FIDA launches automated weaving machine for abaca

03 Dec '13

2 min read

The Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA) of the Department of Agriculture of Philippines has launched a new automatic handloom weaving machine to improve production of special fibers, especially abaca.

Developed by technicians from JRD Systems and Technology Inc., with assistance from FIDA, the automatic handloom weaving machine has the capability to weave sensitive fiber materials 7 to 8 times faster than the ordinary manual loom, reports Philippine newspaper Manila Bulletin.

The prototype of the automated handloom machine, which is a first of its kind in the country, was launched at the recent forum on livelihood opportunities in fibercraft organized by FIDA. The forum saw participation from members of cooperatives, farmers and other stakeholders like entrepreneurs who manufacture various products from available fibers like abaca, pineapple, silk and other indigenous materials.

Remedios Abgona, officer in charge of the Fiber Utilization and Technology Division of FIDA, said the new machine could go a long way in commercializing the specialty fibers in the country, as Woven abaca, pineapple, silk and other materials have a special market in the Philippines and abroad.

Pina cloth (cloth made from pineapple fiber) s the favored material for high-class barong (embroidered formal garment of Philippines) for men and women, and Abaca fiber is also woven into cloth and other fibercrafts, on its own or in combination with other fibers, he added.

The automated handloom machine developed by JRD Systems and Technology Inc., can produce 7 to 8 times the output of manual handloom, as the operator can maneuver three units at the same time, which can increase the output by 20 to 30 times more compared to an ordinary handloom.

The machine can not only produce plain cloth, but can also embroider woven cloth. The designs can be programmed into the computer.

According to Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS), Philippines abaca output had dipped by 35,060 tons, registering a decline of 5.5 percent during the first half of 2013, compared to 37,120 tons recorded during same period last year.

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