Complete Contamination Control with ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, also known as depth filter modules, represent a premium solution for industries requiring high-solids loading capacity and precision particulate retention. Designed to fit into lenticular housings, these cartridges utilize a stacked disc design that packs a massive surface area into a compact footprint.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or industrial fluids, the Pak® series offers a versatile range of media options to target specific contaminants, including haze, waxes, and ultra-fine particulates.
Key Features of the Pak® Design
The defining feature of the ErtelAlsop Pak® is its construction. Each module consists of multiple filter cells stacked vertically. A single cell is formed by two sheets of depth filter media sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. This ensures:
- Zero Bypass: The edge seal eliminates leakage, ensuring 100% of the fluid passes through the media.
- Structural Integrity: The stacked “double convex” lens shape (lenticular) withstands pressure differentials better than standard plate and frame setups.
- Ease of Changeout: Unlike loose filter sheets, lenticular modules are pre-assembled units, making changeouts clean, fast, and sanitary.
Media Variations: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media formulations to suit different chemical compatibility and filtration goals. The two most prominent configurations are the Zeta-Pak® and the Disc-Pak®.
1. Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®)
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the series. It utilizes MicroMedia®, which is composed of cellulose, high-purity Diatomaceous Earth (DE), and a wet-strength resin.
- Mechanism: Combines mechanical sieving with electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta Potential).
- Best For: Haze removal, capturing ultra-fine particles smaller than the micron rating, and removing lipids or waxes in botanical extracts.
2. Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, a 100% cellulose formulation. It contains no inorganic filter aids like DE or Perlite.
- Mechanism: Purely mechanical depth filtration.
- Best For: Applications sensitive to mineral extractables, such as dielectric oils, specific pharmaceutical APIs, and applications where silica leaching is a concern.
Technical Specifications
Selecting the right module requires understanding the physical and performance specifications. The table below outlines the standard capabilities of the Pak® series.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Module Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks: 5 to 16 cells (High surface area options available) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (DOE/SOE compatible) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Buna-N, Silicone |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel options for high temp |
| Sterilization | In-line steam or autoclave compatible (grade dependent) |
Primary Applications
Because of their robust depth filtration capabilities, ErtelAlsop modules are widely used in industries requiring rigorous purification:
- Botanical Extraction: Winterization and dewaxing. The DE-impregnated media efficiently traps waxes and lipids at cold temperatures while maintaining flow.
- Distilled Spirits: Removal of char and haze without stripping flavor profiles.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, blood fractionation, and pre-filtration for membrane protection.
- Cosmetics & Fragrances: Polishing perfumes and essential oils to crystal clarity.
- Industrial Chemicals: Filtration of insulating oils, amine solutions, and process water.
Why Upgrade to Lenticular Modules?
If you are currently using filter presses with loose sheets, upgrading to the Pak® lenticular format offers immediate operational benefits. The enclosed housing system prevents exposure to the atmosphere (reducing oxidation and hygienic risks) and eliminates the drip loss often associated with plate and frame filters. Furthermore, the changeout time is reduced from hours to minutes, significantly increasing plant uptime.
Get a Quote for ErtelAlsop Filters
Purecowater provides a full range of depth filtration solutions, including ErtelAlsop housings and Pak® modules. If you need assistance selecting the correct micron rating or media type for your specific fluid stream, our engineering team is ready to help.