Roasting & Steaming

Thermal oil roasting pans, electric steamers, and wood-fired steamers for optimal seed preparation before oil pressing.

Roasting and steaming equipment applies controlled heat to prepared seeds before pressing. The purpose is to break down cell walls, reduce oil viscosity, and inactivate enzymes that cause rancidity. This step can increase oil yield by 5–15% compared to pressing unheated seeds, and significantly improves flavor development in the finished oil.

Temperature control is the critical variable. Different seeds require different roasting profiles — sesame typically reaches 180–200°C, while flaxseed must stay below 105°C to prevent omega-3 degradation. Steaming (moisture addition under heat) is used for seeds that are too dry or too hard for direct pressing, softening the seed structure and making the oil easier to extract.

Model Range

Haonuo offers three models: an electrically heated drum roaster for precise temperature control (50–300°C), a gas-fired roasting pan for high-volume traditional roasting, and a combined steaming and roasting unit that adds moisture control for hard seeds. Batch capacities range from 20 kg to 80 kg per cycle.

The electric drum roaster suits operations that process multiple seed types and need repeatable temperature profiles. The gas-fired pan is preferred by producers who value traditional flavor development and have access to LPG or natural gas. The combined unit serves operations processing hard seeds like shea or walnut that require moisture conditioning.

Selection Criteria

Heat source
Electric for precision and repeatability; gas for lower operating cost and traditional flavor profiles
Temperature range
Ensure the machine covers the full range needed for your seed varieties — some seeds require low-temperature drying (below 105°C), others need high-temperature roasting (above 180°C)
Batch capacity
Match to your press cycle — the roaster should finish one batch in the time the press completes one pressing cycle
Temperature uniformity
Drum rotation or stirring mechanism ensures even heating; uneven roasting causes inconsistent yield and off-flavors

Process position: Roasting and steaming occurs after seed cleaning and before hydraulic pressing. The roasted seeds are immediately loaded into the press barrel while warm, as cooled seeds yield less oil. See our Complete Oil Production Line Guide for the full process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between roasting and steaming?
Roasting applies dry heat to develop flavor and reduce moisture — it is used for sesame, peanut, and sunflower where a toasted flavor is desired. Steaming introduces moisture under heat to soften hard or dry seeds before pressing — it is used for shea, walnut, and palm kernel where the goal is maximum oil extraction rather than flavor.
Can I use the same roaster for different seeds?
Yes, as long as the temperature range covers all your seed types. The key is to clean the drum thoroughly between batches to prevent flavor carryover. For example, roasting sesame (strong flavor) before sunflower (mild flavor) without cleaning will impart a sesame taste to the sunflower oil.

Need Help Choosing the Right Roasting & Steaming?

Our engineers can recommend the best machine for your oil seeds, capacity, and budget. Get a free quotation within 24 hours.