Internship Insights at Rajaram Solvex Ltd.
Internship Insights at Rajaram Solvex Ltd.
2
3 Company Profile
11 Main Machinery
14 Learning Outcomes
15 Conclusion
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1. INTRODUCTION
During the internship, I had the opportunity to observe and study the complete process flow,
beginning from raw material intake and storage, cleaning and conditioning, solvent
extraction, oil refining, and finally packaging of the finished product. Each stage of the
process was explained in detail by plant supervisors, which helped me understand the
interdependence of different departments and the importance of smooth workflow in
continuous production.
I gained exposure to a wide variety of industrial machinery and equipment used in oil
extraction and refining, including seed cleaners, conveyors, elevators, expellers, solvent
extractors, distillation units, heat exchangers, boilers, and refining vessels. Alongside process
equipment, I also studied the role of support utilities such as pumps, compressors, cooling
towers, and power distribution systems that ensure uninterrupted plant operation.
Additionally, I was introduced to the company’s quality control laboratory, where regular
testing of crude and refined oil is carried out to meet FSSAI standards and customer
specifications. This exposure helped me understand the significance of quality assurance
protocols, sampling methods, and documentation procedures in maintaining consistent
product quality.
The internship not only enhanced my technical knowledge of industrial operations but also
improved my analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. I gained practical insights
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into how large-scale plants manage production, maintenance, quality, and safety
simultaneously to achieve efficiency and sustainability.
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2. HISTORY
Location: A-21, MIDC Industrial Area, Islampur, Sangli, Maharashtra (PIN 415409)
Date: 2025
1. Executive Summary
Over three decades, the company has expanded its infrastructure and invested in modern
technologies to enhance extraction efficiency, improve refining quality, and cater to both
industrial and retail markets. Rajaram Solvex has steadily strengthened its role in supporting
local agricultural communities by sourcing oilseeds from farmers across the Sangli–Kolhapur
belt, while simultaneously building a reputation as a reliable supplier of refined edible oils.
In addition to its core business of solvent extraction and refining, the company has diversified
into allied verticals such as bioenergy and consumer-care products, ensuring resilience and
sustainable growth. As an active public (unlisted) company registered with ROC Pune,
Rajaram Solvex represents a strong example of industrial development rooted in regional
agribusiness and aligned with India’s edible oil demand growth.
2. Company Profile
Headquarters & Plant Location: Plot A-21, MIDC Industrial Area, Islampur, Sangli,
Maharashtra
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Primary Activity: Solvent extraction of oilseeds and refining of edible oils (manufacture of
vegetable/animal oils & fats)
Industrial Zone: MIDC Islampur, with access to infrastructure, utilities, and transport
facilities.
The origins of Rajaram Solvex Ltd. can be traced back to the vision of Mr. Bhagat Rajaram
Patil, founder of the Rajaram Group. The group was formally incorporated in 1991, marking
the beginning of its industrial journey with soybean oil extraction.
At the time of inception, the Sangli–Kolhapur belt was primarily agrarian, with a strong base
of oilseed cultivation but limited industrial-scale processing. Recognizing this opportunity,
Rajaram Solvex positioned itself as a vital link between local farmers and the edible oil
market by establishing a solvent-extraction unit at Islampur MIDC.
The early operations were focused on processing soybean seeds into crude oil and de-oiled
cake (DOC), both of which had significant demand: crude oil for further refining into edible
oil, and DOC as an important protein-rich feed for the cattle and poultry industries.
This foundation helped the company establish strong farmer-industry linkages, while also
providing a platform for scaling up operations in the following decades.
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4. Growth, Capacity & Plant Footprint
Over the years, Rajaram Solvex Ltd. has undertaken multiple capacity expansions through
phased investments. Initially a single solvent-extraction plant, the company now operates
multiple units equipped with modern technology to ensure high oil recovery rates and
superior refining quality.
