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Article
Publication date: 17 January 2020

Sajal Kumar Chattopadhyay and Bindu Venugopal

Most researchers have neglected the effect air-drag force on yarn tension during rotor spinning. This paper aims to study the effect of rotor air-vacuum pressure in conjunction…

Abstract

Purpose

Most researchers have neglected the effect air-drag force on yarn tension during rotor spinning. This paper aims to study the effect of rotor air-vacuum pressure in conjunction with opening roller speed and yarn linear density on the yarn tension generated during the rotor spinning, which has established their significant influences on both the mean and the peak tension.This is the first of one-of-a-kind experimental study being reported to demonstrate the influence of air-drag force on yarn tension during the rotor spinning under dynamic condition.

Design/methodology/approach

The dynamic measurements on yarn tension at the exit of the doffing tube were carried out by using an electronic capacitive yarn tension meter during rotor spinning. The derived experimental data were fitted into equations to construct the response equations and to work out the coefficients of multiple correlation between the data and the predicted equation for both the mean and the peak tension. Various surface plots were constructed by using those response surface equations, so as to study the effect of variables on yarn tension generated during the rotor spinning.

Findings

The study has established that the rotor vacuum is responsible in causing a change in yarn tension, it increases with the decrease in air-vacuum inside the rotor. The involvement of the opening roller speed in altering yarn tension during rotor spinning has been proved. As the opening roller speed changes, so does the air stream surrounding the opening roller speed with consequent alteration of the centrifugal force generated due to the rotation of the rotor. The centrifugal force and, hence, the yarn tension generated in the rotor will be simultaneously affected by both the rotor relative vacuum and the opening roller speed.

Research limitations/implications

This is a structured experimental study to verify the influence of air-drag force generated during rotor spinning on yarn tension. Very limited theoretical work has been carried out in this direction as reported in the introductory part of the paper. The result of the present study will encourage future researchers to revisit the theory on generation of air-drag force during rotor spinning and work out a new formula.

Practical implications

Next only to the conventional ring spinning system, the rotor spinning holds the second place in the share of global yarn production. Because of its advantage of lower cost of production and amenability to automation, the rotor spinning has gained acceptance in spun yarn production, particularly for spinning coarse and medium counts of yarns. Currently, it has acquired about 25 per cent share in the world’s spun yarn production. As many of the rotor machine variables significantly affect fibre configurations and, subsequently, the yarn properties by influencing the airflow characteristics inside the rotor unit, the study of yarn tension during rotor spinning and its analysis assumes a significance.

Social implications

Rotor spinning is a relatively new and faster method of conversion of discrete fibres into continuous staple yarn and, subsequently, various textiles and garments. Its yarn is distinct and a bit different compared to the conventional ring yarn. It has got wide acceptance in the market and fashion. As such, the spinning sector that converts fibres into yarns is an important industry world over, providing employment to many. Besides, being the basic operation in the fibre value chain, it supports many downstream activities, including human clothing and fashion. Thus, the research on rotor spinning, particularly the yarn engineering to produce better products will be helpful to strengthen and grow the textile value chain.

Originality/value

This is an original research study. The magnitude and the direction of the air drag on the yarn during rotor spinning is very difficult to assess. Thus, most researchers for the sake of simplicity in analysis have neglected its effect on yarn dynamics, but a few of them have taken note of it in their theoretical propositions. However, no experimental result has been reported so far in the literature, supporting the influence of such air-drag force on yarn tension in the rotor spinning. In fact, none of the above studies have considered the induced effect of centrifugal force caused because of the rotation of the opening roller on the airstream that flows from the transfer channel inlet into the rotor because of its partial vacuum, causing consequential effects on air-drag force and tension in the yarn inside the rotating rotor. This is the first of one-of-a-kind experimental study being reported to demonstrate the influence of air-drag force on yarn tension during the rotor spinning under dynamic condition.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 24 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 April 2015

Ganemulle Lekamalage Dharmasri Wickramasinghe and Peter William Foster

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of steam in order to replace air in the production of spun-like textured yarns. Further, this paper analyse the effect of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of steam in order to replace air in the production of spun-like textured yarns. Further, this paper analyse the effect of production speed on process and textured yarn properties.

