Degumming and Bleaching

Degumming is the first stage in the oil and fat refining process. In this step the gums (phospholipids) that are insoluble in oil are hydrated and removed, as well as some metals and other contaminants. To this effect phosphoric acid and water are added to the oil either in the same vessel or in separate steps, and the mixture is intensified using our ultrasonic reactors.

Upon completion of the reaction an horizontal tricanter or a self-cleaning separation centrifuge is used to separate the phases. The gums can be used to produce lecithin, depending on the feedstock used, and are dried separately if required. The degumming systems can be installed on their own, or more typically in combination with a bleaching system, which increases the process efficiency.

Bleaching systems are very efficient in removing residual gums, metals, soaps, oxidants and coloring compounds in oils and fats. The systems can either be done in conjunction with degumming, or independently.

In either case, the bleaching system removes trace gums from the oil, which promotes a much higher purity. Our systems use ultrasonic reactors in order to achieve a high degree of mixing the bleaching earth with the oil and attain maximum efficiency. Both bleaching earth and silica, or a mix of both can be used, and the correct mix is chosen depending on the feedstock properties.

The system is completed with a Vertical Pressure Leaf filter (Niagara type), which completely removes the bleaching agents, whilst leaving a very dry cake with minimal oil loss. As a further improvement on the industry, we are also able to recover the oil left in the cake should our clients require it.

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