Editorial Technical Reference

Liming Vat

This page explains how Liming Vat is classified within Leather and Related Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A specialized vessel used in leather processing for the liming operation, where hides are treated with lime solutions to remove hair, epidermis, and fats while swelling the collagen fibers.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Liming Vat

Definition
The Liming Vat is a critical component within the Beamhouse Module of leather manufacturing facilities. It serves as the primary reaction vessel where raw hides undergo the liming process - a chemical treatment using calcium hydroxide (lime) solutions combined with sulfides or other chemicals. This process facilitates hair removal, degreasing, and fiber swelling, preparing the hides for subsequent beamhouse operations like deliming, bating, and pickling. The vat is designed to withstand corrosive alkaline environments while ensuring proper agitation and temperature control for uniform treatment.

Constructed from materials such as stainless steel (316L), fiberglass reinforced plastic, or rubber-lined steel, the vat is engineered for durability in high-pH conditions. Its working volume typically ranges from 5,000 to 30,000 liters, with a maximum load capacity of 3,000 to 15,000 kg per batch. Operating temperature is maintained between 20 and 30°C, and the pH is kept in the range of 12 to 13. Agitation is provided by mechanical paddles or rotating drums at speeds of 5 to 15 rpm, driven by motors rated at 5.5 to 22 kW. The vat operates at pressures of 0.1 to 0.3 MPa, with wall thicknesses of 6 to 12 mm and overall dimensions from 3,000 to 8,000 mm. The empty weight varies from 2,000 to 10,000 kg. Sealing standards conform to IP54 to IP65 (IEC 60529), and the material grade for stainless steel is 316L per ASTM A240.

These parameters are reference ranges and must be verified with the manufacturer for specific models and applications. The vat is a component, not a standalone system, and its selection depends on hide processing capacity, available space, and integration with upstream and downstream equipment. Buyers should confirm all specifications, including material grades and standards, with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.
Working Principle
The Liming Vat operates by containing hides submerged in a controlled alkaline solution (typically lime and sodium sulfide mixtures). Mechanical paddles or rotating drums provide agitation to ensure uniform chemical penetration. Temperature is maintained between 20-30°C through heating/cooling systems. The alkaline environment breaks down hair proteins (keratin) and epidermal tissues while swelling collagen fibers through pH elevation and osmotic effects. Process duration ranges from 12-48 hours depending on hide thickness and desired results.
Common Materials
Stainless Steel (316L), Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic, Rubber Lining
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Working Volume5000–30000 LDepends on hide processing capacity
Operating Temperature20–30 °COptimal for enzyme and lime activity
pH Range12–13 pHHigh alkalinity for hair removal and swelling
Agitation Speed5–15 rpmSlow rotation to avoid hide damage
Motor Power5.5–22 kWDepends on vat size and load
Material Grade316LCorrosion-resistant stainless steelASTM A240
Wall Thickness6–12 mmStructural integrity for large volumes
Maximum Load Capacity3000–15000 kgBased on hide weight per batch
Operating Pressure0.1–0.3 MPaAtmospheric or slight positive pressure
Sealing StandardIP54–IP65Protection against dust and water jetsIEC 60529
Overall Dimensions3000–8000 mmLength or diameter depending on design
Weight2000–10000 kgEmpty weight, varies with size

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Agitation System
    Provides mechanical movement to ensure uniform chemical penetration and prevent hide settling
    Material: Stainless Steel
  • Heating/Cooling Jacket
    Maintains optimal process temperature through thermal exchange
    Material: Stainless Steel
  • Drain Valve
    Controls solution discharge and vat emptying
    Material: PVC or Rubber-Coated Steel
  • Liquid Level Sensor
    Monitors solution volume and prevents overflow
    Material: Polypropylene with Stainless Steel Probe
  • Vat Vessel
    The tank body that holds the lime and sodium sulfide liquor with the hides submerged in it.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric (open vat) or up to 1.5 bar for closed systems
other spec: Slurry concentration: 5-15% lime by weight, typical agitation speed: 10-30 RPM
temperature: Ambient to 40°C (104°F)
Media Compatibility
✓ Lime slurry (calcium hydroxide solution) ✓ Sodium sulfide solutions ✓ Enzyme-based hair removal solutions
Unsuitable: Strong acids (e.g., sulfuric, hydrochloric) - causes rapid corrosion and hazardous reactions
Sizing Data Required
  • Daily hide processing capacity (kg/day)
  • Available floor space and ceiling height
  • Required processing time per batch (hours)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Corrosion and chemical attack
Cause: Exposure to acidic or alkaline lime slurry, leading to material degradation, pitting, and thinning of vat walls, especially at welds and seams.
Structural fatigue and cracking
Cause: Cyclic thermal and mechanical stresses from temperature variations, slurry agitation, and loading/unloading, resulting in stress corrosion cracking or weld failures.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible leaks, weeping, or damp spots around seams, welds, or outlets, indicating material failure or seal degradation.
  • Unusual vibrations, audible grinding, or knocking sounds during operation, suggesting agitator imbalance, bearing wear, or internal component failure.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement routine ultrasonic thickness testing and corrosion mapping to monitor wall thinning and schedule proactive repairs before failure occurs.
  • Use compatible, corrosion-resistant lining materials (e.g., rubber, polyurethane) and ensure proper agitator alignment to reduce wear and stress concentrations.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ASTM A36/A36M-19 - Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel CE Marking - Directive 2006/42/EC (Machinery Directive)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.05mm
  • Surface flatness: 0.2mm per meter
Quality Inspection
  • Dye Penetrant Testing (DPT)
  • Dimensional Verification with CMM

Manufacturers of Liming Vat

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical working volume range for a liming vat?

According to directory reference data, the working volume typically ranges from 5,000 to 30,000 liters, depending on hide processing capacity. However, exact values must be confirmed with the manufacturer for specific models.

What materials are commonly used for liming vat construction?

Common materials include stainless steel (316L), fiberglass reinforced plastic, and rubber lining. The choice depends on the corrosive alkaline environment and operational requirements. Verify material grade and standards with the supplier.

How is the liming process controlled in terms of temperature and pH?

The operating temperature is maintained between 20-30°C, and the pH is kept in the range of 12-13. These conditions are critical for effective hair removal and fiber swelling. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for precise control parameters.

What safety and sealing standards apply to liming vats?

The sealing standard is typically IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529, providing protection against dust and water jets. However, compliance must be verified with the manufacturer, as standards may vary by model and application.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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