For industries requiring high-performance depth filtration without the mess and exposure of traditional methods, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters set the standard. Available through Purecowater, these advanced filter modules combine the precision of depth media with the convenience of a totally enclosed, easy-to-change cartridge system.
Whether you are filtering botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, distilled spirits, or industrial fluids, the ErtelAlsop Pak® series offers a scalable and hygienic solution. This guide illustrates the technical specifications, media options, and operational benefits of switching to lenticular technology.
What are Lenticular Pak® Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges, also known as depth lenticular filter modules, are essentially a stack of depth filter sheets assembled into a convenient unit. Instead of manually loading individual sheets into a Plate & Frame press, operators load a single module inside a housing.
Each module consists of stacked filter cells (typically 12-inch or 16-inch diameters). A single cell is formed by two discs of filter media sealed at the edges, resembling a double convex lens. This design maximizes surface area and solids loading capacity within a compact footprint.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Totally Enclosed System: Prevents product exposure to the environment, reducing contamination risks and product loss.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing downtime.
- Scalability: Over 300 precision dies are available, allowing processes to scale from lab pilot testing to full production seamlessly.
- Leak-Free Design: Edge sealing via a patented polypropylene process ensures zero bypass.
Types of Pak® Media Formulations
Selecting the right media is crucial for optimization. ErtelAlsop offers distinct series based on the fluid viscosity and the nature of the contaminants.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® series incorporates mineral filter aids like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) into the cellulose matrix. This creates a rigid, porous structure ideal for trapping ultra-fine particles and removing hazes.
- Best For: Botanical extracts (removing waxes/lipids), pharmaceuticals, and general food & beverage applications.
- Feature: High positive zeta potential enhances the removal of negatively charged sub-micron particles.
2. Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose)
The Disc-Pak® utilizes AlphaMedia™, which is 100% cellulose and contains no removing mineral aids or resins. This is critical for applications where preserving the chemical integrity of the active ingredients is paramount.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and light-to-medium viscosity fluids.
- Feature: Pure cellulose construction ensures no inorganic extractables.
Technical Specifications
Review the data below to determine the compatibility of ErtelAlsop Pak® filters with your current system setup.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Common: 1, 2.5, 5, 10 µm) |
| Cell Count per Module | 5 to 18 cells (Standard is often 16 cells) |
| Gasket / End-Cap Styles | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (222/226 style) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone, PTFE Encapsulated |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Stainless steel options available) |
| Max Operating Temp | Typically up to 180°F (82°C) depending on polymer supports |
Common Applications
Thanks to the versatile media options, ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters are deployed across a wide range of industries served by Purecowater:
Life Sciences & Pharma
Used for API filtration, small volume parenterals (SVP), and large volume parenterals (LVP), ensuring high purity and sterility protection.
Food & Beverage
Essential for haze removal in distilled spirits, wine polishing, sweetener clarification, and flavor essence filtration.
Utilities & Industrial
Filtration of transformer dielectric oils, coolants, and chemical intermediates where high solids loading capacity is required.
Need Help Selecting the Right Module?
Choosing between Zeta-Pak® and Disc-Pak® or determining the correct micron rating requires technically vetting your process fluid. Purecowater is here to assist with sizing and compatibility.
Ready to improve your filtration efficiency?