Efficiency

We distinguish two types of efficiency. Weaver efficiency provides information on the weaver's workload. It takes the frequency of stoppages (broken ends and weft breaks), downtime and productivity into account. Plant efficiency includes all stoppages (broken ends and weft breaks, warp changes, repairs etc.). The difference between the two figures can be traced back to the long-term stoppages. The plant efficiency reflects the productivity of the weaving facility and can be improved by reducing short-term (yarn breaks) and long-term (organizational) stoppages. Depending on the style mix, increasing efficiency by one percent results in an increase in earnings of up to 1000 Euros or more per weaving machine and year.

Lighting

Correct lighting of production facilities creates good working conditions, makes work easier and helps prevent mistakes. The lighting must be such that parts of machines or installations do not cast shadows on the cloth. Depending on the weaving machine configuration - with or without batch winder and inspection unit - it makes good sense to install a light source behind or below the fabric in order to detect defects quickly and easily.

Machine maintenance

Maintenance of the machines must be planned with care and carried out in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. Unnecessary repairs and long-term stoppages can thus be avoided, and spare parts costs reduced. Maintenance is carried out on the basis of a checklist, making a record of the condition of parts and of parts replaced. The machine file will allow deficiencies and excessive wear of individual weaving machines to be identified. Lubrication and greasing require special care and must be carried out by qualified personnel in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Machine cleaning is an important part of maintenance and must not be neglected under any circumstances.

Style and warp changes

Style and warp changes can easily be planned in advance. It is important to make sure that besides the warp beams, weft yarn and harness, all other necessary materials (temples, cams, weft feeder brushes etc.) are put ready in the order they will be needed. Checklists are very helpful and thorough job preparation helps to avoid wasting time. In addition, machine reports ensure that all machines weaving the same article have the same settings.

Preparation of materials

Good planning benefits the production process, helping to avoid unnecessary waiting time. By keeping adequate quantities of warp beams and weft material at intermediate storage points, as close as possible to the weaving machines, production losses can be minimized. For the sake of good running characteristics, the weft yarn should be acclimatized for at least 24 hours under the climatic conditions in the weaveroom.

Cloth inspection

Inspection of the cloth immediately after weaving avoids the production of further faulty goods. Avoiding defects is the prime objective. If they occur, it is vitally important to detect and remedy them quickly. For this reason the cloth should always be inspected directly on the weaving machine. It makes sense to document all defects, so that a subsequent inspection can be carried out efficiently.