Abstract: An automated fiber processing system for processing of fiber stock in a continuous, uninterrupted process from fiber bales to the formation of spun yarn.

Abstract: A novel fiber drafting system disclosed according to which a textile fiber strand is passed through a plurality of pairs of drafting rollers wherein one of each pair of drafting rollers includes a circumferential groove for receiving the fiber strand and the other roller includes a circumferential rib for compressing the strand in the recessed groove to a cross-sectional shape substantially conforming to the groove. The plurality of pairs of rib and groove rollers are rotated such that each successive pair along the drafting pathway of the textile fiber strand has a greater circumferential speed than the preceeding pair of drafting rollers. In this fashion a textile fiber strand is compressed into a cross-section configuration which substantially equalizes the pressure on all fibers being drafted and thereby provides a more uniformly drafted strand.