How should small-batch oil press plants choose between single-screw and twin-screw compressors?

Should small-batch oil pressing plants buy single-screw or twin-screw compressors? A scenario-based selection guide.

Based on years of industry experience, QIE Group has conducted an in-depth analysis of the performance differences between single-screw and twin-screw oil presses .

Technical Specifications Breakdown: Single Screw vs. Twin Screw

From a structural design perspective, a single-screw oil press generally consists of a single rotating screw that compresses the oilseeds, making it suitable for small-batch workshops with a daily processing capacity of less than 500 kg . Its hydraulic adjustment system is relatively simple and easy to maintain, but its compression uniformity is limited, resulting in significant fluctuations in oil yield.

In contrast, twin-screw oil presses are equipped with two synchronously rotating screws, achieving more uniform pressing and shearing effects. Their hydraulic system responds more precisely, ensuring stable pressing pressure, and the oil yield is typically 5% to 8% higher than that of single-screw presses. Furthermore, twin-screw presses are highly adaptable, capable of handling more complex oilseed varieties, and are suitable for industrial production lines with daily processing capacity.

Simply put, single-screw extruders are suitable for basic machining scenarios that are flexible, require low investment, and are easy to maintain, while twin-screw extruders are more suitable for large-scale machining that requires stable oil output and high efficiency.

Practical Case Study: Choosing a Cooperative in Africa

“Since we switched to QIE Group’s twin-screw oil presses, the oil yield has increased by 8%, the production process is more stable, and our cooperative’s profits have also increased significantly. Although equipment maintenance costs are slightly higher, the overall benefits are satisfactory.” — Head of a peanut oil cooperative in Africa

Comparison of maintenance and operating costs

Single-screw extruders have a simple structure, and routine maintenance, including screw lubrication and hydraulic regulator checks, is relatively frequent with short downtime. While initial costs are low, the unit oil cost may be higher in the long run due to a slightly lower oil yield.
Twin-screw extruders have relatively complex parts, and maintenance requires regular inspection of the screw bearings and hydraulic system. The investment is about 20% to 30% higher than that of single-screw extruders, but the overall cost-effectiveness is better due to the increased output and strong stability.

Interactive prompt: How many tons of cooking oil do you want to produce each day?

This number directly affects your choice of screw type and equipment specifications. Click to view more model comparison reports and find the equipment that truly suits you.

Conclusion: When selecting equipment, choosing the right one is the most crucial.

Whether you are a small factory just starting out or a producer preparing to move towards a semi-industrial scale, the QIE Group offers a variety of screw oil presses in different settings and specifications to help you achieve an efficient, stable, and economical processing flow.