Activated Carbon Cartridge Filter (CTO and GAC)
CTO and GAC Carbon Cartridges for Removing Chlorine, Odour, Taste and VOCs
The activated carbon cartridge filter retains chlorine, odour, taste and VOCs in water by adsorption. Available in CTO (block, max. 38 °C) and GAC (granular, max. 82 °C) types, it is used in food, beverage, plating and chemical processes.
48
CTO / GAC
82 °C
13,000 L
Technical Specifications and Selection Guide
The activated carbon cartridge filter product family is designed to manufacturer standards to meet requirements for removing chlorine, odour, taste, colour, VOCs and organic chemicals in industrial processes. It does not retain particles; its function is chemical adsorption. Every configuration is checked for an exact match to the technical specification and long adsorption life.
- Filter Media: Coconut shell or coal-based activated carbon (chosen according to the process)
- Filter Length: 5", 10", 20", 30"
- Working Principle: Adsorption; chemical removal of chlorine, odour, taste, VOCs and organic molecules
- Operating Compatibility: Food, pharmaceutical and chemical processes; water and industrial liquid and gas lines
- Construction Type: Granular (GAC) or block (CTO) carbon cartridge, chosen according to the application
- Connection Types: End types and O-ring gaskets suited to common housing standards
- Production Model: Standard series production, with custom configurations made to samples and technical drawings.
- Quality Control: Post-production visual, dimensional and adsorption capacity verification
GAC and CTO Filter Types: Flow Rate and Adsorption Performance
The most important decision in choosing an activated carbon cartridge: GAC or CTO? Both types remove chlorine, odour and taste, but their structural differences give one an advantage over the other in certain applications. Prosestim offers both options.
- GAC: Granular activated carbon. Because water passes between the granules, it offers little resistance to flow, giving high flow and low pressure loss. It is preferred on high-volume lines.
- CTO: Compressed carbon block. The pores are smaller and the water stays in contact with the carbon longer. Adsorption (retention of chlorine, odour and taste) is more efficient, but pressure loss is higher.
Water, Air, Chlorine and Odour Removal Performance
Our activated carbon cartridge filters offer performance backed by pressure drop data measured at different flow conditions in water and air flow systems. The CTO block and GAC granular structures show different pressure loss and contact time characteristics depending on flow rate; choosing the right type and length preserves both adsorption efficiency and energy efficiency. Chlorine, odour, taste and VOC removal is provided across a wide range of uses, from drinking and process water to HVAC applications.
The activated carbon cartridge filter offers water flow rate performance optimised in CTO and GAC types, providing stable filtration at high flow with low pressure loss. Thanks to the large surface area, balanced differential pressure values are maintained even at increasing flow rates.
The test data show the pressure–flow relationship that varies with filter type.
Performance Advantages in Water Filtration
- Pressure Balance
- High Filtration
- Longer Equipment Life
- Energy Efficiency
- Industrial Compatibility
Activated carbon filters also perform effectively in air and gas flows. The CTO block structure retains VOCs and odours with a longer contact time, while the GAC granular structure has the advantage in high-flow applications with lower pressure loss.
Performance Advantages in Air Filtration
- VOC and organic vapour retention
- Odour removal (H₂S, NH₃)
- HVAC and process gas compatibility
- Low differential pressure
- Industrial Compatibility
The most important performance indicator for activated carbon filters is chlorine and odour removal efficiency relative to cumulative water volume. Thanks to their high contact surface, CTO block filters maintain high efficiency for longer than GAC.
Test: 2 mg/L (ppm) FAC, continuous flow · CTO 10″: 13,000 L · CTO 20″: 26,000 L · GAC 10″: 8,000 L · GAC 20″: 16,000 L
Performance Advantages in Chlorine Removal
- High removal efficiency
- Long-capacity filtration life
- Odour and taste removal
- THM and VOC retention capacity
- Compliance with drinking water standards
Adsorption Architecture and Working Principle
Prosestim activated carbon filters are fundamentally different from standard depth filters: instead of retaining particles, they work by chemical adsorption. As the fluid passes through the carbon medium, contaminant molecules attach to the carbon surface. This three-stage mechanism keeps the filter’s entire volume active and prevents surface clogging.
