Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
For industries requiring rigorous liquid clarification and high-efficiency particle retention, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard in depth filtration technology. As a distributor for top-tier filtration solutions, Purecowater provides these advanced modules to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
These lenticular cartridges—often referred to as depth filter modules—are designed to replace traditional plate and frame filters, offering a closed system that prevents leakage and simplifies handling. Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, distilled spirits, or pharmaceuticals, the ErtelAlsop Pak® serves as a scalable, high-capacity solution.
How It Works: The Lenticular Design
The Pak® cartridge system is constructed from stacked lenticular filter cells. Each cell consists of a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process. This assembly resembles a stack of double convex lenses, creating a complex matrix of fibers.
Unlike surface filters that entrap particles only on the top layer, these depth filters utilize the entire thickness of the media. This structure allows for:
- High Solids Loading: The depth matrix captures more contaminants before plugging.
- Positive Zeta Potential: Many ErtelAlsop media options exhibit a positive charge, attracting and binding negatively charged particles smaller than the physical pore size.
- Leak-Free Operation: When used in a Horizontal Housing, the enclosed design ensures minimal product loss and operator exposure.
Media Configurations: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
Choosing the right media is critical for process efficiency. ErtelAlsop offers distinct formulations tailored to specific viscosity and retention needs.
| Feature | Zeta-Pak® (Micro-Media®) | Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Cellulose, Filter Aid (DE/Perlite), Resin | 100% Cellulose (No DE, No Resins) |
| Filtration Mechanism | Mechanical sieving + Electrokinetic adsorption (Zeta Potential) | Mechanical sieving only |
| Best Applications | Haze removal, botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, ultra-fine particles. | Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, light-to-medium viscosity liquids. |
| Key Benefit | Highest retention efficiency; removes waxes and lipids. | Does not strip active ingredients; preserves flavor/aroma profiles. |
Zeta-Pak®
The workhorse of the industry, the Zeta-Pak® incorporates filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) into the cellulose matrix. This creates a tortuous path for fluid, excellent for removing haze and ultra-fine particulates in the 0.25 to 15-micron range.
Disc-Pak®
The Disc-Pak® uses pure cellulose AlphaMedia. It is ideal for sensitive applications where inorganic filter aids (like DE) might unwantedly alter the product, such as in essential oils or specific food and beverage applications.
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop Pak cartridges are versatile and fit most standard industrial housings. Below are the standard specifications available through Purecowater.
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25, 0.45, 0.8, 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 15 microns |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per stack (Standard is 16) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Nitrile, Viton, Silicone |
| Sterilization | Steam-in-place (SIP) capable |
Key Applications
Due to their versatility, ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters are deployed across a wide spectrum of industries:
- Botanical Extraction: Highly effective for winterization (wax/lipid removal) and clarification of ethanol extracts using Zeta-Pak modules.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used for API filtration, blood plasma fractionation, and sterile pre-filtration.
- Food & Beverage: Clarification of wines, spirits, syrups, and removal of haze in distilled products.
- Industrial & Chemical: Filtration of insulating oils, chemical intermediates, and process water.
- Cosmetics: Polishing of perfumes and essential oils without removing scent profiles (using Disc-Pak).
Why Choose Purecowater for Your Filtration Needs?
As a distributor and OEM for leading brands like Veolia, WTS, and Fil-trek, Purecowater understands the nuances of liquid filtration. We can help you select the precise ErtelAlsop Pak configuration—whether you need the electrokinetic power of the Zeta-Pak or the purity of the Disc-Pak.
For pricing, sizing availability, or to discuss a custom filtration skid involving lenticular technology, reach out to our engineering team today.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?
Contact us to discuss how ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters can improve your product quality.