Design/methodology/approach

An existing air-jet texturing machine was modified to supply either air or steam to the texturing nozzle. Using standard commercial nozzles, both air-jet and steam-jet textured yarns were manufactured by varying production speed.

Findings

It can be concluded that steam can be used as an alternative fluid for air in making spun-like textured yarns. Results show that yarn parameters for steam-jet texturing show a similar trend to those of air-jet texturing relative to the production speed. Further, sewing threads made from steam-jet textured yarns showed good sewability up to the speeds of 350 m/min.

Research limitations/implications

Only the effect of production speed on process and yarn parameters is discussed in this paper. Production speed was limited to 350 m/min due to machine constraints.

Practical implications

Steam is more economical than air to manufacture spun-like textured yarn at commercial pressures such as 8 bar. Steam-jet textured yarns could be used for commercial applications such as sewing threads at competitive speeds. Further, steam could be generated using sustainable and renewable fuel sources such as biomass.

Originality/value

This research introduced steam as an alternative fluid for air in manufacturing spun-like textured yarns.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 27 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2015

E.A.S.K. Fernando and T.S.S. Jayawardana

The tension variations across the width of the weaver's beam cause uneven tension in the fabric formation zone. As a result of the tension variation, the woven fabric tends to…

Abstract

The tension variations across the width of the weaver's beam cause uneven tension in the fabric formation zone. As a result of the tension variation, the woven fabric tends to have fabric defects, such as non-uniform fabric density and differential dye take–up at various places on the fabric. As the warp ends are continuously subjected to varying tensions, warp breakage frequently occurs. As a result, the quality of the fabric produced suffers and there is reduced loom efficiency. However, uniformity in the fabric density is crucial, especially for technical and smart textiles. In this paper, the authors have attempted to model the varyingtensions across different segments of a warp sheet under a set of assumptions and derived a linear model. Furthermore, a prototype of an automatic tension control device is instrumentedwith two different positions which are located one meter apart and allows the tension variations across the warp-sheet to be practically observed. The measured average tension shows that variations in the internal tension on different segments of the warp-sheet can be minimized or even completely eliminated over time. With the implementation of a related experiment, the authors have shown the effectiveness of this automatic tension controller and its strong implications for the industry.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 19 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 August 2010

Gulcan Ozkan and Recep Eren

The purpose of this paper is to investigate warp and weft crimp distribution over the fabric width and how it is influenced by warp tension distribution over the warp width.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate warp and weft crimp distribution over the fabric width and how it is influenced by warp tension distribution over the warp width.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design in this research includes air jet loom, tension sensor, inductive sensor and personal computer.

Findings

It is found that warp crimp in the fabric on the loom is higher in the edge zones than the middle of the fabric and warp crimp in the middle is higher than warp crimp in edge zones of the grey fabric. Weft crimp in the edge zones is higher than in the middle of the grey fabric. The reason behind warp tension and warp and weft crimp variations over fabric width is that weft yarn slips towards inside fabric at selvedges and gets relaxed during beat up.

Originality/value

It is proved that reducing weft yarn slip and therefore weft yarn relaxation during beat up will reduce warp tension and warp and weft crimp variations and improve the uniformity of fabric properties over the fabric width.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 22 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 September 2015

Xinjin Liu and Xuzhong Su

Solospun technology is one of the most important new spinning methods, which is implemented by dividing Ring spinning triangle into several small primary triangles and one final…

Abstract

Purpose

Solospun technology is one of the most important new spinning methods, which is implemented by dividing Ring spinning triangle into several small primary triangles and one final triangle by a Solospun roller. That is, there are two parts of spinning triangle in the Solospun technology, including primary triangles part and final triangle part. In the general case, the primary triangles are much smaller than final triangle. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present theoretical study of Solospun yarn torqueby linking the fiber tension in the spinning triangle to yarn torque under the assumption that the primary triangles and the primary twist are ignored.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical model of the residual torque within Solospun yarn due to the fiber tension was given. Then, as an application of the proposed method, 14.6 tex cotton yarns were taken as an example for the numerical simulations. The fiber tension in the Solospun spinning triangles and corresponding yarn torque were simulated numerically by using Matlab software. The relationships between yarn torque and spinning triangle parameters are analyzed according to the simulation results. Furthermore, the properties of spun yarns produced by the Solospun and Ring spinning system are evaluated and analyzed by using the simulation results.

