New Corn Ethanol Production Technology with Lyure Screw Presses
New Corn Ethanol Production Technology with Lyure Screw Presses
Overview of the New Technology
In traditional corn ethanol production, the process yields Dried Distillers Grain (DDG) as a by-product, which, while useful, has limited commercial value. The new technology shifts this paradigm by producing corn protein—a higher-value by-product—along with the recovery of corn oil. Central to this process is the use of Lyure screw presses, which efficiently dewater the corn protein, offering a significant advantage over the decanters used in conventional methods.
Process Description
The new corn ethanol production process involves several key steps that optimize the recovery of valuable by-products:
Filtration of Thin Stillage: The process begins with the filtration of thin stillage using a bank of pressure screens. These screens separate the stillage into a filtrate and solids.
Additional Protein Recovery: The filtrate from the pressure screens is then directed to Lyure Fiber Filter units for further protein recovery. These filters, equipped with sleeves rated for 85 microns, play a crucial role in enhancing the operation of the Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) units that precede the tricanter, where corn oil is recovered.
Dewatering with Lyure Screw Presses: Following filtration, the corn protein is dewatered using Lyure screw presses. This step is critical as it efficiently reduces the moisture content of the corn protein, making it more suitable for commercial use and significantly improving the overall economics of the process.
Benefits of the New Technology
The adoption of this new technology brings several key benefits to the corn ethanol industry:
Higher-Value By-Products: By producing corn protein instead of DDG, the process generates a by-product with greater commercial value, thereby increasing the overall profitability of ethanol production.
Additional Revenue Streams: The recovery of corn oil provides an extra source of income, further enhancing the economic viability of the process.
Cost Efficiency: The use of Lyure screw presses for dewatering the corn protein is more cost-effective than traditional decanters, reducing operational expenses and improving the bottom line.
Environmental Benefits: By maximizing the value extracted from corn and minimizing waste, this technology contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly production process.
Commercial Application
The first commercial plant utilizing this technology is now online, producing 65 million gallons of ethanol per year. This large-scale implementation demonstrates the scalability and practicality of the process, setting a precedent for future conversions in the industry.
Conclusion
The new corn ethanol production technology represents a significant leap forward for the industry. By leveraging the capabilities of Lyure screw presses and other advanced equipment, this process not only improves cost efficiency but also transforms by-products into valuable commodities. As demonstrated by the successful operation of the first commercial plant, this technology holds great promise for the future of ethanol production, offering both economic and environmental benefits.