Abstract: An improved splice is provided which is useful in joining segments of a substantially flat band (e.g., a flat tow) of an acrylic fibrous material in an end to end relationship. A fabric surrounds and is sewn to an end of each band segment and extends beyond the end of the band to form a fabric extension. A pair of fabric extensions are sewn in an overlapping opposing relationship in the absence of any substantial overlap of the acrylic fibrous material of each band segment within the splice. The resulting splice is substantially flat in configuration and the band may be continuously passed in the direction of its length through the thermal stabilization zone without impairment of movement resulting from the presence of the splice. The usual exothermic heat of reaction which is evolved during the cyclization portion of the thermal stabilization reaction effectively is dissipated from within the splice without harm.

Abstract: An improved splice is provided which is useful in joining segments of a substantially flat band (e.g., a flat tow) of an acrylic fibrous material in an end to end relationship. A fabric surrounds and is sewn to an end of each band segment and extends beyond the end of the band to form a fabric extension. A pair of fabric extensions are sewn in an overlapping opposing relationship in the absence of any substantial overlap of the acrylic fibrous material of each band segment within the splice. The resulting splice is substantially flat in configuration and the band may be continuously passed in the direction of its length through the thermal stabilization zone without impairment of movement resulting from the presence of the splice. The usual exothermic heat of reaction which is evolved during the cyclization portion of the thermal stabilization reaction effectively is dissipated from within the splice without harm.