Residual Fibre
Byproduct fibers extracted during the refinement of long flax represent a distinct category of raw material for lower grade yarns. These comber noils are the shorter, tangled strands separated from the long line flax to ensure the primary yarn remains smooth and consistent. They possess the same chemical properties as the main fiber but lack the length required for high count warp yarns.
Extraction Mechanism
Separation occurs within the circular or rectilinear combing machine where fine metal pins pull through the fiber bundle. This process removes comber noils along with any remaining shive or vegetable matter. The resulting waste is collected in bins beneath the machine for baling.
Technicians monitor the settings of the nipper and top comb to control the amount of fiber removed during each cycle. In a typical Chinese spinning mill, the percentage of noils extracted determines the final grade of both the long line yarn and the secondary tow yarn.
Market Application
Utilization of these fibers extends to the production of coarse yarns used in upholstery or heavy canvas. Because comber noils contain a higher proportion of short fibers, the yarns produced from them exhibit a hairy surface and lower tensile strength. They are for coarse yarns.
