Introduction to ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters
In the world of industrial liquid filtration, efficiency and reliability are paramount. Purecowater is proud to offer ErtelAlsop Pak® Lenticular Filters, a premium solution designed to bridge the gap between traditional membrane cartridges and plate-and-frame filter presses. As a distributor and OEM for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides these advanced lenticular depth filter modules to tackle complex solid-liquid separation challenges.
The Pak® lenticular cartridges (also known as modules) originate from a design innovation dating back to the 1940s. Today, they represent the industry standard for applications requiring high solids loading capacity, leak-free operation, and ease of use. Whether you are in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, or chemical processing, these filters offer a contained, operator-friendly alternative to open filtration systems.
What is a Lenticular Filter Module?
A “Lenticular” filter gets its name from the shape of the stacked cells, which resemble double convex lenses. The ErtelAlsop Pak® consists of multiple depth filter cells stacked vertically on a central core.
Each cell is constructed from two sheets of high-performance depth filter media (such as MicroMedia®, AlphaMedia®, or MicroClear®) sealed together at the edges using a patented polypropylene molding process. This design creates a robust, self-contained unit that fits inside a sealed housing.
Key Advantages Over Plate & Frame Filters
- Enclosed System: Unlike plate and frame filters, lenticular modules operate inside a sealed housing, preventing leakage and loss of valuable product.
- Reduced Oxidation: The closed environment protects sensitive fluids from exposure to the atmosphere.
- Rapid Change-out: Modules can be replaced in a fraction of the time required to dress a plate and frame press, significantly reducing downtime and labor costs.
- Scalability: Available in industry-standard 12-inch and 16-inch diameters with varying cell counts to match your throughput requirements.
Technical Specifications and Configurations
ErtelAlsop Pak® Cartridges are versatile and can be configured to fit virtually any existing lenticular housing. Below is a breakdown of the standard specifications available through Purecowater.
General Specifications
| Feature | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Diameters Available | 12-inch (30.5 cm) and 16-inch (40.6 cm) |
| Number of Cells | 5 to 18 stacked cells per module (customizable based on cake space needs) |
| Micron Ratings (Nominal) | 0.25 µm to 15 µm |
| End Cap Configurations | Flat Gasket or Double O-Ring (industry standard fits) |
| Core Material | Polypropylene (Standard), Stainless Steel optional for specific lines |
| Seal Material | Polypropylene edges, EPDM gaskets (other materials available upon request) |
Media Technologies
The performance of the Pak® filter is driven by the media selection. ErtelAlsop offers several proprietary media grades to suit different chemical compatibilities and filtration goals.
1. Zeta-Pak® (MicroMedia®)
The Zeta-Pak® is the workhorse of the series. Incorporated with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and high wet-strength alumina fibers, this media provides a strong positive Zeta potential, allowing it to electrokinetically attract negatively charged contaminants (like bacteria and haze) that are smaller than the pore rating.
- Best For: Haze removal, microbial reduction, and general clarification.
- Retentions: Excellent for ultra-fine particles.
2. Disc-Pak® (AlphaMedia®)
Utilizing 100% cellulose AlphaMedia®, the Disc-Pak® is designed for applications where inorganic interaction must be minimized. It contains no DE or Perlite, making it ideal for pharmaceutical or high-purity chemical applications where mineral leaching is a concern.
- Best For: Dielectric oils, perfumes, distilled spirits, and sensitive pharmaceutical fluids.
3. Bio-Pak® and Carbon Pak®
Specialty modules are available for biological applications or activated carbon treatments (MicroClear®), allowing for color, odor, and flavor correction without the mess of loose carbon powder.
Applications
ErtelAlsop Lenticular Filters are engineered to serve a wide range of markets:
| Industry | Common Applications |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | Clarification of syrups, LVPs, SVPs, and API processing. |
| Food & Beverage | Haze removal in beer, wine, and spirits; sweetener clarification; juice polishing. |
| Cosmetics | Perfume filtration, essential oils, and lotions. |
| Chemical & Utility | Transformer oil reconditioning, chemical processing, and water purification. |
| Botanical Extracts | Wax and lipid removal (winterization) using DE-impregnated media. |
Why Partner with Purecowater?
As a distributor for Veolia, WTS, and other leaders in filtration, Purecowater understands the nuances of sizing and selecting the right depth filtration system. The ErtelAlsop Pak® provides a cost-effective upgrade from messy plate and frame presses while ensuring high throughput and superior filtrate quality.
We can assist you in determining the correct micron rating, media type, and housing configuration (vertical or horizontal) for your specific process stream.
Need Assistance with Lenticular Filtration Sizing?
Our team of experts is ready to help you optimize your solid & liquid filtration processes. Contact us today for a quote or technical consultation.