Spinning apparatus

Abstract

Provided is a spinning device capable of suppressing a decrease in temperature of a spinneret and a periphery of the spinneret. The spinning device includes a spinning box (21) into which a spinning assembly (23) that spins a molten polymer (P) downward from a spinneret (24) is inserted; a cooling device (3) disposed below the spinning box (21) and having a spinning drum (31) that extends in the vertical direction in a manner so as to surround the molten polymer (P) spun from the spinneret (24) and that cools the molten polymer (P) by means of cooling air (CF) supplied from the periphery of the spinning drum (31); an air cylinder (5) that moves the cooling device (3) downward relative to the spinning box (21) so as to form a work space between the cooling device and the spinning box; and a control device that, at least in a state in which the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box, stops or suppresses the supply of the cooling air to the spinning drum.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a spinning device. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, spinning equipment has included a cooling device below the spinning box into which the spinning assembly, which spins high-temperature molten polymer from the spinneret, is inserted. This cooling device includes a spinning bobbin surrounding the high-temperature molten polymer spun from the spinneret, to which cooling air is supplied. The high-temperature molten polymer is cooled and solidified by the cooling air, forming a filament.

[0003] In such spinning equipment, regular maintenance is performed to maintain productivity and yarn quality, including cleaning the surface of the spinneret (hereinafter referred to as "surface cleaning") and replacing the spinning components. For example, Patent Document 1 (especially referring to paragraph

[0026] ) discloses a method for maintaining the spinning equipment by lowering the cooling device to ensure working space between it and the spinning box. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 (especially referring to paragraph

[0023] ) discloses a yarn cooling device that allows for the raising and lowering of the yarn cooling device, enabling the replacement of spinning components and surface cleaning by lowering the yarn cooling device.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-145132

[0005] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-42227

[0006] However, according to the technology described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, when the cooling device is lowered or raised, the temperature of the spinneret and its surrounding area may drop significantly due to the upward airflow from the spinning bobbin. When the temperature of the spinneret and its surrounding area drops significantly, it takes time for the temperature of the spinneret and its surrounding area to return to its original temperature after maintenance and the resumption of production. This results in a decrease in the physical properties of the yarn produced under conditions of reduced temperature at the spinneret and its surrounding area, and an increase in the amount of yarn that is discarded. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a spinning device that can suppress the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret.

[0008] (1) The spinning equipment of the present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0009] A spinning box housing into which a spinning assembly is inserted to spin molten polymer downwards from the spinneret;

[0010] A cooling device is disposed below the spinning box and has a spinning bobbin extending in the vertical direction in a manner that surrounds the molten polymer spun from the spinneret. The molten polymer is cooled by cooling air supplied circumferentially from the spinning bobbin.

[0011] The moving mechanism enables the cooling device to move downward relative to the spinning box to create a gap between the cooling device and the spinning box; and

[0012] The temperature reduction suppression unit suppresses the temperature reduction of the spinneret, at least when the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box.

[0013] According to the spinning equipment described in (1) above, when the cooling device is lowered for maintenance, the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret can be suppressed. Therefore, the time until the temperature of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the time until the physical properties of the yarn stabilize can be shortened, thereby reducing the amount of discarded yarn.

[0014] (2) In the spinning equipment described in (1) above, the characteristic is that,

[0015] The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression unit includes a control device that performs at least some control related to the supply of cooling air to the spinning bobbin.

[0016] The aforementioned control device is capable of controlling the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum to stop, or controlling the amount of cooling air supplied to the spinning drum to be suppressed compared to the state before the spinning of the molten polymer stopped, at least when the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box.

[0017] According to the spinning equipment described in (2) above, at least when the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box, control is performed to stop supplying cooling air to the spinning drum or to suppress the amount of cooling air supplied. Therefore, it is possible to stop or suppress the amount of airflow from the spinning drum upward, and to suppress the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surroundings due to the airflow from the spinning drum upward.

[0018] (3) In the spinning equipment described in (2) above, the characteristic is that,

[0019] The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression unit includes an air supply device that supplies air in a direction that intersects the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret between the spinning box and the cooling device.

[0020] According to the spinning equipment described in (3) above, the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading operation into the spinning drum can be easily performed after maintenance. Specifically, during the maintenance of the spinning equipment, when the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is stopped or the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is suppressed, the molten polymer spun from the spinneret may not cool and solidify, making it difficult to thread it into the spinning drum after maintenance. Therefore, by supplying air towards the area between the spinning box and the cooling device, and in a direction that intersects with the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret, the molten polymer spun from the spinneret can be cooled and solidified even when the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is stopped or the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is suppressed. As a result, the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading operation into the spinning drum can be easily performed after maintenance. In addition to cooling and solidifying the molten polymer spun from the spinneret, it can also block airflow towards the spinneret, thereby blocking or suppressing the amount of airflow towards the spinneret.

[0021] (4) In the spinning equipment described in (3) above, the characteristic is that,

[0022] The aforementioned air supply device stops operating when the aforementioned spinning box comes into contact with the aforementioned cooling device.

[0023] According to the spinning equipment described in (4) above, when the spinning box comes into contact with the cooling device, the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum is blocked. When the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum is blocked, most of the cooling air supplied from the cooling device flows downward, which can suppress the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret. As a result, the time until the temperature of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the time until the yarn properties stabilize can be shortened.

[0024] (5) The spinning equipment of the present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0025] A spinning box housing, into which a spinning assembly is inserted to spin molten polymer downwards from a spinneret; and

[0026] A cooling device, disposed below the spinning box, has a spinning bobbin extending vertically in a manner that surrounds the molten polymer spun from the spinneret. The molten polymer is cooled by cooling air supplied to the spinning bobbin.

[0027] The above-mentioned spinning equipment performs the following processes:

[0028] In the preparation process, the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box to form a gap between the cooling device and the spinning box.

[0029] The temperature reduction suppression process, at least while the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box, suppresses the temperature reduction of the spinneret; and

[0030] In the recovery process, after the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box for maintenance, the cooling device is moved upward relative to the spinning box while suppressing the temperature drop of the spinneret.

