CBD Extraction: The Ultimate Checklist
The CBD and hemp industry are a steadily rising medicinal and recreational market. From powders to oils, CBD can be used in an array of products suiting almost any adult over 21. If you’re interested in getting involved in the industry, you may find yourself wondering where to start. Here we’ll discuss the ultimate checklist you need before taking the deep dive into CBD extraction.
#1. Determining the Extraction Method
There are many different times of CBD and hemp extraction methods. Some methods use non-solvent options for extraction which involve the use of heat or water to remove the CBD and other properties from the flower. Depending on which method you use, the extracted product may present itself as a liquid or even a honey-like wax. If you want to find out more information about the different hemp and extraction methods read our latest blog here.
When considering which extraction method you are going to use, it’s also important to consider the amount of space and power needed to facilitate the process. The equipment necessary requires adequate voltage and amperage within your laboratory. In order to give you some guidance, and to help us help you select the best solution, please consider these estimates:
- 2,500 sf, 400 amps 220 volts to process 500 lbs per day
- 5,000 sf, 800 amps 220 volts to process 1,000 lbs per day
- 10,000 sf 1,200 amps 220 volts to process 5,000 lbs per day
- 25,000 sf 2,000 amps 440 volts, 2 inch natural gas main to process 10,000 lbs per day
- 50,000 sf 2,500 amp 440 volts, 4 inch natural gas main, to process 20,000 lbs per day
#2. Proper Equipment
Now that you’ve determined the extraction method for your processes you can now begin to search for the best equipment to help accomplish the job. There are many different elements that require different pieces of equipment and it’s important that all these components work together in sync. Whether you need small-scale research and development system, an individual piece of equipment, or a 75 ton per day commercial industrial-scale extraction and distillation facility built from the ground up, we can deliver on time and on budget. Our team has expertise and experience in selling, servicing, installing, operating and training customers in the safe and productive use of the following types of equipment:
- Extraction Equipment
- Vacuums
- Forced Air Ovens
- Chillers & Heaters
- Solvent Recovery
- Distillation
- Turn-Key Systems
- Freezers
#3. Work On The Timing
The CBD extraction process must be properly planned around the flower harvest season. Often seeds intended to be used for CBD will be bought in the beginning of the year, around February to mid-April while the germination process also begins around the same time. The plants are then moved outdoors and or put in the ground around mid-may to the end of June. Summertime involves topping/pruning the plants, then you’re ready for harvest come fall! It’s important to understand this timing to fully schedule out your operations. Need help planning out your CBD operations timing? The team at Scientific Solutions can help!
#4. Planned Potency
Shooting at the hip is never a smart way to do business, and the same goes for your CBD extraction process. It’s essential to have a planned potency for your extracted product as this properly. In order to this you need to ask yourself the following questions:
“Is this CBD product intended for vapes and other pens?”
“Do I intend for this product to be used medicinally or recreationally?”
“How many units of this CBD product can I sell?”
Once you know the answers to these questions you can begin to market your product during the extraction and distillation process. All of Scientific Solutions equipment comes with training that ensures you know how to calculate the exact potency in the planning process.
#5. Work With The Right Team
The team at Scientific Solutions can ask and answer the questions that you may not have even considered in the evaluation of your CBD extraction options. From extraction processing to distillation and isolation, we have dedicated experts heading each facet ready to help you every step of the way. While other suppliers may just offer equipment, we help you determine best practice for your operation that keeps you fully compliant with current rules and regulations.
All in all, CBD extraction can be both financially and personally rewarding. Being prepared to fully take the plunge within the industry is the first step to success. Our team of professionals is dedicated to supplying you with the highest quality and safest products in the industry. Call us at 1-844-404-4588 or email sales@scisoldevelop.wpengine.com to talk with one of our experts right now!