Carbon Pore Structure
Chemical Adsorption
Activated carbon retains contaminants by two main mechanisms. In physical adsorption, organic molecules attach to the pore surface through Van der Waals forces.
In chlorine removal, carbon acts as a reducing agent: free chlorine in the water (HOCl / OCl⁻) is reduced to harmless chloride (Cl⁻) on the carbon surface, while the carbon surface is oxidised. Because of this reaction, chlorine removal capacity is used up much more slowly than organic adsorption capacity; the replacement decision is based on measuring chlorine in the outlet water (chlorine breakthrough test).
Carbon Type and Fines Prevention
GAC (Granular Activated Carbon): Carbon granules sit loose in the cartridge body. It gives high flow and low pressure loss. Ideal for taste, odour and chlorine removal in high-flow applications.
CTO (Carbon Block): Activated carbon powder is compressed into a block with a food-grade binder. Thanks to a longer contact time, it offers high adsorption capacity. In both types, a sleeve prevents carbon fines leaking out.
Physical Construction and Filtration Volume
| Length | Length | Chlorine Capacity @ 2 mg/L | Chlorine Capacity @ 0.2 mg/L |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10" | 254 mm | 13,000 L @ 3.8 L/min | 114,000 L @ 3.8 L/min |
| 20" | 508 mm | 26,000 L @ 7.6 L/min | 228,000 L @ 7.6 L/min |
| 30" | 762 mm | 39,000 L @ 11 L/min | 340,000 L @ 11 L/min |
Technical Specifications and Performance Parameters
The technical parameters below are backed by laboratory and field data. Process engineers can use these data in system sizing to keep energy costs low and safety margins high.
- Chlorine Removal Capacity and Breakthrough Analysis
- Flow Rate and Pressure Drop (ΔP) Profile
- Filter Media and Carbon Type Selection Guide
- Comparative Performance of GAC and CTO
- Physical Size and Capacity Table
- Filter Material Chemical Compatibility Guide
Filter Media and Structural Engineering Design
Our filter cartridges are engineered to deliver high performance in water treatment, process liquids, drinking water systems, HVAC applications and industrial filtration processes. The GAC (granular activated carbon) and CTO (activated carbon block) options offer suitable solutions for chlorine removal, taste and odour improvement and adsorption of organic compounds. Thanks to the PE/HDPE outer netting, nonwoven protective sleeve, high-purity activated carbon media and PP end cap components, a long service life, low pressure loss and reliable filtration performance are achieved. Adaptable to a wide range of process conditions with different gasket and O-ring options, the cartridges are preferred in industrial water treatment systems, reverse osmosis pre-filtration and commercial filtration applications.
- Outer PE/HDPE Netting
- Maintains the mechanical integrity, compression resistance and balanced fluid distribution of the filter's inner material and preserves structural support.
- Activated Carbon Media
- GAC (granular activated carbon) construction
- CTO (compressed carbon block) construction
- Adsorption of chlorine, taste, odour and organic contaminants
- PP End Cap and Closure Options
- The cartridges are made with PP end caps. Besides standard gasket (DOE) models, a 222 O-ring end cap option is offered; the O-ring material is chosen according to the process.