Extraction Capacity: Group records indicate modern extraction facilities designed for
efficient oil recovery from soybean and other oilseeds.
Refining Capacity: Sources note a refining capacity in the range of ~125 TPD (tons per day)
for edible oils, serving both bulk buyers and the consumer retail segment.
By-products: In addition to refined edible oils, the company produces de-oiled cakes, lecithin,
and other by-products, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
The Rajaram Group’s profile mentions three solvent extraction units, all located within
MIDC facilities, strategically benefiting from proximity to raw material sources and
transportation networks.
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The Islampur plant is characterized by:
Refining facilities integrated within the plant for producing consumer-grade edible oils.
Storage infrastructure including large-capacity tanks and warehouses for seeds, crude oil, and
refined products.
MIDC advantages such as reliable utilities (water, power), effluent treatment systems, and
logistics support.
Sustainability features such as utilization of by-products in animal feed and energy recovery
measures.
Through continuous modernization, the company has kept pace with industry standards,
ensuring competitiveness in both domestic and export markets.
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2. VISION, MISSION AND GOALS.
Vision
Mission
To process agricultural produce, particularly oilseeds, into high-quality edible oil and allied
products through efficient, safe, and eco-friendly operations.
To serve farmers by providing fair prices, technical support, and a reliable platform for their
produce, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
To deliver consistent value to customers by maintaining strict quality standards and adapting
to market needs.
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Goals
1. Quality Excellence: Ensure that all products—refined oil, by-products, and agro-based
derivatives—meet national and international standards.
6. Market Expansion: Increase the reach of Rajaram Solvex products across India and explore
export opportunities for global competitiveness.
8. Safety First: Maintain strict industrial safety standards to ensure the well-being of workers
and visitors during all stages of production.
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3. INTERSHIP OBJECTIVES
To gain exposure to safety protocols and hazard management practices in the plant.
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4COMPANY PROFILE
Main Products:
Lecithin
Heat Exchangers
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Boilers and Steam Systems
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3. DEPARTMENT COVERED
Responsible for the upkeep and reliability of mechanical components to ensure smooth plant
operations.
Key Areas:
Bearings
Gears
Chains
Pumps
Lubrication
Utilities:
Boiler system
Water Treatment
Compressors
Production:
Core manufacturing unit focused on extraction of oil from seeds and meal processing.
Key Equipment:
Oil Expeller
Rotary Extractor
Desolventizer
Refining section:
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Key Processes:
Neutralization
Bleaching
Deodorizing Units
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3. OIL EXPELLER MACHINE
The oil expeller machine is one of the most important units in the edible oil extraction
industry, designed to mechanically press oil from oilseeds under controlled pressure and
temperature. During my internship, I had the opportunity to closely observe its mechanical
design, working principle, and operational features in a real industrial setup, particularly
during the processing of soybean seeds, though the same principle applies to other oil-bearing
materials such as groundnut, mustard, sunflower, and sesame.
1. Hopper – Used for feeding cleaned and conditioned oilseeds into the expeller.
2. Screw Conveyor (Screw Shaft) – A rotating helical shaft that gradually pushes seeds
forward while applying pressure.
3. Barrel (Cage) – The cylindrical chamber that houses the screw and provides resistance to
build pressure.
4. Electric Motor – Provides the required power for rotation of the screw shaft.
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6. Oil Outlet / Perforated Cage – Allows oil to escape through small openings, separating it
from the solid seed matter.
7. Cake Outlet – Discharges the compressed solid residue (oil cake) at the end.
Working Principle
The rotating screw conveyor transports the seeds forward through the barrel.
As the seeds progress, the available space decreases, causing gradual compression, shear, and
friction.
This results in a rise in pressure and temperature inside the barrel, which facilitates oil
expulsion.
The liberated oil escapes through small perforations in the cage and is collected, while the
residual oil cake is continuously discharged at the outlet.
