Harness Acceleration
Rate of velocity change of the harness frames during the formation of the yarn opening affects the dynamic tension on the warp ends. In high-speed linen manufacturing, shedding acceleration must be controlled to prevent the sudden snapping of flax yarns. This movement is governed by the profile of the shedding cams or the settings of the electronic dobby.
High acceleration peaks can cause the yarn to experience extreme stress. Engineers use accelerometers to measure these dynamic forces and adjust the drive curves to minimize stress.
Yarn Fatigue
Repeated sudden forces on the flax fibres lead to progressive structural weakness and eventual yarn failure. The inelastic nature of flax makes it highly susceptible to damage from rapid tension spikes. When the harness moves too quickly, the yarns are jerked, creating micro-fissures in the fibre structure.
These weakened sections often fail during subsequent stages of the fabric manufacturing process.
Profile Optimization
Modifying the cam profile or utilizing electronic control systems can smooth out the motion of the harnesses. Electronic dobby systems allow for asymmetrical curves that reduce acceleration at the start and end of the motion. This adjustment lowers the peak forces acting on the warp yarns.
Such optimization extends the life of both the yarn and the loom components.