Choosing The Best Extraction Technology
Botanical extraction technology is a rapidly evolving industry. Yet, although there are now many different systems and types of machines to choose from, planning a successful production facility involves three basic factors. In this segment of the accelerated training, Dr. John MacKay walks you through the three most important factors to consider when choosing extraction and processing equipment.
1.) Speed
The amount you can process in a day depends on the speed of your equipment. How long does it take equipment to pass from one point in the process to another? Does your post-processing equipment match the speed and efficacy of your initial extraction? Speed is an important limiting factor that will influence whether or not you can meet your output demands or experience a bottleneck in the process. Cycle time is an important part of the concentration process.
2.) Scale
Can your equipment effectively meet the needs of your desired output in terms of scale? Can you start small and continue to grow? If you expect to produce 25 liters of cannabis oil per production day to maintain a profit, but your equipment can only produce 15, then you have a discrepancy. Doing the math and the research ahead of time will help you find the equipment that will help you meet your target.
3.) Selectivity
How selective is your equipment during extraction? Do you plan on capturing broad-spectrum concentrate, or do you intend to purify further with distillation? Different technologies and different solvents are capable of selectively extracting some compounds better than others. Pick technologies that fit with the end product that you have in mind.
Want a Special Gift? Test Your Knowledge with the Knowledge Check Quiz!
It’s here! Take your Knowledge Check to see how well you’ve mastered the cannabis extraction principles we’ve been sharing with you over the last week.
The test includes five multiple-choice questions that cover topics from your video lectures, including:
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- B.E.S.T.
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- Key Compounds in Cannabis
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- MacKay’s Law
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- Types of Trichomes
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- Selecting a concentration technology for your business
John A. MacKay, Ph.D., brings 44 years of experience in analytical testing, extraction, and purification techniques to the hemp and cannabis spaces. He currently works as a consultant, helping labs and operators develop the precise processes they need to succeed. Now, he’s the lead expert in the Green Flower Cannabis Extraction Certificate Program, teaching canna-industry hopefuls and teams the ins-and-outs of successful botanical extraction.
