If you're running a small to medium oil mill processing 3–5 tons of cottonseed or peanuts daily, you’ve likely faced this question:
“Should I go with secondary pressing or single-stage solvent extraction?”
This isn’t just a technical decision—it’s about cost control, product quality, and long-term profitability. Let’s break down both methods using real-world data, not theory.
| Parameter | Secondary Pressing | Single-Stage Solvent Extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Residual Oil (in cake) | ~4–6% | ~1–2% |
| Energy Consumption (kWh/ton) | ~120–150 kWh | ~80–100 kWh |
| Initial Equipment Cost | $15,000–$30,000 | $40,000–$70,000 |
| Post-Pressing Refining Difficulty | High (more free fatty acids) | Moderate (cleaner residue) |
For example, a peanut mill in Vietnam reported that after switching from secondary pressing to solvent extraction, their residual oil dropped from 5.2% to 1.3%, improving yield by 3.9% per ton—equivalent to an extra 150 kg of oil per day at 5 tons/day capacity.
The ZY24 (202–3) spiral press is often the unsung hero in continuous oil extraction lines. Whether you’re doing two-stage pressing or one-stage solvent extraction, its consistent output—around 1.8–2.5 tons/hour—makes it ideal for balancing flow rates across downstream processes.
In fact, mills using ZY24 as the primary press report up to 15% less downtime due to mechanical stability compared to older batch presses. That means more consistent feedstock preparation for solvent extraction tanks—or cleaner cake for second pressing.
Pro Tip: If your residue contains over 6% oil after first pressing, consider upgrading to ZY24 instead of adding another press stage. It may save capital while boosting efficiency.
Not all oils are created equal:
One client in India switched from secondary pressing to solvent extraction for canola processing—and saw a 22% reduction in monthly electricity bills while increasing net profit margins by 8% within six months.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your production goals—not just what’s cheapest upfront. Ask yourself:
If yes to any of these, solvent extraction likely fits your needs better—even if the initial investment feels steep.
Ready to see how ZY24 spiral press can optimize your current or future setup? Explore real case studies and performance specs here →
