Oilseeds preparation & pressing
The purpose of preparation is to modify the seed into a shape that is suitable for fast and effective extraction by mechanical pressing or by solvent extraction. Seed preparation involves several steps to break down as much as possible the cell walls of the seed. This is crucial because the oil intended for extraction is located inside the cells.
How does it work?
Depending on the seed type or quality, the following processes are necessary for optimal extraction and minimal overall operational expenses (OPEX):
- Seed conditioning, to adjust the moisture and temperature for proper downstream processing
- Cracking, to reduce the particle size of the seeds
- Seed dehulling, to increase the protein content of the de-oiled meal
- Cooking, to reduce the viscosity of the oil and adjust the moisture content (when softseed are processing)
- Flaking, to rupture the cell structure of the broken seeds
- Pre-pressing
- Expanding (sometimes), to enhance extraction parameters
Full process
The key to the separation process is proper mechanical and thermal preparation of the material prior to separation of the oils and fats. Desmet masters all technologies of preparation, screw pressing and solvent extraction to bring full solutions to industry, and transform oilseeds into prepared oilseeds.
A growing business trend is to return to pure screw press separation of oils and fats, often referred to as ‘full pressing’. Desmet bases its full pressing technology on the world renown Rosedowns brand of screw presses. Rosedowns, founded in 1777 in Hull, England, has long been a leader in designing and manufacturing world-class screw presses, and being a trusted supplier of the replacement parts needed to maintain yields year-around.
Advantages
Our method for extracting oils and fats after seed preparation, whether through pressing or solvent extraction, offers numerous advantages.
OPEX
Our oilseeds preparation and pressing process minimizes overall operational expenses.
Downstream
The full process is specially developed to optimize performance in the downstream process.
High protein
With our process we address new market trends and applications with high protein concentrate.
Raw materials
Desmet is a world leader in separation of oils and fats from oilseeds and animal fats. This separation can take place by mechanical pressure in a screw press, by solvent extraction, or by a combination of screw press plus solvent extraction. The specific process depends on the desired final product characteristics and its intended application.
Rapeseed
Soybeans
Sunflower
Key proprietary equipment
The key proprietary equipment for oilseeds preparation and pressing includes conditioners, cookers, and screw presses. These advanced machines ensure optimal oil extraction and processing efficiency, tailored to meet specific product requirements and application needs, ensuring high-quality output.
Conditioners
Sterling Series presses
Rotary cookers
Our services
With a focus on cutting-edge technology, high-quality components, and comprehensive on-site support, our service teams ensure optimized plant performance and minimized operational disruptions.