Optimization of Process Parameters of an Oil Expeller for Pongamia pinnata Seeds

Abstract

The present study examined a new process, in which Pongamia pinnata seeds were pressed in a counter-rotating twin-screw extruder. Series of tests were conducted to determine the best performance (oil extraction yield, and oil quality) by studying the influence of operating conditions, screw speed, flow rate and barrel temperature. The flow rate and screw speed affected oil extraction yield. An increase of oil extraction yield was observed as the screw speed was increased (100 rpm) with a decreased flow rate of seeds (3 kg/h). Slight increase of oil yield was observed when the barrel temperature was in the range of 50–60ºC. Highest oil extraction yield was obtained at screw speed of 100 rpm, flow rate of 3 kg/h and the barrel temperature of 55ºC. The obtained oil was of good quality (density of oil = 0.940 g/cc, kinematic viscosity = 40.53 centistokes).

Keywords: Oil quality, Pongamia pinnata seeds, twin-screw extruder, operating conditions, oil yield

Cite this Article

Kotagi VK, Chandrakumar R. Optimization of process parameters of an oil expeller for Pongamia pinnata seeds. Research & Reviews: A Journal of Biotechnology. 2017; 7(1): 33­–36p.