Numerical analysis of heat transfer in ring spinning

Abstract

Improving ring spinning efficiency and yarn quality is still challenging due to the sliding friction heat generated by the ring/traveler system, which limits the traveler speed and the yarn production rate. In this study, a finite element model based on the external heat source method was first used to explore the heat transfer process of the ring/traveler system. The reliability of the model was verified empirically. Subsequently, the validated model was used to analyze the effect of the model parameters on the temperature of the ring/traveler system. The results confirm that the high-temperature region of the ring and the traveler was concentrated on their contact area. More specifically the maximum temperature of the traveler was 159.2°C, which was almost three times the maximum temperature of the ring (62.6°C). In addition, smaller frictional coefficient and yarn tension, larger contact area and heat absorption rate, and better thermal conductivity can reduce the high local temperature of the ring/traveler system. Among them, yarn tension, friction coefficient, and heat absorption rate have a significant influence on the system temperature, especially for the small traveler. The developed model is also available for different fiber types and yarn counts which can be used for a comprehensive investigation of the heat transfer in ring spinning processes. The model and results of this study offer a theoretical basis for further optimizing the ring/traveler system and improving the productivity of ring spinning.

Modeling the temperatures of traveler and ring in ring spinning

“…The calculated frictional heat flux was loaded on the contact track between the traveler and ring, respectively. 17…”

“…The convective heat transfer coefficient ( h) of the ring and the traveler was calculated based on its motion, which was described the same as in the previous study. 17…”

“…The model assumed the same base material (steel) for the traveler and ring and the material properties of the ring and traveler are shown in Table 2. 4,17…”

“…15 The coefficient of friction between the traveler and ring has been explored experimentally and theoretically with the results showing that it decreases as the spindle speed increases. 16,17 With each rotation of the traveler on the ring, a twist is inserted into the yarn, thus creating tensile strength in the yarn. 18 A higher yarn twist level, in turns per meter (tpm), implies more rotations of the traveler and a slower yarn production rate, which could also contribute to higher frictional heat.…”

“…4,19,20 In this study, the heat transfer model of the traveler and the ring was developed to reveal its temperature field through the external heat source method. 17 The ring temperature under four variables (traveler weight, yarn count, twist level and spindle speed) was obtained experimentally and simulated based on the experimental plan generated by the response surface methodology 21,22 to verify the correctness of the heat transfer model. Subsequently, the statistical model for the significant factor and the temperature of the traveler and the ring have been revealed.…”