Rieter is complementing its drawframe range with the RSB-D 22 double-head autoleveler drawframe featuring a maximum delivery speed of 2 × 1 100 m/min. Its independent machine sides and autoleveling functions are a unique feature in a double-head drawframe. Each head delivers exactly the same quality and output that are familiar from the RSB-D 40 single-head drawframe. Further advantages are the reduced space requirements, low energy consumption and low capital investment.

Rieter was the first manufacturer to introduce the concept of the single-head autoleveler drawframe more than 25 years ago. This concept is impressive for its high autoleveling and thus sliver quality.

Superior sliver quality on two heads

In the new RSB-D 22 double-head autoleveler drawframe (Fig. 1) Rieter combines the advantages of the single-head autoleveling concept with the benefits of a double-head drawframe: both sides of the machine and both autoleveling functions of the RSB-D 22 operate completely independently of each other (Fig. 2). In terms of drive power, there is therefore no connection and thus no mutual influencing of the autoleveling functions, as is the case in conventional double-head autoleveler drawframes. Single-head autoleveling quality is thus assured on both heads on the RSB-D 22.

Besides the single-head autoleveling concept, the use of mill-proven RSB-D 40 modules and components also ensures, of course, that each head delivers exactly the same quality and output that are familiar from the RSB-D 40. Identical modules are sliver feed, autoleveling, drafting system, coiling and the two machine displays.

Each side of the machine is equipped with an independent, linear can changer and 2 reserve cans. The empty cans are pushed in from the side between sliver feed and machine. After filling, the cans are ejected forwards. Available delivery can formats are 400 to 600 mm in diameter with a maximum height of up to 1220 mm.

High productivity and low energy consumption

The maximum delivery speed of the RSB-D 22 is 2 × 1 100 m/min (RSB-D 22c: 2 × 550 m/min for combed cotton). In addition to delivery speed, production efficiency is also unique for a double-head drawframe: in the event of sliver breakage in one of the two sliver feeds or if a malfunction occurs, the other side of the machine continues to operate. While one can changer is operating, the other side of the machine can continue to produce independently of this.

The production efficiency of the RSB-D 22 is thus on the level of the RSB-D 40, i.e. 10% to 15% higher than on conventional double-head drawframes.

A joint extraction fan generates suction for both sides of the machine, which reduces energy consumption per kg of sliver by some 10%. Extraction intensity is individually adjustable on each side.

Easy operation and high flexibility

Conventional double-head drawframes are considerably restricted in terms of accessibility, operator convenience and occupational safety. The drawframe can only be operated from the front and personnel have to balance with their legs apart on very small steps. On the RSB-D 22 the operating platform positioned between the drafting system heads enables personnel to operate the machine comfortably and safely. The lateral operating platforms also facilitate all maintenance work.

 Due to the separate machine sides, different doublings, speeds and sliver weights can be run on the two heads. This enables carded and combed cotton to be processed side-by-side on an RSB-D 22, for example. If required, one machine side can also be operated singly.

Low space requirements

The RSB-D 22 is also impressive as regards space requirements: machine width is only 3.2 m in the case of the RSB-D 22 and 2.9 m in the case of the RSB-D 22c. The machine can either be installed on the floor or set into the floor. In the latter case machine length is reduced by a good meter (Fig. 3).

Rieter offers two versions for large feed cans up to 1 000 mm in diameter: in addition to 2-row sliver feed for maximum accessibility of the cans, a version featuring cans arranged in 3 rows is now also available for the first time. The 3-row arrangement reduces the length of the roller feed and is offered exclusively by Rieter.

Mill-proven advantages

Mill-proven advantages from the D 40 generation are also incorporated in the RSB-D 22, of course, such as automatic setting of autoleveling actuation (AUTOset), coiler (CLEANcoil, Fig. 4), automatically lifting cleaner lips on the top rollers, top roller load relief during stoppages or lap formation, automatic filter cleaning, central lubricating bar and integrated sliver separation device.