Efficient filtration is critical across industries ranging from botanical extraction and pharmaceuticals to electric utilities and food processing. At Purecowater, we specialize in providing high-performance solutions for complex solid and liquid separation challenges. Among our premier offerings are the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters.
This guide explores the design, functionality, and specifications of these versatile depth filter modules, helping you understand why they are the industry standard for scalability and reliability.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are advanced depth filtration systems designed to bridge the gap between laboratory testing and full-scale production. Unlike surface filters that trap particles only on the top layer, these depth filters utilize a tortuous path through a thick media matrix to capture contaminants throughout the entire structure.
The “Lenticular” design consists of stacked filter cells—resembling a stack of double convex lenses—housed within a sealed dome. This configuration offers the high solids-loading capacity of traditional plate and frame filters but inside a totally enclosed, leak-free sanitary housing.
Key Features and Benefits
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), making it easy to scale from pilot batches to large industrial runs.
- Closed System Design: Eliminates leakage and external contamination, a common issue with traditional plate and frame presses. Ideally suited for hazardous fluids or sanitary applications.
- High Solids Holding Capacity: The depth media matrix can retain a significant amount of particulate before requiring replacement.
- Rapid Change-Out: Modules are easily installed and removed from the housing, significantly reducing downtime compared to changing dozens of individual filter sheets.
- Versatile Media Options: Compatible with various media grades, including Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite, and Activated Carbon.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the technical parameters is essential for selecting the right filter for your process. The Pak® cartridges are renowned for their robustness and broad chemical compatibility.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | Standard stacks range from 5 to 18 cells |
| Micron Retention Ratings | 0.25 µm to 15 µm (Nominal) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring (222/226 style) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Viton, Silicone, Buna-N |
| Max Operating Temperature | Typically ~180°F (82°C) depending on media/gasket |
Media Configurations: The “Pak” Family
ErtelAlsop offers specific formulations to target different contaminants. Choosing the right “Pak” ensures optimal throughput and filtrate quality.
1. Zeta-Pak® (General Purpose & Heavy Duty)
The workhorse of the industry. These modules utilize MicroMedia®, which incorporates cellulose, diatomaceous earth (DE), and wet-strength resins. They possess a positive Zeta Potential, allowing them to electrokinetically adsorb ultra-fine particles, haze, and bacteria smaller than the mechanical rating.
2. Disc-Pak® (Cellulose Only)
Constructed from AlphaMedia®, these are 100% cellulose filters. They contain no DE, Perlite, or inorganic aids.
Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, and applications where “active ingredients” must not be stripped out, or where low ion release is required.
3. Bio-Pak® (Pharmaceutical Grade)
Designed for critical applications in biologics and pharmaceuticals. These filters come with comprehensive documentation and validation guides to meet stringent regulatory requirements.
4. AquaKv-Pak® (Utility & Transformer Oil)
Specially formulated for the electric utility market. These filters excel at removing moisture and carbonized particulate from transformer oils and dielectric fluids to restore insulating properties.
Primary Applications
The versatility of ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges allows them to be deployed across a wide spectrum of industries. Below are common use cases where Purecowater can assist with implementation.
Botanical Extraction
Winterization & Dewaxing: Efficiently removes waxes, lipids, and fats from ethanol extracts. The Zeta-Pak modules are particularly effective at clearing haze in botanical oils at high flow rates.
Food & Beverage
Clarification: Used for polishing distilled spirits, syrups, wines, and vinegars. The closed housing prevents evaporation of alcohol and protects the product from oxidation.
Chemicals & Utilities
Fluid Restoration: Removing colloidal silica, carbon, and moisture from insulating oils, solvents, and process water.
Why Partner with Purecowater?
As a distributor and OEM for leading filtration brands, Purecowater does more than just supply parts. We analyze your process stream to recommend the exact micron rating, media type, and housing configuration required to solve your filtration bottlenecks. Whether you need a single 12-inch module or a multi-housing skid for high-volume processing, we have the expertise to support you.
Ready to optimize your filtration process?