Beyond theoretical learning, I interacted directly with technicians, engineers, and operators,
which gave me valuable exposure to:
Process optimization – Adjusting seed moisture, screw speed, and barrel pressure for
maximum oil recovery.
Machine calibration – Ensuring proper alignment, torque settings, and lubrication of moving
parts.
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Extracted Key Points
Industry Role: Core equipment in edible oil extraction (soybean, groundnut, sunflower,
mustard, etc.)
Main Components: Hopper, screw conveyor, barrel, electric motor, gearbox, oil outlet, cake
outlet.
Working Principle:
Seeds fed into hopper → compressed by screw shaft → pressure & friction → oil expelled →
collected through perforations → cake discharged.
Internship Learnings:
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4. SEED CLEANING SECTION:
During my internship, I gained extensive hands-on experience in the seed cleaning section,
where I observed and studied the design, functionality, and operational workflow of different
machines involved in seed processing. I learned about the working principles of air-screen
cleaners, destoners, gravity separators, and other auxiliary equipment, and how they are
systematically integrated into a continuous processing line for achieving maximum efficiency
and maintaining product quality.
I also understood the importance of setting and monitoring operational parameters, such as
airflow, vibration levels, feed rate, and separation accuracy, which directly affect the purity
and quality of the final seed output.
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critical role in ensuring uniform performance, consistent throughput, and reducing human
error in the overall process.
Overall, this experience allowed me to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and
practical applications, while developing a deeper understanding of how mechanical system
integration, preventive maintenance, and process optimization are essential for maintaining
uninterrupted seed processing operations.
2. Operational Understanding
Learned key operational parameters (airflow, feed rate, vibration, separation efficiency).
4. Role of Automation
Gained insights into control systems ensuring uniform performance.
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Learned how automation improves efficiency and reduces human error.
5. Industry Insights
Interacted with technicians and engineers for real-time problem-solving perspectives.
Understood challenges like machine wear, dust control, and quality assurance.
6. Overall Learning
Strengthened link between theory and practice.
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5. Boiler System & Utilities:
During my internship, I had the opportunity to study in detail the boiler system and plant
utilities, which play a crucial role in maintaining uninterrupted industrial operations. The
boiler system under observation was primarily a water tube boiler, supported by a feed water
system, fuel supply arrangements, and steam distribution pipelines.
I closely learned about its design, working principle, and operational parameters. The water
tube boiler generated high-pressure steam by circulating water inside the tubes while hot
gases passed over them. This design provided higher efficiency, faster steam generation, and
safer operation compared to fire tube boilers.
The feed water system ensured a continuous supply of treated water to the boiler, preventing
scale formation and corrosion. The fuel supply system, depending on the plant’s requirement,
maintained steady combustion through regulated burners, while the steam distribution system
carried steam to various plant sections for heating, processing, and power generation.
Regular maintenance and troubleshooting were integral to the system. I observed technical
staff performing crucial tasks such as:
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Monitoring water levels to avoid dry running and tube failure.
Checking and calibrating pressure and temperature gauges for accurate operation.
Ensuring proper functioning of safety valves to release excess pressure and prevent accidents.
Through these practices, I understood how preventive maintenance ensures reliability and
extends the service life of mechanical systems.
In addition to boilers, I explored the utility section of the plant, which consisted of essential
supporting systems such as:
Compressed Air System – used for pneumatic tools, automation, and control valves.
Water Treatment Plant – for supplying soft and demineralized water, preventing scaling and
corrosion in boilers and cooling systems.
Power Supply & Distribution – ensuring continuous electrical supply for machines, lighting,
and instrumentation.
I observed how technicians and engineers monitored these utilities using control panels and
instrumentation, ensuring efficiency and quick troubleshooting during abnormalities. This
exposure helped me gain real-time insights into system integration, operational challenges,
and practical engineering solutions, strengthening my understanding of plant operations and
maintenance.
