# 5. Step-by-Step Guide: Building a Screw Press

This guide explains how to build a low-cost screw press for extracting Moringa oil using either manual force, a motorized system, or an engine-powered setup.

# 📌 Materials & Tools Needed

# 🔩 Essential Components

• Pressing Barrel: A thick steel pipe (~5 cm diameter, 50 cm long)
• Screw Mechanism: Metal rod with welded spiral plates (like a large drill bit)
• Perforated Base: Steel plate with small holes (~1–2mm) for oil drainage
• Frame: Heavy-duty angle iron or wooden structure to support the press
• Drive System:
  • Manual: A long hand crank
  • Motorized: A slow-speed electric motor
  • Engine-Powered: A 7.5 kW engine with a gearbox

# 🔧 Tools Required

• Welder & Grinder (for metalwork)
• Drill & Steel Bits (for perforating metal)
• Wrenches & Screwdrivers (for assembling frame & screws)
• Cutting Torch or Angle Grinder (for precision cuts)

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# 🏗️ Step 1: Building the Frame

badge: "Structural Stability"

1. Cut & Weld the Frame:

   • Use steel L-beams to create a strong, square frame.
   • Ensure enough height to allow the press plate to move up/down.

2. Secure the Pressing Barrel:

   • Weld or bolt the steel pipe (pressing chamber) in place.
   • Ensure it is centered and stable.

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# 🔄 Step 2: Installing the Pressing Mechanism

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1. Attach the Screw Rod:

   • Insert the metal rod with spiral plates inside the barrel.
   • Secure it so it can rotate freely without obstruction.

2. Create the Pressing Plate:

   • Cut a thick steel plate (same diameter as the barrel).
   • Drill a hole in the center for the screw rod.
   • Attach guide rails to prevent tilting.

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# ⚙️ Step 3: Choosing a Drive System

badge: "Automation Options"

# Manual Operation

✅ Best for Small-Scale Use

1. Attach a Crank Handle:

   • Weld a long handle to the top of the screw rod.
   • Allows manual turning to press the seeds.

2. Leverage for More Power:

   • Use a longer handle or a flywheel system to reduce effort.

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# Motorized System (Electric Motor or Engine)

✅ Best for Efficiency

1. Attach a Pulley & Belt System:

   • Install a small pulley on the screw rod.
   • Use a larger pulley on the motor/engine.
   • Connect them using a strong belt.

2. Use a Speed Reducer:

   • A gearbox or belt ratio should reduce speed to 30–60 RPM.
   • Prevents the press from spinning too fast.

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# 🔗 Step 4: Chain & Sprocket System (For Multiple Screws)

badge: "Even Pressure Distribution"

1. Anchor Each Screw at the Top & Bottom:

   • Use bearings or guides to prevent wobbling.

2. Attach a Sprocket to Each Screw:

   • Use bicycle or industrial sprockets.
   • Ensure all screws are synchronized.

3. Connect a Chain System:

   • Use a continuous chain loop to link all sprockets.
   • Keeps all screws turning at the same time.

4. Drive the System with an Engine or Motor:

   • Attach a drive sprocket to the engine shaft.
   • As the engine runs, all screws move together.

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# 🛠️ Step 5: Adding the Oil Collection System

badge: "Oil Extraction"

1. Drill Small Holes in the Pressing Chamber Base:

   • Use 1–2mm perforations for oil drainage.

2. Install a Collection Tray:

   • Place a stainless steel tray below the press.
   • Ensure a slight slope for oil to flow into containers.

3. Install a Filter Layer:

   • Use fine mesh or cloth to remove debris from the oil.

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# 🔧 Step 6: Testing & Adjustments

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1. Run a Dry Test:

   • Turn the screw without seeds to check smooth movement.
   • Ensure no misalignment or excessive resistance.

2. Press a Small Batch of Seeds:

   • Add Moringa seeds and turn the press slowly.
   • Watch for consistent pressure and oil flow.

3. Adjust Chain Tension & Speed:

   • Tighten the chain/sprocket system if needed.
   • Adjust motor speed to maintain steady pressure.

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# 🔥 Step 7: Maintenance & Long-Term Use

badge: "Durability & Performance"

# Regular Maintenance Tips

✅ Oil the chain & sprockets weekly to prevent rust.
✅ Check screws & pressing plate for wear and tear.
✅ Lubricate engine/motor bearings to extend lifespan.
✅ Clean the perforated base after each use to prevent clogging.

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# 📈 Cost & Profitability Breakdown

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✔ Potential Profit:

• 1 ton of Moringa seeds → 250 kg of oil
• Selling at R1800/kg, that’s R450,000 per ton
• The press pays for itself after just one ton of seeds!

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# 🚀 Final Conclusion

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✔ A person with basic mechanical knowledge CAN build an automatic oil press.
✔ A 7.5 kW engine or a hydraulic press is powerful enough for continuous production.
✔ If free water is available, a water-powered press is possible.
✔ Pressing oil is far more valuable than selling seeds alone.

Would you like technical diagrams for each stage of the build? 🤔