CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEWS
2.1. Traditional Oil Extraction
Traditional oil extraction in Myanmar has long relied on the wooden mortar
and pestle system. This mechanism is favored for its ability to produce high-quality,
cold-pressed oil.
One of the significant advantages of the traditional pestle-and-mortar
expression method over continuous screw-press systems is the ability to maintain a
lower operating temperature during the oil extraction process. In high-speed screw-
press expellers, the mechanical friction between the screw, the press cage, and the
oilseeds generates substantial heat, which can lead to the thermal degradation of heat-
sensitive nutrients such as vitamins and antioxidants, and potentially alter the fatty
acid profile of the oil (Bargale, 1997).
Conversely, the batch-based operation of the pestle-and-mortar mechanism
allows for a slower, controlled expression rate. This low-speed mechanical action
prevents excessive heat buildup, thereby preserving the natural bioactive compounds
and the characteristic aroma of the peanut oil. This characteristic is particularly vital
for artisanal and high-quality oil production, where the integrity of the oil's chemical
composition and organoleptic properties (taste and smell) are [Link] cold-
pressing technique is essential for preserving bioactive compounds compared to
modern solvent extraction methods (Ajibola et al., 2002).
Figure 2.1: Traditional Wooden Pestle-and-Mortar System for Low-Temperature Oil
Extraction in Myanmar
2.1.1 Compression Principles in Oil Expression
While the preservation of oil quality is achieved through low-temperature
batch processing, the mechanical efficiency of the expression process itself must be
grounded in physical principles. This study adopts the uniaxial compression theory to
model the pressing mechanism, as the pestle-and-mortar configuration primarily
subjects the oilseeds to vertical compressive loads. Based on the fundamental research
by Bargale (1997), the expression process can be analyzed through three critical
stages:
(i). Initial Rearrangement Stage: Where the seed mass particles reorient
themselves to fill the void spaces under low pressure.
(ii).Elastic Deformation Stage: Where the cell walls of the oilseeds undergo
deformation.
(iii). Oil Expression Stage: Where the internal cell structure is ruptured, and
the oil is liberated through the porous structure of the compressed seed cake.
According to Bargale (1997), the mechanical response of oilseeds under load
follows consistent physical principles, regardless of the specific seed variety. The
efficiency of oil expression is highly sensitive to moisture content, as it influences the
internal frictional resistance of the seed mass. Table 2.1 summarizes the experimental
findings on how pressure and moisture interact to influence oil recovery.
Table 2.1: Effects of Applied Pressure and Moisture Content on Oil Recovery for
Selected Oilseeds (Bargale, 1997).
Applied pressure(MPa) Moisture Content(%wb) Oil Recovery(%)
5.0 5.0 62.4
10.0 5.0 78.6
15.0 5.0 85.2
15.0 8.0 89.5
15.0 11.0 74.2
The relationship between compression force and oil recovery is non-linear, as
evidenced by the data provided by Bargale (1997). As shown in the table(2.1),
increasing the pressure from 5.0 MPa to 15.0 MPa results in a significant jump in oil
recovery from 62.4% to 85.2%.
Furthermore, the data suggests an optimal Moisture Content (MC) range. At a
constant pressure of 15.0 MPa, the oil recovery peaked at 89.5% with an MC of 8.0%.
When the MC increased to 11.0%, the recovery dropped to 74.2%, likely due to the
increased plasticity of the seed cake which hinders oil flow. This empirical data is
critical for this research, as it establishes the target pressure of 15.0 MPa for the shaft
design to maximize extraction efficiency.
2.2. Power Transmission System
The efficiency of a peanut oil machine depends heavily on its transmission
unit. In this research, the transmission is divided into two main stages:
(i). Belt and Pulley Drive
(ii).Spiral Bevel Gear Mechanism
2.2.1. Belt and Pulley Drive
The belt drive system is used to transmit power from the electric motor to the
intermediate shaft. According to Khurmi and Gupta (2005), V-belts are preferred in
agricultural machinery because of their ability to absorb shock loads and provide high
velocity ratios with minimum slip. The tension in the belt is a critical factor for the
radial load acting on the shaft bearings.