- Nonwoven Inner/Outer Sleeve
- Stops carbon dust (fines) passing into the system, giving a clean, safe, particle-free output in the line after the filter and protecting product purity.
| Property | Technical Detail |
|---|---|
| Filter Media | Coconut shell or coal (anthracite)-based granular activated carbon (GAC), compressed block activated carbon (CTO) |
| Outer Netting / Protective Sleeve | Polyethylene (PE) or HDPE porous outer sleeve (70 µm nominal) |
| End Cap | Polypropylene (PP) |
| Inner Core | Polypropylene (PP) |
| Inner / Outer Sleeve | Nonwoven polyester (carbon fines retention layer) |
| Gasket | NBR (standard); EPDM, Viton, silicone, PTFE (depending on the process) |
| O-Ring | NBR (standard); EPDM, Viton, silicone, PTFE (depending on the process) |
| Outer Diameter (Standard) | 65 mm (2.56"), 70 mm (2.75") |
| Outer Diameter (Big Blue) | 115 mm (4.5") |
| Inner Diameter | 28 mm |
| Length Options | 5", 10", 20", 30" |
Filter Material Chemical Compatibility Guide
The chemical resistance of activated carbon is high in water-based and alkaline environments and good in dilute acids. It can also be used with polar and aliphatic solvents and mineral oils; performance varies with temperature, concentration and contact time. With oxidising acids (nitric, chromic), aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents and fuel derivatives, an application test should be carried out before use. The polyethylene binder in CTO cartridges must also be included in the chemical compatibility assessment.
- Resistance to Water-Based and Inorganic Process Chemicals
- Resistance in Organic Solvent and Hydrocarbon Environments
E: Excellent · G: Good · F: Fair / Limited · P: Poor · N/R: Not recommended
Resistance to Water-Based and Inorganic Process Chemicals
| Chemical Class | Example | Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking / Process Water | Cold / Hot | E |
| Strong Acids (Dilute) | HCl, H₂SO₄ (<30%) | E |
| Weak Acids | Acetic, Phosphoric | E |
| Oxidising Acids | Nitric, Chromic | F |
| Alkalis | NaOH, KOH | E |
| Salt Solutions | NaCl, CaCl₂ | E |
E: Excellent · G: Good · F: Fair / Limited · P: Poor · N/R: Not recommended
Organic Solvent and Hydrocarbon Resistance
| Chemical Class | Example | Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Organic Solvents | Acetone, IPA, Ethanol | G |
| Aliphatic Hydrocarbons | Hexane, Heptane, White Spirit | G |
| Aromatic Hydrocarbons | Toluene, Xylene, Benzene | F |
| Chlorinated Solvents | DCM, TCE, Perchloroethylene | F |
| Mineral and Industrial Oils | Machine Oil, Hydraulic Oil | G |
| Fuels and Petroleum Derivatives | Petrol, Diesel, Fuel Oil | F |
Operating Conditions
The adsorption performance of activated carbon cartridge filters depends not only on carbon quality but also directly on their ability to suit operating conditions. Stable adsorption over a wide pH range, low initial pressure loss and a long service life are supported by choosing the right carbon type and flow rate.
Prosestim activated carbon series are made to adapt to different process conditions, with different O-ring options and two carbon forms (GAC/CTO). This provides high efficiency in removing chlorine, odour, taste and organic compounds, while a suitable bed contact time minimises the risk of channelling; choosing the cartridge length according to system flow both keeps pressure drop balanced and extends the change interval.
- Operating Temperature (CTO Block)
- 4–38 °C (40–100 °F)
- Operating Temperature (GAC Granular)
- 4–82 °C (40–180 °F)
- Max. Operating Pressure (CTO)
- 2.4 bar (35 psi) @ 38 °C
- Max. Operating Pressure (GAC)
- 4.2 bar (60.9 psi) @ 25 °C
- Max. Reverse Flow Pressure
- 2.1 bar (30.5 psi) @ 25 °C
- Operating pH Range
- 2–11 (optimum for chlorine removal: pH 6–9)
Sealing and Connection Components
In industrial filtration systems, sealing is one of the cornerstones of activated carbon filtration performance and process reliability. Our activated carbon cartridge filters are offered with SOE and DOE end configurations to suit different filter housings and connection designs. In the SOE (single open end) type, a secure, stable seal is achieved using an NBR O-ring to the 222 connection standard.
