For industrial and sanitary filtration applications requiring high solids loading capacity and leak-free operation, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters stand out as the industry standard. As a trusted distributor for premium filtration technologies, Purecowater provides these versatile depth filter modules to help you tackle complex solid and liquid separation challenges.
This guide explores the features, specifications, and operational benefits of the ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges, designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters with a more efficient, enclosed system.
What are Lenticular Pak® Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, also known as lenticular filter modules, are stacked disc depth filters. They are constructed from multiple optical-grade filter cells—stacked vertically—featuring double convex geometry (hence the term “lenticular”).
The core innovation lies in the assembly. Each module consists of varying numbers of filter cells (typically 5 to 18) joined by a polypropylene core and separated by spacers. The edges of the specific filter media sheets—such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®—are sealed using a patented process. This design enables the high throughput and retention capacity of depth filtration media within a totally enclosed, operator-friendly housing.
Key Advantages over Plate & Frame Filters
- Leak-Free Operation: Unlike open plate and frame presses, lenticular housings are sealed, eliminating leakage and protecting operators from exposure to process fluids.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be swapped in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime and labor costs.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with over 300 precision dies, allowing streamlined scaling from pilot lab testing to full production.
- Enclosed System: Protects the product from environmental contamination and prevents vapor emissions.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop offers a broad range of configurations to ensure compatibility with diverse chemical, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage processes.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks: 5 to 18 cells |
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 to 15 microns |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Media Types | AlphaMedia® (Cellulose), MicroMedia® (DE/Perlite), MicroClear® (Carbon) |
Media Configurations
The performance of the Pak® cartridge is driven by the specific media grade selected. ErtelAlsop utilizes premium depth filter sheets in their construction:
- AlphaMedia®: A high-purity cellulose media ideal for light to medium viscosity liquids. It is often used where no filter aids (like DE) are desired.
- MicroMedia®: Incorporates filter aids such as Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite within the cellulose matrix. This creates a tortuous path for superior retention of fine particulates and haze removal.
- MicroClear®: Impregnated with activated carbon, this media is designed for decolorization, odor removal, and adsorption of organic contaminants without the mess of loose carbon powder.
- Zeta-Pak®: Known as the workhorse of the series, providing positive zeta potential for enhanced removal of negatively charged particles like bacteria and endotoxins.
Applications
The versatility of ErtelAlsop Pak® Filters makes them suitable for a wide array of industries. Whether for clarification, polishing, or bio-burden reduction, these filters deliver consistent results.
- Pharmaceuticals: API filtration, LVP/SVP processing, and antibiotics.
- Food & Beverage: Distilled spirits, syrups, soft drinks, wine clarification, and botanical extracts.
- Cosmetics: Perfumes, lotions, and essential oils.
- Chemicals: Polishing of chemical intermediates, solvent filtration, and paints/resins.
- Utilities: Dielectric oils and transformer oil filtration.
Horizontal and Vertical Housings
To complement the Pak® cartridges, housings are available in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The Horizontal Housing is particularly notable for its “Lock and Load” system, which allows a single operator to load cartridges easily at chest height, eliminating the need for overhead hoists and reducing safety risks.
Contact Purecowater for Filtration Solutions
Purecowater is your dedicated partner for sourcing ErtelAlsop filtration technologies. Whether you need to retrofit an existing process or design a new filtration skid, our team can guide you to the correct media and housing configuration.
For inventory inquiries, technical specifications, or to discuss your specific application:
Sources: ertealsop.com, ertelalsop.com