Abstract: A uniform web of fiber tufts is delivered to a textile fiber processing machine such as a carding machine by a feed chimney provided with a perforated wall. The fiber tufts are impelled into the upper portion of the chimney by means of a fan, a uniform web of fibers being discharged between rollers at the lower end of the chimney. The level of tufts within the chimney is maintained constant and under constant pressure by a regulating valve and a two-position reversing valve. The reversing valve serves to put the suction side of the fan into communication either with a tuft storage area or with the atmosphere.

Abstract: A carding machine has a card cylinder, a doffer cooperating with the card cylinder and a cylinder screen situated underneath the card cylinder and generally conforming to the surface curvature thereof. The cylinder screen has a screen face including a screening portion and a screenless terminal portion. The terminal portion is arranged adjacent the doffer. At least one slot-shaped opening is provided in the screenless terminal portion of the cylinder screen. The opening has a length dimension which is oriented parallel to the width dimension of the cylinder screen.