Omega technology by Rieter

Rieter's new combing preparation machine - features an innovative, omega-shaped wrapping angle. The output of the Rieter combing set increases to over 10 tons/day while maintaining uniform quality.

Development:

Combing preparation systems - whether earlier sliver lap/ribbon lap machines or newer draw frame/sliver lap systems - all still employ the lapping method featuring two pressure rollers which drive the lap as it builds up between two discs and create the necessary lapping pressure. In the process the contact pressure acts linearly on the lap surface. Maximum lapping speeds at the start of the lap are 120 to 140 m/min and have to be reduced to as low as 80 m/min as lap diameter increases, depending on staple length, due to the intensive milling action.

OMEGA lapping technology

In order to boost production performance, manufacturers have sought to develop technologies that enable the lap contact pressure to be distributed over a larger surface area. Rieter have consequently developed and patented a belt lapping system. Instead of the earlier linear load, this enables lap guidance and pressure on the circumference of the lap to be distributed over 180° at the start of the lap and 270° at the end of the lap. Wrapping with a full lap, at the end of the lapping process, resembles the Greek letter Omega.

Production performance
With virtually ideal pressure and running properties throughout lap build-up, this technology makes constant lap speeds of 180 m/min possible in mill conditions. The actual production performance of the machine has therefore been increased by more than 40% to over 500 kg/h. This includes can and lap changing times. This high production performance makes the OMEGAlap E 35 the most economical combing preparation system on the market.

The proven UNIlap E 32 will continue to be supplied for smaller combing installations with production requirements of up to 300 kg/h and for additions to existing installations.

Lap quality
In contrast to the UNIlap system featuring pressure rollers, high lapping speeds can be run on the OMEGAlap system regardless of staple length. Uniform quality throughout lap buildup and improved mass regularity (CVm) has been demonstrated with short and long staple.

Machine operation

Easy handling and operation have been largely adopted from the UNIlap E 32. The drive and winding head is designed so that the lap winding belt, a wearing part, can be replaced rapidly and very easily. On the basis of wide-ranging laboratory and field tests, the belt has been developed to the stage where production performance of approx. 1 000 tons/belt is now possible.