Apparatus for calendering tubular knitted fabrics

Abstract

The disclosure relates to an apparatus for finishing of tubular knitted fabric including means for laterally distending the fabric to flat, two-layer form by passing it over a spreader frame, and discharging the fabric from the spreader frame into a pair of opposed calendering rolls. Improved arrangements are provided for engaging the tubular fabric, across its fully spread width, above and below the spreader, for independently advancing or retarding the respective layers of the fabric in order to bring them into proper alignment. The improved arrangements include a thin, flat contact plate, incorporated into the spreader frame structure, which provides a contact support for the fabric, enabling it to be drivingly engaged by independently driven contact rolls. The structure of the invention enables the fabric to be adjusted substantially across its full width, reducing to a practicable minimum areas at the extreme edges of the fabric tube that are not under positive control during the adjustment stage. The apparatus also includes an improved entry guard arrangement, which facilitates the machine operator's attendance to the equipment and process while improving working conditions from a safety standpoint.