Clamp insert for tufting elements in narrow gauge tufting machine

Abstract

A modular clamping apparatus for a multiple-needle tufting machine including a modular elongated bar, preferably made of solid material, and including an elongated recess opening through the face of the bar. Elongated gauge bars or members having longitudinally spaced gauge slots opening through one side of, and at least one edge of the gauge bar, are inserted within the recess for receiving the shank portions of tufting elements, in operative position. A plurality of T-shaped clamp members each having an elongated divider member and an enlarged flange head along one edge of the divider member, are inserted in operative position within corresponding gauge slots for supporting a pair of the tufting elements within each gauge slot. The clamp members are secured tightly against the tufting elements by set screws extending through the adjacent surface of the recess and against the clamp flange of the clamp member to force the clamp member and the tufting elements against the opposing wall of the gauge bar. The clamping apparatus made in accordance with this invention is adapted to be utilized in a recessed hook bar for securing multiple looper hooks on a narrow gauge, or in a modified form in cooperation with a recessed needle bar to hold multiple needles in a narrow gauge.