Unit that separates free fatty acids and gum substances in crude vegetable oils by chemical and centrifugal methods.
Vegetable Oil Refining Systems
Neutralization Unit
Caustic Refining (Neutralization) is the basic refining process that chemically neutralizes crude vegetable oils. It involves reacting the free fatty acids in the oil with caustic soda to saponify it and removing the resulting precipitate (soapstock) by centrifugal separation method.
This system, which is suitable for the majority of edible oils, ensures the production of first-class edible oil at the refinery outlet.
Sunflower Oil Neutralization Stages
- Acid Conditioning (Degumming): Separation of phosphatides and gum substances.
- Neutralization: Neutralization and removal of free fatty acids.
- Water Washing & Drying: Washing of soap products and drying them under vacuum.