Efficient expression of Dika nut oil from the kernel is required for its subsequent use in producing
comparatively cheap lubricant. Various factors responsible for proper oil expression include particle size,
moisture content, heating temperature, heating time, pressing pressure and pressing time. Sundried Dika
kernel ground to two particle sizes (fine: ≤ 1.4 mm and coarse: between 1.4 and 2.8 mm) were
conditioned to moisture content of 3, 6 and 9 wt%. Considered in the study, are heating temperature
ranging from 50 to 150oC in steps of 25 degrees Celsius and heating time of 5 to 25 minutes in steps of 5
minutes. Pressing pressure of 5 to 25 MPa in steps of 5 MPa and pressing time of 2 minutes interval were
also considered. The maximum oil yield was then correlated with the processing conditions. Test results
showed that coarse particle gave higher oil yield. Maximum oil yield of 72.2% of the available oil was
obtained at 6% moisture content, heating temperature of 100oC and heating time of 10 minutes.
Regression analyses of the oil yield with heating temperature, heating time, and pressing gave r2 values
of 0.9678, 0.999 and 0.9128. The processing conditions therefore has significantly influence the quantity
of oil obtained from Dika kerne