Oakum manufacturing is a specialized industry within the broader category of Textile Goods Manufacturing. Oakum is a material made from fibers that are impregnated with tar or pitch, and it is commonly used in the construction and maintenance of ships, as well as in plumbing and other applications where a water-resistant seal is required. The process of manufacturing oakum involves several steps, including the selection of appropriate fibers, the impregnation of those fibers with tar or pitch, and the twisting or braiding of the fibers into a cohesive rope or cord. Oakum manufacturing requires specialized equipment and expertise, and it is typically carried out by companies that specialize in this niche area of the textile industry.