In the DOE (double open end) type, gaskets at both open ends of the cartridge provide an effective seal between the filter housing and the cartridge. These connection designs help prevent the fluid bypassing the carbon bed in granular activated carbon (GAC) and block activated carbon applications; by supporting controlled flow through the filter media, they help preserve adsorption and filtration efficiency.
Engineer's Note
- Senior Process Engineer
- 15+ Years of Field Experience
- Field-Test Approved
Activated Carbon Adsorption Capacity and Material Reliability
Activated carbon cartridges offer high adsorption efficiency in removing chlorine, odour, taste and VOCs. In our field experience, the most common mistake is using activated carbon instead of a particle filter. Activated carbon does not retain coarse particles; that is why the standard sequence in system design is a PP sediment filter first, followed by the activated carbon cartridge.
For ideal efficiency, it is critical that the flow rate does not exceed the recommended value; as flow rate increases, contact time shortens and chlorine breakthrough occurs early. Adsorption continues until the carbon surface is saturated; cartridge life is therefore directly proportional to inlet water contamination.
When should it be chosen?
Activated carbon cartridges should be chosen for systems requiring chlorine removal ahead of RO membranes, drinking water treatment, food and beverage production, pharmaceutical API water preparation and control of organic vapours (VOCs) on industrial air lines.
Application and Selection Criteria
- Protecting the Carbon with a PP Filter
- With a high chlorine/VOC load, a PP sediment pre-filter is essential; it significantly extends activated carbon life and prevents early chlorine breakthrough.
- Inlet–Outlet Chlorine Measurement
- Use an inlet–outlet colorimetric test kit to detect chlorine breakthrough; replace the cartridge when chlorine is detected at the outlet.
- Protecting Elastomers with Silicone Grease
- When changing cartridges, use only silicone grease to preserve the elastomer's life and avoid mineral lubricants.
- Choosing Between GAC and Carbon Block
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) cartridges should be chosen for high-flow lines, and carbon block cartridges for applications requiring a lower flow rate and finer filtration.
- Protection Against Bacteria During Long Shutdowns
- Cartridges left unused for a long time can develop a risk of bacterial growth; replacing the cartridge and disinfecting before putting the system back into service is recommended.
Industry Applications
With high adsorption capacity and wide chemical compatibility, our activated carbon cartridges offer solutions that meet the toughest industrial standards to protect product purity on critical production lines, increase operational efficiency and safeguard your system components.
01
Vegetable Oil
Clarity, purity and shelf life in vegetable oil and refining.
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02
Pipe and Profile
Cooling water filtration in pipe and profile extrusion.
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03
Paint Industry
Surface quality and pigment filtration in the paint industry.
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04
Glass Industry
Furnace and process filtration in the glass industry.
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05
Dialysis Centers
Water preparation and process filtration in dialysis centers.
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06
Foundry Industry
Equipment protection and dust filtration in foundries.
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07
Industrial Oil
Filtration in industrial oil production and recovery.
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08
Energy and Biogas
Maximum efficiency and turbine protection in energy and biogas.
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09
Recycling
Filtration for efficiency and environmental compliance in recycling.
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10
Food and Beverage
Hygienic filtration in food and beverage.
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11
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
GMP-compliant sterile filtration in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
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12
Paper and Packaging
Process water filtration in paper and packaging.
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13
Chemical Industry
Corrosion-resistant, safe filtration in the chemical industry.
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14
Cosmetics
Microbiological safety and precision filtration in cosmetics.
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15
Machinery
Precision and technical filtration in the machinery industry.
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16
Printing and Ink
Flawless color and print quality in printing and ink.
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17
Metal and Surface Treatment
Flawless surfaces and bath stability in metal and surface treatment.
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18
Forest Products
Resin and glue filtration in forest products and furniture.
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19
Automotive
Precision process filtration for zero defects in automotive manufacturing.
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20
Oil and Petrochemicals
Equipment protection and process safety in oil and petrochemicals.
