Abstract: Processes for removing the top ply from a stack of plies, such as layers of fabric, in which an element engages the stack and moves relative to the ply to be removed along the face of said ply while pressure is inserted by the element on the stack in such a way that this is locally dented. The element used to engage the ply is provided with a smooth surface. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out this method having a single hollow element which is provided with suction openings or blow openings and can be moved perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Apparatus for separating impurities from fiber material, composed of: a cylinder provided on its circumference with clothing and connected to be rotated in a selected direction for gripping and transporting fiber material, a feed device disposed for feeding fiber material containing impurities to the cylinder, the feed device cooperating with the cylinder to define a feed path presenting a constriction at the location of the cylinder, a blocking element disposed in the path at the location of the constriction opposite the cylinder, and elements for delivering a stream of air and filter material along the path toward the constriction to be intercepted by the blocking element, while the cylinder is rotating, for causing the fiber material to be gripped by the clothing, and causing the air and impurities removed from the fiber material to flow through the blocking element and to be carried off from the region of the constriction.