How to Extract Soybean Oil – Pressing & Solvent Extraction Methods
Introduction to Soybean Oil Production
Soybean oil is one of the most consumed vegetable oils in the world and is valued for its versatility in cooking, frying and food processing. With growing demand, many investors are exploring soybean oil production. However, to establish a profitable soybean oil plant, it is important to understand the key processes, which include
- Two main extraction methods: mechanical pressing and solvent extraction
- Equipment selection: based on capacity (small-scale vs. large-scale)
- Process steps: cleaning, pressing/extraction, refining
- Cost and return on investment considerations
This guide explores the best soybean oil extraction methods, required machinery, and how to optimize production for maximum efficiency.
Soybean Oil Extraction Methods: Pressing vs. Solvent Extraction
1.Mechanical Pressing Method (Best for Small-Scale Production)
The soybean oil pressing production line uses mechanical force to extract oil from soybeans. This method is ideal for small to medium capacities (1–20 tons/day).
Key Steps in Soybean Oil Pressing:
- Cleaning – Removing impurities (dust, stones, metals)
- Crushing – Breaking soybeans into smaller particles
- Softening – Heating to adjust moisture for better oil yield
- Flaking – Rolling into thin flakes for efficient pressing
- Pressing – Using an oil press machine to extract crude oil
- Filtration – Removing solids for pure, edible oil
Best for: Small farms, local businesses, and organic oil production
Equipment Needed: Cleaning sieve, Crusher & flaker, Soybean oil press machine (screw press or hydraulic press), Filter press or centrifugal filter.
💡For daily outputs of less than 10 tons, an integrated oil press with automatic temperature control can meet the demand. For higher output, a complete soybean oil pressing line is recommended.
2.Solvent Extraction Method (Best for Large-Scale Production)
For high-capacity processing (20+ tons/day), solvent extraction is more efficient, achieving up to 99% oil yield.
Key Steps in Solvent Extraction:
Pre-treatment (Cleaning, flaking, conditioning)
Solvent Extraction – Using hexane to dissolve oil from flakes
Desolventizing – Removing solvent from oil & meal
Refining – Degumming, bleaching, deodorizing
Best for: Industrial-scale soybean oil production
Equipment Needed: Oil extraction equipment (extractor, desolventizer, evaporator), Refinery system (degumming, bleaching, deodorizing).
💡 For soybeans with less than 20% oil content, direct extraction is possible. For soybeans with higher oil content, pre-pressurization is recommended before extraction.
Choosing the Right Soybean Oil Extraction Equipment
| Factor | Pressing Method | Solvent Extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1–20 tons/day | 20–500+ tons/day |
| Oil Yield | 70–85% | Up to 99% |
| Investment Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Residual Oil in Meal | 5–8% | <1% |
| Best For | Small businesses, organic oil | Large factories, high efficiency |
Which Soybean Oil Extraction Method is Best?
- For small producers (<10 tons/day): Mechanical pressing is cost-effective. Recommended Equipment: Automatic screw press + filtration system
- For medium operations (10–20 tons/day): A soybean oil pressing production line improves efficiency. Recommended Equipment: Full soybean oil pressing production line
- For large factories (20+ tons/day): Solvent extraction maximizes yield and profitability.
Recommended Equipment: Solvent extraction plant + refining system
Need help choosing the right oil extraction equipment? Contact our experts for a customized solution!
