Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring rigorous depth filtration with ease of operation, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in liquid processing. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular cartridges to tackle complex solid and liquid filtration challenges.
The “Pak” format, invented by Alsop Engineering, combines the superior retaining capabilities of depth filter sheets with the totally enclosed, leak-free design of a cartridge system. This hybrid approach makes it an ideal alternative to traditional plate and frame filters, offering faster change-outs and reduced product loss.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
A Lenticular filter module consists of stacked filter cells (Lenticules). Each cell is comprised of two discs of depth filter media, sealed around the edges using a patented polypropylene process. These cells are stacked on a central core and compressed to form a single, robust cartridge.
The assembled unit resembles a stack of double convex lenses, creating a high surface area within a compact footprint. This design allows for high solids loading capacity and efficient removal of particulates ranging from 0.25 to 15 microns.
Key Features and Benefits
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are engineered for versatility and performance. Key advantages include:
- Leak-Free Design: Unlike plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are totally enclosed, preventing leakage and effectively handling hazardous or valuable fluids.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing systems to scale from lab to production.
- Multiple Media Options: Modules can be manufactured using different media grades, including Pharmaceutical Grade, Water Removal, and Activated Carbon.
- Robust Construction: The polypropylene core and edge seals ensure chemical compatibility and structural integrity under pressure.
Media Configurations
Selecting the right media is crucial for optimizing filtration performance. The Pak® series offers several distinct media formulations:
| Media Series | Composition | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose & Diatomaceous Earth (DE) | High-efficiency haze removal, bio-burden reduction, and removal of fine particulates. The workhorse of the industry. |
| AlphaMedia™ | 100% Cellulose | Ideal for applications where DE is not permitted. Used for dielectric oils, cosmetics, and beverages. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Adsorptive filtration for color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without the mess of bulk carbon. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Media | Designed for critical applications in life sciences and biopharma, often featuring double O-ring connections for maximum security. |
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the general specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Depth Filtration Module |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Dimensions | 12-inch (1.8 – 2.8 m² area approx) or 16-inch Diameter |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks: 5, 9, 12, 16, or 18 cells |
| Max Operating Temperature | Dependent on media and gasket selection (typically up to 180°F for standard polypropylene) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone (Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
Common Applications
Due to their high dirt-holding capacity and ability to handle viscous fluids, these filters are deployed across various industries:
- Food & Beverage: Filtration of syrups, distilled spirits, wines, and vinegar.
- Pharmaceuticals: Large volume parenterals (LVP), active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), and broth clarification.
- Chemicals: Resin filtration, solvent clarification, and ink filtration.
- Cosmetics: Perfumes, lotions, and botanical extracts.
- Energy: Dielectric oils and turbine lubricating oils (Disc-Pak™).
Integration with Purecowater Solutions
Purecowater acts as a specialized distributor/OEM for high-quality filtration components. Whether you are replacing existing modules or engineering a new filtration skid, we can assist in sizing the correct number of lenticular modules and selecting the appropriate housing.
The ErtelAlsop Pak® is designed to fit widely available lenticular housings, allowing for easy retrofitting into current process lines.
Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Choosing between Zeta-Pak® and AlphaMedia™? Unsure about the micron rating required for your specific fluid? Our team of engineers helps tackle solid and liquid filtration problems efficiently.
Contact Us today to discuss your application or request a quote.
References: ertelalsop.com, clearsolutionscorp.com