100L Capacity Hydrodistillation Equipment Durable For Oil Extraction Hydrosol Production

100L Hydro-Distillation Plant Oil Extraction Machine for Floral Waters & Hydrosol Production

Product Overview

This 100L hydro-distillation unit is specifically optimized for the production of both pure essential oil and premium-grade hydrosols (floral waters). Unlike steam distillation where the plant sits above the water, this system submerges the botanicals directly in the water bath. Constructed from premium SUS304 stainless steel with a conical bottom for easy cleaning, it ensures gentle, even heating that prevents scorching. This method is universally recognized for producing the most aromatic and true-to-nature hydrosols used in natural skincare, room sprays, and therapeutic compress formulations.

Cause

The demand for natural hydrosols—such as rose water, witch hazel, and orange blossom water—has exploded in the clean beauty market. However, many producers make hydrosol as an afterthought during high-temperature steam distillation, resulting in a product that smells "cooked" or "vegetal." True artisanal hydrosol requires lower temperature, submerged extraction to capture the full spectrum of water-soluble aromatic compounds. Generic stills lack the precise temperature control necessary to prevent the plant material from sticking to the bottom and burning, which would ruin the entire batch of fragrant water.

Solution

This hydro-distillation unit features a dimpled heating jacket that provides gentle, indirect heat transfer to the water bath, eliminating hot spots. The integrated Clevenger-type separator captures the essential oil, while the residual water—now saturated with hydrophilic plant compounds—is drained as high-quality hydrosol. The conical bottom design ensures that even dense botanicals (like rose petals or chamomile flowers) are fully drained and easily removed post-extraction. The result is a hydrosol with a crisp, fresh aroma identical to the living plant, commanding a premium price in the aromatherapy market.

Specifications

Application

This machine is the preferred choice for artisan distillers crafting rose water for Middle Eastern cuisine and cosmetics. It is used extensively for distilling witch hazel extract for skin toners and lavender water for linen sprays. Herbalists use it to produce chamomile and calendula hydrosols for sensitive skin treatments. It is also ideal for small-scale farms wanting to create value-added products from fragrant crop waste or fresh-picked flowers.

How It Works

The vessel is filled with water and the fresh or dried plant material is fully submerged. Heat is applied gently to the jacket, bringing the water to a slow simmer (typically 98-100°C). As the water simmers, the plant cells rupture, releasing both volatile oil and water-soluble components into the bath. The steam that rises carries the essential oil, while the water in the pot becomes infused with the plant's essence. The steam condenses, oil separates, and the remaining aromatic water (hydrosol) is drawn off from the pot or the separator outlet.

How To Choose

Choosing a hydro-distiller requires attention to the heating mechanism. For delicate flowers like rose, an electric element with a simmer-stat is non-negotiable to prevent boil-over and burning. Second, consider the ratio of hydrosol to oil you desire; longer distillation times increase hydrosol volume but may dilute aroma. Third, check the discharge valve size; a large, full-bore valve is needed to prevent clogging from wet, heavy petals. Fourth, confirm the condenser is oversized for the 100L pot to ensure zero vapor loss, as any escaped vapor is lost oil and aroma.

FAQ

Q: Can I make just essential oil and discard the hydrosol?
A: Yes, you can. However, we strongly advise against discarding it. Rose hydrosol can sell for $20-40 per liter retail. Even if you don't bottle it, you can recycle it as the water source for the next batch, which actually increases oil yield.

Q: Why does my hydrosol smell different from the essential oil?
A: This is expected and normal. Essential oil contains only lipophilic (oil-soluble) volatiles. Hydrosol contains hydrophilic (water-soluble) acids and alcohols. The combination of the two provides a more "complete" and round aroma profile than the oil alone.

Q: How do I prevent mold from growing in my hydrosol?
A: Hydrosol is 99.9% water and is a perfect medium for bacteria. We recommend storing hydrosol in sterilized glass bottles and adding a natural preservative system like Geogard 221 (1%) if you intend to sell it commercially. Alternatively, keep it refrigerated at all times.