The power transmission system of the oil expeller is designed to deliver
consistent torque from the electric motor to the main crushing shaft. A V-belt drive
system is selected for this configuration due to its inherent advantages in mechanical
stability and load management. As indicated by standard mechanical design
principles, belt drives act as a mechanical buffer, protecting the drive train from the
sudden torque spikes often encountered during the crushing of hard oilseeds. By
selecting appropriate pulley ratios, the system achieves the necessary speed reduction,
ensuring that the main shaft operates at a low-velocity, high-torque regime essential
for effective uniaxial compression. This transmission arrangement not only enhances
the operational safety of the motor but also facilitates easier maintenance and
adjustability in industrial or domestic settings.
For the selection of the belt drive system, the criteria established in [Khurmi,
R.S., & Gupta, J.K. (2005). A Textbook of Machine Design. Eurasia Publishing
House.] were followed. As outlined in the textbook, the selection process prioritizes
the alignment of power transmission capacity with the required torque output. Key
factors such as Service Factor, Speed Ratio, and Center Distance are determined to
ensure that the belt drive operates within its optimal efficiency range, preventing
slippage and minimizing mechanical stress on the motor and shaft (Khurmi and Gupta
,2005).
2.2.2. Spiral Bevel Gear Mechanism
A spiral bevel gear is employed to change the direction of motion by 90
degrees. Spiral bevel gears are commonly used in mechanical systems to transmit
power between intersecting shafts. Unlike straight bevel gears, spiral bevel gears have
curved teeth, which allow gradual engagement and result in smoother and quieter
operation. They are capable of transmitting higher loads with improved efficiency and
reduced vibration. According to (Radzevich, S. P. ,2012), the geometry of spiral bevel
gears enables better load distribution along the tooth surface, enhancing durability and
performance.
In the present study, spiral bevel gears are used to transmit torque from the
main shaft to the oil extraction chambers of the peanut oil extraction machine. The
forces generated at the gear interface are critical for determining the loading
conditions on the main drive shaft.
(a) (b)
Figure 2.2: 3D model of the typical SBG; a) SBG of drive axle of vehicle, and b) SBG of
aerospace transmission
2.3. Structural Components and Material Properties
2.3.1. Main Drive Shaft
The main drive shaft is the primary power transmission component, subjected
to complex combined loading. According to Budynas and Nisbett (2014) in Shigley's
Mechanical Engineering Design, shaft failure is typically fatigue-driven, resulting
from the simultaneous action of torsional shear stress (due to power transmission) and
bending stress (due to the weight of components and belt tension).
In the design of the peanut oil extraction machine, the shaft must be sized to:
Maintain Rigidity: To prevent excessive deflection that could lead to
misalignment of the gears and bearings.
Ensure Fatigue Life: To withstand millions of stress cycles during prolonged
operation.
Optimize Stress Concentration: By ensuring smooth geometric transitions at
steps and keyways, as these are common sites for stress concentration factors
(Kt) to manifest.
Consequently, the design follows the Distortion Energy Theory (von Mises
criteria) to evaluate the safety factor against potential yielding and fatigue under
operational loads.
2.3.1. Wooden Mortar and Pestle (The Extraction Unit)
The use of hardwood for the mortar and pestle provides natural friction and thermal
insulation. Hardwoods like Teak or Cutch are traditionally selected for their high
compressive strength and resistance to moisture (Trotter, 1982).
The selection of hardwood for the mortar and pestle is particularly advantageous due
to its natural frictional properties and thermal insulation capabilities. Research by
Bamgboye and Adejumo (2011) highlights that the frictional interaction between
oilseeds and the pressing surface is a critical determinant of oil extraction efficiency.
In the study on Roselle seeds, it was observed that processing parameters specifically
pressure, temperature, and moisture content have a non-linear relationship with oil
yield. Notably, it was found that an optimal pressure of 30 MPa and a temperature of
100°C yielded the highest oil recovery. Furthermore, the results indicated that finer
particle sizes and controlled moisture levels significantly enhance extraction rates.
These findings serve as a valuable reference for the current design, as they emphasize
the importance of balancing processing variables—pressure, heat, and moisture to
maximize the oil yield in a traditional pestle-and-mortar system
2.4. Engineering Analysis Methods
2.4.1Analytical Stress Modeling
The theoretical analysis utilizes established formulas to quantify the stress
states within critical components, such as the main drive shaft and gear assembly.
Based on the methodology outlined in Shigley’s Mechanical Engineering Design
(Budynas & Nisbett, 2014), the analytical process involves:
Components subject to simultaneous torsional shear stress (due to torque
transmission) and bending stress (due to belt tension and component weight) are
analyzed to determine the total stress state at critical sections (Budynas & Nisbett,
2014).
The Distortion Energy Theory (von Mises criteria) is employed as the primary
failure predictor for ductile materials, providing a reliable safety margin against
yielding under complex loading conditions (Budynas & Nisbett, 2014, p. 235).
Analytical calculations incorporate empirically derived stress concentration
factors to account for geometric discontinuities, such as keyways, fillets, and shaft
shoulders, which are identified as primary sites for fatigue initiation (Budynas &
Nisbett, 2014).
2.4.2. Integration with Numerical Analysis (FEA)
While theoretical analysis provides the mathematical baseline, it is
complemented by Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This dual-method approach
addresses the limitations of analytical models when dealing with irregular load
distributions. By comparing manual calculations conducted via the methods described
by Budynas and Nisbett (2014) with numerical simulations. Discrepancies between
manual calculations and FEA results are analyzed to refine design parameters and
ensure [Link] stress hotspots allows for material reinforcement only
where necessary, optimizing the overall structural weight of the extraction machine.
2.5. Review of Oil Extraction Systems
2.5.1. Traditional Wooden Expeller (Rotatory Cold Press)
This system utilizes manual or low-speed mechanical rotation, providing a
gentle extraction process. The primary benefit is the preservation of oil quality due to
minimal heat generation and the absence of chemical solvents (Bargale, 1997). the
expelled oil from rotary cold press has a better nutritional value suitable for
application of carrier oil for massage oil, herbal preparation and better therapeutic
value. There is no heat addition nor any steam addition while crushing. This preserves
the original contents of the oil. Figure. shows traditional wooden expeller.
Figure .Traditional Wooden Expeller
It produces cholesterol-free oil. Oils are not refined, processed or deodorized
in any way, thus producing pure oil. No harmful solvent residues. No added
preservatives or chemicals. House natural antioxidants like phosphatides (e.g.
lecithin) & tocopherols (e.g. vitamin E). It retains natural odour & flavour. Small
load, energy saving and low noise.
2.5.2. Mechanical Screw Press (Industrial Expeller)
This is the most common industrial method, utilizing a continuous steel screw
(auger) rotating inside a perforated [Link] pressure is generated by the screw
flight profile, compressing the seeds against the cage walls.
While industrial screw presses offer significantly higher throughput and
extraction efficiency, they often generate high frictional heat, which can degrade
sensitive oil qualities. In contrast, the wooden expeller in this study prioritizes quality
over quantity.
Figure .Mechanical Screw Press
2.5.3. Hydraulic Press Systems
Hydraulic presses use high-pressure fluid power to compress the seed
[Link] are placed in a batch chamber and compressed by a hydraulic ram. The
whole operation process is very convenient and easy. The pretreated oilseeds are
loaded into the cylinder for oil pressing. Then, the oil is extracted out from the seeds
about 5~7 minutes. Importantly, the oil pressing process is visible for users, so there
can't be any additives during the seeds oil extraction process.
These provide very clean oil with low sediment; however, they are batch-type
processes and require high maintenance for seals and hydraulic components, unlike
the continuous or semi-continuous nature of mechanical expellers.
Figure 2.2. Hydraulic oil press machine
REFERENCES
Ajibola, O. O., et al. (2002). Extraction of Oil from Groundnut. Journal of
Agricultural Engineering Research.
Bargale, P. C. (1997). Mechanical Oil Expression from Selected Oilseeds. PhD
Thesis.
Budynas, R. G., & Nisbett, J. K. (2014). Shigley's Mechanical Engineering Design.
McGraw-Hill.
Khurmi, R. S., & Gupta, J. K. (2005). A Textbook of Machine Design. S. Chand
Publishing.
Norton, R. L. (2013). Machine Design: An Integrated Approach. Pearson.
Radzevich, S. P. (2012). Dudley's Handbook of Practical Gear Design and
Manufacture. CRC Press