Advanced Depth Filtration with ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Cartridges
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, the transition from open plate and frame systems to enclosed, modular solutions marks a significant upgrade in safety, efficiency, and ease of use. At Purecowater, we are proud to offer ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premier solution for applications requiring high solids loading capacity and precision particle retention.
As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater understands that selecting the right media is critical for your process. This guide breaks down the capabilities, specifications, and applications of ErtelAlsop’s lenticular technology.
What Are Lenticular Pak® Filters?
ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridges (often called “modules”) are depth filter units constructed from stacked, lenticular-shaped filter cells. The concept utilizes the same high-quality filter media found in traditional plate and frame filters but packages it into a pre-assembled, sealed cartridge format.
This design offers the surface area and depth filtration benefits of filter sheets while eliminating the leakage, exposure, and labor-intensive change-outs associated with filter presses. The “lenticular” name comes from the shape of the cells, which resemble a stack of double convex lenses.
Key Features and Benefits
- Totally Enclosed System: Unlike open filter presses, lenticular housings are sealed. This prevents product loss, eliminates dripping, and protects operators from exposure to process fluids or fumes.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the thickness of the pad, not just on the surface, allowing for higher dirt-holding capacity.
- Rapid Change-Out: Swapping out a spent stack takes minutes rather than the hours often required to redness a plate and frame press.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying numbers of cells (5 to 16+ cells per stack), allowing users to scale surface area perfectly to their batch size.
Product Configurations and Media Types
ErtelAlsop offers several “families” of Pak® cartridges to suit specific chemical compatibility and filtration goals. Below are the most common configurations availabe.
| Series Name | Media Composition | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta-Pak® | Cellulose with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Perlite | The “workhorse” for biopharma, wines, and spirits. High positive zeta potential for removing haze and sub-micron particles. |
| Disc-Pak® | 100% Cellulose (AlphaMedia™) | Ideal for dielectric oils, fragrances, and applications where no mineral components (DE) are desired. |
| Bio-Pak® | Pharmaceutical Grade Cellulose & Filter Aid | Designed for critical pharmaceutical and biological applications requiring low extractables. |
| MicroClear® Pak | Immobilized Activated Carbon | Color correction, odor removal, and decolorization without handling loose carbon powder. |
Technical Specifications
When selecting a lenticular module for your housing, it is important to match the micron rating and end-cap configuration to your specific housing and process requirements.
| Micron Ratings | Nominal ratings from 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| Diameters | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket (DOE) or Double O-Ring (Metric/Bayonet) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) or Stainless Steel (Optional) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Silicone, Viton, Buna-N |
| Sanitization | Hot Water or Steam sterilization compatible |
Common Industries & Applications
The versatility of the Pak® cartridge makes it a staple in various industries:
- Distilled Spirits & Botanical Extracts: Removing waxes, lipids, and haze (dewaxing) using Zeta-Pak modules.
- Pharmaceuticals: Clarification of broths, removal of cell debris, and pre-filtration for membrane protection.
- Food & Beverage: Clarifying syrups, juices, and edible oils.
- Cosmetics: Polishing perfumes and colognes.
- Utilities: Filtration of dielectric oils and coolants.
Why Choose Purecowater?
As an OEM/Distributor dealing with complex solids and liquid filtration challenges, Purecowater ensures you get the exact lenticular configuration for your vessel. Whether you are retrofitting an existing system or sizing a new housing, our team can guide you through the selection of media grade, gasket limits, and surface area calculations.
Need help sizing your Lenticular Filters or Housings?
Contact Purecowater Today