Conditioning and Pressing Wet Process Corn Germ
French Oil Mill Machinery Company has successfully engineered and supplied a specialized conditioner and Achiever 44 mechanical screw press system to process 60–65 metric tons per day of wet process corn germ. The system utilizes a single-pass full press extraction process, an industry-challenging approach due to the complex nature of corn germ, particularly in wet form. Remarkably, this process runs continuously, 24/7, with consistent performance and product quality.
This method aligns with industry best practices for mechanical extraction, as recognized by the AOCS, a leading authority in oilseed processing standards.
Advanced Conditioning for Optimum Oil Yield
The germ conditioner incorporates steam-heated decks to raise the temperature of the corn germ. Stirrer arms mounted on a vertical rotating shaft agitate and convey the germ evenly, ensuring uniform heat distribution. Temperature and level controls are individually monitored and managed across each deck to ensure precision. Moisture is effectively regulated through an external vent pipe connected to an exhaust fan.
Each deck section is fitted with a robust manway door assembly and cast iron access doors. The vessel is mounted on a heavy-duty four-leg base structure and includes a floor-mounted reducer and main drive motor. The design ensures optimal conditioning of the germ to achieve the ideal temperature and moisture content prior to pressing.
Achiever 44 Mechanical Screw Press: Custom Engineering for Superior Performance
The Achiever 44 screw press includes an efficient feeder system that eliminates air from the feed stream, prevents bridging, and ensures consistent feed flow into the press. A variable speed horizontal conveyor combined with a fixed speed vertical force feeder optimizes material flow. The main press drive features variable frequency control, and the shaft and cages are equipped with water cooling to preserve the quality of the crude oil and cake.
Designed specifically for this application, the press shaft configuration enhances mechanical performance and oil extraction. For added operational reliability, the press was upgraded with a barring motor connected to the customer’s emergency generator, allowing press emptying during power outages without manual clean-out.
Smart Press Adjustments and Oil Management
The press also features an electrically driven cone mechanism that manages discharge back pressure to optimize cake quality. Adjustments can be made pre- or post-operation to accommodate wear and optimize throughput. An integrated motor-driven oil/foots conveyor transports separated liquid from the press efficiently.
Measurable Performance Advantage Over Competitor Equipment
Compared to a European competitor’s press operating at the same location and processing the same material, the French Achiever press consistently produces press cake with 4% less residual oil content. This performance margin directly translates to increased yield and profitability for the processor.
Full Service Support from French Technicians
French technicians are available for on-site startup assistance and training, helping customers transition from installation to production with confidence and minimal delay. This support underscores French’s commitment to ensuring operational success from day one.