Decanters/separators for plant proteins
Engineered for precision in plant protein processing, decanters and separators are vital components. These machines utilize centrifugal force to segregate constituents based on their density disparities. Tailored specifically for plant proteins, they efficiently extract protein from other elements like fiber and starch. Employing advanced designs and meticulous controls, these systems ensure accurate separation, resulting in superior-quality protein extracts suitable for diverse food applications.
Decanters and separators are centrifugal machines used in plant-based protein production to separate solids from liquids. Both are commonly applied to extract protein from sources such as soybeans, peas and canola. Their working principle is based on centrifugal force — the force that causes objects to move away from a centre of rotation. In a decanter, the plant-based material is introduced and spun rapidly; the denser solids, which contain the protein, are forced outwards while the lighter liquid is drawn towards the centre. Separators work in a similar way but use a different type of centrifugal force, again causing the denser solids to separate from the liquid. In both cases the solids are discharged through one outlet and the liquid through another.
The process sequence runs in four stages. Feeding: the plant material, such as soybeans, peas or canola, is fed into the decanter/separator. Centrifugation: the equipment spins the material at high speed, creating a centrifugal force that separates the denser solids from the lighter liquid — the solids contain plant protein, while the liquid carries other components such as sugars, fibres and minerals. Discharge: solids leave through one outlet, liquid through another. Further processing: the extracted plant protein can be filtered or dried to produce a purified protein product.
The choice between a decanter and a separator depends on the specific plant material being used and the desired outcome. Decanters are often used for the high-volume processing of soybeans, while separators may be preferred for processing smaller batches of peas or canola. Equipment configuration also varies — some decanters are designed to separate solids from liquids continuously, while others are batch-based. Typical end products include soy milk, plant-based meat substitutes, plant-based protein powders, and plant-based yogurts and cheeses.
The market for decanters/separators for plant proteins has been growing in recent years on the back of rising demand for plant-based proteins in food and beverage products. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global plant-based protein market size was valued at USD 16.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2021 to 2028, driven by consumer interest in plant-based diets, health and wellness trends, and sustainability concerns. Demand is further supported by interest in high-quality plant protein products with minimal processing and fewer additives, which makes efficient separation — and therefore higher yields and reduced waste — central to plant economics. Major players in this equipment segment include Alfa Laval, GEA Group and Andritz Group.