A hydraulic press for extracting fluids from plant tissue samples

In the past, pressing fluids from ground plant matter has typically been accomplished with a hand press. Fluids must be separated from dry matter as part of the methodology for various applications in plant species including latex quantification. This article describes the design and construction of a hydraulic press used for extracting fluids from plant tissue samples, the accompanying press plates, sieve vessels, and collection pan, and the process we use for pressing plant fluids from sunflower (Helianthus annuus) homogenate. The overall height of the press is 205.7 cm (81 in.) and the width is 94.0 cm (37 in.). We have used the press for several years and have not identified any flaws in its design and performance. While designed and constructed for use in latex extraction we envision the press and associated press plates, sieve vessels, and collection pan could be used in a variety of other applications.