Findings

It is shown that comparing with the Ring spun yarn, Solospun yarn torque is a little larger. Meanwhile, with an increase of substrand number, the fluctuation of curve of average fiber tension in Solospun system is increased firstly, and then decreased, i.e. showing parabola shape, potentially leading to corresponding change of yarn torque.

Originality/value

In this paper, theoretical study of Solospun yarn torque is presented by linking the fiber tension in the spinning triangle to yarn torque under the assumption that the primary triangles and the primary twist are ignored. The theoretical model of the residual torque within Solospun yarn due to the fiber tension was given.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 27 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2004

George K. Stylios

Examines the tenth published year of the ITCRR. Runs the whole gamut of textile innovation, research and testing, some of which investigates hitherto untouched aspects. Subjects…

3545

Abstract

Examines the tenth published year of the ITCRR. Runs the whole gamut of textile innovation, research and testing, some of which investigates hitherto untouched aspects. Subjects discussed include cotton fabric processing, asbestos substitutes, textile adjuncts to cardiovascular surgery, wet textile processes, hand evaluation, nanotechnology, thermoplastic composites, robotic ironing, protective clothing (agricultural and industrial), ecological aspects of fibre properties – to name but a few! There would appear to be no limit to the future potential for textile applications.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 16 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 June 2015

Xinjin Liu, Xuzhong Su and Hong Zhang

Spinning triangle is a critical region in the spinning process of staple yarn, which geometry influences the distribution of fiber tension and determines the qualities of yarn

Abstract

Purpose

Spinning triangle is a critical region in the spinning process of staple yarn, which geometry influences the distribution of fiber tension and determines the qualities of yarn directly. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the fiber tension distribution at the twist point.

Design/methodology/approach

First, one theoretical model of fiber tension distributions at the twist point is given according to the motion law of fibers in the spinning triangle. Then, one calculation method of fiber tension at the twist point is given by two steps. First, the initial tension of each fiber at the front nip line caused by the yarn load should be calculated according to the models obtained based on the principle of minimum potential energy. Second, the fiber tensions at the twist point can be calculated using the obtained model in this paper. Finally, as an application of the proposed method, spinning triangles of a modified ring spinning system with a pair of offset device which can change the horizontal offset of the twist point to the symmetric axis of nip line of the spinning triangle continuously are studied. The fiber tension distributions are simulated numerically.

Findings

It is shown that the fiber tension distributions at the twist point can be determined by fiber feeding into and out the spinning triangle speed, the initial tension of each fiber at the front nip line, fiber tensile Young’s modulus and cross-sectional area, the number of fibers at spinning triangle and the individual fiber angle with the center fiber. The spinning experiment shows that taking appropriate right or left offset of the spinning triangle can help to improve the spun yarn qualities.

Originality/value

In this paper, the fiber tension distribution at the twist point is investigated. One theoretical model of fiber tension distributions at the twist point is given according to the motion law of fibers in the spinning triangle first. Then, one calculation method of fiber tension at the twist point has been given under the assumption that the initial tension of each fiber at the front nip line is caused by the yarn load.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 27 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 March 2008

Alessandro Brun, Donatella Corti and Alessandro Pozzetti

The purpose of the paper is to provide a methodology aimed at improving the setting up of air‐jet looms by clarifying the function which links different important variables…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide a methodology aimed at improving the setting up of air‐jet looms by clarifying the function which links different important variables involved in the setting procedure and by proposing a method to measure the quality of fabrics depending on the factor values.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed procedure is based on the use of a load sensor: the tension profile received from it is used to analyse the weft behaviour and, sometimes, to predict any quality problems. Because of the high number of variables influencing the set up, the factorial experiments have been used to develop the setting procedure. Numerical results have been analyzed by means of a regression analysis and an ANOVA analysis.

