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It
is possible for smallholder cooperatives to convert the latex
gathered from their trees into high grade sheet rubber using
relatively simple equipment powered by manual effort and solar
drying. Nevertheless, the bulk of raw rubber is processed
in relatively large factories which may be situated on estates,
especially if they are large and/or state-owned, or in co-operative
or state assisted ventures, or by commercial companies. Such
factories may specialize in processing field latex or cup
lump (the residue from the tapping process).
The production of latex concentrate is performed in specialized
factories where the field latex is bulked (to reduce variability)
and is centrifuged to reduce the water content and preservatives
are added. Latex concentrate may be supplied in bulk (tank
containers) or in drums.
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