A comparative study of batch and continuous refining of cottonseed oil in the Sudan

Abstract

This study is concerned with a comparison of some technical aspects regarding batch vs continuous refining (centrifugal alkali refining) of crude cottonseed oil. Implication of processing modes of operation were examined in light of their effect on the following performance criteria: (a) percentage of refining loss as a function of the initial crude-oil free fatty acid (FFA) content: (b) refined oil color as a function of initial crude-oil FFA: (c) caustic soda consumption as a function of initial crude-oil FFA: (d) bleachability characteristics of refined oil. The study shows, in quantitative terms, that continuous refining of cottonseed oil is more efficient in each of these performance criteria, particularly the percentage of refining loss. © 1984 AOCS Press.