How many types of refining methods are there in the edible oil refining process? For those planning an edible oil refinery, this is a key question. Edible oil refining methods are mainly classified by operation mode and deacidification technology.
By operation mode, there are three types: batch refining system, semi-continuous refining system, and full-continuous refining system. By deacidification technology, there are two: chemical refining and physical refining. Choosing the right one is vital for your refinery's success.
First, let's clarify the 4 core stages of edible oil refining: degumming, deacidification, decolorization, and deodorization. These stages remove gums, free fatty acids (FFA), pigments, and off-flavors from crude oil, improving storage stability, flavor, and color to meet edible standards. All three operation modes cover these four stages—their similarities lie in this core function, while differences determine your choice.
Key Differences Between the Three Refining Systems
1. Equipment Configuration: Batch systems use four independent tanks (degumming, deacidification, decolorization, deodorization). Semi-continuous systems replace the deodorization tank with a deodorization column. Full-continuous systems use both decolorization and deodorization columns instead of tanks, with optimized supporting equipment.
2. Automation Level: Batch systems process oil batch by batch, requiring frequent manual operation. Semi-continuous systems achieve continuity only in deodorization. Full-continuous systems run automatically throughout the entire process, ensuring stable quality and low labor input.
How to Choose the Right Refining Method?
Your choice depends on capacity, crude oil type/finished oil requirements, and budget.
1. Capacity: Batch systems suit small scale (1-10 T/D) due to low investment. Semi-continuous systems fit medium scale (20-50 T/D), balancing efficiency and cost. Full-continuous systems are for large scale (50+ T/D), with high throughput and low long-term costs.
2. Crude Oil & Quality Requirements: High FFA crude oil (palm oil, rice bran oil, coconut oil) needs physical refining—semi-continuous or full-continuous systems (using columns with direct steam) are ideal, with lower oil loss. Batch systems use chemical refining (NaOH neutralization), suitable for low FFA crude oil but with higher loss.
3. Budget: Batch systems have the lowest initial cost. Full-continuous systems have the highest initial investment but the lowest operating and labor costs long-term.
Henan Doing Mechanical Equipment Co., Ltd. is a professional Chinese manufacturer of edible oil refining equipment, with global export experience. If you’re planning an edible oil refinery, contact us for tailored advice on choosing the best refining method!
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http://www.edibleoilrefinerymachine.com
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