Why is machine sizing important for castor oil production?
Machine sizing is key to maintaining a continuous castor oil production process, since oversized machines will not press material efficiently, and can unnecessarily increase a plant’s capital expenditures and operating costs over time.
How is castor oil produced?
As with most oilseeds, the castor oil production process begins with dehulling and cleaning the beans to remove shells, stems, and other foreign materials. Oil processors then heat batches of dehulled castor beans in steam-jacketed cookers or forced hot air vessels to remove moisture and harden the seeds for more effective mechanical pressing.
Which country produces the most castor oil?
India is known as the world leader in castor seed and oil production and leads the international castor oil trade. Castor oil production in this country usually fluctuates between 250,000 and 350,000 tons per year. Approximately 86% of castor seed production in India is concentrated in Gujarat, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Does castor oil need a refining?
However, physical refining is not recommended in the case of castor oil, due to its sensitivity to heat as it normally starts disintegrating above 150°C, which can result in the hydrolysis of the hydroxyl groups.