Slasher

A slasher is a high-capacity continuous sizing system that processes multiple warp beams simultaneously—typically 8 to 16 beams—combining them into a single warp sheet, applying sizing agents, drying the yarns, and winding onto a weaver's beam ready for the loom. This integrated approach is the dominant sizing method for high-volume textile production, offering superior efficiency compared to batch sizing machines.

The process flows through distinct sections. The creel section holds and unwinds multiple warp beams while maintaining consistent tension. Yarns combine into a single sheet and pass through the size box, where the sizing solution coats the fibers. Wet splitting rollers then separate the sticky yarns before they enter the drying section, where 7–14 Teflon-coated steam-heated cylinders remove moisture. Finally, the head stock winds the sized warp onto the weaver's beam at controlled tension.

Operating at 40–150 meters per minute with working widths up to 400 cm, slashers achieve size pick-up rates of 5–18% depending on yarn requirements. Critical parameters include size concentration, temperature control, squeeze pressure, drying temperature, and yarn tension—all requiring careful monitoring to ensure consistent sizing across the full warp width. The resulting sized warp proceeds to a drawing-in machine for threading, then to high-speed looms like air jet machines where proper sizing is essential for minimizing warp breakage.