Penta DEM must de-ferrization plants are specialized systems designed for the selective removal of metals from grape must. By utilizing high-performance food-grade resins, the process effectively eliminates iron, copper, and lead, ensuring product stability and preventing oxidation without altering the must’s essential chemical or biological properties.
Technical data of must iron removal plants Must de-ferrization is a treatment aimed at removing unwanted metals and cations (such as iron, copper, and lead) that can compromise the stability, clarity, and overall quality of the product. It is essential for preventing oxidative phenomena and sensory defects. The plant uses a selective food-grade resin housed in a column, specifically engineered to trap metals while allowing the main chemical and biological parameters of the must to pass through unaffected. The result is a purified product with significantly reduced metal content. Penta DEM plants are fully automated and typically feature a single-column configuration. The high exchange capacity and reduced regeneration frequency make the treatment cost-effective, repeatable, and easy to manage within winery operations. The de-ferrization process is a critical step for wineries dealing with metal contamination or seeking maximum product stability. Penta DEM systems are engineered for high efficiency and minimal operational impact.
Ion-Exchange Technology Sizing inputs:
No, the selective resins are designed to target only metal ions. The sugar content, acidity, and primary aromas of the must remain unchanged. Regeneration frequency depends on the metal concentration in the inlet must. However, due to the high exchange capacity of the resins, cycles are typically long, ensuring efficient operation.Technical data of must iron removal plants
What it means
How it works
Automation
Process concept and operating strategy
The use of specific chelating resins allows for the targeted removal of iron and other heavy metals without stripping the must of its natural sugars, acids, or flavor precursors.
By removing iron and copper, which act as catalysts for oxidation, the de-ferrization process significantly enhances the shelf-life and color stability of the final wine.
The resins are regenerated using a hydrochloric acid solution, followed by a thorough rinse. The automated system optimizes chemical use and ensures consistent performance over many production cycles.
Useful references
Metal Casse in Wine
Initial metal concentration (Fe, Cu), required flow rate, daily treated volume, and desired final metal target.Technical data for must de-ferrization plants (Penta DEM)
Model (single column)
Resin volume (L)
Instant flow rate (hL/h)
Treated volume (hL/day)
HCl 30% consumption (L/cycle)
Column capacity (L)
Water consumption (L/cycle)
Plant dimensions (L x W x H)
DEM 275
275
16.5
380
38.5
330
2,065
1,200 x 1,000 x 2,150 mm
DEM 375
375
22.5
518
52.5
494
2,815
1,200 x 1,200 x 2,300 mm
DEM 550
550
33
759
77
728
4,125
1,400 x 1,200 x 2,300 mm
DEM 900
900
54
1,242
126
1,050
6,800
1,500 x 1,200 x 2,300 mm
DEM 1,200
1,200
72
1,656
168
1,580
9,000
1,600 x 1,500 x 2,400 mm
DEM 1,500
1,500
90
2,070
210
1,840
11,250
1,800 x 1,600 x 2,500 mm
DEM 2,100
2,100
120
2,760
294
2,619
15,750
1,800 x 1,800 x 3,000 mm
DEM 2,800
2,800
168
3,864
392
3,220
21,000
2,000 x 1,900 x 3,500 mm
FAQ
The system is highly effective at removing iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb), which are the primary metals responsible for oxidation and stability issues in wine.