Electrodynamic Behavior of Textile Fibers1

Abstract

Investigations have shown that electrostatic charge, usually an undesirable attri bute, has the potential of being beneficial in textile processing. A set of parallel electrodes insulated from each other and connected to a poly-phase AC power source sets up an electrical field of non-uniform travelling waves which exerts a dynamic force on a charged particulate and fibrous material. When this device, known as an "electric curtain," is encased in plastic the system becomes an "electric contact curtain" or "electric panel." The electric panel can charge, levitate, and transport materials placed on its surface. These actions occur as if the material is on an invisible conveyor whose direction and speed are under remote control. The movements are readily accomplished with inexpensive and standard equipment and are especially effective when applied to materials approaching a point-mass. Results are reported on the more difficult task of simultaneously charging, levitating, and transporting different types of fibers. The effectiveness of these actions is studied using electrodes or grids encased in four different plastics. A number of natural and manmade fibers of importance in textiles are evaluated. Based on the relative activity of each type of fiber, a triboelectric series is determined. Such effects as the panel's grid spacing, the fiber's length, and the moisture regain of the materials are also evaluated.