The Dobby Air Jet Loom is an advanced weaving machine that combines air jet technology with a dobby shedding mechanism, making it ideal for high-speed, complex fabric production. Below is a detailed explanation of its components, working principle, advantages, and applications:
1. What is a Dobby Air Jet Loom?
A Dobby Air Jet Loom is a type of loom equipped with both:
- Dobby mechanism: Controls the movement of warp threads, allowing the creation of intricate weave patterns.
- Air jet weft insertion: Uses compressed air to propel the weft yarn across the shed at high speeds.
This combination makes it highly efficient for producing fabrics with complex designs while maintaining high productivity and low energy consumption.
2. Key Components and Functions
(A) Dobby Mechanism
- A dobby head replaces the traditional cam system, allowing independent control of warp threads.
- Controlled by electronic or mechanical dobby systems to create different shedding patterns.
- Suitable for producing small to medium repeat patterns, unlike jacquard looms, which handle more complex designs.
(B) Air Jet Weft Insertion
- Compressed air is used to propel the weft yarn across the warp shed.
- The system includes main nozzles and relay nozzles that guide the yarn smoothly.
- Sensors monitor the weft for breakages or mispicks, ensuring fabric quality.
(C) Warp and Weft Control
- Automatic tension control for warp threads prevents breakage.
- Weft accumulator ensures a steady and controlled yarn supply.
- Electronic let-off and take-up systems optimize fabric density.
(D) Electronic Control System
- Programmable logic controllers (PLC) enable precise automation.
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation and pattern adjustments.
- Real-time monitoring of speed, tension, and airflow.
3. Working Principle
- Shedding – The dobby mechanism lifts selected warp threads to form a shed.
- Weft Insertion – A main nozzle fires compressed air to propel the weft across the shed.
- Beat-Up – The reed pushes the inserted weft into place, securing the fabric.
- Fabric Take-Up & Let-Off – The woven fabric is wound onto a roll, and new warp is released.
The process repeats at extremely high speeds, typically 800–1,200 picks per minute (ppm).
4. Advantages of Dobby Air Jet Loom
✔ High Speed & Productivity – Faster than rapier or projectile looms.
✔ Energy Efficiency – Uses less power compared to water jet looms.
✔ Versatile Weaving – Can handle complex dobby patterns efficiently.
✔ Minimal Weft Waste – Air jet system optimizes yarn use.
✔ Lower Maintenance – Fewer moving parts reduce wear and tear.
✔ Suitable for Wide Fabrics – Can weave up to 3.8 meters wide.
5. Applications
Dobby air jet looms are widely used in industries such as:
- Apparel fabrics (cotton, polyester blends)
- Home textiles (curtains, upholstery)
- Industrial fabrics (filters, canvas)
- Medical textiles (bandages, surgical gowns)
The Dobby Air Jet Loom is a cutting-edge weaving machine that combines speed, efficiency, and flexibility, making it ideal for modern textile production. It is particularly beneficial for manufacturers who need high-speed weaving with intricate designs, optimizing both productivity and fabric quality.