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.

Abstract: The present invention consists of an apparatus and method whereby fibers such as cotton or otherwise are cleaned and carded prior to yarn formation to insure that the maximum quantity of fibers are utilized while removing substantially all non-lint from the fiber. Minimum fiber loss occurs while providing a sliver of excellent quality. The process herein includes the steps of carding the fibers whereby a portion of usable fibers, lint and other foreign matter are removed and are thereafter displaced to a condenser means. After condensing, the usable fibers which are still commingled with the waste are then extracted and recycled to the carding apparatus after blending with fresh stock in a uniform manner to provide a consistent blend for sliver formation or other uses.

Abstract: Significantly improved carding production capacity and materially lowered waste content in the resulting sliver is obtained by high-speed operation of the lickerin at a speed in the range of about 1400 to 2000 r.p.m. and related operation of the main cylinder at a speed such that the lickerin surface speed is in the order of 90% of the cylinder surface speed, with a stripper bar lickerin screen located specially below the lickerin.

Abstract: An improvement for collecting waste in a carding machine beneath the feed and lickerin rolls having a plenum chamber and duct with an inlet nozzle and a downwardly sloping collecting chute, and side doors enclosing a lickerin waste-collecting chamber provided with an opening through which air flow currents are induced to flow transversely and downwardly to remove and cause the flow of waste downwardly to the inlet nozzle of the plenum chamber.