Abstract: A method for detecting a yarn break between the cooling drum and the windup in a yarn bulking process and containing the broken end to prevent the broken end from interrupting adjacent threadlines. The yarn, when broken, is contained in individual tubes extending along the yarn path to prevent the yarn from interrupting adjacent yarn lines. The yarn is recaptured from the tube by a jet moveable into and out of engagement with the tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for deregistering drawn crimped nylon multifilament tow includes the steps of stretching the tow under constant controlled tension at a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the nylon. The apparatus includes means for sensing the tension of the tow between the feed and draw sections of a stretching device and producing a signal representative of the tension sensed and a controller for changing the speed of the draw section actuated by said signal.

Abstract: This invention relates to a foam applicator device for foam treating pile fabrics, especially carpets, by applying foam through the backing of the fabric. The device includes an applicator body containing a bore with injection ports and an applicator slot extending through a round applicator pipe, and an internal foam distribution pipe. The applicator pipe has a diameter of one to three inches in order that the backing of the fabric may be wrapped around said pipe.

Abstract: A method of producing crimped tow by continuously feeding a tow against an adjustable counter pressure means; the tow is maintained at an average predetermined thickness and steam enters the chamber and is exhausted from the chamber in a manner to provide uniform heating of the tow to provide a fiber that is uniformly annealed as determined by measuring light reflectance for yarn dyed with a structural sensitive Milling Blue "B" dye or shrinkage uniformity determined by thermal analysis.

Abstract: The invention involves a process for foam treating pile fabrics, especially carpets, by applying a foam composition through the backing of the fabric. The fabric is wrapped partially around the foam applicator at a wrap angle of at least 60 degrees, while the facing of the fabric is free of pressure. A foam applicator is also taught.

Abstract: A method of producing crimped tow by continuously feeding a tow against an adjustable counter pressure means; the tow is maintained at an average predetermined thickness and steam enters the chamber and is exhausted from the chamber in a manner to provide uniform heating of the tow to provide a fiber that is uniformly annealed as determined by measuring light reflectance for yarn dyed with a structural sensitive Milling Blue "B" dye or shrinkage uniformity determined by thermal analysis.

Abstract: Controlling the cross-sectional characteristics of moving tow lines by providing monitors and positioning devices so as to improve stuffer box crimp uniformity. The mass distribution profile of a filamentary tow band is continuously measured as a function of the width of the band, and the information obtained is used to change the position of the band when a deviation from a predetermined value is noted. Positioning devices are used to carry out the movement or adjusting of the band in accordance with a signal so as to correct the deviation and present to a crimping apparatus, such as a stuffer box crimper, a band having a uniform mass distribution profile.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for deregistering drawn crimped nylon multifilament tow includes the steps of stretching the tow under constant controlled tension at a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the nylon. The apparatus includes means for sensing the tension of the tow between the feed and draw sections of a stretching device and producing a signal representative of the tension sensed and a controller for changing the speed of the draw section actuated by said signal.

Abstract: A modification to a reel type staple cutter that includes a compartmentalized assembly located below the cutter reel, each compartment forms an isolated cutting zone which reduces the opportunity for falling tufts of cut staple to mix and intermingle to form clumps which are difficult to open. The curved top plate of each compartment provides a downward force vector which assists gravitational forces and injected air to overcome centrifugal and adhesive forces tending to prevent staple from falling. Plates and baffles attached to a stationary shell located beneath the cutter reel split the cut fibers into discrete tufts despite the cohesive nature of the product and promote flow down and from each compartment.