Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges
For industries requiring high-efficiency particulate retention and solids loading, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent a premier solution in depth filtration. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater offers these versatile modules to replace traditional plate and frame systems with a more contained, operator-friendly format.
The “Pak” aspect refers to the stacked lenticular design—resembling double convex lenses—which provides a significant surface area within a compact footprint. Whether for pharmaceutical applications, food and beverage processing, or industrial chemicals, these cartridges facilitate scalable, leak-free filtration.
What Are Lenticular Filters?
Lenticular filter modules (or cartridges) are depth filters comprised of stacked filter cells. Each cell is made from a pair of depth filter media sheets (such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®) with edges sealed by a patented polypropylene process. This design eliminates the leakage often associated with plate and frame filters while utilizing the same trusted media.
The fluid follows a tortuous path through the media matrix, trapping particles both on the surface and within the depth of the sheet. This results in superior clarity and sterilization capabilities compared to surface filters.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed System: Prevents product loss and eliminates exposure to the atmosphere, crucial for volatile or sanitary applications.
- Rapid Change-Out: Pre-assembled modules significantly reduce downtime compared to cleaning and re-sheeting a filter press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with stacking options ranging from 5 to 18 cells per module.
- Versatile Media: Compatible with various media grades for nominal retention ranges from 0.25 to 15 microns.
Product Specifications
ErtelAlsop offers a variety of configurations to suit specific process needs. Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications for the Pak® Cartridge series.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Standard Media | MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, MicroClear® (Carbon) |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (Plug-in) |
| Gasket Material | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, etc. |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel (Optional) |
Media Variations
Choosing the right media is critical for optimal system performance. The ErtelAlsop Pak® line includes several specialized variations:
- Zeta-Pak®: The industry workhorse involving Micro-Media infused with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and high positive Zeta Potential. It effectively removes ultra-fine particles and haze, popular in botanical extracts and distilled spirits.
- Bio-Pak®: Designed for pharmaceutical and biological applications. It features a Double O-Ring configuration and an all-polypropylene core structure (no stainless steel) to ensure sanitary compliance and prevent bypass.
- MicroClear®: Incorporates activated carbon for decolorization and odor removal without handling loose carbon powder.
Housing Systems
To complement the lenticular cartridges, ErtelAlsop provides sanitary and industrial housings in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
Sanitary Housings
Ideal for pharmaceutical use, these housings feature 316L stainless steel, polished finishes, and sanitary fittings. When paired with Bio-Pak® cartridges, they offer positive sealing via Double O-Rings, eliminating the need for a center post and simplifying sterilization.
Horizontal Housings
The “Lock and Load” horizontal design allows for single-person operation and easy loading. This orientation minimizes product loss and is structurally safer as it eliminates the need for overhead hoists during change-outs.
Common Applications
ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters are engineered for a wide range of industries including:
- Life Sciences: Serum filtration, vaccines, and API processing.
- Food & Beverage: Haze removal in spirits, wine polishing, and syrup clarification.
- Cosmetics: Fragrance and essential oil filtration.
- Chemicals: Solvent clarification and removal of catalysts.
Need Assistance with Lenticular Filtration?
Whether you need to size a new housing or select the correct micron rating for your process, Purecowater is here to support your filtration needs. We handle OEM distribution for ErtelAlsop and can guide you toward the perfect depth filtration setup.