In the hemp research industry, there are many different procedures that take place to ensure a quality product and research result. In order to proceed with hemp testing, distilling, extraction, and other research processes, it’s important to have the right knowledge and equipment. Today, we’ll dive into these different hemp research processes and the equipment that goes along with them. To better understand the different types of lab equipment used in hemp research, keep reading to find the research processes below.

Basics of the Hemp Plant

It’s important to understand the basics of the hemp plant and some of its uses. Those who aren’t familiar with hemp research and processing may confuse hemp with terms like cannabinoids or “industrial hemp.” There are many similar terms used to describe these different aspects of the same plant, so it’s easy to confuse them for the average person.

Hemp comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, which produces different varieties. “Industrial hemp” is a common name for the variety of this plant that contains exceptionally low THC levels, which makes it suitable for various products and purposes. Hemp plants that contain 0.3 percent THC or less qualify for legal processing into CBD, as well as other products. Some common hemp products that come from these plants and hemp testing include:

• CBD
• Hemp seeds
• Hemp protein powder
• Hemp tea
• Coffee
• Drinks
• Topical products such as lotions, oils, and more

CBD products themselves come in different strengths and varieties, including full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD Isolate. These different strengths of CBD depend on the processing of the hemp plant and the amount of THC that is retained.

This is where hemp extraction and research come into play. There are many different steps necessary to hemp research and extraction. Keep reading to discover some of the most popular hemp processing examples and the equipment their processing requires.

Hemp Processing Equipment

Hemp processing begins with the cultivation and harvesting of hemp plants. Before processing, cultivators must also separate and clean the hemp plant. Decortication also needs to take place, which is the process of removing and separating the outer layer of hemp from the core. Automated destemming and decorticating equipment lead these processes, leading to the hemp being shipped off to a manufacturing facility for crafting. These industrial hemp plants may turn into products like textiles, paper, rope, and even clothing. Some stages of hemp processing require gentle equipment, as hemp pellets and seeds can be delicate. These stages require gentle conveyor systems to carefully sort and move hemp around the facility.

Extraction Equipment

Some Cannabis sativa plants are fit for extraction purposes into CBD and other products like hemp seed oil. For these purposes, extraction equipment is necessary. There are several methods for extracting hemp into CBD and other products, including solvent-based extraction, non-solvent extraction, and refinement. Unique equipment and processes are required for each of these processes, like some of these detailed below.

Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol extraction involves soaking the product in an ethanol solution, which helps draw out terpenes and cannabinoids. Then, you evaporate the solution to remove residual solvent, which creates a crude extract. The refinement and distilling process helps turn this extract into a purified CBD product. The main equipment that you’ll find in ethanol extraction processes includes the centrifuge and ethanol solvent materials.

Non-Solvent Extraction

Non-solvent extraction works a bit differently and requires different materials for its processes. Some of the common non-solvent extraction methods include ice water extraction, cold press extraction, rosin pressed extraction, and screen or hand press extraction. Ice water extraction separates the extracts from the biomass. Cold pressed, rosin pressed, and screen pressed extractions involve applying pressure to the hemp materials through a press with slight variations in each process.

Residual Solvent Tests

Because there are such strict protocols on the levels of THC in hemp and CBD products, these products must go through the proper testing for these levels. Residual solvent tests are one way of testing the purity of these products. Residual solvent testing checks hemp products for traces of solvents such as liquids, wax, oils, and other residual effects. One option is to use a centrifuge to test and remove impurities and particulates. Residual solvent testing isn’t specific to hemp products either—many pharmaceutical and laboratory studies rely on these tests to ensure quality samples and products.

How To Select Research Equipment

There are many factors to consider when it comes to choosing equipment for the above processes. There are many legal requirements to follow concerning hemp testing. Make sure to understand the legal requirements for hemp research and its equipment that your state or local government abides by. You should also ensure that your equipment comes from a reliable source that will be able to provide support and either replacement or repairs when necessary.

Where To Find Hemp Research Equipment?

Now that you understand the processes that go into hemp research and some equipment examples that go along with them, you may be interested in a source for such equipment. Fortunately, you’ve already found a trusted source for laboratory and extraction equipment right here at USA Lab Equipment. We provide only the best materials for lab processing, including extraction and other hemp research procedures. Whether you’re looking for distillation equipment, extraction equipment, ethanol extractors, and more, USA Lab Equipment is a reliable source for everything you might need. We even stock laboratory glassware, clamps, and other accessories to support these processes.

Hemp research and extraction is a thorough process with many different equipment requirements. In order to end with a pure and safe final research product, you need the right tools and equipment. This is where the different types of lab equipment used in hemp research come in. Now that you know the differences between hemp research processes and the equipment used in this research, you’re better prepared to stock your own equipment and begin researching in your own laboratory space. Don’t forget to buy lab equipment through USA Lab Equipment for reliable instruments and knowledgeable help with everything you need.