Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
For industries requiring high-purity liquid filtration with heavy solids loading capacity, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a premier solution. As a modular depth filtration system, these cartridges combine the throughput and retention capabilities of traditional plate and frame filters with the convenience and sealed hygiene of a cartridge format. Purecowater supplies these advanced filtration modules to tackle complex separation challenges in pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and industrial applications.
The “Pak” design consists of stacked lenticular cells—resembling double convex lenses—providing a large surface area within a compact footprint. This architecture ensures efficient particle retention and simplifies the filtration process compared to open systems.
Key Advantages of Lenticular Technology
Lenticular modules were originally developed to address the limitations of filter presses. By enclosing the filter media in a sealed housing, ErtelAlsop Paks eliminate the leakage and exposure risks associated with plate and frame systems. The result is a cleaner, safer, and more user-friendly operation.
- Totally Enclosed System: Prevents fluid loss and protects operators from exposure to process fluids, making it ideal for hazardous or high-value liquids.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime compared to redressing a filter press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells per stack), allowing for easy scale-up from pilot to production.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure traps contaminants throughout the thickness of the pad, not just on the surface, offering superior dirt-holding capacity.
Technical Specifications
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are highly versatile, utilizing various media grades such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, and MicroClear® to suit specific retention requirements. Below are the standard specifications for these modules.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Depth Filter Module (Lenticular Stack) |
| Available Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone (Flat or Double O-Ring) |
| End Cap Configuration | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (Plug-in) |
| Media Composition | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, Activated Carbon |
Media Technology and Retention
The core performance of the Pak® comes from its media. The cartridges are engineered with a complex matrix of cellulose fibers and inorganic filter aids (like DE) that create a tortuous path for fluid flow. This structure captures particles through both mechanical sieving and electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential).
Zeta-Pak® Series
The Zeta-Pak® is the industry workhorse, incorporating Diatomaceous Earth to target ultra-fine particles and haze. The positive zeta potential of the media attracts and holds negatively charged contaminants (such as bacteria and endotoxins) that might otherwise pass through the pores. This makes it particularly effective for:
- Removal of haze in distilled spirits and wines.
- Protection of downstream membrane filters.
- Bio-reduction in pharmaceutical ingredients.
Industry Applications
Due to their sanitary design and robust performance, ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters are deployed across a wide spectrum of sectors.
| Industry | Common Applications |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | API purification, large volume parenterals (LVP), extensive clarification of cell cultures. |
| Food & Beverage | Clarification of syrups, distilled spirits filtration (whiskey, vodka), wine polishing, and soft drink production. |
| Botanical Extraction | Removal of waxes and lipids (winterization) from ethanol extracts, essential oil purification. |
| Chemical & Utility | Transformer oil reconditioning, chemical processing, and catalyst recovery. |
| Cosmetics | Filtration of fragrances, lotions, and essential oils to ensure clarity and shelf stability. |
Housing Compatibility
ErtelAlsop Pak cartridges are designed to fit into a variety of housings, including:
- Sanitary Housings: Featuring 316L stainless steel and high polish finishes for critical pharmaceutical and biotech use. Often engaged with Double O-Ring cartridges for positive sealing.
- Industrial Housings: Robust vessels for chemical and utility applications, compatible with Flat Gasket designs.
Whether you are upgrading from a filter press to reduce labor costs or specifying a new depth filtration skid, the ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers a reliable, high-performance solution.
Need assistance sizing a specific Pak or housing for your process?
Contact Purecowater Today