Tension Value
Determination of the mass of individual metal weights used in jacquard weaving ensures the continuous return of harness cords after they are lifted by the pattern mechanism. This physical property, defined as the lingo weight, maintains the downward tension required to form a clean shed for the weft insertion. Mill technicians measure this force in grams to verify that every warp yarn rises and falls with high precision.
Mass Selection
Finer linen fabrics require a different downward force compared to heavier canvas grades because flax yarns vary in thickness and surface friction. Selecting the appropriate lingo weight prevents the harness cords from vibrating or failing to return to their baseline position. Heavy lingos are required for high-density flax warps to overcome the resistance of adjacent yarns during shedding, while lighter lingos are chosen for delicate yarns to prevent warp breakage.
Each wire weight is suspended from the bottom of the harness cord below the comber board, positioned to avoid contact with neighboring wires.
Operational Impact
Improper weighting of the harness wires leads to weaving defects such as mispicks or broken linen yarns. If the lingo weight is too low, the warp thread remains partially raised, blocking the shuttle or rapier and causing the loom to stop. Mills document the specified weights in the loom configuration sheets to maintain consistency across identical jacquard models.