Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
For industries requiring superior clarity and high solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a robust alternative to traditional plate and frame filters, these lenticular cartridges (also known as modules) offer a totally enclosed, leak-free design that simplifies operation while maximizing throughput.
At Purecowater, we understand the critical nature of liquid filtration in processing. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, or distilled spirits, the Pak® system is engineered to deliver consistent, high-efficiency particle retention ranging from 0.25 to 15 microns.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
The “Pak” concept was originally invented to improve upon the limitations of flat sheet filtration. A Pak® cartridge consists of stacked lenticular cells—pairs of depth filter media sheets sealed at the edges using a patented process. These cells are stacked to form a module that resembles a series of double convex lenses.
This design allows for a high surface area within a compact footprint, enabling operators to process large volumes of liquid with a significantly reduced risk of product loss or external contamination.
Key Advantage: Unlike open plate and frame presses, the Lenticular Pak® operates inside a sealed housing. This eliminates leakage, ensures a sanitary environment, and allows for rapid changeouts in minutes rather than hours.
Technical Specifications & Capabilities
ErtelAlsop cartridges are versatile, available in various configurations to fit almost any filter housing on the market. Below are the core specifications for the Pak® series.
| Nominal Retention | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Module Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Standard Media Types | MicroMedia® (Cellulose/Perlite/DE) AlphaMedia® (Pure Cellulose) MicroClear® (Activated Carbon) |
| Seal Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel optional |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Silicone, Viton, Teflon |
Available Media Technologies
The performance of the Pak® cartridge is driven by the media composed within it. ErtelAlsop offers distinct media formulations to target specific pollutants and applications:
- Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®): The workhorse of the industry. It combines cellulose with filter aids (like Diatomaceous Earth) and possesses a positive Zeta potential, making it highly effective at removing ultrafine particles, haze, and negatively charged contaminants.
- AlphaMedia®: A pure cellulose media containing no inorganic filter aids. Ideal for applications where low extractables are required.
- MicroClear®: Impregnated with activated carbon, this media is perfect for color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without the mess of loose bulk carbon.
Primary Applications
Due to their enclosed design and scalability, Pak® Lenticular Filters are widely utilized across high-purity industries:
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of active ingredients and sterile pre-filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, wine polishing, and syrup clarification.
- Botanical Extracts: Efficient removal of waxes and lipids in ethanol extraction processes.
- Chemicals: Removal of catalysts and particulate from process fluids.
Upgrade Your Filtration Process
If you are currently using messy plate and frame filters or inefficient bag filters, switching to the ErtelAlsop Pak® system can reduce downtime and improve product yield. The “Lock and Load” capability of lenticular housings allows for single-operator changeouts, drastically lowering labor costs.
Purecowater is dedicated to solving your toughest solid and liquid filtration challenges. To discuss sizing, media selection, or pricing for ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, reach out to our engineering team today.