1. Boiler System
Working: Water inside tubes heated by hot gases → generates high-pressure steam
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Maintenance:
Clean burners
2. Utilities Section
Water Treatment Plant: Prevents scaling & corrosion, ensures treated water
3. Learning Outcomes
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6. Oil Filtration Process
This section provides a comprehensive overview of the oil filtration process, which plays a
vital role in maintaining the performance and reliability of industrial machinery. During my
internship, I studied the design, working principles, and operational parameters of the system
in detail.
The primary objective of the oil filtration system is to remove impurities such as dust, solid
particles, sludge, oxidation by-products, and moisture from lubricating and hydraulic oils.
Clean oil ensures smooth functioning, reduces wear and tear, prevents breakdowns, and
ultimately increases the efficiency and life span of machines.
1. Coarse Filtration – Larger contaminants such as dirt, metal shavings, or sludge are
captured using filters with wider mesh sizes.
2. Fine Filtration – Smaller particles that could damage sensitive components like bearings
and valves are removed through finer filters.
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3. Vacuum Dehydration (Optional) – In certain applications, vacuum systems are used to
remove dissolved water and gases that can accelerate oil degradation.
To ensure smooth operation, sensors and monitoring devices are integrated within the system.
These continuously check parameters such as oil quality, temperature, flow rate, and pressure
drop across filters. A significant pressure drop usually indicates filter clogging and the need
for replacement.
From a practical perspective, I had the chance to work with technicians and engineers, which
gave me hands-on experience in understanding operational challenges. Common issues
included clogging of filters, bypass valve operations during overload, and moisture ingress in
oils. The team also highlighted best practices for preventive maintenance, such as scheduled
oil sampling, regular filter inspection, and timely replacement to avoid unplanned shutdowns.
This experience helped me connect theoretical knowledge with industrial practice, deepening
my understanding of how oil filtration contributes to both operational reliability and cost
efficiency in industries.
Purpose: Remove impurities (particles, sludge, water) from lubricating and hydraulic oils.
Stages:
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Preventive Maintenance: Oil sampling, filter inspection, timely replacement.
Practical Learning: Hands-on exposure with technicians, linking theory with real-world
applications.
Benefits: Increases machinery efficiency, reliability, and service life while reducing
breakdowns.
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7. Daily safety checks and PPE
This section provides a comprehensive account of the daily safety checks and the use of
personal protective equipment (PPE) that I observed during my internship. Safety is not only
a regulatory requirement but also a fundamental principle in industrial operations, ensuring
the protection of both personnel and equipment. Each working day began with systematic
safety inspections conducted at the start of every shift. These inspections followed a
structured checklist that covered multiple aspects such as assessing the condition of
machinery, detecting possible leaks, verifying the visibility and accuracy of safety signage,
and ensuring that emergency equipment like fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and alarms were
in proper working order.
Through direct involvement in these activities, I gained valuable hands-on exposure to how
mechanical systems are closely integrated with safety measures. It became clear that routine
inspections are not just precautionary steps, but essential processes that directly influence
operational reliability, workplace discipline, and the prevention of accidents. This
understanding reinforced the fact that safety protocols are as critical as technical expertise in
industrial environments.
Another important learning experience was the emphasis on personal protective equipment.
Helmets, gloves, safety goggles, and protective footwear were mandatory for all personnel
entering the operational areas. Beyond compliance, I understood that PPE forms the first line
of defense against potential hazards such as chemical splashes, flying debris, heat exposure,
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or electrical risks. The consistent use of PPE by every worker also highlighted the culture of
safety and responsibility fostered within the organization.
Moreover, my interactions with technicians, supervisors, and safety officers added a practical
dimension to my learning. These professionals shared real-life examples of handling
emergencies, addressing sudden mechanical failures, and coordinating during high-risk
situations. Their experiences emphasized the role of quick decision-making, effective
communication, and teamwork in maintaining safety standards. I also observed how safety
officers play a dual role — not only enforcing rules but also guiding and training workers to
adopt best practices.