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21
Plastic Packaging
Precision process filtration and raw material purity in plastic packaging.
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22
Plastic Injection Molding
Cooling and hydraulic filtration in plastic injection molding.
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23
Water and Environment
Recovery filtration in water and environmental technologies.
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24
Shipyards and Marine
Operational safety and efficiency in shipyards and marine.
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Activated Carbon Cartridge Filter
Your Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
At Prosestim, we are committed to answering your questions and providing technical support for our filtration solutions.
What contaminants does an activated carbon cartridge filter remove, and what can it not remove?
An activated carbon cartridge removes chlorine, odour, taste, colour, VOCs and organic chemicals by adsorption. Its working principle is chemical adsorption; it does not retain particles or suspended solids. To remove coarse particles, a PP sediment filter must always be added to the system before the activated carbon; otherwise the carbon surface fills quickly and cartridge life is seriously shortened.
What is the difference between GAC (granular) and CTO (block) cartridges, and which should I choose?
GAC (granular activated carbon) cartridges have a higher flow rate and temperature tolerance (4–82 °C); they are preferred in industrial processes and on high-flow lines. The maximum operating pressure is 4.2 bar.
CTO (block) cartridges operate at a lower flow rate (4–38 °C), but because there is no risk of bypass, filter integrity is higher; they suit drinking water and sensitive process applications. The maximum pressure is 2.4 bar.
What is the difference between the SOE and DOE connection types?
SOE (single open end): one end of the cartridge is open and the other closed; sealing is provided by an NBR O-ring to the 222 connection standard. DOE (double open end): both ends are open and sealing is achieved with gaskets on both faces. Choosing the wrong type creates a risk of bypass and can seriously reduce filter efficiency; confirm the standard of your existing filter housing before ordering.
What should I do before putting a new cartridge into service?
After installing a new cartridge, flush the system with plenty of water for at least 5 minutes before putting it into service. In systems put into service without flushing, carbon fines (fine carbon dust) can pass downstream and contaminate the process water. Also always confirm that the O-ring gasket is fully seated in DOE/SOE connections; incomplete contact leads to a risk of bypass and zero removal efficiency.
How do I know when the cartridge has reached the end of its life?
Use an inlet–outlet colorimetric test kit to detect chlorine breakthrough; when chlorine is detected in the outlet water, it is time to replace the cartridge. The return of odour and taste is also a sign of chlorine breakthrough. Cartridge life is directly related to inlet water contamination, flow rate and the total volume of water treated; periodic testing is preferred over a fixed schedule.
What should be done if the system will not be used for a long time?
After long periods of standing idle (more than a few weeks), there can be a risk of bacterial growth in an activated carbon cartridge. Before putting the system back into service, replacing the cartridge and disinfecting the related pipelines is recommended. Stagnant water should not be allowed to collect inside the cartridge.
Should coconut shell-based or coal-based carbon be chosen?
Coconut shell-based activated carbon is harder, has a lower ash content and a narrower pore distribution; it is the standard choice for drinking water, food and pharmaceutical applications. Coal (anthracite)-based carbon, with its wider pore structure, is used to remove large-molecule organic contaminants and in industrial processes. We recommend talking to our technical team to determine the right media type for your process’s contaminant profile.
Should I add an activated carbon cartridge ahead of the RO membrane?
Yes, it should be added. Reverse osmosis (RO) polyamide thin-film composite (TFC) membranes are very sensitive to free chlorine; even chlorine at 0.1 ppm breaks the membrane’s polymer bonds and irreversibly impairs its salt rejection. A CTO block or GAC activated carbon cartridge placed ahead of the RO membrane adsorbs free chlorine with high efficiency, fully protecting the RO membranes against chemical degradation.
Box Dimensions
- 335 × 410 × 560 mm
- Capacity: 30 pcs per carton for 20" / 60 pcs per carton for 10".
- 335 × 410 × 810 mm
- Capacity: standard packing of 25 pcs per carton for 30" cartridges.
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