Design and fabrication of small-scale used cooking oil processing machine for soap production/ Mark Angelo D. Abuda, Ralphgel P. David, Maverick N. Matabilas, Lerv Justin V. Morales, and Shan Michael S. Salvatus.--

Bachelor's thesis

College of Engineering.-- Bachelor of science in mechanical engineering: Technological University of the Philippines, 2025.

Includes bibliographic references and index.

This study focuses on the design and fabrication of a low-cost, small-scale soap production machine that utilizes used cooking oil (UCO) to support livelihood programs of non-profit organizations. The machine is developed to support both hot and cold soap processing methods, offering flexibility and efficiency. The fabricated machine consists of four major systems which are storage dispensing unit, mixer (impeller), mixing system, and molding system. Each component is designed with simplicity, cost-effectiveness and ease of operation to suit the needs for small-scale production of a Non-Profit Organization.
Employing a developmental research approach, the machine was engineered to produce 192 soap bars, each weighing 110 grams with dimensions of 8 cm x 5.5 cm x 2.5 cm. The prototype integrates four main components: a mixer (20 L capacity), a heater (65- 93.33 °C with timer control), a 35 L storage unit with a weight-based dispensing system, and a custom-designed molder. The machine supports both hot and cold saponification processes. Performance evaluation showed an oil-to-soap conversion efficiency of 93%-94%, and quality tests confirmed that the produced soap had acceptable pH levels (9-9.5) and hardness (30 lbr for hot process, 20.5 lb for cold process). The prototype was assessed as effective, safe, and user-friendly, with an economic analysis demonstrating its cost-effectiveness for small-scale production. Overall, the machine presents a sustainable and practical solution for turning waste oil into useful hygiene products.