Design and development of an innovative attachment in rapier loom

Abstract

This study presents the design and development of an automated device to eliminate auxiliary selvedge in shuttleless rapier looms, thereby reducing material waste and production costs. The device grasps, cuts, and suctions the protruding weft ends after each pick insertion, effectively minimising selvedge formation without altering loom parameters. Experimental results show a 62.5% reduction in yarn waste and associated costs, while the fabric retains comparable properties in terms of yarn density, tensile strength, tearing strength, bursting strength, air permeability, dimensional stability, and crimp percentage. The attachment also functions efficiently in jacquard fabric structures, demonstrating its broader industrial applicability. The device provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution for modern textile production, enhancing material efficiency without compromising fabric quality.