10 - Dry Condensing Vacuum Systems for Deodorizers for Substantial Energy Savings

Abstract

This chapter explains that the final quality of refined edible oils and fats is determined to a large extent by the final processing step of deodorization. The chapter discusses the types of vacuum production systems used in oil deodorizing. Deodorizers operate at low pressure to remove unwanted components while at the same time preserving the nutritional value and improving the organoleptic quality of the oil. A dry condensing vacuum system for deodorizers is today considered state of the art. The larger capital cost is more than compensated for by the much lower operating cost; thus, a reasonable payback time is guaranteed. But more important is the possibility to operate the deodorization process at a much lower pressure, offering new perspectives to a more efficient removal of unwanted minor-components from the oil under milder refining conditions, while at the same time reducing the environmental impact by a much lower effluent production and lower odor emission.