This article serves as a practical guide for small-scale palm oil refining processes, offering systematic and practical solutions to the common problems faced by small and medium-sized palm oil processing enterprises during their initial operations. It details the key refining steps from pre - treatment to deodorization, emphasizing the impact of reasonable settings of parameters such as temperature, pressure, and time on the oil yield and product quality.
In the pre - treatment stage, for example, the temperature should be set between 50 - 60°C to effectively remove impurities. If the temperature is too low, the impurities may not be fully removed; if it is too high, it may affect the quality of the palm oil. The pressure during the neutralization process is typically maintained at around 1 - 2 atmospheres to ensure proper chemical reactions. The time for each stage also plays a crucial role. For instance, the bleaching process usually takes about 30 - 60 minutes, which helps to remove pigments and improve the color of the palm oil.
The PLC intelligent control system simplifies operations, prevents faults, and enhances production efficiency and safety. It can automatically adjust the temperature, pressure, and time according to the pre - set parameters. For example, in a real - world scenario, a small palm oil processing enterprise implemented a PLC control system. Before using the system, the average production time for a batch of palm oil was about 8 hours, and the oil yield was around 80%. After the implementation of the PLC system, the production time was reduced to 6 hours, and the oil yield increased to 85%. This shows that the PLC system can significantly improve the production process.
During the operation of palm oil refining equipment, there are some common faults. For example, blockages in the pipelines may occur due to the accumulation of impurities. To prevent this, regular cleaning of the pipelines is necessary. If a blockage occurs, it can be cleared by using a high - pressure water jet. Another common issue is the malfunction of the heating system. Regular inspection and maintenance of the heating elements can help prevent such problems. If a malfunction occurs, the faulty parts should be replaced in time.
Daily maintenance is essential for the stable operation of palm oil refining equipment. The equipment should be cleaned regularly, and lubricants should be added to the moving parts. Safety specifications are also crucial. Workers should wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles. The working environment should be well - ventilated to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases.
| Maintenance Item | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pipeline Cleaning | Once a week | Use a cleaning agent and high - pressure water jet |
| Heating Element Inspection | Once a month | Check for damage and proper functioning |
| Lubrication of Moving Parts | Every two weeks | Use appropriate lubricants |
This article provides comprehensive guidance for small and medium - sized palm oil processing enterprises. By understanding the key parameters of the refining process, using the PLC control system effectively, and following the maintenance and safety specifications, these enterprises can improve their production efficiency, product quality, and reduce operational risks. If you are interested in learning more about palm oil refining equipment and processes, click here to explore our professional solutions.
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