Loom weft feeders

Types of Loom Weft Feeders

The loom weft feeder is an essential accessory of a loom weaving machine that helps to control and provide the filling yarn at an adequate rate for weaving. Weft feeders are varied according to their designs, functions, and applications.

• Magnetic Weft Feeders: The magnetic weft feeder for looms weaving works by using a magnetic brake to control the yarn's unwinding tension. Its main function is to release the yarn with a specific tension that has been required for the weaving process. It does this by influencing the yarn's path through the magnetic field which is created by the magnetic brake. One of the greatest advantages of a magnetic loom weft feeder is the consistent tension it offers. This ensures a steady and uniform picking of the yarns in the weave which eventually leads to a high-quality fabric.
• Gravity Weft Feeders: Gravity weft feeders use the yarn tension force to guide the yarn into the shed. They usually have a yarn guide or a yarn tensioning device which is suspended or mounted on a pivot. As the yarn tension pulls the device downwards, it pivots and allows the yarn to be inserted into the weave. This operation of gravity weft feeders is simple and therefore makes it easy for the usage and installation. It is compatible with various types of loom weaving machines. Furthermore, it hardly requires any maintenance services because of the lack of complex moving parts system.
• Electronic Weft Feeders: As the name suggests, electronic weft feeders make use of electronic motors for the insertion of weft yarns. They are programmed to control the tension as well as the insertion rate of the weft yarns precisely. This ensures accuracy in the weaving process and aids in maintaining the consistency of the tension required for different types of fabrics.
• Pneumatic Weft Feeders: Pneumatic weft feeders are those weft feeders that insert wefts by using air pressure to position the yarn. They possess yarn carriers which are moved into the shed by the air cylinders. This insertion method is accurate and fast, thus making it suitable for high-speed weaving applications.

Specification and maintenance of loom weft feeders

Specification of loom weft feeders

• Size and weight:

  Weft feeders have various sizes and weights to match different loom types. The standard dimensions have a length of around 100-200 millimeters, a width of about 50-100 millimeters, and a height of about 50-100 millimeters. The weights are between 0.5-2 kilograms.

• Fabric tension control system:

  Weft tension controllers can adjust the tension of the weft yarns by changing the force applied to the yarns. This can be achieved through various means, such as altering the weight, spring tension, or electromagnetic force.

• Speed:

  The speed of weft feeders loom refers to the rate at which they can deliver the yarn into the shedding space. According to different statistics, the speeds are usually between 1000-3000RPM.

• Power source:

  The power source used by weft feeders may vary depending on the model and manufacturer. The common power sources are AC power, battery power, gear motor, and so on.

• Material:

  The materials used in weft feeders include nylon, metal, ceramic, and more. The durability and functionality of the loom can be affected by the choice of material.

Maintenance of loom weft feeders

For regular maintenance of the loom's weft feeder, it is necessary to check the catch cord and tension. Therefore, replacement is mandatory if there is any damage or if the catch cord is worn out. It is also essential to inspect the pneumatic component and clean or service it as necessary. Furthermore, it is important to inspect the loom for the correct operation of the weft feeder or for any faults. It can be beneficial to schedule the weft feeder as part of a planned servicing program for the loom.

In case of loom feeder faults or if it is damaged, it is essential to consult an expert for professional repair services. The performance, productivity, and efficiency of the entire loom can be affected by the faulty weft feeder. Therefore, regular maintenance and care are very important.

Scenarios of loom weft feeders

Loom feeders are an integral part of various textile industries. Most industries use loom weft feeders during the manufacturing process of carpets, curtains, jeans, textile cloth, and other upholstery materials. The weft feeders are altered to fit a wide range of looms.

Knitting looms use yarn feeders for the same purpose; however, the end products are usually different. Generally, feeding systems are used to present the material to be woven to the loom at a consistent rate. Without them, textiles would be inconsistent and of low quality.

The primary purpose of a loom weft feeder is to facilitate the weaving of intricate and high-quality textile products. Its precise control of yarn supply enhances the durability, texture, visual appeal, and overall value of the finished fabric.

