Applications of Composites on Textile Machinery

Abstract

High performance fiber reinforced composites have a long history and wide usage in aerospace, sports, military, etc. In this paper applications of composites on textile machinery were elaborated, such as carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) guide bar, composite rapier belt and rapier head in rapier loom, nylon shuttle, carbon fiber composite heddle frame for high-speed looms, transmission shaft, needle bed, conveyor belts. It indicated that the composites can improve the performance obviously. Along with the rapid development of textile, fiber reinforced composites are continuous replacing the traditional materials as cast iron, steel and aluminum textile machine parts, But the applications of composites on textile machinery are still in the initial stage. High price is the major obstruction factor for its development. Through improving the level of automation technology, reducing producing cost, rational design of structure, the producing cost can be sharply reduced, which is also benefit for textile machinery development.