Quality Defect
Color inconsistency appears as a gradual shift in shade from the left selvage to the right selvage of a fabric roll. This listing shade variance occurs during continuous open-width dyeing or padding when the application of dye across the fabric width is uneven. The defect is only detected after the fabric has been dried and inspected.
Mechanical Origin
Non-uniform pressure across the roll of the padding mangle is the primary cause of the uneven chemical distribution. When listing shade variance is identified, it usually indicates that the deflection of the mangle roller is not properly compensated by the hydraulic pressure system. This mechanical issue must be corrected by recalibrating the nip pressure.
Visual Impact
Garment panels cut from different sides of the roll show color differences when sewn together. This listing shade variance makes the fabric unusable for high-quality apparel. The problem is obvious in plain weaves.
Remedial Action
Continuous shade monitoring systems use traversing sensors to detect these lateral variations early in the production run. Adjusting the squeeze roller profile or the chemical feed distribution eliminates listing shade variance before thousands of meters are ruined. This monitoring reduces the amount of rejected fabric in the mill.
