Tandem Spinning

Abstract

A new concept of tandem spinning to produce true, all-staple, core-wrap yarn at high speeds was first disclosed in a paper that reported the results of an initial feasibility study. That study successfully demonstrated the viability of tandem spinning, although it did so by using separate elements of air-jet and friction spinning technologies in a "phased" or sequential manner. Continued research has resulted in the development of a totally integrated tandem spinning system, which produces a unique, all-staple, core-wrap, composite yarn continuously and without interruption. The resulting tan dem spun yarn is torque-balanced, soft, yet strong. The production speed is at least ten times greater than conventional ring spinning and twice as fast as the phased or sequential tandem spinning reported earlier. Yarn counts up to 30 tex (Ne 20's) have been successfully spun on a prototype machine in a textile pilot plant. The resulting yarn quality is satisfactory for downstream processes, including weaving. Preliminary studies indicate that the properties of fabrics made with the unique tandem spun, core-wrap yarns are also satisfactory. Significant commercial potential is envisioned for the new spinning system. Large-scale spinning and weaving trials are currently underway for commercial evaluation. Patent applications have been filed to protect the invention domestically and internationally.