[0031] According to the spinning equipment described in (5) above, when the cooling device is lowered for maintenance, the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret can be suppressed. Therefore, the time until the temperature of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the time until the yarn properties stabilize can be shortened, thereby reducing the amount of discarded yarn.

[0032] (6) In the spinning equipment described in (5) above, the characteristic is that,

[0033] The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression process includes: stopping the supply of cooling air to the aforementioned spinning bobbin, or suppressing the amount of cooling air supplied to the aforementioned spinning bobbin compared to the state before the aforementioned preparation process.

[0034] According to the spinning equipment described in (6) above, air is supplied in a direction intersecting with the filament channel of the molten polymer passing through the gap formed between the spinning box and the cooling device. This suppresses the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surroundings, and allows the molten polymer spun from the spinneret to cool and solidify. As a result, the yarn can be easily threaded into the spinning drum. Furthermore, the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum can be stopped or the supply can be reduced, at least while the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box.

[0035] (7) In the spinning apparatus of the present invention, it is characterized in that,

[0036] The temperature reduction suppression process includes an air supply process in which air is supplied in a direction that intersects the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret between the spinning box and the cooling device.

[0037] According to the spinning equipment described in (7) above, the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading operation into the spinning drum can be easily performed after maintenance. Specifically, when maintaining the spinning equipment, if the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is stopped or the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is suppressed, the molten polymer spun from the spinneret may not be cooled and solidified, making it difficult to thread it into the spinning drum after maintenance. Therefore, by supplying air towards the area between the spinning box and the cooling device, and in a direction that intersects with the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret, the molten polymer spun from the spinneret can be cooled and solidified even if the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is stopped or the supply of cooling air to the spinning drum is suppressed. As a result, the temperature drop of the spinneret and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading operation into the spinning drum can be easily performed after maintenance. In addition to cooling and solidifying the molten polymer spun from the spinneret, it can also block airflow towards the spinneret, thereby blocking or suppressing the amount of airflow towards the spinneret.

[0038] (8) In the spinning equipment described in (7) above, the characteristic is that,

[0039] The above air supply process is as follows:

[0040] After the above maintenance is performed, the air supply shall be stopped during or after the above restoration procedure.

[0041] According to the spinning equipment described in (8) above, the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum is blocked when the recovery process ends. When the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum is blocked, most of the cooling air supplied from the cooling device flows downward, which can suppress the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret. As a result, the time until the temperature of the spinneret and the area around the spinneret returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the time until the yarn properties stabilize can be shortened.

[0042] The spinning apparatus of the present invention does not necessarily have all the configurations described in (1) to (4) above. For example, in the invention of the spinning apparatus described in (1) above, the configurations described in (2) to (4) above are not necessary. Furthermore, within the scope of integration, the configurations described in (1) above can be arbitrarily combined with some or all of the configurations described in (2) above. The configurations described in (1), some or all of the configurations described in (2), and some or all of the configurations described in (3) above can be arbitrarily combined. Similarly, the spinning apparatus of the present invention does not necessarily have all the configurations described in (5) to (8) above. For example, in the invention of the spinning equipment described in (5) above, the configurations described in (6) to (8) above are not necessary. Furthermore, within the scope of integration, the configurations described in (5) above can be arbitrarily combined with some or all of the configurations described in (6) above. The configurations described in (5), some or all of the configurations described in (6) above, and some or all of the configurations described in (7) above can also be arbitrarily combined.

[0043] The effects of the invention

[0044] According to the present invention, a spinning device capable of suppressing the temperature drop of the spinneret and the area surrounding the spinneret can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus of this embodiment viewed from the right side.

[0046] Figure 2 Looking from the front Figure 1 An example of a schematic diagram of a portion of the spinning equipment shown.

[0047] Figure 3 It means in Figure 1 An example of a schematic diagram showing the state of the spinning equipment when the cooling device is lowered in the spinning equipment shown.

[0048] Figure 4This is an example of a block diagram showing a general outline of the electrical configuration of a spinning device.

[0049] Figure 5 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of conventional spinning equipment, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment in operation.

[0050] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the maintenance procedures for conventional spinning equipment and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment when the spinning of molten polymer has stopped.

[0051] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the maintenance procedures for conventional spinning equipment and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment when the cooling device is lowered relative to the spinning box.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of conventional spinning equipment, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when replacing spinning components.

[0053] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the maintenance procedures for conventional spinning equipment and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment when the spinning of molten polymer resumes.

[0054] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the maintenance procedures for conventional spinning equipment. It is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of a spinning equipment with the cover over the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder removed.

[0055] Figure 11 This diagram is used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of conventional spinning equipment. It is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when performing the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning drum 31.

[0056] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the results of the evaluation of circular knitting dyeing over time, after the knitting process has been restored to its operational state through previous maintenance procedures.

[0057] Figure 13 It is a graph showing the changes in thermal stress and untwisting tension of the yarn over time after it has been restored to its operating state through previous maintenance procedures.

[0058] Figure 14 It is a graph showing the change in the surface temperature of the spinneret over time after the start of the usual maintenance procedures.

[0059] Figure 15This diagram illustrates the maintenance procedures of the present invention and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment when the supply of cooling air to the spinning bobbin is stopped.

[0060] Figure 16 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment during surface cleaning.

[0061] Figure 17 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance process of the present invention, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when restarting the spinning of molten polymer from the spinneret.

[0062] Figure 18 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance process of the present invention, and is an example of a schematic diagram of a part of a spinning apparatus showing the state in which the cover covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin is removed.

[0063] Figure 19 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when performing the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning bobbin.

[0064] Figure 20 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment in operation.

[0065] Figure 21 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance process of a modified example, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when the spinning of molten polymer stops.

[0066] Figure 22 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures for a modified example. It is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when the cooling device is lowered relative to the spinning box to the lower end.

[0067] Figure 23 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance process of a modified example, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment after the spinning of the molten polymer has restarted.

[0068] Figure 24 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of a modified example, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when the air supply device starts operating.

