If you're running a soybean oil plant—whether it's a small-scale operation or a mid-sized facility—you know that choosing between a helical press and a hydraulic press isn’t just about upfront cost. It’s about long-term efficiency, product quality, and scalability.
Let’s break down five critical factors that will determine which machine fits your needs:
| Factor | Helical Press | Hydraulic Press |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Output (kg) | 500–2,000+ | 200–800 |
| Oil Purity (Free Fatty Acid %) | ≤0.5% (with filtration) | 0.8–1.5% |
| Energy Consumption (kWh/kg) | ~0.3–0.5 | ~0.7–1.0 |
| Maintenance Effort | Low (automatic feeding + cleaning) | High (manual pressing cycles) |
| Upgrade Potential | Easy integration with cold-press systems | Limited flexibility |
For example, a feed mill in Nigeria upgraded from a hydraulic press to a helical model and saw their daily output rise by 40% while reducing energy use per kilogram of oil by nearly 30%. That’s not just better economics—it’s more consistent quality.
Think of it this way: if your oil has high free fatty acid levels (like many hydraulic presses produce), it won’t only affect shelf life—it’ll also increase refining costs downstream. In fact, studies show that every 0.5% increase in FFA can add up to $0.05–$0.10 per liter in post-processing expenses.
That’s where integrated filter systems come in. Modern helical presses now often include built-in mechanical filters that reduce sediment and water content before the oil even reaches storage tanks. This means less work for your refinery team—and cleaner, higher-value oil.
If two or more answers are “yes,” a helical press may be your best bet.
Remember, the right press isn’t just about today—it’s about how well it scales with your business tomorrow. Whether you’re optimizing for yield, purity, or ease of operation, there’s a solution tailored to your stage of growth.
Click here to discover how to choose the ideal soybean oil press based on your production scale
