Optimizing Palm Oil Refining: Temperature, Pressure, and Time Parameters for Higher Yield and Quality

QI ' E Group

2025-10-30

Technical knowledge

This practical guide for small-scale palm oil refining equipment explains how to optimize key parameters—temperature, pressure, and time—in each stage of the refining process: pretreatment, degumming, deacidification, decolorization, and deodorization. Step-by-step operational tips, real-world case studies, and troubleshooting strategies ensure stable production and premium oil quality. Learn how PLC control systems simplify operations, reduce errors, and enhance safety. Includes maintenance best practices, safety protocols, and visual aids like flowcharts and video tutorials. Designed for beginners in palm oil processing, this article empowers small producers to achieve efficient, consistent results with minimal waste—ideal for decision-making in the production planning phase.

Optimizing Palm Oil Refining: Mastering Temperature, Pressure & Time for Higher Yield and Quality

For small-scale palm oil producers aiming to boost efficiency and product consistency, understanding the precise control of temperature, pressure, and time during refining is no longer optional—it’s essential. According to industry benchmarks from the International Oleochemical Society (IOS), optimizing these parameters can increase oil yield by up to 3–5% while reducing free fatty acid levels below 0.1%—critical for meeting global food-grade standards.

Step-by-Step Process Optimization

Each stage of palm oil refining—from pre-treatment to deodorization—requires specific parameter tuning:

Stage	Temperature (°C)	Pressure (kPa)	Time (min)
Pre-Treatment	60–70	Atmospheric	15–20
Degumming	80–90	Slight vacuum (5–10 kPa)	20–25
Neutralization	95–105	Atmospheric	15–20
Bleaching	100–110	Vacuum (10–15 kPa)	25–30
Deodorization	220–240	High vacuum (1–2 kPa)	45–60

💡 Pro Tip: Overheating in deodorization can lead to oxidation and off-flavors—even if your yield looks good, quality may suffer. Always monitor steam flow rate and use real-time sensors for accurate control.

Why PLC Control Systems Are a Game-Changer

Manual adjustments are prone to human error—especially in high-temperature processes like deodorization. A modern PLC system ensures consistent operation across batches, reducing variability by up to 40%. At Qinling Group, our integrated control modules not only log process data but also alert operators when deviations exceed safe thresholds. This means fewer rejects, less waste, and more predictable output—key for B2B buyers seeking reliable supply chains.

One client in Indonesia reported a 30% reduction in operator training time after switching to our smart-refining units—with no drop in quality. That’s the power of automation built for real-world conditions.

Maintenance & Safety Best Practices

Even the best setup fails without proper care. Clean the heat exchangers weekly to prevent fouling—a common cause of inefficiency. Use certified safety gear during maintenance, especially when working under vacuum or with hot surfaces above 150°C. And always follow local regulations regarding chemical handling (e.g., phosphoric acid in degumming).

📌 Real-World Insight: In Malaysia, a producer who skipped regular filter cleaning saw their bleaching efficiency drop by nearly 20%. It took two weeks to recover—and lost 1.5 tons of usable oil. Prevention beats repair every time.

If you're serious about scaling your palm oil business sustainably, mastering these variables isn’t just technical—it’s strategic. Whether you’re setting up your first plant or upgrading existing lines, the right tools make all the difference.

Explore Our Smart Refining Solutions – Designed for Smaller Plants, Built for Global Standards