For industries demanding high-purity liquid filtration without the product loss or labor hazards of traditional methods, ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters represent the gold standard. Purecowater supplies these advanced depth filtration modules to help facilities transition from open plate and frame systems to enclosed, sanitary, and efficient processes.
Whether you are in pharmaceutical production, distilled spirits, cosmetics, or chemical processing, the Pak® Lenticular Cartridge provides a scalable solution for clarifying liquids and removing particulate matter with precision.
What are Lenticular Pak® Filters?
The ErtelAlsop Pak® cartridge—also known as a lenticular module—is a depth filter designed to combine the filtration mechanism of filter sheets with the convenience of a cartridge format. The unit consists of stacked “lenticular” cells (resembling double convex lenses). Each cell is comprised of two depth filter media sheets sealed at the edges by a patented polypropylene process.
This design creates a totally enclosed system when placed inside a housing. Unlike traditional plate and frame filters, which often leak and require indefinite downtime for manual cleaning, lenticular modules allow for rapid change-outs and zero edge leakage.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enclosed Filtration: The sealed housing prevents exposure to the atmosphere, protecting both the product and the operator. It eliminates evaporation and leakage common in plate presses.
- High Solids Loading: The depth media structure traps particles throughout the thickness of the pad, not just on the surface, offering superior holding capacity.
- Scalability: Available in 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts (5 to 18 cells), making it easy to scale from pilot testing to full production.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in minutes rather than hours, significantly reducing labor costs and downtime.
Media Configurations: Zeta-Pak® vs. Disc-Pak®
ErtelAlsop offers distinct media formulations to target specific filtration challenges. Choosing the right media is critical for optimal throughput and retention.
Zeta-Pak® (The Workhorse)
The Zeta-Pak® utilizes the Micro-Media® series, which incorporates high-purity cellulose and Celpure® Diatomaceous Earth (DE). This combination provides a high zeta potential (electrokinetic attraction), making it exceptionally effective at removing ultra-fine particles, haze, and biological contaminants.
- Best For: Biopharmaceuticals, hazes in spirits/beverages, botanical extracts.
- Mechanism: Mechanical straining plus electrokinetic adsorption.
Disc-Pak® (The Purity Standard)
The Disc-Pak® features AlphaMedia®, which is manufactured from 100% cellulose without any inorganic filter aids like DE or Perlite. This series is ideal for applications where mineral extractables must be avoided.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, syrups, and high-viscosity liquids.
- Mechanism: Physical depth filtration via cellulose matrix.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the technical capabilities of the ErtelAlsop Pak® ensures you select the correct module for your housing and process stream.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12 inch (30.5 cm) & 16 inch (40.6 cm) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Double O-Ring or Flat Gasket |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard) |
| Gasket Materials | EPDM, Buna-N, Viton, Silicone |
| Max Operating Temperature | Typically 180°F (82°C) *Depending on Gasket/Media |
Housing Compatibility
These lenticular cartridges are designed to fit into Lenticular Filter Housings. ErtelAlsop manufactures both:
- Vertical Housings: The industry standard for sanitary and industrial use, available in various finishes.
- Horizontal Housings: Features a unique “Lock and Load” tray system that allows operators to slide cartridges in and out comfortably at waist height, enhancing safety and ease of use.
Common Applications
The versatility of the Pak® lends the technology to a wide spectrum of industries. Below are the primary applications where these filters excel.
| Industry | Application Focus |
|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | Chill haze removal in beer/spirits, syrup clarification, wine polishing. |
| Pharmaceuticals | API processing, removal of activated carbon, serum filtration. |
| Chemicals | Polishing paints, resins, inks, and specialty chemicals. |
| Cosmetics | Clarification of perfumes, fragrances, and essential oils. |
| Botanical Extracts | Removal of waxes, lipids, and fine particulate from ethanol extracts. |
Optimize Your Filtration with Purecowater
At Purecowater, we understand that selecting the correct depth media and micron rating is vital to protecting your downstream membrane elements and ensuring final product quality. As an distributor for premium engineered solutions, we can help integrate ErtelAlsop Pak modules into your existing process or design a new skid to meet your specifications.
For technical guidance, pricing, or to discuss how lenticular technology can improve your operational efficiency, please reach out to our team.