Mechanical Wear
Damage to the vertical wires of a loom’s reed caused by the constant friction of the yarn results in rough surfaces that snag fibers. Reed dent galling occurs when the protective coating on the metal wears away, exposing a high-friction surface to the passing warp. This condition is particularly problematic with flax, as the fibers are naturally abrasive.
Regular inspection of the reed is required to prevent the degradation of fabric quality.
Process Consequence
Roughness on the dents leads to an increase in yarn breakage and the appearance of fuzzy streaks in the woven linen. As reed dent galling progresses, the damaged metal surfaces catch on the yarn hairiness, stripping away small amounts of fiber with every stroke of the lay. This accumulation of debris further increases the friction and heat in the weaving zone.
If the issue is not identified early, the affected warp threads will consistently snap, triggering the loom’s automatic stop motion. Maintenance teams use fine polishing tools or chemical treatments to restore the smooth finish of the wires. Persistent wear may require the complete replacement of the reed to avoid large-scale fabric rejection.
Prevention Method
Using stainless steel reeds or specialized ceramic coatings can extend the operational life of the equipment.
