Development of an Oil Extraction Machine for Jatropha curcas Seeds

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to solve one of the problems which Jatropha curcas seeds (JCS) oil extraction industry is facing in the Northern part of Nigeria; the lack of efficient small scale oil extraction machines. A small scale JCS oil extraction machine was therefore designed, developed, and evaluated for performance. Study Design: The study was conducted using 3 × 3 × 3 Factorial Experimental Design. The results obtained were analysed using ANOVA while Least Significant Difference (LSD) test was used to separate the means. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Agricultural Engineering, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria between January 2011 and April 2013. Methodology: Base on design calculations, locally sourced materials with indigenous technology were used for the development of the machine. In evaluating the developed prototype machine, the effect of speed, feed-rate, and moisture content on throughput, extraction rate, and extraction efficiency were determined. Results: The throughput, extraction rate and extraction efficiency of the machine were in the range of 27.86 to 54.96 kg/hr, 4.45 to 9.42 L/hr, and 27.86 to 65.17%, respectively. The best throughput, extraction rate and extraction efficiency of the machine were obtained at 40 rpm with a feed-rate of 48 kg/hr and moisture content of 7.0% on dry basis (db). The average throughput, extraction rate and extraction efficiency of the machine were 32.67 kg/hr, 7.76 L/hr, and 62.22%, respectively. Conclusion: The seed-machine factors suggest that the machine should be operated at a speed of 40 rpm, feed-rate of 48 kg/hr and moisture content of 7.0% db to enhance its best performance.