At Purecowater, we specialize in solving complex solid and liquid filtration challenges through our partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers. Among our premier offerings for depth filtration are the ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters. Designed as a modern, efficient alternative to traditional plate and frame filtration, these cartridges provide a totally enclosed, sanitary, and easy-to-use solution for a wide range of industries.
What are ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges?
ErtelAlsop Pak® depth filter cartridges (also known as lenticular modules) are stacked filtration units comprised of multiple “cells.” Each cell is formed by a pair of depth filter sheets—such as MicroMedia® or AlphaMedia®—sealed at the edges using a patented polypropylene process. These cells are stacked to form a cartridge that resembles a series of double convex lenses, hence the term “lenticular.”
This design allows for the high solids loading capacity and particle retention of depth filtration sheets but packaged in a convenient, enclosed cartridge format. This format eliminates the leakage and exposure issues often associated with open plate and frame filter presses [ertelalsop.com].
Key Benefits and Features
- Enclosed System: Unlike plate and frame filters, lenticular cartridges operate inside a sealed housing. This ensures zero leakage, minimal product loss, and a sanitary environment for sensitive applications like pharmaceuticals and distilled spirits [ertelalsop.com].
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying numbers of cells (typically 5 to 18), allowing users to scale up from lab to production easily.
- High Solids Loading: The complex matrix of fibers and filter aids (such as Diatomaceous Earth) within the media provides exceptional capacity for holding solids while maintaining throughput.
- Rapid Change-Out: The “Pak” design allows for significantly faster change-out times compared to changing individual sheets in a press, reducing downtime and labor costs [ertelalsop.com].
Technical Specifications
ErtelAlsop cartridges are highly versatile and can be configured to meet specific process requirements, including pharmaceutical-grade options and various gasket materials.
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Retention | Nominally 0.25 µm to 15 µm [ertelalsop.com] |
| End Configurations | Flat Gasket, Double O-Ring |
| Core Material | Polypropylene |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Neoprene, Viton, Silicone, Teflon Encapsulated |
| Cell Count | Commonly 16 cells (customizable 5-18) [store.clearsolutionscorp.com] |
Filter Media Options
The performance of the Pak® cartridge is driven by the media sealed inside. ErtelAlsop offers several media series to address specific filtration goals:
| Media Series | Composition | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|
| MicroMedia® | Cellulose, Diatomaceous Earth (DE), Perlite | High-performance retention, haze removal, botanical extracts [store.clearsolutionscorp.com]. |
| AlphaMedia® | 100% Cellulose | Applications requiring no inorganic constituents; ideal for organic solvents or specific chemical compatibility. |
| MicroClear® | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Adsorption of colors, odors, and impurities without handling loose carbon powder. |
Compatibility: Housings and Operation
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges are designed to fit into industry-standard lenticular housings. They are compatible with:
- Vertical Housings: Standard footprint for industrial and sanitary use.
- Horizontal Housings: These feature the “Lock and Load” system, allowing for single-person operation and easy loading without overhead hoists. This orientation reduces product loss and labor requirements [ertelalsop.com].
Why Switch to Lenticular?
Many facilities are upgrading from legacy plate and frame presses to lenticular systems. The key drivers for this switch are safety and efficiency. A lenticular housing is a closed-loop system, preventing exposure to the liquid and eliminating edge leakage. Furthermore, because the media inside the Pak® is the same as that used in filter sheets, current process specifications can be easily transferred to this new, more efficient format.
Contact Purecowater
Whether you need to remove fine particulates from botanical extracts, clarify distilled spirits, or ensure pharmaceutical compliance, Purecowater can help you select the right ErtelAlsop Pak® solution.