| 摘要 |
An energy efficient apparatus and method for the continuous heat treatment of a carpet yarn or the like is disclosed, and which includes a conveyor extending through a heat treatment chamber, and with the conveyor comprising a number of endless belts which are adapted to support the yarn in downwardly hanging relaxed helically arranged loops. The lower portions of the loops are supportingly lifted during movement through each of the entrance and exit openings of the chamber, which permits the dimensions of the openings in the chamber to be minimized and thereby reduce heat loss therethrough. Also, exhaust enclosures are provided adjacent each of the entrance and exit openings to prevent the entry of outside room air through the openings and into the chamber, and means are provided for subjecting the lower portions of the loops to an extra application of heated air and steam within the chamber for neutralizing the possible cooling effect of any outside cool air which may move into the chamber through the lower portions of the entrance and exit openings. Means are provided for substantially uniformly circulating heated air and steam through all portions of the loops as they move through the chamber and means are also provided whereby the operative runs of the upper supporting belts of the conveyor move laterally with respect to the loops during movement through the chamber to avoid the heat setting of bends or kinks in the yarn at the support points.
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