Searching IndustryNet for oilseed processing equipment suppliers.

Oilseed Processing Equipment

1 Verified Supplier

French Oil Mill Machinery Co. Piqua, OH Hydraulic Presses, Oilseed Eqpt., Polymer Eqpt., Fiber Presses, ISO 9001:2015 Certified About PhoneEmail Website

Oilseed processing equipment plays a crucial role in the extraction and refinement of oils from various seeds such as soybeans, sunflowers, canola, and cottonseeds. The process begins with the cleaning of seeds to remove impurities like dirt, stones, and plant debris. This step ensures the quality of the final oil product. After cleaning, seeds undergo conditioning, which involves adjusting their moisture and temperature to optimize the extraction process.

The next stage is mechanical pressing or solvent extraction. Mechanical pressing uses screw presses to physically extract oil from the seeds, while solvent extraction employs chemical solvents, typically hexane, to dissolve the oil. Solvent extraction is more efficient for seeds with lower oil content. After extraction, the crude oil undergoes refining to remove impurities, free fatty acids, and undesirable compounds. Refining includes degumming, neutralization, bleaching, and deodorization processes.

Degumming removes phospholipids and other impurities, while neutralization eliminates free fatty acids. Bleaching uses adsorbent clays to remove color pigments and other impurities, and deodorization involves steam distillation to remove volatile compounds that affect the oil's taste and smell. The by-products of oilseed processing, such as meal and hulls, serve as valuable animal feed or as raw materials for other industrial applications.

Oilseed processing equipment includes seed cleaners, conditioners, screw presses, solvent extractors, and refining systems. These machines must withstand high pressures and temperatures, and they often feature stainless steel construction to resist corrosion and ensure food safety. The industry serves various sectors, including food production, biofuel manufacturing, and the cosmetics industry. In food production, oilseeds provide cooking oils, margarine, and shortening. In biofuels, they contribute to biodiesel production, offering a renewable energy source. The cosmetics industry uses oilseed derivatives in products like lotions and creams due to their emollient properties. Oilseed processing equipment supports these industries by enabling efficient and high-quality oil extraction and refinement.