Degumming / Neutralization & Washing

Objective: We offer an innovative solution for the efficient degumming, neutralization, and washing of various oils, with a focus on enhancing oil quality and minimizing production costs.

Key Process Details:

1. Formation of Liquid Crystal:
   • We utilize the unique property of hydratable phospholipids, which contain polar groups that create a liquid crystal when mixed with water.
   • At slightly above room temperature, these phospholipids form a laminar structure that is insoluble in oil and capable of absorbing impurities.
2. Total Degumming Process:
   • The process involves mixing oil with hot water, caustic lye, and phosphoric acid to neutralize the oil.
   • The mixture is then retained in a tank to convert non-hydrated gums into lyso form, resulting in more stable hydratable gums.
   • Centrifugation is used to separate the hydratable gums from the oil.
3. Process Flow:
   • Crude oil is continuously pumped through a pump, heated or cooled to the required temperature in a plate heat exchanger.
   • It is then mixed with the appropriate quantities of acid, lye, and phosphoric acid in a high shear mixer and fed into the neutralizer.
   • After neutralization, the mixture is retained in a tank for proper conditioning.
   • The conditioned oil is then heated to facilitate separation in a centrifugal separator.
4. Washing for Better Quality:
   • In the case of oils like Soya, Sunflower, and cottonseed, washing is performed to improve color neutralization.
   • Process parameters are adjusted based on the oil type and quality.
   • For rice bran oil, a specially designed enzymatic degumming plant is provided, resulting in enhanced degumming and reduced oil loss.
5. Enzymatic Degumming Benefits:
   • Enzymatic degumming helps achieve better results during deodorization and produces physically refined, high-grade rice bran oil.
   • After degumming, the oil is directed to the bleaching process.