GB735947A - Improvements in or relating to the steam-treatment of textile fabrics - Google Patents

Abstract

<PICT:0735947/IV (c)/1> A method of steam-treating a roll of fabric comprises injecting steam into a tank containing the fabric mounted on a perforated roller to effect pre-heating and subsequently injecting steam through the fabric from the interior of the roller. The Figure shows an apparatus for stabilizing textile fabrics comprising a cylindrical tank 10 having a steam jacket 11 in which is accommodated a roll of fabric 12 mounted on a perforated roller 13. The roller is provided internally with tubular members 14 which are positioned inside the roller to coincide with the perforations in it so that a considerable amount of condensate can then be accommodated. The roller 13 is mounted at an angle on a framework 15 which is run into the tank 10 via a door 16 by means of rails 18 and wheels 19, the steam inlet pipe 30 and outlet pipe 32 then being connected by means of quick-release joints 31, 33. The shaft 25 of roller 13 is connected to the steam inlet pipe 29 via a tapered union 25, 28 which is held firmly closed by adjustment of bolt 27. When the roll of fabric 12 is in position air is withdrawn from the tank 10 by a vacuum pump attached to sleeve 36 until a pressure of some 5 inches of mercury is obtained. Steam is then injected into the tank through pipe 35 to pre-heat the contents of the tank until the pressure inside is about 1 lb./sq. inch above atmospheric. The steam supply to pipe 35 is then cut-off and steam supplied via pipe 29 to the interior of roller 13 any condensate draining away continuously through roller outlet pipe 32 or down the sloping base of tank 10 through the tank outlet pipe 34. When the process has been completed the steam supply to pipe 29 is discontinued, the pressure release valve 37 is opened, and the fabric removed.