Calculating Dehairing Yield Mass Balance across High Guard Hair Batches
Calculate dehairing yield by converting raw mass to clean dry keratin weight, subtracting guard hair and dirt losses, and normalizing to 17% commercial regain.
OFDA200 Fiber Analysis
Instrument Specification
Optical projection technology determines mean fibre diameter and distribution profiles by measuring the light scattering properties of snips across a laser beam pathway. The ofda200 fiber analysis utilizes this automated detection method to generate high speed data for raw wool and specialty hair classification. A coherent laser source passes through the sample chamber where individual fragments break the light beam to create distinct diffraction patterns.
Sensors record these changes to calculate the diameter of each fragment with micron accuracy. Rapid processing permits the assessment of thousands of fibres in a single run. This capacity allows mills to sort incoming raw material lots by grade without reliance on manual ocular inspection.
Calibration relies upon calibrated glass standards that mimic the refractive index of keratinous material to ensure consistent results across different batches. Hardware limitations occur when sample moisture exceeds standard atmospheric levels because water content alters the scattering profile of the fibre.
Measurement Protocol
Technicians prepare specimens by cutting raw fibre into two millimetre lengths using a guillotine device. The ofda200 fiber analysis follows this mechanical reduction step to ensure the particles lie flat on the conveyor belt for scanning. Proper distribution across the slide prevents clumping which distorts the calculated standard deviation.
Samples move past the laser scanning head at a constant velocity to capture the full spectrum of the provided specimen. Computer software correlates the diffraction intensity with a preprogrammed database of known diameters to assign a numerical value to each particle. The system produces a histogram that displays the distribution curve alongside the mean diameter and the coefficient of variation.
This specific output provides a granular view of flock consistency beyond what a single average figure provides.
Calibration Requirement
Precise results depend upon the daily verification of the laser alignment against certified reference tops. The ofda200 fiber analysis sensitivity degrades if debris collects on the optical lens or if the belt speed fluctuates outside of factory tolerances. Regular maintenance cycles include the cleaning of the internal suction system to remove loose debris that obscures the scan path.
Technicians perform a baseline check using known reference materials to confirm the machine response matches the established standard values. Any deviation from the reference necessitates an adjustment of the internal optical sensors. Maintaining these internal parameters ensures that the reported data remains consistent with international trading standards for natural animal fibres.
Commercial Application
Market valuation of raw wool depends upon the fineness data derived from these scanning results because diameter dictates spinning limits and final product softness. The ofda200 fiber analysis acts as the primary tool for settlement between growers and processors who contract for specific micron grades. Contract fulfillment rests upon the accuracy of this digital record since small diameter variances significantly change the processing cost and fabric handle.
Spinners demand this data to predict yarn breakage rates and to optimize machine settings for specific fibre lots. Buyers reject lots that fall outside the agreed micron threshold because excessive variance prevents the production of uniform top or yarn. Electronic data output from the machine provides an objective audit trail that remains valid for all downstream commercial transactions.