ARS | Publication request: Improvements in a Micro Spinning Process

Submitted to: National Cotton Council Beltwide Cotton Conference
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: January 15, 2007
Publication Date: June 13, 2007
Citation: Price, J.B., Cui, X., Thibodeaux, D.P. 2007. Improvements in a Micro Spinning Process. National Cotton Council Beltwide Cotton Conference. Page: 2162-2165.

Interpretive Summary: A Micro Spinning System is a series of textile machines that are reduced in scale and adapted to cater for samples of cotton that may weigh about 50 to 100 grams. Such a sample may be collected from a few cotton plants during a cotton breeding program. A little-used set of three machines was assessed for its potential for the evaluation of a wide range of cottons and other natural fibers. The drive system of each machine (card, drawframe and spinning machine) was studied to determine the ranges of component speeds that were mechanically possible with available pulleys, etc. Brief trials were performed to indicate limitations on processing that were imposed by textile materials. Some simple modifications were made to improve material handling. Popular opinion regarding the limitations of the system were dispelled; the system was demonstrated to be capable of handling a broad range in the weight per unit length of input material, and producing a range of cotton yarns from medium-coarse to fine.

Technical Abstract: The Miniature Spinning System installed at the Cotton Quality Research Station, Clemson, SC has been examined to assess its capabilities for broader use, using available resources. Small procedural changes were made to improve efficiency at the card and drawframe. A more intensive effort with the spinning frame has demonstrated the machine’s capability to accommodate sliver up to 70 gr/yd, and spin yarns as coarse as Ne 6 mainly by utilizing existing change components in combination with an improved means of varying spindle speed.