Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration with maximizing efficiency, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters provide a robust solution. Available through Purecowater, these depth filter modules are designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters with a more hygienic, enclosed, and user-friendly system. Whether for pharmaceutical applications, botanical extracts, or chemical processing, the Lenticular Pak® offers versatile performance.
What is a Lenticular Pak® Filter?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge (often called a module) is a stacked disc depth filter. The unit resembles a stack of double convex lenses—hence the term “lenticular.” Each module is assembled from varying numbers of filter cells, typically ranging from 9 to 18 cells per stack.
The cells are comprised of ErtelAlsop’s proprietary depth filter media (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®). The edges of these media pairs are sealed using a patented process with polypropylene, ensuring structural integrity and preventing bypass. This design combines the high solids loading capacity of depth filtration with the convenience of a cartridge format.
Key Features and Benefits
- Totally Enclosed System: Unlike open filter presses, lenticular modules operate inside sealed housings, preventing leakage and reducing exposure to the atmosphere. This is critical for sanitary applications and hazardous fluids.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media matrix traps particles throughout its thickness, not just on the surface, offering superior retention capacity for turbid liquids.
- Scalability: Available in industry-standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters, allowing for easy scale-up from pilot to production.
- Versatile Configurations: Modules come with Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring end connections to fit various housing types.
- Efficient Changeouts: The modular design allows for rapid installation and removal, significantly reducing downtime compared to dressing a plate and frame press.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are highly customizable. Below are the general specifications for the product line.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Cell Counts | Typically 5 to 18 cells per module |
| Seal Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Plugin) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
Media Grades and Applications
The versatility of the Pak® system lies in the media options available. Purecowater can assist in selecting the correct media for your specific stream:
| Media Family | Characteristics | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®) | Cellulose and Perlite/DE blend with positive Zeta potential. High retention efficiency. | General industrial, Food & Beverage, Haze removal. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical grade. Designed with no stainless steel parts; often uses Double O-Ring for sanitary fit. | Pharmaceuticals, Biologics, High-purity chemicals. |
| AlphaMedia® | Purified cellulose only (no inorganic aids like DE). Low extractables. | Distilled spirits, Cosmetics, Applications sensitive to silica. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon. | Color correction, Odor removal, Decolorization. |
A Solution for Botanical Extracts
For the botanical extraction industry, removing waxes, lipids, and fine particulates is essential. The Zeta-Pak® modules are particularly effective here. They contain diatomaceous earth (DE) within the media matrix, which helps adsorb lipids and provides a rigid cake for filtration. High flow rates combined with the enclosed design make them safer for use with ethanol and other solvents compared to open presses.
Scalable Filtration Systems
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of housings, which Purecowater can supply to meet your facility’s layout:
- Sanitary Housings: 316L Stainless steel, polished finishes, easy to clean, and designed for Bio-Pak® double O-ring cartridges.
- Industrial Housings: Robust vessels for general chemical and utility applications.
- Horizontal Housings: Features a “Lock and Load” design for ergonomic loading of modules, ideal for larger systems to reduce operator strain.
Contact Purecowater
Whether you are upgrading from a filter press or designing a new filtration skid, Purecowater provides the expertise and equipment you need. We can help you select the right ErtelAlsop Pak® configuration for your specific liquid stream.