Efficiency Metric
A raw material recovery ratio measures the percentage of long-fiber flax retrieved after the combing process. This hackling fiber yield is calculated by dividing the weight of the parallelized line fibers by the weight of the initial scutched flax. Spinning mills track this percentage closely because it dictates the raw material cost of high-grade linen yarn.
A higher percentage indicates high-quality flax that requires less processing to achieve spinning grade. It also reduces the volume of lower-value tow fiber that must be sold at a discount.
Production Control
Mill machinery settings and moisture levels directly influence the division of flax during combing. When calculating the hackling fiber yield, operators must balance the collection of valuable long fibers with the generation of short fibers or tow used for coarser yarns. High moisture increases fiber flexibility and minimizes breakage during the pinning stages.
This optimization ensures maximum material recovery for the spinning mill.
Economic Impact
Low recovery rates during combing increase the production cost of fine linen products. These low rates force mills to use more raw flax to produce the same volume of yarn, reducing the overall profitability of the milling run. The recovery ratio is therefore the primary quality grade used to determine raw flax contract prices.
