Density Specification
Production control defines these quantitative metrics by identifying the number of ends per unit of width in the loom reed before the shedding sequence begins. Linen warp setts determine the final structural stability and handle of the resulting fabric, which governs the tension distribution across the entire beam during mechanical operation. Mills record these values on the production card to ensure consistency between individual beams, as any deviation from the established count alters the cover factor of the cloth after finishing.
Technical Requirement
Engineers calculate the necessary count by balancing the diameter of the flax yarn against the intended porosity and weight of the finished product. These specifications act as the primary constraint on the capacity of the loom, because the reed spacing dictates the physical limit of the horizontal density. An increase in the count results in higher resistance to friction during the beating process, which necessitates adjustments to the shed opening to prevent breakage of the fragile bast fibres.
Such adjustments ensure the mill maintains the required grammage without exceeding the threshold of mechanical strain that leads to fibre abrasion. Accurate calibration of the reed selection prevents the common failure mode of uneven density bands appearing across the width of the fabric as the beam empties.
Compliance Verification
Inspectors compare the observed reed counts against the baseline set by the technical package issued at the start of the procurement cycle. Buyers utilize these metrics to distinguish between a defect caused by improper mill setup and variations resulting from the natural irregularity of the flax fibre itself. A standard document details the permissible tolerance for these deviations, which applies once the fabric exits the loom and before the wet finishing stage masks the original construction.
This measurement provides the only objective evidence for assessing the performance of the weaving house against the agreed delivery contract.
