Carding of Fiber Materials

the process of separating clumps of fiber materials, such as cotton, wool, and chemical fibers, into individual fibers, accompanied by some straightening and blending, removal of contaminants and some short fibers, and the conversion of the opened bulk material into a unbroken, homogeneous product—the sliver or roving. It is one of the primary processes in spinning.

A distinction is made between carding proper and combing. The former process is used for card spinning, card and comb spinning, and condenser spinning and in the production of nonwoven materials and fulling and felt articles. During the process, fibers are subjected to the action of the needles or teeth of the working members of a flat or roller card. Combing is used only for card and comb spinning to produce fine, strong, uniform, and smooth yarn. It is done on a combing machine.