Standardization of process parameters for the production of bulky raw silk using cocoon entanglement method

Abstract

Production of bulky raw silk is preferred for weaving sarees in Indian context. It was thought to increase the speed of movement of cocoons by incorporating suitable device so that entanglement in filaments will take place resulting in different structure of bulky silk yarn. CSTRI has developed a mechanism to rotate the inner vessel keeping the outer vessel constant; thus, the water would not be spilled during the rotation of the vessel in the reeling process. In order to standardize the process parameters viz., basin (rotation of vessel) speed, reel speed, and the number of cocoons reeled for the production of bulky raw silk by cocoon entanglement using Box and Behnken design of experiment. The studies conducted reveal that the average denier, size uniformity, and size deviation are significantly influenced at 1% level on the above process variables. Further, it was observed that the basin speed and reel speed should be in the ratio of 2:1. The basin speed of 150 rpm with reel speed of 75 rpm and 30 cocoons has imparted required bulkiness in the yarn and having characteristics suitable for production of bulky silk fabric which can be used for exclusive end uses.