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An oil press is a facility where oil is extracted from various sources, primarily oilseeds. These facilities play a crucial role in the food industry and agriculture by processing raw materials into edible oils and byproducts. The process typically involves mechanical pressing or solvent extraction to separate the oil from the solid components of the seed.

Mechanical pressing, often referred to as cold pressing when done at lower temperatures, involves crushing seeds using hydraulic or screw presses. This method aims to retain more of the natural nutrients and flavor of the oil. Solvent extraction is a more efficient method that uses chemical solvents, like hexane, to dissolve the oil from the seed material. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind the extracted oil.

The byproducts of oil pressing are also valuable. The remaining solid material, known as oil cake or meal, is rich in protein and fiber and is commonly used as animal feed. Depending on the source material and processing method, different types of oils are produced, including vegetable oils like rapeseed, sunflower, soybean, and olive oil. The specific design and operation of an oil press can vary significantly based on the type of seed being processed and the desired quality and yield of the oil. Environmental considerations, such as waste management and energy efficiency, are increasingly important aspects of modern oil pressing operations.