Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Technology
For industries requiring high-purity liquids, ErtelAlsop Pak Lenticular Filters offer a superior alternative to traditional flat sheet filtration. Purecowater supplies these advanced filter modules, which combine the precision of depth filtration with the convenience of a closed, easy-to-use cartridge system. Designed to replace messy plate and frame filter presses, the Pak® system ensures minimal product loss, zero leakage, and rapid change-outs.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or industrial chemicals, the lenticular design provides scalable and efficient solids removal. Contact Us to discuss how Purecowater can implement these solutions for your facility.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Cartridge?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge is a depth filter module constructed from multiple stacked filter cells. Each cell consists of two sheets of depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed together at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. These cells are stacked on a central core, creating a unit that resembles a series of double convex lenses—hence the term “lenticular.”
This design allows the fluid to flow from the outside of the cartridge, through the media, and into the central core, effectively trapping contaminants within the thick matrix of the filter sheet. The result is a high solid loading capacity and exceptional particle retention range.
Key Features and Benefits
Operators prefer Lenticular Pak® Cartridges for their ability to streamline the filtration process while maintaining high throughput. Key advantages include:
- User-Friendly Design: The totally enclosed system eliminates the drips, leaks, and exposure associated with plate and frame filters.
- Zeta Potential: Many media options, such as the Zeta-Pak®, possess a positive electrokinetic charge (Zeta Potential) that attracts and holds negatively charged particles (like haze or bacteria) smaller than the mechanical pore size.
- Scalability: Modules are available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (up to 16 cells), making it easy to scale from pilot to production.
- Chemical Compatibility: Available with Polypropylene cores and EPDM gaskets to suit a wide range of solvents and temperatures.
Technical Specifications
The flexibility of the ErtelAlsop Pak system lies in its configurable options. Below are the standard specifications for these modules.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Available Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25, 0.45, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Code 222 style) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Material | EPDM (Standard) |
| Filter Media Types | MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, MicroClear® (Carbon), Zeta-Pak® |
Media Formulations
Choosing the correct media is critical for optimizing filtration performance. ErtelAlsop offers several formulations to target specific contaminants:
- Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®): The industry workhorse. Composed of cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and perlite. It features a strong positive Zeta Potential for haze removal and ultra-fine particle retention. [clearsolutionscorp.com]
- AlphaMedia®: A pure cellulose option containing no inorganic filter aids. Ideal for applications where extractables or mineral content are a concern.
- MicroClear®: Immobilized activated carbon media. This eliminates the need for handling loose carbon powder, making decolorization and odor removal much cleaner and safer.
- Bio-Pak®: Pharmaceutical-grade media designed for critical bio-reduction applications.
Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular system makes it suitable for diverse industries:
- Botanical Extracts: Efficient removal of waxes and lipids using DE-impregnated media.
- Distilled Spirits & Wine: Chill haze removal and polishing without affecting flavor profiles.
- Chemicals & Solvents: Clarification of silicones, inks, and paints.
- Pharmaceuticals: API filtration and large volume parenterals (LVP).
- Cosmetics: Purification of perfumes, lotions, and oils.
Housing Systems: Vertical and Horizontal
To complement the Pak® cartridges, housings are available in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The Horizontal Filter Housing is particularly notable for its ergonomic designs.
Horizontal “Lock and Load” System: This design allows a single operator to load and unload cartridges easily without overhead hoists. It simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime significantly compared to vertical housings that require lifting heavy domes. [ertelalsop.com]
Need help selecting the right Pak® configuration for your process? Purecowater is here to assist with sizing, compatibility checks, and media selection.
References: [ertelalsop.com], [store.ertelalsop.com]