Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring rigorous liquid filtration standards, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a significant evolution in depth filtration technology. As a distributor/OEM for premium filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these high-performance modules to tackle complex solid and liquid separation challenges. By combining the filtration efficiency of traditional plate and frame systems with the convenience of a totally enclosed cartridge design, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters offer a versatile solution for pharmaceutical, chemical, and food and beverage applications.
What is a Lenticular Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge—often referred to as a lenticular module—is a pre-assembled unit comprised of stacked depth filter cells. Each cell consists of a pair of depth filter sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process. This assembly resembles a stack of double convex lenses (“lenticular”), optimized to maximize surface area within a compact footprint.
Unlike surface filters that only trap particles on the exterior, these depth filters capture contaminants throughout the tortuous path of the media matrix. This structure allows for high solids loading capacity and the retention of ultra-fine particles, including haze and lipids.
Key Features and Benefits
The inherent design of the Pak® Lenticular Filter addresses many of the operational drawbacks associated with traditional filtration methods.
- Totally Enclosed System: The sealed housing design prevents leakage and loss of valuable liquid, ensuring a cleaner, safer operating environment.
- Ease of Use: Cartridges are easy to load and unload, significantly reducing change-out times and labor costs compared to plate and frame presses.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing for precise sizing based on flow rate and batch volume.
- High Solids Retention: The depth media matrix provides exceptional holding capacity for particulate matter.
- Versatile Media Options: Modules can be manufactured with various grades of media, including pharmaceutical-grade, activated carbon (MicroClear®), and cellulose-based options.
Product Series Overview
ErtelAlsop offers distinct series within the Pak® family to suit specific chemical capabilities and industry requirements.
Zeta-Pak® Series
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the lineup. It incorporates wet-strength resins and offers a positive Zeta potential, which attracts negatively charged contaminants like bacteria and endotoxins. It is ideal for pharmaceutical and biological applications.
Disc-Pak® Series
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia™, a 100% cellulose composition. It is designed for applications where synthetic resins or binders are not desired, such as dielectric oils, organic solvents, and certain food products.
Technical Specifications
Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications for the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges available through Purecowater.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 stacked cells per module |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | Range from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222, 226 styles available) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Stainless Steel options for high temp) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Maximum Operating Temp | Dependent on media and gasket selection (Standard Polypro: ~180°F) |
Common Applications
Due to their enclosed design and wide range of media compatibilities, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are utilized across diverse sectors:
- Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals: Removal of precipitates, activated carbon treatment, and API filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for distilled spirits, syrups, soft drinks, and wines.
- Botanical Extracts: Efficient removal of waxes and lipids from extracts; compatible with ethanol and other solvents.
- Chemicals: Filtration of bulk chemicals, resins, and inks.
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of standard lenticular housings. They are compatible with:
- Vertical Housings: Standard industrial and sanitary designs.
- Horizontal Housings: Utilizing the “Lock and Load” system for easy operator access and low overhead clearance requirements.
Whether you are retrofitting an existing system or engineering a new process line, Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct lenticular module and housing combination for your specific fluid stream.
For pricing, detailed sizing, or to discuss your specific depth filtration needs, please reach out to our team.
Sources:
ertelalsop.com
clearsolutionscorp.com
ertelalsop.com (Housings)