Numerical simulation of the fiber trajectories in vortex spinning under different process parameters based on the finite element model

Abstract

This paper studied the fiber movement in vortex spinning based on the flexible fiber finite element model, according to the theoretical mechanical analysis of the vortex spun yarn forming process. The finite element simulation and analysis of the different trajectories of free-end fiber in vortex spinning under different process parameters were carried out. The influence of the fiber count, fiber bending stiffness and nozzle pressure on the fiber transfer and distribution was analyzed and verified by experiments of tracer fiber and yarn slicing. The numerical simulation and the experiments’ results show a consistent correlation of different process parameters and fiber movement, such as the fiber diameter increasing, the fiber bending stiffness increasing, the nozzle pressure decreasing, and the fiber tending to get a smaller twist angle and becoming more easily distributed in the center of the yarn. This paper provides a theoretical basis for the structure design of vortex spun yarn and the production practice of vortex spinning.