Flaking Process Revolutionizes Soybean Oil Extraction

Flaking soybeans involves pressing crushed kernels between two counter-rotating rolls to form thin flakes, a process driven by friction that breaks down cell structure. When the rolls rotate at the same speed, the result is primarily compression with elastic and plastic deformation; at different speeds, kneading and shearing also occur, causing more extensive cell disruption. The goal of flaking is to enhance oil extraction by increasing surface area, reducing thickness, and shortening the oil’s travel path from inside cells to the solvent. The cell walls, made of cellulose and hemicellulose, enclose oil and other components, so thinner flakes expose more cells to solvent and speed up diffusion during subsequent extraction. Overall, flaking is a preparatory step that optimizes the efficiency of solvent extraction by facilitating greater oil accessibility from soybean cells.