Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring high-efficiency depth filtration without the mess and labor intensity of traditional plate and frame presses, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter offers a superior solution. As a leading distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these versatile modules to help tackle complex solid and liquid filtration problems.
The Pak® depth filter cartridges—also known as lenticular filter modules—are designed to provide high solids loading capacity and precise particle retention in a totally enclosed system. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, or industrial chemicals, this guide details why ErtelAlsop’s technology is the industry standard for depth filtration.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The innovation behind the Pak® cartridge lies in its construction. Unlike standard pleated cartridges, a lenticular module is assembled from varying numbers of filter cells stacked vertically. Each cell consists of two depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process [ertelalsop.com].
This construction creates a stack of double convex lenses (“lenticular”), providing a massive surface area within a compact footprint. Fluid flows from the outside of the module, through the depth media, and into the hollow central core. This design retains particles within the complex matrix of fibers, ensuring high throughput and superior filtrate clarity.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Prevents leakage and limits exposure to the product, crucial for hazardous or sanitary applications.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press.
- Scalability: Existing plate and frame specifications can be easily translated to the lenticular format using the same media grades.
- Compatibility: Available with flat gasket or double O-ring end caps to fit most standard housings.
Media Configurations and Options
ErtelAlsop offers a variety of media compositions to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals.
| Media Series | Composition | Ideal Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose with Filter Aids (DE/Perlite) & Resin | Pharmaceuticals, Bio-Tech, General Industrial. Known for high zeta potential and efficiency [clearsolutionscorp.com]. |
| Disc-Pak® | 100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia) | Dielectric oils, perfumes, beverages where no DE is allowed. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade | Critical pharmaceutical and biological applications. |
| MicroClear® | Activated Carbon Impregnated | Color, odor, and flavor correction; removal of impurities. |
Technical Specifications
Purecowater supplies Pak® cartridges in configurations compatible with virtually any manufacturer’s housing. Below are the standard specifications available [ertelalsop.com].
- Module Diameters: 12 inch (30.5 cm) and 16 inch (40.6 cm)
- Number of Cells: Typically 5 to 18 cells per module
- Micron Ratings: 0.25 to 15 microns (Nominal)
- Core Material: Polypropylene (Standard)
- Gasket Material: EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone (Iso-Plast available)
- End Cap Styles: Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (222, 226)
Housing Compatibility
These modules are designed for use in both vertical and horizontal housings. ErtelAlsop’s horizontal housings feature a “Lock and Load” system that utilizes Teflon guides for single-operator loading, significantly improving safety and reducing downtime [ertelalsop.com].
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® Lenticular Filter makes it a staple in various sectors:
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in distilled spirits, syrups, and wine.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes and lipids using DE-impregnated media (Zeta-Pak).
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes and essential oils.
- Utilities & Power: Purification of transformer oils and dielectric fluids.
- Life Sciences: Cell harvesting and clarification of protein solutions.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Whether you need to replace existing modules or engineer a new lenticular filtration skid, Purecowater works directly with manufacturers like Veolia and ErtelAlsop to provide the right solution. Enhance your process efficiency and product quality today.
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