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: Yarn Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2 being supplied to a textile machine is led over a pair of spaced hooks 24 on a support member 22 and is contacted between the hooks by a pivotable member 12 when in an inoperative position (shown in broken lines). In the event of breakage of yarn, the member 12 pivots into an operative position (shown in full lines) and operates a proximity switch 18 to halt operation of the textile machine. In the event of snatching, the increased tension in the yarn lifts the support member 22 off a magnetic block 26, again causing the member 22 to pivot to its operative position and thereby halt operation of the textile machine. After the snatch has passed, a weight 27 which the support member 22 engages after initial lifting thereof returns the support member 22 to its original position under gravity and the yarn forces the pivotable member 12 back into its inoperative position so that operation of the textile machine can recommence.