Setting Out is one of the important post-dyeing stages in Iran’s leather industry, aimed at further reducing moisture, smoothing and leveling the leather surface, and preparing it for the drying process. This operation not only enhances the appearance of the leather but also plays a crucial role in maintaining uniformity and quality in the final product.

After dyeing, leather still contains a significant amount of moisture that must be reduced before drying to ensure the process is faster, more uniform, and does not damage the fiber structure. In the setting out stage, leather passes through a specialized machine equipped with rollers or blunt blades. These rollers, under controlled pressure, expel residual moisture, flatten the leather surface, and eliminate wrinkles or air pockets within the fiber structure.

The main difference between setting out and sammying is that sammying is primarily used to remove the bulk of water after tanning, whereas setting out is intended for final moisture adjustment and surface improvement after dyeing. This stage ensures that the leather surface reaches a higher level of quality in terms of texture and visual appearance, making it especially suitable for precision applications such as footwear, leather apparel, and furniture.

Furthermore, the smoothing and leveling achieved during this stage facilitate easier and safer handling of hides before drying, minimizing risks such as shrinkage, warping, or deformation during the drying process.

In Iran, depending on the type of leather (cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo), its thickness, and the specifications of the final product, the pressure, speed, and movement of the rollers are carefully adjusted. This precise control ensures that the leather is prepared for drying and finishing without excessive stretching or damage to its natural fiber structure.

Key characteristics of the setting out process in Iran’s leather industry:

• Mechanical pressing to reduce residual moisture after dyeing
• Smoothing and leveling of the leather surface, eliminating wrinkles and air bubbles
• Increased speed and uniformity of the drying process
• Enhancement of leather texture and visual appearance
• Ideal preparation for the final drying and finishing stages