Space saving drum from Vallero International

Vallero International's new Compact Drum is 25% smaller than vessels with a similar capacity. The Compact Drum has the motor and drive system incorporated into the main structure and makes it ideal for tanneries where space is a premium. The wooden drum can be used for all wet-end operations and can also be adapted for dry drumming. The transmission wheels are guided on metal rails each side of the drum cylinder, reducing the axial space. The transmission system is held up by special supports and by a shaft mounted gear reducer, making the drum quieter when in operation. Vallero claim that the new system does not require lubrication, unlike a crown pinion unit, making the working environment cleaner and reducing running costs. It is equipped with an automatic door, and automatic and manual valves. Compact Drum is available as 2.0x2.0m up to 3.5x3.5m in size. All models are fully guarded and all parameters can be controlled using an electronic control panel and display. New Vortex system Vallero have also introduced a new configuration inside the drum known as Vortex. The new shelving units produce a different mechanical action inside the drum for both the hides and the process float. Vortex carries the hides to the very top of the drum when they travel in one direction. This favours penetration of the process chemicals. When the drum rotates in the opposite direction, the shelves produce a rapid gliding action, thus favouring the opening up and extension of the hides. The Vortex system allows lower floats, saving water, and lower drum speeds compared with drums featuring the usual configuration of pegs and shelves. Vortex also creates a shower-waterfall action which redistributes the float in a more efficient way. When liming or tanning, the process has to be controlled to avoid damaging the leather. The drum is fitted with a cooling system, which is set automatically, if the temperature inside reaches a certain threshold. At the critical point, the drum stops or the speed decreases and the cooling system reduces the temperature.