Here are some ways a loom weft feeder can be used to improve productivity and efficiency in an industry:

• Carpet industry: It supplies the pile yarns to be inserted into the primary backing. The loom feeder will change its direction to ensure the colored yarn appears on the surface of the carpet. If a loom has multiple feeders, they will be used to insert different types of yarns (fur or regular yarn).
• Upholstery fabric: Fabrics such as curtains and furniture require the use of various yarns and fabrics. A loom with multiple weft feeders can be used to create complex designs and to include different types of yarns and fabrics.
• Denim industry: Specific types of loom feeders (magnetic weft feeders for denim weaving) can be used to incorporate thick yarns such as quilt and warp yarns. Weft yarns are also used to create intricate patterns like stripes on denim fabric.
• Jacquard and dobby looms: These advanced loom feeders use electronic weft feeders to create complex patterns in woven fabrics. They incorporate a limited number of yarns into each piece of fabric, including brocade and satin. They use precise control systems to change the rate and yarn type, inserting based on the design being woven.
• Textile fabrics: In the weaving of cloth, the loom weft feeder presents the weft yarns to the shuttle or gripper for insertion into the warp. Various types of warp can be achieved using different loom feeders.

The applications of loom feeders are not limited to those mentioned above as they play a crucial role in the weaving process. The loom feeder is vital for consistent and efficient feeding of the weft yarn.

How to choose loom weft feeders

Business buyers looking for loom feeders to purchase for their clients or weaving facilities can consider the following factors.

• Yarn type and dimensions compatibility

  Ensure the loom feeder can handle the specific yarn type that will be used during weaving. Check the weft loom feeder's compatibility with the yarn's material, weight, and thickness. Additionally, ensure the loom weft feeder's dimensions match the weaving machine's specifications.

• Weaving speed and efficiency

  Choose feeders designed for high-speed weaving if the project involves using weaving machines that operate at high speeds. Feeders that support speedy weaving help avoid interruptions and enhance overall productivity.

• Durability and reliability

  Consider the feeder's capacity to withstand prolonged use and its ability to maintain consistent yarn delivery. Opt for models with proven reliability and positive user feedback to minimize downtime and maintenance costs.

• Ease of installation and adjustment

  Select feeders that are simple to install or change to save time and labor during setup. Consider units with straightforward adjustments and installation instructions to ease the weaving process.

• Budget and cost considerations

  Balance the chosen feeder's quality, performance, and cost to meet the project's budget. While it's essential to invest in durable and efficient feeders, it's equally important to consider the budget and overall project expenses.

• Spare parts availability

  When purchasing the loom feeder, check if the spare parts are readily available in case of future repairs or replacements. Knowing the spare parts' accessibility can save maintenance costs and reduce downtime.

• Technical support and service

  It's important to choose a supplier who provides reliable technical support and prompt service whenever needed. Consider the supplier's availability of technical assistance and service response time to address any issues or concerns that may arise after the purchase.

Q & A

Q1: What is the difference between loose and tight weft in hair extensions?

A1: The difference between tight and loose wefts lies in their manufacturing process. In a loose weft, the hair strands are sewn together loosely, creating a flexible and movement-friendly extension. The flexible nature of the loose weft makes it easier to curve and fit around the head, providing a more natural look. In contrast, a tight weft has the hair strands stitched together closely, resulting in a thicker and more durable extension. While the tight weft offers increased longevity and resistance to wear and tear, it may feel less flexible than its loose counterpart.

Q2: Which weft hair extensions are the most affordable?

A2: The most affordable weft hair extensions are synthetic hair wefts. These wefts are typically made from plastic fiber, such as polyester or kanekalon, designed to mimic natural hair. While human hair extensions offer a more realistic look and feel, they also come at a higher price. Synthetic hair wefts are suitable for short-term use and can be found at budget-friendly prices.

Q3: How are weft hair extensions applied?

A3: Weft hair extensions are applied using different techniques based on the type of weft and individual preferences. The most common method is the sew-in technique, where natural hair is braided into circular or horizontal braids, and the hair weft is sewn onto the braids using a needle and thread. Another method for applying weft hair extensions is the glue-in technique. In this method, a bonding agent is applied to the scalp, and the hair weft is placed on top.

Q4: What is a loom feeder?

A4: A loom weft feeder is a device used in weaving looms to regulate and maintain a consistent supply of weft yarn across the width of the woven fabric. The purpose of a loom feeder is to ensure even tension and spacing of the weft threads, facilitating uniform weaving and preventing issues like thread breakage or inconsistency in the woven material.