Conditioned gas flow methods for processing and cleaning fiber,

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for controlled application of aeromechanical and electrodynamic release and separation forces to foreign particulate matter in fiber materials are disclosed. A number of elements are employed in various combinations. One important element is a perforated, pinned cylinder which facilitates foreign particulate matter removal and microdust classification and use of conditioned and controlled airflow for optimum fiber processing and foreign matter removal. Another important element is a counterflow slot. Other important aspects are air blast cleaning of a tenuous mat held onto a perforated cylinder; unidirectional and pulsating airflows to cause repeated engagement of fibers with static cleaning pins and to release additional dust; application of electrostatic release forces to particles bound onto the fiber; and the processing of fiber in properly conditioned inlet air to the machine, as opposed to ambient air. These methods and apparatus enable the design of the precise and accurate measurement apparatus for foreign matter in fiber samples. They further provide effective cleaning, blending, and preprocessing of textile fibers for improved measurements of fiber properties. Still further, the invention may be applied to improved fiber cleaning equipment in gins or in textile mills. The invention ultimately permits a simplified spinning apparatus whose input is tufts and whose output is spun yarn.