page 3 of 3 2007.04.16

New frontiers in preparation-to-weaving

The creel and the yarn feeding
When it comes to creels, every manufacturer strives to find some way of improving package unwinding and tension control. Naturally, creels come in different models, according to the field of application, the size of the packages, the textile materials to be processed, the space available, and the processing methods. In general, it is possible to identify four basic models: fixed creels, creels with rotating package-holding panels, store-type creels, ideal when working with wool, and carriage-type creels.
Without looking in detail at the technical modifications – even recent ones – made to these machines, it is nevertheless worth drawing attention to several accessory devices that often increase the productivity of the systems.
Ionization of the warp-stop motions – If, during the processing of synthetic threads, there is an excessive increase in the static charge, this will negatively affect the quality of the warps; in this situation, to eliminate the static charge, it is necessary to apply ionization bars to the warp stop-motions. The vertical ionization bars applied on both sides at the exit from the creel have now been integrated with a new ionization system applied directly to the warp stop-motions. The result is that horizontal ionization bars now cover the entire width of the thread path at every creel level. The powerful discharge electrodes emit positive and negative ions that, crossing the bundle of threads through the air, allow better unwinding control and complete elimination of the static charge.
Automation – Adequate automation reduces idle times considerably, thereby rendering the system more cost-effective. Thanks to the modular structure, it is possible to obtain a level of automation to suit specific requirements: one can opt for an automatic cutting device to reduce downtimes, automatic carriage insertion to save time and effort, or an automatic tying and cutting device for optimal batch change.
Careful choice of thread tensioning device – There are several of these devices available on the market: Isotens for optimal and even tension control, suitable for the processing of all yarn types, both filament and non-filament yarns, centrally operated and regulated, with dustproof protection, and soft thread handling; tensioning devices for technical yarns (Dynatens type) that allow perfect unwinding of technical yarns without damaging the fibrils, they are centrally operated (moved and adjusted) and feature long roller life; Megatens type tensioning devices for high tensions, these are needed for processing yarns that demand high unwinding tensions.
Waxing devices – the waxing device is positioned between the warper and the beamer. With Versomat, Benninger has made provision for a waxing group that applies waxes and special products before the beaming stage: the device is made up of a grooved roller supported by the motorised waxing roller with waxing tank which can be lowered. This device is useful for dampening and lubricating the threads and above all for binding the lateral fibrils of the yarns (particularly the non-filament ones) with special additives so as to ensure optimal weaving on the loom.

Conclusions
The preparation-to-weaving stage is evolving all the time, and its developments are not dictated only by the dates of Itma, the favourite showcase of textile machinery manufacturers wanting to unveil new ideas.
Benninger’s Versomat machine represents the last generation of automatic sectional warpers. It brings together solutions to all the most urgent demands of the modern weaving mill, which demands highly flexible solutions that will allow it to produce small quantities at reasonable costs. All the options developed by the manufacturer are aimed at meeting the new needs of the weaving mill operating in the more sophisticated market sectors and aiming to win new markets the world over.