Abstract: A method of manufacturing a single-piece, ceramic thread cleaner having a crotch and a slot. The thread cleaner's body is pressed to the final dimensions and a slot with polished surfaces is cut into the body using a diamond cut-off saw. The benefits provided by this threadcleaner are simple design, easy manufacturing, high slot width accuracy, dimensional stability of the slot over a long period of time, increased wear resistance compared to thread cleaners made of metal, and easy installation in a textile machine.

Abstract: A method for reducing broken fibers on the surface of a carbon fiber bundle involves passing the yarn past a suction nozzle having an extended trailing edge which impacts the broken fibers as they pass the slot breaking off the fibers. The broken fibers are transported to a disposal station. The differential in elevation of the leading and trailing edges of the intake slot of the nozzle provide an exposed impacting edge.

Abstract: The thread testing apparatus of a textile spooling machine is equipped with a thread inserter which is responsive to knots formed in the thread. In a typical thread testing apparatus a flaw is detected in a fault sensing zone whereupon the thread is cut, the flaw is removed and the loose ends of the good thread are reunited with a knot. Due to the nature of the sensing mechanism, it is not desirable to place the reunited thread back in the fault sensing zone until the thread starts moving again. The thread inserter of the present invention accomplishes this function by detecting the presence of the reuniting knot with a slot having a width smaller than the knot, but larger than the average width of the thread. The thread inserter also includes a slough off means for guiding the thread back to the falt sensing zone and a magnetic means for biasing the thread inserter in a first knot detecting position.