Abstract: Fibre loosening device for a spinning unit of a spinning machine. The invention relates to a fibre loosening device for a spinning unit of a spinning machine. Before entering the fibre separating area, the sliver is longitudinally separated into fibre sections fed to a separating region, i.e., to helix-like arranged functional lines on the fibre separating roller, such feeding being non-simultaneous but sequential. The division into the fibre sections is initially carried out by means of protrusions defining grooves therebetween on a condenser, the axial distance between these grooves not being an integer multiple of the helix lead width of the functional lines on the fiber separating roller. The arrangement provides for reducing periodical irregularities of the fibres for the subsequent spinning process.

Abstract: An apparatus for opening and cleaning fiber tufts, includes an opening roll, a feeding mechanism for advancing the fiber tufts to the opening roll; a screen disposed along one part of the circumferential surface of the opening roll and located downstream of the feeding mechanism, as viewed in the direction of rotation of the opening roll. The screen permits impurities, propelled by centrifugal forces, to pass therethrough. The screen is eccentric with respect to the opening roll. There is further provided a shroud disposed along one part of the circumferential surface of the opening roll and located downstream of the screen. The shroud is movably supported for assuming an open position in which fiber tufts may pass from an annular clearance between the opening roll and the screen to an outlet and a closed position in which passage of the fiber tufts is blocked from the clearance to the outlet.

Abstract: Nonwoven fabric is fed at a first rate into the bite between a first shredding element and a stationary working surface. The first shredding element has a plurality of projections which penetrate the fabric and at least substantially shred the fabric as the first shredding element is moved past the working surface at a second rate substantially greater than said first rate. The at least substantially shredded fabric then passes between the first shredding element and a second shredding element, the latter being driven at a third rate substantially different from said second rate to effect additional shredding and to separate the resulting staple fibers. A forced draft fan pulls air past the fabric as the fabric is being worked, to maintain the fabric temperature below the fusion temperature of the fibers.