Abstract: The present invention is applicable to grinding apparatus for removing irregularities from and for levelling the working surface of thick, large width rubber belts used to compact paper or (in the case of fabric, preshrink) fibrous webs; and the control of such grinding apparatus. The present invention permits grinding during production use of a belt when the environment near (above) the belt is inimical to visual grinding control by personnel due to high heat and steam. Sensing and control means placed remotely from the working surface of the belt permits an operator to control grinding more precisely than if done visually and without subjecting the operator to dangerously adverse working conditions.

Abstract: In conjunction with a heat-set apparatus for carpet yarns which incorporates a plenum chamber having a porous upper surface in combination with a forced draft system for recirculating the heating medium throughout the length of the heat-set chamber, an improved design of the plenum chamber and the distribution of the medium to compensate for a temperature gradient which has heretofore existed in the heat-set chamber resulting from the introduction of cooled yarn into the chamber. Such temperature gradient has been the cause of dye streaking which occurs when the yarn is subjected to relatively cooler temperature adjacent to the entrance to the heat-set chamber when the machine is stopped.

Abstract: After compressive shrinking, moist (15% to 25% moisture by weight of fabric), preshrunk fabric is directed into a drum-type drier in which it is restrained while being dried to a moisture content of say 5% to 14%. Thereafter, the fabric is completely dried in a loop-type drier and additionally preshrunk while the fabric is in a relaxed state.

Abstract: The method of pretreating pile fabrics with resin at relatively low percentage levels in order to stabilize the appearance (pile shrinkage and distortion) of the pile as affected by a subsequent treatment with liquid ammonia.

Abstract: A fabric label feeding apparatus for use in a stitching process including a roll of continuous labels in strip form, a feeding cylinder for engaging a raised stitch incorporated in each individual label and cut-off means for separating individual labels from the label strip.