[0069] Figure 25 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of a modified example. It is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when performing the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning bobbin.

[0070] Figure 26This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures of a modified example. It is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when the cooling device is raised to the upper end relative to the spinning box.

[0071] Figure 27 This is a diagram used to illustrate the maintenance procedures for a modified example, and is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning equipment when it is restored to its operating state.

[0072] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the results of the circular knitting dyeing evaluation over time after maintenance and restoration to operating status through the maintenance process of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 29 This is a graph showing the changes in thermal stress and untwisting tension of the yarn over time after it has been restored to its operating state, both when maintenance was performed using the usual maintenance procedures and when maintenance was performed using the modified maintenance procedures.

[0074] Figure 30 This is a graph showing an example of the change in the surface temperature of the spinneret after maintenance begins, over time, in conventional maintenance procedures, the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and the maintenance procedures of modified examples.

[0075] Explanation of symbols

[0076] 1: Spinning equipment; 3: Cooling device; 5: Cylinder; 6: Air supply device; 7: Control device; 21: Spinning box; 23: Spinning assembly; 24: Spinneret; 31: Spinning tube; P: Molten polymer; CF: Cooling air; Sw: Working space. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions are shown in the figures described later.

[0078] [1. Overview of Spinning Equipment]

[0079] First, a general overview of the spinning apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 of this embodiment viewed from the right side. Figure 2 Looking from the front Figure 1 An example of a schematic diagram of a portion of the spinning equipment 1 shown. Figure 3 It means in Figure 1 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing the state of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 is lowered. However, in Figure 1 as well as Figure 3The middle part is omitted Figure 2 The illustration shows the polymer tank 25 and the polymer piping 26. Furthermore, in Figure 3 For convenience, the illustrations of molten polymer P and filament Y are omitted. However, molten polymer P can also be spun from spinneret 24 when cooling device 3 is lowered, and then cooled and solidified by cooling device 3 and other conditions to form filament Y.

[0080] The spinning apparatus 1 of this invention is an apparatus for producing yarn Y made of synthetic fibers. For example, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the spinning equipment 1 includes at least a spinning device 2, a cooling device 3, a moving mechanism 5, an air supply device 6, and a control device 7 (described later). Figure 4 In addition, the spinning equipment 1 also includes an oiling device 8, a traction device (not shown), and a winding device (not shown), but these are omitted here.

[0081] (Spinning apparatus)

[0082] like Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, the spinning apparatus 2 is a melt spinning apparatus configured to spin molten polymer P, which is the material Y, into filaments. The spinning apparatus 2 has a generally rectangular cuboid spinning box 21, multiple component housings 22 formed in the spinning box 21, multiple (e.g., the same number as the multiple component housings 22) spinning components 23 respectively installed in the multiple component housings 22, a polymer tank 25 containing polymer, and multiple polymer pipes 26 connecting each spinning component 23 to the polymer tank 25.

[0083] In addition, Figure 2 For convenience, the number of component housing 22 and spinning component 23 is set to 3 in the illustration, but it is not limited to this. The number of component housing 22 and spinning component 23 can also be more (e.g., 12).

[0084] The polymer in the polymer tank 25 is transported to multiple spinning assemblies 23 via multiple polymer pipes 26. When the polymer is transported from the polymer tank 25 to the spinning assembly 23, the polymer inside the polymer tank 25 and the polymer pipes 26 is heated to a specified temperature (e.g., 300°C) by the spinning box 21 and becomes molten polymer.

[0085] Molten polymer heated to a high temperature is supplied to each spinning assembly 23 through polymer piping 26. A spinneret 24 is disposed at the lower end of each spinning assembly 23. That is, the number of spinnerets 24 is the same as the number of spinning assemblies 23. The spinneret 24, for example, has multiple nozzles (not shown). The spinning assembly 23 ejects molten polymer P (in other words, spins filaments Y) from the multiple nozzles of the spinneret 24. The molten polymer P ejected from the multiple nozzles is cooled by the cooling device 3, becoming a filament Y composed of multiple filaments. That is, one filament Y is spun from one spinneret 24. Alternatively, each spinneret 24 does not necessarily have multiple nozzles; it may have only one nozzle. In this case, the filament Y is generated as a monofilament.

[0086] (Cooling device)

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooling device 3 includes a spinning bobbin 31 disposed below the spinning device 2, a pipe 32 connected to the spinning bobbin 31, and a first compressed air source 37 (see below) that supplies cooling air CF to the spinning bobbin 31 via the pipe 32. Figure 4 In this embodiment, a ring-shaped filament cooling device is used as the cooling device 3, for example. The spinning bobbin 31 is, for example, a hollow box, and extends vertically in a manner that surrounds the molten polymer spun from the spinneret 24 (so that the molten polymer P is located in the hollow portion CE). Inside the spinning bobbin 31, there is a rectifier plate 33, and cooling air (hereinafter referred to as "cooling air CF") supplied from the first compressed air source 37 passes through the pipe 32 and is supplied to the lower space of the spinning bobbin 31 (the space below the rectifier plate 33). The cooling air CF flowing into the lower space of the spinning bobbin 31 is rectified upward by the rectifier plate 33 and flows to the upper space of the spinning bobbin 31 (the space above the rectifier plate 33). A plurality of partition cylinders 35 are arranged directly below the filter component 36. The separator 35 is configured to prevent the cooling air CF from passing through radially, thus preventing the cooling air CF from flowing directly into the hollow portion CE from the lower space of the spinning bobbin 31. The cooling air CF flowing into the upper space of the spinning bobbin 31 is rectified and flows into the hollow portion CE, for example, when passing through the filter component 36, which consists of a perforated filter and a cooling filter. Thus, the cooling air CF is blown circumferentially from the filter component 36, more specifically, from the outer circumference of the filter 36, toward the yarn material, cooling the yarn material and forming yarn Y. Furthermore, a sealing component 40 is provided at the point where the spinning box 21 abuts against the spinning bobbin 31. This sealing component 40 prevents leakage from the contact surface between the spinning box 21 and the spinning bobbin 31.

