Tanning is the final step in the beam house operations and marks the beginning of transforming raw hides into durable leather. This essential process is carried out in large wooden or stainless-steel drums, where hides undergo chemical treatment to gain strength, resistance, and longevity.

The primary purpose of tanning is to stabilize the protein structure of the hide, making it resistant to bacterial decay, shrinkage, and moisture damage. Raw hides, if untreated, are highly perishable and can easily decompose. Tanning preserves the hide by permanently altering its structure through the introduction of tanning agents. These agents bind with the collagen fibers, locking them in place and converting the raw skin into a material that is durable, flexible, and resistant to environmental conditions.

This process is typically performed in large rotating drums, allowing the tanning agents to be evenly absorbed by the hides. Depending on the intended end use of the leather, different tanning methods may be used, such as vegetable tanning (using natural tannins from tree bark), chrome tanning (using chromium salts), or synthetic tanning. Chrome tanning is the most widely used method today due to its efficiency, speed, and the soft, supple leather it produces. Vegetable tanning, on the other hand, is preferred for traditional leather goods and eco-friendly products, offering a firmer texture and natural color variation.

This process is typically performed in large rotating drums, allowing the tanning agents to be evenly absorbed by the hides. Depending on the intended end use of the leather, different tanning methods may be used, such as vegetable tanning (using natural tannins from tree bark), chrome tanning (using chromium salts), or synthetic tanning. Chrome tanning is the most widely used method today due to its efficiency, speed, and the soft, supple leather it produces. Vegetable tanning, on the other hand, is preferred for traditional leather goods and eco-friendly products, offering a firmer texture and natural color variation.

The choice of tanning method and chemicals is determined by the type of leather being produced—whether for shoes, garments, upholstery, or accessories. After tanning, the hides are no longer raw material; they have been fully converted into leather, capable of withstanding time and wear. This stage also sets the base for further finishing operations such as dyeing, drying, and surface treatments, ensuring the leather meets desired aesthetic and functional standards.

Key highlights of the tanning process include:

• Chemical stabilization of the hide's collagen fibers
• Resistance to bacterial decomposition, moisture, and shrinkage
• Performed in large revolving drums for even chemical penetration
• Use of chrome, vegetable, or synthetic tanning agents based on the leather type
• Preparation of leather for finishing, dyeing, and final product development