Findings

Relationships among different variables and their influence on the quality of the fabric have been derived thanks to the use of a load sensor.

Research limitations/implications

So far, the proposed procedure has been developed for air‐jet looms and for a limited set of fabrics, but it could be adapted in other situations as well.

Practical implications

Use of the proposed procedure allows practitioners to reduce cost and time of the setting up of air jet looms. High productivity of air jet looms could be thus better exploited also for producing small batches of products.

Originality/value

The combination of the load sensor and the statistical analysis allowed the development of a systematic setting procedure for air‐jet looms.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 25 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 March 2019

Rafiu King Raji, Xuhong Miao, Shu Zhang, Yutian Li, Ailan Wan and Charles Frimpong

The use of conductive yarns or wires to design and construct fabric-based strain sensors is a research area that is gaining much attention in recent years. This is based on a…

Abstract

Purpose

The use of conductive yarns or wires to design and construct fabric-based strain sensors is a research area that is gaining much attention in recent years. This is based on a profound theory that conductive yarns will have a variation in resistance if subjected to tension. What is not clear is to which types of conductive yarns are most suited to delivering the right sensitivity. The purpose of this paper is to look at strain sensors knitted with conductive composite and coated yarns which include core spun, blended, coated and commingled yarns. The conductive components are stainless steel and silver coating respectively with polyester as the nonconductive part. Using Stoll CMS 530 flat knitting machine, five samples each were knitted with the mentioned yarn categories using 1×1 rib structure. Sensitivity tests were carried out on the samples. Piezoresistive response of the samples reveals that yarns with heterogeneous external structures showed both an increase and a decrease in resistance, whereas those with homogenous structures responded linearly to stress. Stainless steel based yarns also had higher piezoresistive range compared to the silver-coated ones. However, comparing all the knitted samples, silver-coated yarn (SCY) proved to be more suitable for strain sensor as its response to tension was unidirectional with an appreciable range of change in resistance.

Design/methodology/approach

Conductive composite yarns, namely, core spun yarn (CSY1), core spun yarn (CSY2), silver-coated blended yarn (SCBY), staple fiber blended yarn (SFBY) and commingled yarn (CMY) were sourced based on specifications and used to knit strain sensor samples. Electro-mechanical properties were investigated by stretching on a fabric tensile machine to ascertain their suitability for a textile strain sensor.

Findings

In order to generate usable signal for a strain sensor for a conductive yarn, it must have persistent and consistent conductive links, both externally and internally. In the case of composite yarns such as SFBY, SCBY and CMY where there were no consistent alignment and inter-yarn contact, resistance change fluctuated. Among all six different types of yarns used, SCY presented the most suitable result as its response to tension was unidirectional with an appreciable range of change in resistance.

Originality/value

This is an original research carried out by the authors who studied the electro-mechanical properties of some composite conductive yarns that have not been studied before in textile strain sensor research. Detailed research methods, results and interpretation of the results have thus been presented.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2019

Xuzhong Su and Xinjin Liu

The purpose of this paper is to theoretically study the effects of ring spinning triangle division on spun yarn torques.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to theoretically study the effects of ring spinning triangle division on spun yarn torques.

Design/methodology/approach

The case that the spinning triangle is divided into two parts, primary triangles and final triangle, is investigated. Theoretical model of yarn torque was given by linking the fiber tension in the spinning triangle to yarn torque under the assumption that the arrangement of fibers (substrands) in the substrands (yarn) is hexagonal close packing. Then, as an application of the proposed method, 14.6tex cotton yarns were taken as an example for the numerical simulations.

Findings

The fiber tensions in the divided spinning triangles and corresponding yarn torques were simulated numerically by using MATLAB software. The effects of division proportions and number of primary triangles on spun yarn torques are analyzed theoretically.

Originality/value

It is shown that suitable spinning triangle division is benefit for reducing yarn torque.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 31 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

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