Troubleshooting guide for agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification equipment

As a key player in the edible oil production industry, efficient operation of agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification equipment is crucial to ensure high-quality oils and maximizing production yields. Henan Glory Oils & Fats Engineering Co., Ltd. specializes in providing advanced, reliable agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification equipment. In this troubleshooting guide, we aim to help you address common issues encountered in the agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification processes, allowing for smoother operations and minimizing downtime.

1. Understanding the Agricultural Edible Oil Degumming and Deacidification Processes

Before diving into troubleshooting, it is important to understand the basic principles of agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification processes. These processes are essential steps in the production of agricultural edible oils, where:

The agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification processes

(1) Agricultural Edible Oil Degumming Process: Removes phospholipids (or gums) from crude edible oil to improve oil stability, color and taste.

(2) Aricultural Edible Oil Deacidification Process: Inhibits the increase of free fatty acids (FFA) in oil, thereby lowering acidity and enhancing the oil’s quality.

The agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification processes ensure that the oil meets market standards and is safe for consumption. However, several operational issues can arise if these processes are not carefully monitored.

2. Common Issues and Troubleshooting Techniques of the Agricultural Edible Oil Degumming and Deacidification Equipment

Issue 1: Incomplete Degumming

Symptoms:

The edible oil retains a cloudy appearance or does not meet quality standards after degumming. Presence of gums or phospholipids in the final product.

Possible Causes:

(1) Insufficient water or acid dosage: Inadequate hydration or improper acid usage may result in incomplete gum separation.

(2) Incorrect temperature control: If the temperature is too low or too high, it can affect the gum separation efficiency.

(3) Poor mixing: Inadequate mixing of water or acid with the crude edible oil can cause uneven gum removal.

Troubleshooting:

(1) Check water and acid dosing equipment: Ensure accurate dosing and adjust according to the oil type and quality.

(2) Monitor temperature: Maintain the recommended temperature (typically between 60-70°C) for optimal degumming.

(3) Ensure proper mixing: Ensure efficient and even mixing to ensure the complete hydration of phospholipids.

Agricultural dible oil degumming process and equipment

Issue 2: Excessive Acid Removal During Agricultural Edible Oil Deacidification Process

Symptoms:

The oil quality improves but results in oil loss or decreased yield. The final oil product may have an off-flavor due to over-treatment.

Possible Causes:

(1) Overuse of neutralizing agents: Excessive caustic soda or other neutralizing agents may over-deacidify the oil.

(2) Incorrect pH control: An imbalanced pH during deacidification can lead to excessive removal of free fatty acids.

Troubleshooting:

(1) Fine-tune neutralizing agent dosage: Monitor and adjust the neutralizing agent to ensure that only the required amount is used for deacidification.

(2) Implement precise pH control: Ensure the pH of the oil is regularly monitored and maintained within the optimal range (usually pH 7–8) during the deacidification process.

Issue 3: Formation of Soapstock During Agricultural Edible Oil Deacidification Process:

Formation of a thick, viscous byproduct (soapstock) during the deacidification process. Oil yield loss due to the separation of soapstock from the oil.

Possible Causes:

(1) Excessive lye (sodium hydroxide) dosage: The formation of soapstock is a result of a reaction between free fatty acids and alkaline solutions.

(2) Incorrect temperature and mixing: If the temperature is too high or mixing is inadequate, soapstock formation can be exacerbated.

Troubleshooting:

(1) Reduce lye dosage: Adjust the amount of caustic soda to avoid excessive neutralization and soapstock formation.

(2) Maintain optimal temperature and mixing: Ensure that the temperature is within the recommended range (usually around 60-70°C) and that the oil is mixed thoroughly during the agricultural edible oil deacidification process.

The agricultural edible oil deacidification equipment

Issue 4: Poor Oil Quality After Agricultural Edible Oil Degumming and Deacidification

Symptoms:

The oil still exhibits poor color, taste, or odor after agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification. The oil fails to meet the required standards for edible oil.

Possible Causes:

(1) Inadequate filtration: Poor filtration may result in residual impurities, affecting the oil's quality.

(2) Improper equipment maintenance: Clogged or dirty equipment may hinder effective filtration and purification.

(3) Incorrect parameters during processing: Deviations from optimal temperature, time or chemical dosing can affect the final oil quality.

Troubleshooting:

(1) Check filtration systems: Ensure that filtration units are clean and functioning properly to remove residual impurities.

(2) Regular maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on equipment to prevent blockages and ensure optimal performance.

(3) Revisit processing parameters: Re-evaluate the temperature, time, and chemical dosing parameters to ensure they align with the optimal conditions for agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification.

Agricultural edible oil filtration unit

The above are the common issues of agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification equipment analyzed by Henan Glory Oils & Fats Engineering Co., Ltd. for you. By understanding these common issues and implementing recommended troubleshooting techniques, you can maximize oil quality and improve the efficiency of your agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification equipment. If you face any challenges or need guidance on optimizing your agricultural edible oil degumming and deacidification process, please feel free to contact us for personalized support and equipment customization solutions!