Removing hair from a hide typically involves a process called dehairing, often using a lime solution. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:
Dehairing Process Using Lime
This method utilizes calcium hydroxide (hydrated lime) to loosen the hair follicles, making them easier to remove.
Materials
- Warm, soft water
- Calcium hydroxide (hydrated lime) - available at many hardware stores
- Large container (plastic or metal)
- Stirring tool (strong stick or paddle)
Solution Preparation
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Mixing Ratio: Mix one pound of calcium hydroxide for every 10 gallons of water. This amount of solution is generally suitable for approximately 20 pounds of hide.
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Preparation: Ensure the water is soft and warm. This aids in the dissolving process and the subsequent action on the hide.
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Mixing: Slowly add the calcium hydroxide to the water, stirring constantly until it is completely dissolved. Caution: Hydrated lime can be caustic, so wear gloves and eye protection.
Hide Immersion and Treatment
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Submersion: Place the hide entirely into the prepared lime solution, ensuring it's fully submerged.
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Regular Stirring: Stir the hide within the solution as often as possible, ideally several times a day. This ensures even distribution of the solution and consistent action on the hide.
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Monitoring: Check the hide regularly to see if the hair is "slipping" or coming out easily. This is the indication that the dehairing process is working. The time this takes depends on the type of hide, temperature, and lime concentration.
Post-Treatment
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Hair Removal: Once the hair slips easily, remove the hide from the solution and proceed to scrape off the hair using a dull knife or similar tool. Be thorough in removing all hair and membrane.
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Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the hide with clean water to remove all traces of the lime solution. Neutralization with a mild acid (such as vinegar) may be necessary to stop the liming action and prevent damage to the hide.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Always wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection when working with calcium hydroxide.
- Water Quality: Soft water is preferable, as hard water can interfere with the liming process.
- Hide Type: Different hides may require varying concentrations of lime and durations of treatment.
- Alternatives: Other dehairing methods exist, including enzymatic solutions and bacterial treatments, but the lime method is a common and effective approach.
