Edge Formation
Mechanical devices on shuttleless looms fold the cut ends of weft yarns back into the edge of the fabric to create a secure, ravel-free border. This construction, known as a tucked selvage, uses a special needle or air jet to tuck the loose yarn tail back into the warp shed during the beat-up action. This tucking action creates a double-thickness edge that prevents the linen fabric from fraying during wet finishing.
Process Mechanism
After the rapier inserts the weft yarn, a cutter clips the thread at the edge of the fabric. A tucking nozzle or mechanical finger grabs this short tail and folds it back into the shed before the next pick is beaten up. This action weaves the tail of the yarn into the fabric edge along with the next weft thread.
The resulting selvage is twice as thick as the rest of the fabric but remains flat and secure. This flat profile is highly desirable during subsequent bleaching and dyeing, as it prevents the fabric from curling or snagging on the machinery rollers.
Edge Quality
This finished edge allows the fabric to be processed without further trimming. It reduces material waste and simplifies the garment cutting process.
