Deacidification by distillation using nitrogen as stripper. Possible application to the refining of edible fats

Abstract

The possibility of substituting direct steam by nitrogen as stripper in the deodorizing or neutralizing distillation of oils and fats has been the subject of research in recent years. Although this is a practical possibility, it implies a greater cost due to the higher price of nitrogen, and the need to adapt the technology in order to maintain the deodorizer head pressure (as nitrogen does not condensate). These disadvantages would be compensated by a better quality of the oils and condensates, and a decrease in pollution. The tests carried out indicate that the efficiency calculated in each of the operations is within the theoretical values, and that using from 1 to 1.5 times the theoretical amount of nitrogen, the refined oils are graded physically as good and very good by an expert. The condensates obtained have been of good quality.