Method and apparatus for shrinkproofing tubular fabric

US4622728A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Fleissner GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Lothar Bumuller · Rielasingen-Worblingen, DE
• Alfred P. Engelmann · Radolfzell, DE
• Franz Kille · Radolfzell, DE
• Alfred E. Maier · Chippewa, US
• Otto Scharf · Radolfzell, DE
• Fritz Worner · Radolfzell, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 26, 1983
• Grant date: Nov 18, 1986
• Expiry date: Sep 26, 2003

Classification

• Technology area (CPC D): Textiles; Paper
• CPC primary: D06C7/02
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A continuous method for shrinkproofing tubular fabric, especially knitted and the like goods, is effected so that the fabric is spread when wet, then compressed lengthwise and then dried in a shrinkproof manner. This method provides for overstretching the fabric more than 130%, preferably even 160%, widthwise, overfeeding the fabric uniformly lengthwise while stretching and spreading the fabric, and immediately thereafter, in a relaxing fashion, drying the fabric continuously and in finished form with brief alternating movements under the influence of heat. During this heat treatment, the shrinkage potential produced is completely eliminated, with the meshes of the fabric moving into a stable position which no longer results in a change during domestic washing or tumble drying. It is important for the economics of the method for the fabric first to be pre-dried to about 20%, and then to be treated as described. The apparatus for working the method includes a spreader, which has a tooth-shaped drive unit for reliable conveyance of the fabric tube to each of two spreader arms.