I. Castor Seed Oil Extraction Methods (Mainstream Industrial + Auxiliary Processes)

1. Physical Pressing Method: Cold pressing (25-40℃) preserves active ingredients, while hot pressing (100-120℃) increases oil yield. The core equipment is a screw press, suitable for large-scale production, with a simple process and low cost.

2. Solvent Extraction Method: Extraction using solvents such as n-hexane.  Supporting equipment includes extraction tanks, evaporators, and solvent recovery towers. It offers a high oil yield and is suitable for low-oil-content raw materials or high-capacity requirements. Strict control of solvent residue is necessary.

II. Oil Yield (Quantitative Data)

Cold Pressing Method: Raw material oil content approximately 45-55%, actual oil yield 38-45% (without refining losses).

Hot Pressing Method: Oil yield 42-50% (high temperature damages the oil structure, increasing yield but losing some active ingredients).

Solvent Extraction Method: Oil yield 50-53% (almost all oil is extracted, with a refined product yield of approximately 95%).

Influencing Factors: Raw material purity (impurity content ≤3%), moisture content (8-10% is optimal), equipment pressing pressure/extraction temperature.

III. Application Areas (Categorized by Industry)

1. Industrial Field: Dominant application (70%+), used in the production of biodiesel, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, and chemical raw materials such as nylon 66 and polyurethane, leveraging its high viscosity and high/low temperature resistance.

2. Pharmaceutical Field: Used as a laxative (stimulating intestinal peristalsis), a base for topical ointments, or for preparing excipients for injections (must meet pharmacopoeia standards, purity ≥99.5%).

3. Other Fields: High-end cosmetic moisturizers, food additives (emulsifiers), and special lubricant raw materials in the aerospace industry.