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9. Main Machinery
Cleaning units – Remove impurities (stones, dust, iron particles) using destoners and
magnetic separators.
Cracking mills – Break the seeds into smaller particles, which increases surface area.
Cookers & Flakers – Heat-treat and soften the cracked seeds (in cookers), then press
them into thin flakes (via hydraulic flakers). This makes oil more accessible during
solvent extraction.
Extractor :
Horizontal Moving - Bed or Rotacel/Loop-type Extractors: These are the heart of the
extraction process.
Seeds are passed through a chamber where hexane (a petroleum solvent) dissolves the
oil.
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Desolventizer – Toaster (DT) :
Multi-stage system where the extracted meal (after solvent contact) is heated with
steam to remove any remaining hexane.
Often includes direct-toasting stages to make the meal suitable as animal feed.
Rising-film type – Enhances heat transfer, gently evaporating hexane from the oil
without damaging oil quality.
Final step for removing traces of hexane from crude oil using vacuum and heat.
Hexane vapors from various stages are condensed in coolers and condensers, or
absorbed in mineral-oil towers.
Vacuum pumps and vent condensers help recover and recycle hexane.
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Material Handling & Auxiliary Systems
Screw conveyors, elevators – Move solids (meal, flakes) and materials between
stages.
Cooling towers and chillers – Used to cool hexane condensers or oil before storage.
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Hexane vapors → Recovery system → Recycled
[Link] OUTCOMES
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1. Understood real-time machinery
I gained valuable hands-on exposure to how different types of machinery operate in an actual
industrial or production environment. Observing and working with machines in real-time
allowed me to understand their components, working principles, and performance under
varying conditions. This experience bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and
practical application, enhancing my technical confidence in handling industrial equipment.
I developed knowledge of preventive maintenance practices, which are crucial for ensuring
uninterrupted operations and minimizing breakdowns. This included learning about
lubrication schedules, routine inspections, calibration, cleaning, and replacement of worn-out
parts. Such methods highlighted the importance of maintaining equipment reliability,
extending machine life, and reducing unexpected downtime in production processes.
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Beyond technical knowledge, I also developed essential soft skills necessary for professional
growth. I learned the value of effective communication, mutual cooperation, and respect
within a team environment. Working with colleagues taught me the importance of discipline,
punctuality, and adhering to organizational protocols. This experience demonstrated how
teamwork and professional behavior contribute to a smooth and productive workplace.
[Link]
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The 12-week industrial training at Rajaram Solvex Ltd proved to be a truly transformative
and highly rewarding experience, offering far more than just technical exposure. It provided
me with the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-
world industrial practices, allowing me to witness firsthand how engineering concepts are
practically applied to optimize production and operational efficiency. By engaging directly
with advanced machinery, industrial systems, and daily operations, I was able to deepen my
understanding of not only machinery operation but also preventive maintenance, safety
protocols, and overall process integration.
Through hands-on observation and active participation, I gained a clearer perspective on how
theoretical engineering principles are implemented to address practical challenges in real
time. This experience enhanced my ability to troubleshoot problems systematically, adapt to
dynamic situations, and understand the importance of preventive and corrective measures in
sustaining smooth industrial operations.
Overall, this internship not only enhanced my technical competencies but also shaped my
professional outlook and career aspirations. It has motivated me to strive for innovation,
efficiency, and sustainability in future engineering roles while instilling the confidence to
take on complex challenges. The blend of technical learning, professional development, and
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industry exposure has laid a strong foundation for my future growth, preparing me to
transition smoothly from an academic environment into the professional world.
The knowledge, skills, and confidence I have gained through this training at Rajaram Solvex
Ltd will serve as a cornerstone in my journey as an engineer, guiding me towards becoming a
responsible, skilled, and forward-thinking professional capable of making meaningful
contributions to the industry.
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Here are some glimpses during Internship work…..
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