[0088] (Mobile organization)

[0089] The moving mechanism 5 is, for example, composed of a cylinder (hereinafter referred to as cylinder 5), and is configured to move the cooling device 3 up and down. More specifically, the cylinder 5 is, for example, erected on the factory floor. The cylinder 5 has a piston rod 52 that is longer in the vertical direction and is configured to expand and contract in the vertical direction. A wall member 10 extending downward is fixed to the lower end of the spinning bobbin 31. The front end of the piston rod 52 is fixed to the side of the wall member 10. In this configuration, by the action of the cylinder 5, the cooling device 3 as a whole can be in the first position when the spinning equipment 1 is operating (see reference 1). Figure 1 ) and the second position, which is lower than the first position (refer to) Figure 3 The cooling device 3 moves between the piston rod 52 of cylinder 5 in the expansion direction. Figure 1 When the piston rod moves in the upward direction, it rises; when the piston rod 52 moves in the contraction direction ( Figure 1 The device descends during the downward movement (in the middle). When the cooling device 3 is in the first position, yarn Y can be generated. When the cooling device 3 is in the first position, the cooling device 3 is subjected to an upward force (towards the spinning box 21 side) by the cylinder 5. When the cooling device 3 is in the second position, a gap as a working space Sw is formed between the spinning device 2 (more specifically the spinning box 21) and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. Hereinafter, for convenience, the above-mentioned "first position" will be referred to as the "upper end" and the above-mentioned "second position" will be referred to as the "lower end". However, the above-mentioned "first position" is not limited to the upper end, and the above-mentioned "second position" is not limited to the lower end.

[0090] (Air supply device)

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, the air supply device 6 is a device that supplies air in a manner that allows crosswinds SF to flow in a generally horizontal direction within the working space Sw when the cooling device 3 is located at the lower end. Additionally, in this specification, "air supply" is sometimes referred to as "venting".

[0092] The air supply device 6 is, for example, supplied by a second compressed air source 66 (see below). Figure 4 The device comprises multiple air nozzles 62 capable of releasing crosswinds SF from air supplied from the second compressed air source 66 (e.g., compressed air), and air pipes 64 connecting the second compressed air source 66 to each air nozzle 62. The multiple air nozzles 62 are arranged in a left-right direction, corresponding to the multiple spinning assemblies 23. In this embodiment, the multiple air nozzles 62 are configured such that the crosswinds SF released from the air nozzles 62 are released in a vertical direction within the working space Sw between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3, in a direction from rear to front. The purpose of directing the crosswinds SF released from the multiple air nozzles 62 in one direction is to avoid interference between cooling airflows CF directed in different directions.

[0093] Furthermore, it is not necessary to configure the multiple air nozzles 62 to allow the cooling air CF to flow from rear to front; for example, they can also be configured to allow the crosswind SF to flow from front to rear. Additionally, the multiple air nozzles 62 can be configured to allow the crosswind SF to flow from left to right or from right to left. However, considering that the flow rate of the crosswind SF decreases with increasing distance from the air nozzles 62, it is preferable to configure the air nozzles 62 to allow the crosswind SF to flow from rear to front or from front to rear.

[0094] Furthermore, it is not necessary to configure multiple air nozzles 62 corresponding to multiple spinning assemblies 23. For example, instead of multiple air nozzles 62, a single flat nozzle can be configured, the width of which is greater than the left-right length of the multiple spinning assemblies 23 from the left spinning assembly 23 to the right spinning assembly 23.

[0095] Furthermore, the purpose of ensuring that the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 flows in a generally horizontal direction within the working space Sw is to prevent the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 from flowing towards the spinneret 24 and its surroundings. Therefore, if the compressed air emitted from the air nozzle 62 does not flow towards the spinneret 24 and its surroundings, it is not necessary to configure the air nozzle 62 to make the compressed air emitted from the air nozzle 62 a crosswind SF flowing in a generally horizontal direction. For example, the air nozzle 62 can be configured to make the compressed air emitted from the air nozzle 62 flow diagonally downwards, or it can be configured to make the compressed air emitted from the air nozzle 62 flow diagonally upwards.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second compressed air source 66 for supplying compressed air to the air nozzle 62 and a first compressed air source 37 for supplying cooling air CF to the spinning bobbin 31 are separately provided. However, this is not a limitation; a common compressed air source supplying compressed air to both the air nozzle 62 and the spinning bobbin 31 may also be provided. Moreover, it is not necessary to connect the second compressed air source 66 to each air nozzle 62 via an air piping 64; for example, it can be connected via an air hose.

[0097] (Control device)

[0098] Figure 4 This is an example of a block diagram showing a general outline of the electrical configuration of the spinning equipment 1. The control device 7 performs processes related to the operation of the spinning equipment 1, such as controlling the spinning of the molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 and stopping the spinning, operating or stopping the cylinder 5, controlling the flow rate of the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning bobbin 31 (i.e., the hollow section CE), and controlling the flow rate of compressed air released from the air nozzle 62 constituting the air supply device 6. Furthermore, the "temperature reduction suppression unit" of this invention includes the control device 7.

[0099] The control device 7 includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The control device 7 is connected to an operation unit 72 (comprising buttons that can be operated by an operator), an upper detection sensor 76 (detecting when the cooling device 3 is at the upper end), and a lower detection sensor 78 (detecting when the cooling device 3 is at the lower end). The control device 7 can receive signals from the operation unit 72, the upper detection sensor 76, and the lower detection sensor 78.

[0100] Furthermore, the control device 7 is connected to a gear pump 28 that enables the molten polymer P to be spun from the spinneret 24, a first compressed air source 37, a second compressed air source 66, and a solenoid valve 74 that actuates the cylinder. The control device 7 controls the gear pump 28, the first compressed air source 37, the second compressed air source 66, and the solenoid valve 74 based on various signals received from the operation unit 72, the upper detection sensor 76, and the lower detection sensor 78. The control device 7 controls the operation of the cylinder 5 by controlling the solenoid valve 74.

