The Principle and Function of the Sterilization Tank in Palm Oil Processing
In the palm oil processing process, the sterilization section is a core step in ensuring palm oil extraction efficiency and quality. It prepares fresh palm fruit bunches for pressing and is crucial for improving the oil yield of palm fruit and optimizing the quality of the finished palm oil. The following describes the principles and functions of the sterilization tank in palm oil processing:
Principle of the Sterilization Section
The sterilization section utilizes high-pressure steam treatment of fresh palm fruit bunches. This heat treatment achieves multiple goals: first, it kills microorganisms carried by the fruit bunches, preventing contamination of the palm oil during subsequent processing; second, it softens the fruit texture and loosens the connection between the fruit and the bunch, paving the way for subsequent threshing and palm oil pressing; and third, it destroys the lipase in the fruit, preventing an increase in free fatty acids and improving the quality of the finished palm oil.
For this stage, Henan Huatai Cereals and Oils Machinery Co., Ltd. has designed two different palm fruit sterilization equipment solutions: a vertical palm fruit sterilization system and a horizontal palm fruit sterilization system. The differences between them are:
(1) Vertical palm fruit sterilization machine occupies a small area, while horizontal palm fruit sterilization machine occupies a large area;
(2) Vertical palm fruit sterilization equipment has a high degree of automation, can open the door automatically, and requires less manpower; while horizontal palm fruit sterilization equipment consists of multiple carts, has a relatively low degree of automation, and requires more manpower;
(3) Vertical palm fruit sterilization equipment has a low overall investment, because water cannot be discharged in time, which will affect the quality of palm oil to a certain extent; horizontal palm fruit sterilization equipment has a high investment cost, but the drainage holes under the horizontal cart can drain water in time, reducing the impact on palm oil, so the oil quality is better.
The actual selection of palm fruit sterilization machine still needs to be comprehensively judged in combination with the specific needs of the palm oil processing plant, such as site area, budget, quality requirements, etc.
The Role of The Sterilization Section
(1) Improving palm oil extraction efficiency
The sterilization section can significantly improve the efficiency of palm oil extraction. After steam treatment, the palm fruit softens and the fruit bunch fibers loosen, making oil easier to extract during the subsequent palm oil pressing process. This not only increases the oil yield of the palm fruit, but also reduces residual oil in the pomace, thereby minimizing palm fruit raw material waste.
(2) Controlling Free Fatty Acids in Palm Fruit
The sterilization process can also reduce the free fatty acid (FFA) content in the palm fruit and inhibit its growth rate. Excessive free fatty acid levels can lead to a poor taste and flavor of the palm oil and shorten its shelf life. By destroying the lipase enzymes in the palm fruit, the sterilization process reduces the enzyme’s ability to break down the oil, ensuring that the palm oil meets high-quality standards and extends its storage life.
(3) Optimizing Crude Palm Oil Quality
The sterilization process can also improve the quality and clarity of crude palm oil. High-pressure steam reduces impurities in the palm fruit, kills microorganisms, and prevents their metabolites from affecting the pressed palm oil. This results in a final extracted crude palm oil with fewer impurities, a clearer color, and a higher grade.
However, it’s important to note that each sterilization equipment used in the sterilization process must be reliable, durable, and able to withstand high-pressure steam. This ensures uniform sterilization of each batch of palm fruit, ensuring consistent palm oil quality.
Selecting high-quality palm fruit sterilization equipment is crucial for palm oil production, improving both production efficiency and the quality of the finished palm oil, ultimately generating high economic returns for the palm oil processing plant. If you’re interested in learning more about palm oil sterilization equipment or palm oil production lines, please feel free to contact Henan Huatai Oil Machinery. As a professional oil and fat equipment supplier, Henan Huatai Cereals and Oils Machinery Co., Ltd. boasts extensive industry experience and superior technical expertise. Our palm oil sterilization tank offers stable performance, ease of operation, and can be customized to meet your specific needs. Please feel free to contact us for inquiries.
Website: https://palmoilmachine.com/
Email: info06@cnoilmachine.com
