The Top 7 Features to Look for in High-Quality BHO Extractors

In the ever-evolving world of BHO Extraction, having the right tools can mean the difference between a mediocre extract and what we users commonly refer to as “FIRE.” Let’s dive into what makes a BHO extractor stand out.

1. Quality Material Fabrication

When it comes to BHO extractors, the quality of the build and source materials cannot be understated. Stainless steel is the go-to choice for its sanitary, durability, and resistance to corrosion. This is particularly important given the potent nature of BHO, PHO, and even some of the chemical compounds within the plant, which can degrade lesser materials.

An extractor built with high-grade materials not only ensures longevity but maintains the purity of the oils it produces. It’s preferable to seek manufacturers that have a Quality Management System in place, such as ISO 9001, as this suggests a more rigid and documented process and traceability for each machine build.

2. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance Features

Cleanliness is paramount in the production of high-quality BHO products. Look for extractors that include easy-to-clean features, allowing for thorough sanitation. This often includes removable parts and smooth surfaces and minimizing the nooks or crannies for contaminants or biomass particulates to hide.

Any serious manufacturer of BHO extraction systems should have all consumables, replacement parts, and service packages to ensure your system stays fully operational. Ask the manufacturer if they offer any secondary training specifically for service and maintenance, as this is often not covered in training/installation.

3. Thermal Regulation Controls

The ability to control temperature with precision is critical. Different solvents, such as propane, butane, hexane, ethanol, etc… have varying boiling points, and having precise temperature controls allows for optimal extraction of each unique oil. Look for extractors equipped with a smart and efficient method of thermal controls to ensure you can extract the essence of your botanicals without sacrificing quality.

Many BHO extraction systems today rely on a wide array of heaters and chillers. When a chiller fails to keep up or goes down completely, production can stall massively. When choosing a BHO extraction machine, be sure you budget for maintenance, service, and eventual replacement of these ancillary pieces of equipment.

4. Safety Mechanisms

Having a Class I Division 1 (C1D1) space is required if you are legally operating a BHO extraction system. A C1DI environment is required where flammable gases, liquids, or vapors can be present in quantities that could be explosive or ignitable during normal operations. In a C1D1 environment, all electrical components must be intrinsically safe and explosion-proof. A certain threshold of airflow/ventilation is required in these spaces, and the air is monitored for traces of ignitable gases.

High-quality BHO extractors should have several safety mechanisms, such as shut-off features, pressure relief valves, etc… These features not only protect the user but also ensure the longevity of the extractor itself.

5. Versatility and Capacity

Versatility in a BHO extractor allows for a broader exploration of the plants, from hemp to cannabis. Additionally, the capacity of the extractor matters, whether you’re producing boutique products for a specific demographic, or for toll processing many different growers for an array of different end products. Units range from small, hand-operated units to commercial-sized machines, offering a wide range of capacity.

A trend that ties the hands of many labs today is the reliance on heaters and chillers. Many labs have a lot invested in their heater/chiller infrastructure, which provides very little versatility. These processors are far too often stuck running one way. On top of losing versatility with dedicated heaters and chillers, organizations looking to scale their BHO processing must buy more columns that connect to even more chillers.

6. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is not just good for the environment; it’s also kind to your wallet. In 2024, high-quality extractors should be designed to consume less power without compromising performance. This feature is beyond valuable, rather necessary for those who produce essential oils at a larger scale or frequency.

For years, traditional BHO extraction machines used immense amounts of electricity. We are entering a new era for hydrocarbon extractors, where direct refrigeration can be utilized instead of the energy-intensive infrastructure heaters and chillers on which the first generation of extraction machines heavily relied.

7. Customer Reviews and Support

Finally, never underestimate the power of community feedback and customer support. Reviews from fellow users can provide invaluable insights into the day-to-day use of any particular BHO extractor. Additionally, responsive customer support from the manufacturer can significantly enhance your experience, providing peace of mind that you have backup should you face any issues.