ABSTRACT
Technology of preparation of various oilseeds is discussed. Knowledge of theoretical aspects of seed preparation, including the desired effects within an individual oil cell, will enable the reader to develop insights into the science of seed preparation. Unit processes of seed preparation, their role in overall preparation, namely, in overcoming the resistances to oil extraction, are discussed in detail. Specific operation conditions in each unit operation for various seeds are described. The oilseeds covered are not only the major ones, namely rapeseed, sunflower seed and palm kernel, but also not-so-major seeds such as cottonseed, groundnut, copra (dry coconut) and castor beans, and even minor seeds such as sesame, shea nut, linseed, niger seed and neem. The reasons for the variations in operation conditions for different seeds are discussed in relation with the seed structure and composition. This should be of help to students of oil technology and researchers.
Finally, a simple tool is presented to determine the optimum moisture in seed at inlet to Press; this should be of practical help to oil mill engineers and operators.
