What Are the Types of Fractionated Palm Oil? What Are They Used for?

Fractionated palm oil, a versatile derivative of refined palm oil, is a key ingredient in the global food, cosmetics, and industrial sectors. Through fractionation, refined palm oil is separated into different types of fractionated palm oil with varying melting points and unique physical and chemical properties. Below, Henan Glory breaks down the main types of fractionated palm oil and their respective uses.

Palm oil fractionation process

1. Palm Olein

The liquid types of fractionated palm oil are prized for their strong oxidative stability, low trans-fat content, and ability to stay in liquid form at room temperature.

1) Refined Palm Olein

Refined palm olein (ROL) is the most widely used primary liquid type of fractionated palm oil, with a melting point of approximately 22°C. It features a high smoke point, making it perfect for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying and sautéing, as well as daily home cooking. It is also a key raw material in instant noodle manufacturing, as it is used to coat noodles and extend their shelf life.

2) Palm Super Olein

With a melting point ≤18°C, palm super olein (SOL) is a premium liquid fractionated palm oil produced by secondary fractionation of refined palm olein. It remains clear and fluid even in low-temperature environments, making it ideal for salad dressings, cold cooking oils, and cosmetic emulsions. Its non-greasy texture also makes it a preferred base for lightweight skin care lotions and creams.

2. Palm Mid Fraction

Palm mid fraction (PMF) has a melting point between 27 and 31°C. It closely replicates the melting characteristics of cocoa butter, serving as a cost-effective alternative in the confectionery industry. It is used to produce compound chocolate, fillings, and coatings, delivering the desired snap and smooth mouthfeel in chocolate products while substantially reducing production costs.

3. Palm Stearin

The solid types of fractionated palm oil are valued for their firm texture, excellent stability, and ability to enhance the structural integrity of end products.

1) Stearin Blend

With a melting point ≥44°C, stearin blend (STB) is a core solid type of fractionated palm oil for fat-based products. It imparts the firm texture and spreadability required for table margarines and bakery shortenings. It is also widely used in soap production to boost lathering performance and bar hardness.

2) Refined Palm Stearin

This stearin (RPS) has a melting point ≥53°C and is used in industrial applications such as candle making, oleochemical production. It also serves as a raw material for renewable lubricants and biodiesel, offering an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based oils.

3) Hard Stearin

The highest-melting fraction, with a melting point ≥58°C, this stearin (HST) has extreme oxidative stability due to its high saturated fatty acid content. It is critical for producing high-stability industrial products: it is a primary raw material for industrial lubricants (resistant to high temperatures), and wax coatings (for packaging and metal protection).

Ultimately, the core value of fractionated palm oil lies in its ability to convert a single batch of refined palm oil into multiple high-value types with distinct functionalities. This fractionation process not only maximizes resource utilization but also unlocks diversified revenue streams for your business.

Palm oil fractionation equipment

Henan Glory Company can help you unlock this value by providing professional palm oil fractionation equipment and technical services. If you are interested, Henan Glory is ready to deliver customized solutions tailored to your specific production needs.