Product/Process

Drum for improved tanning of leather.

Application/Use : Tanning of hides and skins by rural artisans at cottage scale. The leg operated mobile unit can also tan leather while operator is on the move on wheels for vending purpose.

Salient Features of Process/Technology

It is simple and cost effective drum system which enhances productivity, quality and mitigates drudgery. The drum is made of fibre reinforced plastic, 900 mm dia x 600 mm width, speed 12/8/4 rpm, mechanical chain drive. Two design options are available, one operated by single worker and the other by 2 workers. No electricity is required. The FRP drum has advantages over conventional wooden drum: weight reduction upto 60%, no reaction with acid or alkali, convenient cleaning.

Status of Commercialisation

A large number of units working in rural areas.

Minimum Economic Unit Size: Drum tanning capacity: 2 hides or 20 skins.

Indicative Investment: Rs. 40,000 per drum.

Equipment and Machinery: FRP tanning drum available from CSIR licensee.

Raw Materials: Hides, skins, tanning chemicals.

For further information. please contact:

The Director,
Central Leather Research
Institute (CLRI), Adyar,
Chennai-600020