Finishing Machine
Industrial equipment designed to apply liquid treatments to fabric uses a series of rollers to force chemicals into the fibers. A pad mangle operates by dipping the cloth into a trough of finish and then squeezing it between heavy pressurized cylinders made of rubber or steel. This action ensures that the treatment is distributed evenly across the entire width and length of the material for consistent performance.
Liquor Application
Amount of liquid retained by the fabric is controlled by the pressure of the rollers and the speed of the machine as it pulls the cloth. When using a pad mangle, the technician calculates the pick up percentage by weighing a sample to ensure the correct dosage of dyes or softeners. Consistent pressure across the nip is necessary for avoiding color variations or uneven performance in the finished goods which could lead to rejections.
Pressure Control
Modern machines use pneumatic or hydraulic systems to maintain a constant force on the fabric web during the entire run. The setup of the pad mangle determines the penetration of the chemical into the yarn core or just onto the surface of the cloth. This mechanical step is the foundation of most functional textile treatments including waterproofing and flame retardancy for outdoor apparel.
Treatment Uniformity
Proper calibration results in a textile that performs identically from the beginning of the roll to the end.
