Fineness Profile
Optical analysis instruments generate graphical frequency curves to evaluate fiber fineness variations across raw flax lots. A fiber diameter distribution histogram plots fiber width measurements in micrometers against relative frequency to display fineness uniformity within processed flax samples. Laboratory testing routines use automated optical fiber diameter analyzers to record thousands of individual fiber readings per sample batch.
Technical data sheets attached to combed top lots present these graphical profiles to confirm suitability for specific yarn counts.
Measurement Method
Fibre preparation involves dispersing cleaned flax ultimates across micro-slides or automated liquid transport cells for image capture. The fiber diameter distribution histogram aggregates individual measurements into one-micrometer class intervals, displaying mean diameter and standard deviation. Symmetrical, narrow distributions indicate consistent fibre processing during hackling and combing stages, yielding predictable spinning performance.
Bimodal or wide distribution curves signal mixed flax origins or incomplete fiber splitting, warning spinners of potential yarn irregularity and end-breaks during spinning. Mill quality control teams archive these histograms in raw material quality certificates to track crop-year variations across incoming fibre lots.
Dispersion Limit
Statistical distributions cease to predict processing behaviour once fibers enter wet chemical retting or heavy drafting where mechanical action breaks down bundles further. A fiber diameter distribution histogram evaluates dry, combed fiber tops before sliver formation and spinning.