[0101] When the first compressed air source 37 is controlled, the flow rate (hereinafter referred to as "air volume") of the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 is controlled. When the second compressed air source 66 is controlled, the flow rate (hereinafter referred to as "air volume" in the same way as the cooling air CF) of the cross air SF released from the air nozzle 62 is controlled.

[0102] Alternatively, instead of controlling the operation and shutdown of the first compressed air source 37, an automatic valve can be installed upstream of the pipe 32, and the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 can be controlled by controlling this automatic valve. Furthermore, an automatic valve can also be installed upstream of the air nozzle 62, and the airflow SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 can be controlled by controlling this automatic valve.

[0103] [2. Maintenance Procedure]

[0104] Next, the maintenance procedures for the spinning equipment will be described. Before describing the maintenance procedures of the present invention in spinning equipment 1, we will first refer to… Figures 5 to 11 The conventional maintenance procedures will be described. Furthermore, when describing the conventional maintenance procedures, the symbols used to denote the various components (spinning apparatus, cooling apparatus, etc.) constituting the conventional spinning equipment 100 will be directly adopted for the various components of the spinning equipment 1 constituting the embodiment of the present invention. However, the conventional spinning equipment 100 does not include the aforementioned air supply device 6.

[0105] [2-1. Traditional maintenance procedures for spinning equipment]

[0106] Figure 5This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 100 in operation, i.e., during production. During operation of the spinning equipment 100, the spinning housing 21 is in contact with the cooling device 3. During operation of the spinning equipment 100, molten polymer P is spun from the spinneret 24, and cooling air CF is supplied from the first compressed air source 37 to the spinning drum 31 via pipe 32. The cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 flows horizontally into the hollow section CE, cooling the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24.

[0107] [2-1-1. Preparation Process]

[0108] Figure 6 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 100 when the spinning of the molten polymer P has stopped. In the case of maintenance of the spinning equipment 100, firstly as... Figure 6 As shown, the spinning of molten polymer P from spinneret 24 is stopped. The stopping of molten polymer P spinning is, for example, executed by control device 7 based on operator input. Additionally, during maintenance, cooling air CF is continuously supplied through cooling device 3. In this specification, maintenance includes, for example, cleaning the spinneret 24 surface and replacing the spinning assembly 23.

[0109] Figure 7 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 100 when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21 to the lower end. The control device 7, after stopping the spinning of the molten polymer P, as shown... Figure 7 As shown, the cylinder 5 is moved in the contraction direction, causing the cooling device 3 to descend relative to the spinning box 21. When the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, a working space Sw is formed between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. As the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, the operator immediately covers the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 with a cover 42. By covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 with the cover 42, the upward airflow (i.e., cooling air CF) from the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 is blocked.

[0110] [2-1-2. Main Maintenance Process]

[0111] After the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is covered by the cover 42, the operator performs maintenance. Maintenance includes cleaning the spinneret 24 and replacing the spinning assembly 23. The time required for maintenance depends on the specific tasks performed, but is generally around 10 minutes. The operator cleans the spinneret 24 or replaces the spinning assembly 23 as needed. Figure 8 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 100 when the spinning assembly 23 is changed.

[0112] [2-1-3. Restart the process after molten polymer spinning]

[0113] Figure 9 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 100 when the spinning of the molten polymer P restarts. After maintenance, the control device 7, for example, adjusts according to the operator's actions. Figure 9 As shown, begin (restart) spinning the molten polymer P from the spinneret 24.

[0114] [2-1-4. Cover Removal Process]

[0115] Figure 10 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 100 with the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 removed. When the spinning of the molten polymer P resumes, the operator, as... Figure 10 The operation of removing the cover 42 that covers the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is carried out as shown.

[0116] [2-1-5. Threading Process]

[0117] Figure 11 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 100 during the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning drum 31. After the operation of removing the cover 42 that covers the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31, as... Figure 11 As shown, the operator performs the threading operation of passing the molten polymer P (or the cooled and solidified filament Y) spun from the spinneret 24 through the spinning drum 31.

[0118] [2-1-6. Restoration Process]

[0119] After the yarn threading operation, the control device 7, for example, according to the operator's operation, causes the cylinder 5 to move in the expanding direction, causing the cooling device 3 to rise in a manner close to the spinning box 21. The control device 7 is configured to, when detected by the upper detection sensor 76 (see reference...),... Figure 4 When the cooling device 3 is detected to be at the upper end, the operation of cylinder 5 is stopped, thus halting the upward movement of the cooling device 3. When the cooling device 3 stops at the upper end, the spinning box 21 and the cooling device 3 come into contact via the sealing member 40. Additionally, other preparations for production commencement are performed during the recovery process, but illustrations related to these preparations are omitted.

[0120] When the recovery process is completed, the spinning equipment 100 resumes normal operation and enters production. Previously, the spinning equipment 100 was maintained through the aforementioned process.

[0121] [2-1-7. Issues encountered in previous maintenance procedures, etc.]

[0122] When the yarn is restored to operating condition through such routine maintenance procedures, the yarn's physical properties decrease, for example, as... Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 As shown, it takes a considerable amount of time for the physical properties of the thread to return to normal (i.e., until it is judged to be a normal thread). Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the results of the evaluation of circular knitting dyeing over time after the knitting has been restored to its operating state through previous maintenance procedures. Figure 13 It is a graph showing the changes in thermal stress and untwisting tension of the yarn over time after it has been restored to its operating state through previous maintenance procedures.

[0123] like Figure 12 As shown, as a result of the circular knitting dyeing evaluation, after returning to the running state, approximately 60 minutes later, the color is lighter compared to the reference point (hereinafter referred to as "BM"), and therefore it will not be judged as normal yarn. Then, after returning to the running state, approximately 70 minutes later, it becomes a color close to BM and will be judged as normal yarn.

[0124] like Figure 13 As shown, the untwisting tension and thermal stress are both close to the baseline values ​​after approximately 80 to 90 minutes of recovery to operating conditions. Additionally, as... Figure 13 As shown, the reference value for untwisting tension, BM, is for example 30.8 [cN], and the reference value for thermal stress, BM, is for example 83.1 [cN], but BM varies depending on the type of yarn, etc.

