Advanced Depth Filtration for Industrial Applications
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and reliability are paramount. The ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter modules represent a premium solution for depth filtration, combining the high solids-loading capacity of traditional plate and frame filters with the convenience and hygiene of an enclosed cartridge system. Distributed by Purecowater, these filters are designed to tackle complex solid/liquid separation challenges across pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and chemical industries.
What are Lenticular Filters?
Lenticular filters, often referred to as “cake” or “depth” modules, consist of depth filter sheets stacked in a vertical orientation. The ErtelAlsop Pak® design utilizes a patented edge-sealing process to position these sheets into a series of stacked, double-convex lenses (hence “lenticular”).
Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, these depth filters entrap particles throughout the tortuous path of the media matrix. This design provides exceptionally high particle retention and solids loading capabilities, making them ideal for clarifying liquids with haze or moderate particulate loads.
Key Benefits of ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
For facility operators accustomed to the labor-intensive nature of traditional plate and frame presses, the Pak® Lenticular system offers a significant upgrade in usability and containment.
- Enclosed System: The sealed housing design eliminates the edge leakage often associated with filter presses, ensuring a cleaner, sanitary operating environment.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), allowing for easy scaling from pilot testing to full production.
- Media Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of media formulations, including those impregnated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, or Activated Carbon.
Product Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® series is built to rigorous standards to ensure compatibility with diverse process fluids. Below are the general specifications for the standard industrial modules.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Filter Media Type | Depth Filter (Cellulose, DE, Perlite, or Carbon) |
| Micron Retention (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Available Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone |
| Cell Count per Module | Standard stacks: 9, 12, or 16 cells (Custom: 5-18) |
Popular Model Configurations
ErtelAlsop offers specific formulations tailored to distinct industry needs. Two of the most common series include:
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the industry standard for general filtration. It utilizes Micro-Media® containing cellulose and filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE). The DE forms a rigid, porous structure that provides a high flow rate while retaining ultra-fine particles via mechanical interception and electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential).
2. Disc-Pak® (100% Cellulose)
Designed for applications where crystal clarity is needed without potential extractables from DE or Perlite. The Disc-Pak® uses AlphaMedia®, which is pure cellulose. It is ideal for distilling spirits, fragrances, and therapeutic proteins where mineral-free filtration is required.
Common Applications
Due to their versatility and enclosed design, Pak® Lenticular Filters are used globally in high-purity applications.
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of lysates, removal of carbon fines from APIs, and filtration of syrups. |
| Food & Beverage | Haze removal in distilled spirits (whiskey, vodka), wine polishing, and sugar syrup clarification. |
| Botanical Extracts | Lipid and wax removal (winterization) from ethanol extractions. |
| Chemical & Utility | Dielectric oil purification (transformer oils) and general chemical clarification. |
Contact Purecowater for Sizing and Availability
Choosing the correct micron rating and media type is critical for preventing premature fouling and ensuring product quality. Purecowater can assist in determining the optimal cell count and media grade for your specific process stream.
Looking to upgrade your filtration system?