Solving Common Blockages & Overheating in Medium-Scale Screw Oil Presses for Stable Export Production

For medium-scale oil mills exporting to global markets, consistent performance of the screw press is critical—not just for yield, but for maintaining product quality and meeting international standards. Yet many operators face recurring issues like material blockage and localized overheating during pre-treatment, which can halt production lines and compromise oil clarity.

Why Pre-Treatment Matters More Than You Think

According to industry data from the International Society of Oilseed Processors (ISOP), over 60% of screw press inefficiencies originate from improper pre-processing—specifically in raw material cleaning, particle size control, and steam conditioning. For example:

• Flaxseed or sesame: Requires precise moisture adjustment (10–12%) before pressing to avoid fiber entanglement.
• Sunflower seeds: Need uniform crushing (particle size: 1.5–2 mm) to prevent uneven feeding into the press barrel.

Inconsistent feed preparation leads directly to mechanical stress on the screw shaft and increased friction heat—often exceeding 85°C at the discharge end, triggering automatic shutdowns in sensitive models.

Real-World Case Study: A Moroccan Sunflower Mill

A mid-sized facility in Marrakech reported frequent clogs every 72 hours when processing sunflower seeds without a proper screening system. After implementing a two-stage cleaning process (rotary drum + magnetic separator) and adjusting the steam cooking time from 25 to 35 minutes, they reduced downtime by 78% within one month—and improved oil extraction efficiency from 92% to 96%.

“The key wasn’t upgrading the machine—it was optimizing how we fed it.” — Ahmed El Fassi, Plant Manager, Morocco Oil Co.

Quick Fixes That Work—No Extra Tools Needed

If your team notices rising temperature readings or inconsistent throughput:

1. Check feed consistency: Use a calibrated sieve to ensure particles are between 1.5–2.5 mm. Anything larger causes bridging in the hopper.
2. Monitor steam pressure: Maintain 0.4–0.6 MPa during roasting to avoid excessive drying that increases dust formation.
3. Implement daily visual checks: Inspect the first 30 cm of the screw conveyor for signs of overheating—use an infrared thermometer if available.

These small actions can reduce unplanned maintenance by up to 50%, especially when combined with a simple logbook tracking feed moisture, pressure, and temperature trends.

Remember: stable export-grade oil doesn't come from the press alone—it starts with what you put into it. By mastering these pre-treatment fundamentals, you're not just fixing problems—you’re building a more reliable, scalable operation.