Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring air pressure values within a channel of a loom reed is provided. An overhead roller is used to support a frame carrying a pair of pitot tubes for determining air pressure values within a channel of a loom reed. A air nozzle is provided a fixed distance from one of the pitot tubes and serves to direct a pressurized stream of air toward the pitot tube. Variations in the pressure readings from the air nozzle over the length of the reed can be used to verify or adjust the air flow properties of the reed. The pitot tubes can also be used to evaluate the relay nozzles of an air jet weaving machine.

Abstract: An improved reed wherein more than half or all of the dents used within the reed have smaller, modified chin sections from those currently used in the art. Also, a reed wherein more than half or all of the dents used within the reed do not have any chin portion at all.