ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters: High-Performance Depth Filtration

For industries requiring precision, reliability, and scalability in their filtration processes, the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filter Cartridges represent a gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for premier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to help facilities manage high-solids loading and critical particle retention without the complexity of traditional plate and frame systems.

ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges—often referred to as lenticular modules—are designed to combine the superior filtration characteristics of depth media with the convenience and enclosed hygiene of a cartridge format. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, distilled spirits, pharmaceuticals, or industrial process fluids, these filters offer a versatile and efficient solution.

What Are Lenticular Pak® Cartridges?

The Pak® cartridge is a pre-assembled unit consisting of stacked lenticular (lens-shaped) filter cells. Each cell is constructed from a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges using a patented injection-molding process. This design creates a robust, self-supported structure that eliminates the need for separate gaskets between plates, reducing potential leak paths and simplifying change-outs.

These modules typically come in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters and are housed in stainless steel vessels. The fluid enters the housing, passes through the media depth, and flows into the central core, effectively trapping particulates, haze, and deformable solids within the complex matrix of the media.

Key Features and Benefits

• High Solids Loading Capacity: The depth media structure allows for significant contaminant retention, making it ideal for managing fluids with heavy particulate loads or haze.
• Scalability: With over 300 precision dies and various stack heights (5 to 18 cells), systems can be scaled from pilot lab testing to full production runs.
• User-Friendly Design: Unlike plate and frame filters, lenticular cartridges are easy to install and replace, drastically reducing downtime and labor costs.
• Zeta Potential Efficiency: Many ErtelAlsop media formulations utilize Electrokinetic Adsorption (Zeta Potential) to capture sub-micron particles that are smaller than the mechanical pore size of the media.

Media Formulations Explained

Choosing the right media is critical for optimal performance. ErtelAlsop offers distinct media classes to suit specific chemical and retention requirements. Below is a breakdown of the primary media types available through Purecowater:

Media Series	Composition	Primary Characteristics	Ideal Applications
MicroMedia®	Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Wet Strength Resin	High zeta potential, high flow rate, excellent retention of ultra-fine particles and haze.	Food & Beverage, Haze Removal, Botanical Extracts, General Clarification.
AlphaMedia®	100% Cellulose	Free of DE and perlite. Chemically inert with very low extractables.	Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Applications sensitive to mineral migration.
MicroClear®	Activated Carbon Impregnated	Adsorptive capabilities for removing color, odor, and off-tastes.	Decolorization, Odor Removal, Purification of Syrups and Spirits.

Technical Specifications

The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are built to withstand demanding industrial environments while providing flexibility in connection styles. Whether you require a retrofitted solution or a new installation, these specifications cover the majority of standard housings.

Specification	Details
Module Diameters	12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm)
Micron Ratings (Nominal)	Range from 0.25 µm to 15 µm
End Cap Configurations	Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (for critical sealing)
Core Material	Polypropylene (Rugged and chemically resistant)
Gasket Material	EPDM (Standard); others available upon request
Number of Cells	Typically 5 to 18 cells per module

Common Industry Applications

Due to their versatility, ErtelAlsop Pak® filters are deployed across a wide spectrum of industries. Purecowater can help engineer a solution for:

• Distilled Spirits & Fragrances: Chill filtration, removal of fatty acids, and polishing for clarity.
• Botanical Extraction: Dewaxing and winterization of extracts, removing lipids and waxes efficiently.
• Pharmaceuticals & Bio-Tech: Clarification of cell cultures and post-fermentation broths.
• Chemicals & Utilities: Filtration of dielectric oils, amine solutions, and process water.

If you are currently using a plate and frame filter press and are looking to reduce leakage, improve sanitation, or speed up change-over times, switching to a Lenticular Pak® housing is often an excellent upgrade.