Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, precision and scalability are paramount. ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters (also known as depth lenticular filter modules) represent a premium solution for applications requiring high solids loading capacity and superior particle retention. As a trusted distributor, Purecowater provides these advanced filtration modules to tackle complex separation challenges across pharmaceutical, chemical, and food & beverage industries.
The Pak® cartridge system offers a totally enclosed, operator-friendly alternative to traditional plate and frame filter presses. By utilizing the same high-quality depth filter media found in filter sheets but packaged in a convenient, sealed modular format, these filters eliminate leakage and significantly reduce change-out times.
How Lenticular Filtration Works
The term “lenticular” refers to the shape of the filter cells, which resemble a stack of double convex lenses. Each module is constructed from multiple filter cells stacked vertically.
- Construction: 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.
- Flow Path: Liquid flows from the outside of the module, passes through the filter media into the center core, and exits as clean filtrate.
- Depth Filtration: Unlike surface filters, these modules utilize a complex matrix of fibers to trap particles deep within the media structure, allowing for high retention efficiency and excellent service life.
Product Configurations and Series
ErtelAlsop offers several variations of the Pak® cartridge to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration requirements. Below are the primary configurations available through Purecowater.
1. Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® is the standard efficiency model containing MicroMedia® (Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth/Perlite, and Wet Strength Resin). It utilizes electrokinetic adsorption (zeta potential) to attract and hold negatively charged particles, making it ideal for haze removal and polishing.
- Best For: General clarification, haze removal, botanical extracts.
- Key Feature: High flow rates with sub-micron retention capabilities.
2. Disc-Pak® (All-Cellulose)
The Disc-Pak® is manufactured with AlphaMedia®, which is 100% cellulose and contains no removing aids like DE or Perlite. This is critical for applications where active ingredients must be preserved or where mineral extractables are a concern.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and pharmaceutical formulations sensitive to adsorption.
3. Bio-Pak® (Pharmaceutical Grade)
Designed for critical applications, the Bio-Pak® features a highly sanitary design. It utilizes a Double O-Ring plug-in style connector instead of flat gaskets, ensuring a positive seal and eliminating the need for a metal center post in the housing.
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the general specifications for the ErtelAlsop Lenticular Pak® series. These modules are compatible with most standard lenticular housings.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Options | 12 inch (30.5 cm) or 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | Typically 5 to 18 cells per module (customizable) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (Standard) or Double O-Ring (DO) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Sterilization | Inline Steam or Autoclave (specific grades) |
Key Benefits for Industrial Operations
Switching to or utilizing ErtelAlsop Lenticular Paks offers distinct advantages over other filtration methods:
- User-Friendly Design: The modules slide easily into vertical or horizontal housings, protecting operators from contact with the fluid and reducing labor costs during change-outs.
- High Solids Loading: structure allows the filter to capture a large mass of contaminants without blinding prematurely.
- Reduced Product Loss: The enclosed housing design minimizes hold-up volume and drip loss compared to open press plates.
- Scalability: Over 300 precision media grades are available, allowing processes developed in the lab to scale up directly to production sizes.
Common Applications
These filters are versatile and widely used in the following sectors:
- Food & Beverage: Polishing of distilled spirits, syrups, wines, and vinegars.
- Pharmaceuticals: Large volume parenterals (LVP), active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), and broth clarification.
- Chemicals: Filtration of solvents, resins, and inks.
- Cosmetics: Clarification of perfumes, lotions, and oils.
- Electric Utility: Reconditioning of dielectric oils (transformer oil).
Contact Purecowater for Specification
Selecting the correct media grade (Zeta-Pak vs. Disc-Pak) and micron rating is critical for optimizing your process throughput and filtrate quality. Purecowater specializes in solving solid and liquid filtration problems with tailored solutions from top-tier OEMs like Veolia and ErtelAlsop.
To discuss your application requirements or request a quote for ErtelAlsop modules: