PEF technology works by applying short bursts of high-voltage electric pulses to the olive paste. This process, called electroporation, disrupts cell membranes, allowing oil and other valuable compounds to be released more efficiently.
Modern equipment, such as hydraulic presses and centrifugal extractors, are designed to maximize oil extraction efficiency, however, a significant amount remains trapped within the cells. The OptiCEPT® PEF technology ensures maximum oil extraction by releasing the oil still locked inside.
Integrating a PEF system into your production line enhances:
Oil Yield: Extract more oil from the same quantity of olives.
Quality: Retain natural flavors, aromas, and nutrients.
Efficiency: Reduce processing times and energy consumption.
The beauty of PEF lies in its ability to achieve this without using excessive heat or chemicals, preserving the natural quality of the product.
PEF treatment is effective in all types of olive varieties and has been thoroughly tested throughout a wide range of olives.
For example, studies done at the research institute IFAPA in Spain, showed that in the olive varieties Arbequina and Picual, OptiCepts PEF treatment improved process efficiency and significantly increased extraction.
Furthermore, PEF has been shown to the extraction of antioxidant phenolic compounds from +10% up to +40% in varieties such as Carolea, Koroneiki, and Parenzana.
Additionally, PEF-treated varieties shown similar results include Arbosana, Hojiblanca Aglandau, Picholine, Coratina, Frantoio, Leccino, Chemlali, and many others.
The integration of the OptiCEPT® PEF system is made in the initial stage of the process, right after the crusher, enabling more of the valuable oil locked inside the olives cells to be accessible for processing.
The connection to the OptiCEPT® is done via stainless steel, food-grade fittings.
The olive paste is treated with pulsed electric field within milli to micro seconds making the process very efficient without applying any heat.
There are different models of the OptiCEPT® PEF system designed for different production volumes (tons per hour). Medium to high production lines are more suitable for PEF treatment as the return of the investment is short and easily justified.
However, there are exceptions to this, for instance, if you are producing at very low temperatures with a short malaxing time aiming for high-quality olive oil, the PEF system can improve your extraction efficiency justifying the investment despite the low production volumes. Models are available from 2t/h up to 20 t/h.
The return on investment is usually between 1-3 production seasons. The variation depends on factors such as:
Ensure there is enough room in your facility for the PEF system and its associated components. The space required to integrate an OptiCEPT® PEF system is often no problem.
In essence, the system has a very small footprint: requiring approximately 1.5m² floor space and 2.0m height.
OptiCEPT PEF systems installed in olive oil mills in Spain.
Confirm that your production line’s electrical infrastructure can support the system’s power needs. The OptiCEPT® system is connected via 32 A at 400 V AC 3-phase.
OptiCepts PEF system is designed for ease of use. The system for olive oil production is supervised by a PLC system and the booster unit module with all control and safety devices mounted on it includes pressure and temperature sensors as well as flowmeter and conductivity indicators.
The fully automated pre-treatment system is operated via a Siemens-based PLC system that logs sensory data and other important information about the treatment.
An intelligent and user-friendly HMI handles pre-programmed recipes tailored to fit the specific application.
The system is prepared for customer-based start/ stop signals or complete integration into the parent PLC system.
As shown above, the system is designed for ease of use, so that operations can run smoothly and seamlessly integrate with the PEF treatment step in the process.
By looking at front runners, you’ll get a sense of what to expect from the PEF technology in your olive oil production. Several prominent olive oil producers have embraced this cutting-edge innovation, reaping benefits in efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.
For example, Acesur, a world-leading olive oil producer headquartered in Spain, has been at the forefront of integrating PEF technology into its operations.
La Salud Cooperative, another Spanish olive oil producer, has also embraced PEF technology to modernize its operations.
Aceites Canoliva, based in the heart of Andalusia, Spain, has established itself as a pioneer in adopting advanced PEF solutions.
Integrating an OptiCEPT® PEF system into your olive oil production line is a strategic move that can revolutionize your operations. With proper planning, installation, and optimization, you can unlock higher yields, superior quality, and enhanced efficiency. The team at OptiCept is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless transition to this innovative technology.
Ready to take your olive oil production to the next level?
Contact OptiCept today to get started!
We are happy to help you with any questions and thought you might have.
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OptiCept invents, designs, and manufactures smart, sustainable technologies to unleash the full potential of organic material.
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