[0125] Thus, after being restored to operational status through previous maintenance procedures, it takes a considerable amount of time for the yarn properties to return to normal. Therefore, even assuming continued production, the result is simply an increase in discarded yarn. The reason why it takes a considerable amount of time for the yarn properties to return to normal after being restored to operational status through previous maintenance procedures can be attributed to the significant drop in temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area during the maintenance process, requiring time for the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area to return to its original level.

[0126] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the change in surface temperature of the spinneret 24 over time after the initial maintenance procedures have been followed. For example... Figure 14As shown, when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21, the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 decreases almost continuously, and decreases significantly at the end of maintenance. When maintenance is completed and the cooling device 3 is raised closer to the spinning box 21, the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 gradually recovers. Figure 14 As shown, it takes approximately 2000 seconds or more from the start of the cooling device 3 until the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 returns to its original temperature (e.g., the temperature before maintenance).

[0127] However, the reason for the significant drop in surface temperature of the spinneret 24 during previous maintenance procedures can be attributed to the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 flowing upwards from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31. During the threading operation, where the molten polymer P (or the cooled and solidified filament Y) spun from the spinneret 24 passes through the spinning drum 31, it is cooled by the cooling air CF flowing upwards from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 (e.g., see reference). Figure 11 Cooling and solidification. In this case, although the operator can perform the threading operation without using tools, the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area will be cooled by the cooling air CF directed upwards from the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31. Therefore, the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area drops significantly, and it takes time for the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area to return to its original temperature after resuming operation.

[0128] Therefore, in order to solve the problems that are obvious in such conventional maintenance procedures, the spinning equipment 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is maintained by the following maintenance procedures. The maintenance procedures of the spinning equipment 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0129] [2-2. Maintenance procedures of the present invention]

[0130] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 6 as well as Figures 15-20 The maintenance process of the present invention will be described. A major difference between the spinning apparatus 1 of the present invention and the conventional spinning apparatus 100 is that cooling air CF is not supplied to the spinning bobbin 31 during the maintenance process. Furthermore, the spinning apparatus 1 of the present invention does not operate the air supply device 6 during the maintenance process, therefore the air supply device 6 is not necessary. Figures 15-20 The illustration of the air supply device 6 is omitted.

[0131] During the operation of spinning equipment 1, such as Figure 5 As shown, the lower end of the spinning box 21 abuts against the upper end of the cooling device 3. During the operation of the spinning equipment 1, molten polymer P is spun from the spinneret 24 and from the first compressed air source 37 (see reference). Figure 4(The same applies below.) Cooling air CF is supplied to the spinning drum 31 via pipe 32. The cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 flows into the hollow section CE in a generally horizontal direction to cool the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24.

[0132] [2-2-1. Preparation Process]

[0133] When performing maintenance on spinning equipment 1, firstly as follows: Figure 6 As shown, the spinning of molten polymer P from spinneret 24 is stopped. The stopping of spinning of molten polymer P is, for example, executed by control device 7 according to the operation of the operator.

[0134] Figure 15 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning spindle 31 is stopped. After the control device 7 stops spinning the molten polymer P from the spinneret 24, it stops operating the first compressed air source 37, for example, as... Figure 15 As shown, the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is stopped.

[0135] Figure 16 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21 to its lower end. The control device 7 is configured to, when the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning cylinder 31 is stopped, [further details are needed]. Figure 16 As shown, the cylinder 5 is moved in the contraction direction, causing the cooling device 3 to descend relative to the spinning box 21. When the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, a working space Sw is formed between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. When the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, the operator performs the operation of covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 through the cover 42. However, since the cooling air CF is stopped from being supplied to the spinning bobbin 31, it is not necessary to perform the operation of covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 through the cover 42.

[0136] In addition, the timing for stopping the spinning of molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 is preferably before the cooling device 3 begins to descend relative to the spinning box 21, but it is not limited to this. It can also be done during the descent of the cooling device 3 relative to the spinning box 21, or after the cooling device 3 has descended to the lower end relative to the spinning box 21.

[0137] Furthermore, the timing of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning cylinder 31 is not limited to after the spinning of molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 is stopped, but can be done immediately before the spinning of molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 is stopped, or almost simultaneously with the spinning of molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 is stopped.

[0138] [2-2-2. Main Maintenance Process]

[0139] The cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, and after the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is covered by the cover 42 (though not strictly necessary), the operator performs maintenance corresponding to the purpose, such as cleaning the spinneret 24 and replacing the spinning assembly 23. The time required for maintenance depends on the content of the maintenance, but is approximately 10 minutes.

[0140] [2-2-3. Restart the process after molten polymer spinning]

[0141] Figure 17 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 1 when resuming spinning of molten polymer P from spinneret 24. After maintenance, the control device 7, for example, adjusts according to the operator's actions. Figure 17 As shown, begin (restart) spinning the molten polymer P from the spinneret 24.

[0142] [2-2-4. Cover Removal Process]

[0143] Figure 18 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 with the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 removed. With the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31, after the molten polymer P is spun from the spinneret 24 (restarting), the operator removes the cover 42 from the opening. Furthermore, at this time, since the cooling air CF is stopped from being supplied to the spinning cylinder 31, the cooling air CF does not flow upwards from the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31.

[0144] [2-2-5. Temperature Reduction Suppression Process]

[0145] The timing for stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is as described above. However, when the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 is covered by the cover 42, it is sufficient to stop the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 at least before removing the cover 42. This is because, while the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 is covered by the cover 42, the cooling air CF can be prevented from flowing from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 toward the spinneret 24. The process of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is equivalent to a temperature reduction suppression process.

[0146] [2-2-6. Threading Process]

[0147] Figure 19 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a part of the spinning apparatus 1 during the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning drum 31. After the operation of removing the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 is performed, as... Figure 19As shown, the operator performs a threading operation, passing the molten polymer P (or the cooled and solidified filament Y) spun from the spinneret 24 through the spinning drum 31. At this time, since no cooling air CF is supplied to the spinning drum 31, the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 is likely to remain in a molten state without being cooled and solidified. Therefore, the operator preferably uses tools such as clamps to perform the threading operation.

