The traditional method of processing black tea involves four basic steps:

Withering, Rolling, Fermenting  and  Drying or firing.

The tea  leaves are first withered on conveyor belts for several hours until they are limp enough to be rolled without cracking. They are then rolled on machines , the rolling of the leaves gives them their future form. The rolling also bruised the leaves enough to be fermented. The rolled leaves are then spread out in a cool place. The leaves absorb the oxygen  in the air which activates the enzymes to create essential oils. This process is called oxidation or fermentation. The leaves are then fired  in large ovens with temperatures upto 194 degrees. They are then graded and packed into chests.