Withering must be regarded as the most vital link in the chain of manufacture. The importance of obtaining correct withers must be fully appreciated as variation in the degree or evenness of a wither are reflected throughout all the stages of manufacture, and if quality teas are to be produced, constant Withering ration must be adhered to and maintained.

The general operating cycle for the “Sirocco” Withering Drum is to load approximately 200 lbs. of green leaf into each of the 4 compartment each having 4 compartments giving a total capacity of 1600lbs. This should take about 10 to 15 minutes, after which air is circulated at a temperature between 120F. Through the drum until such time as the necessary wither is obtained. The mixing of atmospheric air and that from the heater is thermostatically regulated, and the operating air temperature within the drum is automatically controlled. These are advantages which do not apply to the Tat system. The Mark Drum has 3 sections of 4 compartments giving a capacity of 2400Ibs. Green leaf.

 

The unloading of the drum is a simple matter, namely, by rotating it with the doors open, the leaf is aquatically discharged into suitable wheeled trolleys for transfer to the rolling room.