[0148] [2-2-7. Restoration Process]

[0149] Figure 20 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 is raised to the upper end relative to the spinning box 21. After the threading operation, the control device 7, for example, moves the cylinder 5 in the expansion direction according to the operator's operation, and... Figure 20 The cooling device 3 is raised in a manner close to the spinning box 21 as shown. The control device 7 stops the operation of the cylinder 5 and stops the rising of the cooling device 3 when the lower end of the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the upper end of the cooling device 3.

[0150] When the lower end of the spinning box 21 abuts against the upper end of the cooling device 3 and the rising of the cooling device 3 stops, the operator applies yarn to the oiling device 8. After applying yarn to the oiling device 8, the control device 7 restarts the operation of the first compressed air source 37, for example, according to the operator's operation, and so on. Figure 20 Cooling air CF is supplied to the spinning drum 31 as shown. In addition, the timing of attaching the yarn to the oiling device 8 is not limited to after the cooling device 3 has risen relative to the spinning box 21, but can also be before the cooling device 3 begins to rise relative to the spinning box 21, or during the rising of the cooling device 3 relative to the spinning box 21.

[0151] In addition, other preparations for production commencement are carried out during the recovery process, but illustrations related to these preparations are omitted. When the recovery process is completed, the spinning equipment 1 operates normally and becomes operational.

[0152] [2-2-8. Effects, etc.]

[0153] In this maintenance procedure of the present invention, as described above, the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is stopped at least while the cooling device 3 has been moved downward relative to the spinning box 21. Therefore, the upward flow of cooling air CF from the spinning drum 31 can be stopped. As a result, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed.

[0154] Furthermore, in the maintenance process of the present invention described above, the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 was stopped. However, instead of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31, the airflow of cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 can be suppressed. When the airflow of cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 is suppressed, the airflow of cooling air CF from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 toward the spinneret 24 is suppressed, thus suppressing the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area. Therefore, after returning to the operating state, the time until the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the amount of discarded yarn can be reduced.

[0155] The maintenance procedures of the present invention are as described above, but the maintenance procedures for solving problems that are obvious in conventional maintenance procedures are not limited thereto. Hereinafter, the maintenance procedures of modified examples will be described.

[0156] [2-3. Maintenance procedures for modified examples]

[0157] Reference Figures 21-27 The maintenance procedures for the modified example are explained. The state of the spinning equipment 1 during production, i.e., in operation, is compared with... Figure 1 Since they are the same, the diagram showing the state of spinning equipment 1 in operation is omitted.

[0158] The main difference between the maintenance procedure of the modified example and the maintenance procedure of the present invention is that, at least during the period when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21, a crosswind SF is supplied to the working space Sw between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the maintenance procedure is the same as the maintenance procedure of the present invention, in which cooling air CF is not supplied to the spinning bobbin 31.

[0159] like Figure 1 As shown, during the operation of the spinning equipment 1, the lower end of the spinning box 21 abuts against the upper end of the cooling device 3. During the operation of the spinning equipment 1, molten polymer P is spun from the spinneret 24 and flows from the first compressed air source 37 through the pipe 32 (see reference). Figure 4 Cooling air CF is supplied to the spinning cylinder 31. The cooling air CF supplied to the spinning cylinder 31 flows into the hollow section CE in a generally horizontal direction to cool the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24. In addition, during the operation of the spinning equipment 1, crosswind SF is not released from the air nozzle 62.

[0160] [2-3-1. Preparation Process]

[0161] Figure 21 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 1 when the spinning of the molten polymer P has stopped. In the case of maintenance of the spinning equipment 1, firstly, as... Figure 21As shown, the spinning of molten polymer P from spinneret 24 is stopped. The stopping of spinning of molten polymer P is executed, for example, by control device 7 according to the operator's operation. The air supply device 6 stops operating, and air is not supplied from the second compressed air source 66 to the air nozzle 62, so crosswind SF is not released from the air nozzle 62.

[0162] The control device 7 stops the operation of the first compressed air source 37 and stops supplying cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 after the spinning of the molten polymer P is stopped. By stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31, it is possible to prevent the cooling air CF from flowing from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 toward the spinneret 24, thereby suppressing a significant drop in temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area.

[0163] Figure 22 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21 to its lower end. The control device 7 is configured to, when the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning cylinder 31 is stopped, [further details are needed]. Figure 22 As shown, the cylinder 5 is moved in the contraction direction, causing the cooling device 3 to descend relative to the spinning box 21. When the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, a working space Sw is formed between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. When the cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, the operator performs the operation of covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 with the cover 42. However, since the cooling air CF is stopped from being supplied to the spinning bobbin 31, the operation of covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 with the cover 42 is not necessary. The air supply device 6 stops operating, and compressed air is not supplied from the second compressed air source 66 to the air nozzle 62, so no crosswind SF is released from the air nozzle 62.

[0164] In addition, the timing for stopping the spinning of the molten polymer P is preferably before the cooling device 3 begins to descend relative to the spinning box 21, but it is not limited to this. It can be done during the descent of the cooling device 3 relative to the spinning box 21 or after the cooling device 3 has descended to the lower end relative to the yarn box 21.

[0165] Furthermore, the timing of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning cylinder 31 is not limited to after the spinning of molten polymer P has stopped; it can be done before the spinning of molten polymer P has stopped, or almost simultaneously with the stopping of the spinning of molten polymer P.

[0166] [2-3-2. Main Maintenance Process]

[0167] The cooling device 3 descends relative to the spinning box 21, and after the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is covered by the cover 42 (though not strictly necessary), the operator performs maintenance corresponding to the purpose, such as cleaning the spinneret 24 and replacing the spinning assembly 23. The time required for maintenance depends on the content of the maintenance, but is approximately 10 minutes.

