An improved continuous dyeing process for coloration of heavy-weight (60–70 oz/yd2), residential nylon 6,6 carpet is reported. By inserting a slot steam applicator after the dye pad and before the box steamer to preheat the carpet to around 180°F (greater than the nylon wet glass transition temperature of ~150°F), the required dwell time of the padded carpet in the atmospheric steamer is greatly reduced (0.3–0.5 of normal). The improved continuous coloration process provides a route to beck-quality, level-dyed, heavy-weight nylon 6,6 carpets at production speeds 2–3X those of conventional lines.
References
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CarrW. W., TIP-PFFP Research Report - Development of a Viable, Effective Process for Continuous Dyeing of Heavy-Weight Carpet, Atlanta, Georgia, 2009.
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