Visit to the KLT Filtration factory

Recently, we had the unique opportunity to visit the factory of KLT Filtration, the creators of Coldstream filters, and to explore the behind-the-scenes of this innovative company.

Located in the heart of England, KLT Filtration stands out for its commitment to quality and scientific innovation.

Collaboration with the University of Cambridge

At the heart of KLT (Coldstream)'s innovation lies a fruitful collaboration with the University of Cambridge. This synergy between industry and academic research allows KLT to stay at the cutting edge of filtration technology, with a particular focus on research and development of new water purification methods.

An artisanal manufacturing process

During our visit, we were particularly impressed by the manufacturing process of Coldstream filters, which combines cutting-edge technology with artisanal expertise. Every step of the ceramic manufacturing, from initial design to finishing, is executed with meticulous care. The machines used, including high-pressure and polishing machines, are operated by skilled craftsmen, guaranteeing product quality.

A unique materials–processes ecosystem in King's Lynn

What makes Coldstream stand apart isn't just the filters themselves. On the same site as KLT Filtration, two sister companies work daily alongside the Coldstream team: PCL Ceramics, a world specialist in high-pressure casting and microporous resin moulds, and PIL Membranes, an expert in high-performance polymer membranes (Porelle and Permair brands). This proximity creates very short R&D loops: an idea moves faster from prototype to production, with precise control of porosity and flow rates.

What this means for the user:

– Performance repeatability: PCL microporous resin moulds, combined with pressure casting machines, produce uniform walls and tight tolerances. Result: more consistent flow rates from batch to batch and lasting filtration consistency.

– Surface finish and cleanliness: PCL Ceramics moulds produce finer surfaces, reduce defects and limit washing operations between cycles, avoiding texture variations that could affect flow at end of cycle.

– Fast, controlled industrialisation: PCL designs lines capable of going from manual demoulding to robotic automation. For Coldstream, this means a smooth transition from lab to production, with traceability and process stability.

– Membrane culture and pore science: PIL Membranes brings over 40 years of expertise in microporous and hydrophilic membranes, where everything comes down to mastering thickness, permeability and pore distribution. This "membrane" culture informs how Coldstream thinks about filter ceramics.

In short: one address, three areas of expertise

• KLT Filtration: design and manufacture of Coldstream ceramic filters.
• PCL Ceramics: microporous resin moulds and high-pressure casting, from prototyping to automation.
• PIL Membranes: high-performance polymer membranes (microporous PU, hydrophilic PU, two-component PTFE) for demanding markets.

Rigorous material selection

The activated carbon used by KLT Filtration is carefully selected for its exceptional adsorption properties. It is chosen for its effectiveness in removing a wide range of contaminants, including nitrates, providing superior quality purified water.

Sustainability and energy autonomy

A remarkable aspect of the KLT Filtration factory is its commitment to sustainability. The energy required for production is entirely provided by wind turbines and solar panels installed on site, minimising the company's ecological footprint and reducing energy costs.

Quality control and scientific innovation

KLT leaves nothing to chance when it comes to quality. The company has its own laboratory to carry out rigorous quality checks and initial tests on each batch of filters produced. Two scientists are integrated into the team to ensure not only quality control but also productivity optimisation.

KLT uses a scanning electron microscope to measure the presence of contaminants and ensure the quality of their ceramic manufacturing. To evaluate the porous structure of their ceramics, KLT employs mercury porosimetry, a technique for estimating average pore size.

Additional tests are also carried out by independent laboratories. This visit allowed us to witness first-hand the passion and expertise that drive KLT Filtration. With such dedication to quality, innovation and sustainability, Coldstream filters position themselves as a reference in water filtration, offering a reliable and ecological solution for pure, healthy water.

In summary, we believe KLT Filtration embodies excellence in water filtration technology, with an approach that combines artisanal tradition and modern innovation. An inspiring model for the industry and a quality guarantee for families seeking autonomy in clean drinking water. Visiting the factory makes it clear that Coldstream's strength goes beyond the ceramic alone: it is the rare integration of a ceramics–moulds–membranes hub on a single site, with mostly renewable production energy, that enables the combination of artisanal quality, industrial capacity and R&D responsiveness.

If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate to contact us: info@pure-filters.com