Italprogetti, a leading innovator in the tanning industry based in San Romano (Pisa), has introduced a groundbreaking machine at Tanning Tech 2024. Called the “Injection Drum,” this cutting- edge technology revolutionizes the retanning and dyeing process by operating with minimal water. Destined to become an industry benchmark, the Injection Drum signals a significant leap forward in sustainable leather processing.
This prototype drum, requiring just 10% of the water typically used in traditional methods, was showcased at the Simac Tanning Tech exhibition in Milan this September. Italprogetti, with over 45 years of experience in the Santa Croce sull’Arno tanning district, is renowned for its expertise in designing and manufacturing drums, leather production plants and wastewater treatment systems. This latest innovation underscores the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in the leather, paper, general industrial and even food processing sectors (specifically, olive oil filtration).
“This drum is undoubtedly the most significant of the four patents Italprogetti filed in 2024,” explained engineer Mario Serrini, the company’s president and founder, at their booth. “We felt it was crucial to exhibit the prototype at the fair to demonstrate the level of innovation it represents.” Developed over several years of rigorous research and testing, the Injection Drum eliminates the traditional immersion bath. Instead, hides are processed within an environment of saturated vapor, while high-pressure nozzles precisely deliver chemicals and water. This innovative approach drastically reduces water and chemical consumption, significantly minimizing the environmental footprint of the tanning process.
“Transforming this concept into a tangible product was a challenging journey,” Serrini admitted. “Many prototypes were created before we achieved the machine showcased at Simac. We’ve made substantial investments in R&D for this globally innovative project and we’ve secured an international patent. The response to this breakthrough has been overwhelmingly positive.” He continued, “If industrial-scale results mirror our tests, this technology could redefine hide processing. We believe it holds even greater potential for the textile industry, where our trials have exceeded expectations.” Italprogetti’s innovation doesn’t stop there. Three additional patents highlight their commitment to progress. One notable project, “Pro Bios,” focuses on recycling finished leather residues, particularly scraps from the leather goods and footwear industries. “This project addresses a critical need,” Serrini emphasized. “The volume of waste generated is substantial. Pro Bios effectively eliminates the challenge of disposing of chemically treated leather scraps, a major concern for large fashion houses in the Florentine area and other leather producers. Given the emphasis major brands place on environmental responsibility, the interest in this project is understandable.” He added, “Beyond its immediate applications, Pro Bios contributes to a circular economy and aligns with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. It’s a solution that resonates with leather professionals, not just for its economic benefits but also for its environmental impact. Developed in collaboration with the Tanning Technological Center of Santa Croce Sull’Arno, Pro Bios exemplifies the value of industry partnerships with research institutions.”
Italprogetti’s pipeline is brimming with promising projects. “We’re particularly excited about a bio-digester we’re developing for a company in the Tuscan leather district,” Serrini shared. “This bio- digester, fueled by fleshing, leather scraps and other tannery byproducts, has the potential to generate enough biogas to power the entire tannery. Another project, Powertan, explores the use of electric fields and ultrasound in the tanning process, aiming to consolidate tanning and retanning into a single stage. Powertan’s ambitious goals prioritize minimizing environmental impact.”
“For Italprogetti, and indeed for small and medium-sized enterprises across Italy, the keys to growth lie in ideas, innovation, and customer service,” Serrini concluded. “This has always been our guiding principle, and it has served us well. In today’s challenging market, only those companies with a strong foundation and a clear vision will thrive. Investments must focus on introducing innovative technologies that address critical needs. The drive for innovation is intrinsically linked to reducing environmental impact and improving energy efficiency. Our new products align with the objectives of Industry 5.0, which offers entrepreneurs substantial tax incentives. We’re optimistic that with some fine-tuning, Industry 5.0 will provide valuable support to both manufacturers and their customers in Italy.” He offered a final thought: “While research costs are undeniably high, there’s simply no other way forward.”