Spinning Lab
Lab Manager: Alisha Spradlin
Spun yarn processing capabilities include ring, compact, open-end and vortex spinning. Services range from evaluating the processability of various fibers and blends to running trials for optimum machine settings and speeds. Our capabilities now include prototype-scale development. Projects above 5lbs of raw fiber are considered large-scale, less than 5lbs of raw fiber will be processed on the prototype-scale equipment.
This lab operates to support student learning, research projects and industry prototyping needs. Interested in working with us? Fill out our service request form below!
Prototype-Scale Processing
All Processes
Ideal for yarn development utilizing less than 5lbs of raw fiber
Large-Scale Processing
Preparation of Sliver
Ring Spinning
Vortex Spinning
*Capabilities to process Vortex and Vortex core-spun yarns (non-elastic)
Backwinding
Twisting
The more you know…
What is ring spinning?
Ring Spinning creates yarn from short staple fibers through twist. All fibers run parallel along the length of the yarn (this is achieved through either the drawing, combing, or carding process). The ring spinning machine is fed with an extra-twisted sliver called “roving.” This roving is drafted through rollers and twisted around a ring onto a bobbin at high speeds to form yarn.
Ring spinning produces high-quality yarn commonly used in apparel applications. It can also be found in upholstery and drapery.
What is open ended spinning?
Open-ended spinning creates a yarn composed of fibers held together by twist or wrapper fibers. These yarns unfortunately do not have the high level of fiber alignment found in ring spun yarns. However, open-ended spinning is an excellent and efficient process for producing thicker yarns with a more uniform diameter.
Open-ended yarns are often used to create denim, sweatshirts, terry cloth, t-shirts, and bedding.
What is air-jet spinning?
Air-jet spun yarns have a core of straight fibers held together by a shell of twisted fibers. Some properties of the yarn include higher uniformity and less hairiness compared to that of ring spun. However, air-jet yarns are not as strong as ring spun.
Air-jet is the preferred spinning method for fabrics in applications such as sheets or pillow cases.
