The diagram illustrates the process of producing sugar from sugarcane, outlining seven distinct stages from cultivation to the final product.
Overall, the process begins with the growth and harvesting of sugarcane, followed by extraction, purification, and crystallization of the sugar. The entire procedure involves both mechanical and chemical processes.
Initially, sugarcane is grown for 12 to 18 months before being harvested either manually, using a machete, or mechanically, with a harvester. The harvested sugarcane is then crushed to extract its juice. This juice undergoes a purification process by passing through a limestone filter which removes impurities.
Next, the purified juice is heated in an evaporator, where leftover water is removed, transforming the liquid into a concentrated syrup. This syrup is then processed in a centrifuge, which separates the sugar crystals from the liquid. Finally, the extracted sugar crystals undergo drying and cooling, resulting in the refined sugar that is ready for distribution.
