Palm Oil Refining: How the Filter Press Boosts Fractionation

Palm oil refining consists of several precise processing stages designed to remove impurities and enhance the oil’s stability and functionality. Among these steps, dry fractionation is one of the most widely used methods to obtain high-value fractions. The process begins by heating palm oil to around 70°C, ensuring complete homogenization and eliminating any premature crystals. The oil then undergoes controlled cooling with chilled-water circulation while being gently agitated. As the temperature decreases to approximately 22°C, stearin crystals form gradually, creating a slurry composed of liquid olein and solid fat crystals. Once the crystallization curve reaches the target point, the slurry is ready for mechanical separation.

At this stage, the filter press becomes the core separation equipment in the refining line. The crystallized slurry is pumped directly into the filter press, where membrane plates apply uniform pressure to extract olein from the crystal mass. During operation, the membranes inside the filter press inflate with air, water, or oil, squeezing the cake and maximizing liquid recovery. A high-performance filter press ensures consistent filtration cycles, stable product quality, and minimal oil loss. Its accuracy in controlling pressure and squeezing time is essential for achieving the desired olein clarity and stearin texture.

Modern refiners rely on the filter press not only for efficiency but also for safety and reliability. Advanced designs—such as those used in Kerte equipment—feature high-strength plates, effective sealing, and intelligent automation to optimize each fractionation cycle. A well-engineered filter press also supports cleaner operation, lower maintenance needs, and greater long-term durability. With innovative hydraulic systems, the filter press can further enhance sustainability by reducing dependence on mineral-based hydraulic oil and improving overall food safety.

The results obtained through a high-quality filter press are significant. Producers benefit from higher olein yield, exceptional oil clarity, and firm, easily handled stearin cakes. In addition, the filter press contributes to reduced operating costs, improved consistency, and better process control across the entire refining operation. By combining precise crystallization with the advanced capabilities of the filter press, palm oil refineries can achieve more reliable, efficient, and high-quality dry fractionation performance.