Process Equipment

Preparation of oil bearing material prior to its extraction is often under estimated by many processors. To achieve the best results in solvent extraction, the way in which the row material is prepared is almost as important as extraction equipments itself.

The feed stock should have a particle size small enough to enable the solvent to reach right up to the core, but at the same time not so small as to constitute 'fines' should have fairly uniform particle size in order to 'pack well' in the extractor and form a homogenous bed and should possess good percolation characteristics. Too big pieces in the feed results in high residual oil content in meal as the solvent may not be able to penetrate to the core. And too small particles or fines will lead to poor percolation and channeling effect, thus resulting in poor performance of the plant.