration technology, offering a user-friendly, enclosed alternative to traditional plate and frame filter presses.
Whether you are dealing with pharmaceuticals, botanical extracts, or food and beverage processing, the Pak® Lenticular series offers high solids loading capacity and precision particle retention. This guide covers the specifications, benefits, and applications of these versatile filter modules.
What are Lenticular Filter Cartridges?
The Lenticular Pak® format (often called a module or stack) was originally invented by Alsop Engineering. It consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell is essentially a pair of depth filter sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with their edges sealed to prevent bypassing.
The result is a cartridge that looks like a stack of double convex lenses—hence the name “lenticular.” This design allows existing processes using flat filter sheets to be migrated to a totally enclosed housing system to prevent leakage and contamination.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the atmosphere, ideal for sanitary applications.
- Rapid Changeout: Modules can be swapped in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying numbers of cells (5 to 18) to match flow rate requirements.
- High Solids Capacity: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the matrix, not just on the surface.
Technical Specifications and Data
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are highly customizable. Below is a breakdown of the standard configurations and specifications available through Purecowater.
Performance Capabilities
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15.0 µm (varies by media grade) |
| Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) & 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Cell Counts | Standard counts range from 5 to 16+ cells per module. |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Core Material | Polypropylene or Stainless Steel |
End Cap Configurations
Choosing the right end cap is critical for ensuring a secure seal within the housing.
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Gasket | Standard flat seal similar to DOE cartridges. | General industrial applications. |
| Double O-Ring | Plug-in style with two O-rings for positive sealing. | Pharmaceutical, Sanitary, and Critical Liquid applications. |
Common Applications
The versatility of the ErtelAlsop Pak® allows it to be used across a wide spectrum of industries. Purecowater can help engineer the perfect solution for:
- Botanical Extracts: Exceptional for removing waxes and lipids in CBD/Cannabis oil processing (winterization) using cellulose media with Diatomaceous Earth (DE).
- Pharmaceuticals: Used for clarifying protein solutions, removal of carbon fines, and pre-filtration for sterile membrane protection.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, syrups, and wine clarification.
- Chemical Processing: Polishing of organic solvents, oils, and specialty chemicals.
- Cosmetics: Purification of fragrances, essential oils, and gels.
Filter Media Options
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media formulations to target specific contaminants:
- MicroMedia® (Cellulose + DE/Perlite): The industry workhorse. Combines electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential) with mechanical straining for high-efficiency sub-micron retention.
- AlphaMedia® (100% Cellulose): Ideal for applications where inorganic filter aids (like DE) are not permitted. Low extractables.
- MicroClear® (Activated Carbon): Immobilized carbon sheets used for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of bulk carbon powder.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
At Purecowater, we understand that every stream is unique. Whether you need to retrofit an existing housing with high-performance ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges or require a complete new skid, our team is ready to assist.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?