Abstract

This original research paper undertakes a graphic engineering study of old pressing and milling systems which have been used in the production of olive oil over the last centuries, from a graphical and historical point of view, in the main areas of production, Mediterranean countries. The research is based on information found in historical documents, and has been completed by fieldwork carried out in Jaen, Cordoba and Malaga, which are the Spanish provinces with the highest olive oil production, and which are possibly the most important worldwide. The research consisted of finding the best-conserved examples of olive-producing equipment located in museums of culture and of olive oil. This work allowed the 3D modeling of these examples, which can lead to the desired scientific publication. Lastly, conclusions were obtained which show the reasons for the modifications in the design of this equipment in order to obtain a greater quantity of oil in the first pressing and therefore greater industrial performance of the operation.

Key words: olive oil, mills, presses, computer-aided design, industrial archaeology.