Physical refining of sunflower oil

Abstract

Physical refining has several advantages compared to the classical chemical one. This process is more economical (improved yield, lower investment cost, less chemicals used) environmental friendly process (no soapstock to be treated, splitted) but more sensitive to the crude oil quality. Physical refining of sunflower oil is discussed in details. Recent developments in the field of processes, equipment and control have made it possible to refine by physical way the high phosphatide containing seed oils as well. Special degumming processes, improved performance of bleaching materials, better design of deodorizers are applied in new installations; huge capacity one-line physical refineries are successfully operated in different countries.