For industries requiring critical liquid clarification and high-efficiency particle retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for premier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular modules to help facilities transition from open plate-and-frame filtration to cleaner, enclosed, and more efficient systems.
This guide covers the technical capabilities, media configurations, and specifications of the ErtelAlsop Pak® series, specifically designed to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
What Are Lenticular Pak® Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are depth filters constructed by stacking individual filter cells into a pre-compressed module. The design mimics the functionality of a traditional plate and frame filter press but houses it within a sealed sanitary vessel. This “lens-like” (lenticular) shape allows for a high surface area in a compact footprint.
Key Advantages:
- Enclosed System: Eliminates leakage and exposure to the environment, crucial for pharmaceutical and volatile applications.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the matrix, not just on the surface.
- Rapid Changeout: Modules are easy to load and unload compared to loose filter sheets.
Media Configurations and Series
The performance of a lenticular filter depends heavily on the media composition. ErtelAlsop offers distinct series tailored to specific viscosity and retention needs.
1. Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia® Series)
The Zeta-Pak® is the industry workhorse. It features MicroMedia®, a formulation of cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), or perlite, bound with a wet-strength resin.
- Function: Combines mechanical straining with electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta Potential).
- Best For: Haze removal, ultra-fine particle retention, and protecting downstream membrane filters.
- Micron Ratings: 0.25 μm – 15 μm.
2. Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia® Series)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia®, which is 100% pure cellulose. It contains no inorganic filter aids like DE or perlite.
- Function: Provides clean depth filtration without potentially altering flavor profiles or leaching silica.
- Best For: Light to medium viscosity fluids, pharmaceutical API filtration, dielectric oils, and cosmetic perfumes.
- Micron Ratings: 1 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm.
3. MicroClear® (Activated Carbon)
These modules incorporate pharmaceutical-grade powdered activated carbon immobilized within the cellulose matrix. They effectively remove color, odor, and off-tastes without the mess of handling loose carbon powder.
Technical Specifications
Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications for the Pak® Lenticular Cartridges available through Purecowater.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Module Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25, 0.45, 1.0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15 Microns (Nominal) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (DOE), Double O-Ring (222/226) |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per stack |
| Sterilization | In-situ steam or hot water sanititzation capable |
Target Applications
Due to their versatility and sealed design, ErtelAlsop lenticular filters are utilized across a wide spectrum of industries.
- Botanical Extracts: Removal of waxes, lipids, and biomass from ethanol or hydrocarbon extracts.
- Food & Beverage: Polishing filtration for distilled spirits, syrups, soft drinks, and chill-haze removal in beer/wine.
- Pharmaceuticals/Biotech: Cell harvesting, clarification of fermentation broths, and blood fractionation.
- Chemicals & Industrial: Filtration of slurries, resins, inks, paints, and dielectric oils.
Why Choose ErtelAlsop Over Standard Cartridges?
Standard pleated cartridges are surface filters; once the surface area is blinded, the flow stops. ErtelAlsop Lenticular Paks are depth filters. They provide a tortuous path for fluid to travel, allowing the media to retain a significantly higher volume of contaminants before reaching terminal pressure difference. This results in longer service life and lower total cost of ownership for high-solids streams.
Contact Purecowater for Sizing and Availability
Selecting the correct media grade (Zeta-Pak vs. Disc-Pak) and micron rating is critical for process efficiency. Purecowater can assist with sizing your housing and selecting the optimal modules for your specific stream.
For quotes, technical data sheets, or inventory inquiries, please contact our engineering team.