Section mass optical method for measuring acceleration points of entire fibers in drafting zone

Abstract

Achieving precise measurement of fiber acceleration points in the drafting zone, crucial for optimizing yarn evenness and spinning efficiency, is hampered by the operational intricacy and inherent inaccuracies of current methods. In this paper, we propose an innovative optical method, leveraging the derived Kubelka–Munk transmission law, which simplifies the assessment by precisely determining the fiber mass distribution and its relation to total fibers within the drafting zone. Applying this method, we analyzed the effects of drafting parameters and sliver properties on fiber acceleration points during the roller drafting process, both with and without an emergency shut-down mechanism, revealing higher consistency with the draft ratio than traditional fiber tracer and isometric weighing methods. Moreover, by measuring the coefficient of variance (CV_FAP) of the sliver of yarns with an Uster evenness tester, we established a strong correlation between CV_FAP and the average value of the optical fiber acceleration points at varying drafting ratios, input linear densities, and front roller gauges. This not only validates the optical method’s efficacy but also highlights its potential for real-time yarn quality monitoring and control in the textile industry.