[0168] [2-3-3. Restart the process after the melt polymer is spun]

[0169] Figure 23 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 1 after the spinning of the molten polymer P has restarted. After maintenance, the control device 7, for example, adjusts according to operator input, such as... Figure 23 The molten polymer P is spun from the spinneret 24 as shown (restarting). Furthermore, with the opening on the upper side of the spinning tube 31 covered by the cover 42, the operator removes the cover 42 from the opening on the upper side of the spinning tube 31.

[0170] [2-3-4. Temperature reduction suppression process]

[0171] The aforementioned process of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is included in the temperature reduction suppression process. Furthermore, regarding the timing of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31, as described above, when the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 is covered by the cover 42, it is sufficient to stop the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 at least until the cover 42 is removed. This is because, while the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 is covered by the cover 42, the cover 42 can prevent the cooling air CF from flowing from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 toward the spinneret 24.

[0172] Figure 24 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 has started operating. The control device 7 starts operating the air supply device 6 after the spinning of the molten polymer P has restarted. When the air supply device 6 starts operating, a crosswind SF is released from the air nozzle 62 in a generally horizontal direction toward the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 in the working space Sw between the spinning apparatus 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction. The air supply process of releasing the crosswind SF from the air nozzle 62 in a generally horizontal direction toward the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 in the working space Sw is also included in the temperature reduction suppression process.

[0173] The operation of the air supply device 6 can be started either after the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 is removed, or before the cover 42 covering the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 is removed. At this time, since cooling air CF is not supplied to the spinning bobbin 31, the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed from dropping significantly due to the cooling air CF flowing upward from the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31.

[0174] Furthermore, the timing of starting the air supply device 6 is not limited to after the spinning of the molten polymer P has restarted, but can also be before the spinning of the molten polymer P from the spinneret 24 has restarted.

[0175] However, as described above, by stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed. On the other hand, when the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is stopped, the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 cannot be cooled and solidified by the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31. If the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 is not cooled and solidified, it may be difficult to thread the yarn into the spinning drum 31 after maintenance. However, in the working space Sw, a crosswind SF is released from the air nozzle 62 toward the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24, thereby cooling and solidifying the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24. As a result, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading of the yarn into the spinning drum 31 after maintenance can be easily performed.

[0176] [2-3-5. Threading Process]

[0177] Figure 25 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 during the threading operation of passing the yarn through the spinning bobbin 31. When the crosswind SF begins to be released from the air nozzle 62, as... Figure 25 As shown, the operator performs a threading operation, passing the molten polymer P (or the cooled and solidified filament Y) spun from the spinneret 24 through the spinning drum 31. At this time, the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 is cooled and solidified by the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62. Therefore, the operator can perform the threading operation without using tools.

[0178] [2-3-6. Restoration Process]

[0179] Figure 26 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning apparatus 1 when the cooling device 3 is raised to the upper end relative to the spinning box 21. After the threading operation into the spinning cylinder 31 is performed, as... Figure 26As shown, the control device 7, for example, moves the cylinder 5 in the expansion direction according to the operator's operation, causing the cooling device 3 to rise in a manner close to the spinning box 21. The control device 7 stops the movement of the cylinder 5 when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3, thus stopping the rise of the cooling device 3. Furthermore, the control device 7 stops the operation of the air supply device 6 and stops the release of crosswind SF from the air nozzle 62 when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3 and the rise of the cooling device 3 stops, thus ending the air supply process. The timing for stopping the release of crosswind SF from the air nozzle 62 is preferably when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3 and the rise of the cooling device 3 stops. This is because it allows the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 to cool and solidify. However, it is also possible to stop the release of crosswind SF from the air nozzle 62 before the cooling device 3 rises relative to the spinning box 21 or during the process of the cooling device 3 rising in a manner close to the spinning box 21. Furthermore, when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3, the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is blocked, and all or most of the cooling air CF flowing into the hollow section CE flows downwards. Even after the air supply process ends, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed. As a result, the time until the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area returns to its original temperature can be shortened, and the time until the yarn properties stabilize can be shortened as well.

[0180] Furthermore, after the cooling device 3 stops rising relative to the spinning box 21, the operator applies yarn to the oiling device 8. The timing of applying yarn to the oiling device 8 is not limited to after the cooling device 3 has risen relative to the spinning box 21; it can also be done before the cooling device 3 begins to rise relative to the spinning box 21 or during the rising process of the cooling device 3 relative to the spinning box 21, but preferably after the crosswind SF from the air nozzle 62 has stopped.

[0181] Figure 27 This is an example of a schematic diagram showing a portion of the spinning equipment 1 when it returns to production, i.e., operating state. The control device 7 restarts the operation of the first compressed air source 37 and begins to supply cooling air CF to the spinning cylinder 31 when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3 and the rising of the cooling device 3 stops.

[0182] In addition, other preparations for production commencement are performed during the recovery process, but illustrations related to these preparations are omitted. Upon completion of the recovery process, the spinning equipment 1 operates normally and enters production.

[0183] Furthermore, the timing for starting to supply cooling air CF to the spinning bobbin 31 is not limited to when the spinning box 21 comes into contact with the cooling device 3 and the upward movement of the cooling device 3 stops. For example, if the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 flows between the spinning device 2 and the cooling device 3 in the vertical direction, the cooling air CF can also be supplied to the spinning bobbin 31 when the cooling device 3 is at its lower end. When the cooling air CF is supplied to the spinning bobbin 31 when the cooling device 3 is at its lower end, the cooling air CF may flow from the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 toward the spinneret 24. However, since the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 functions as a barrier, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed.

[0184] [2-3-7. Effects, etc.]

[0185] In the maintenance process of the above-described modified example, the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning bobbin 31 is stopped at least while the cooling device 3 has been moved downward relative to the spinning box 21. Therefore, the cooling air CF flowing from the opening on the upper side of the spinning bobbin 31 toward the spinneret 24 can be stopped. As a result, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed.

[0186] Furthermore, in the maintenance process of the above-described modified example, the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 was described under the premise of stopping the supply of cooling air CF. However, instead of stopping the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31, the airflow of cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 can be suppressed. When the airflow of cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 is suppressed, the airflow of cooling air CF from the opening on the upper side of the spinning drum 31 toward the spinneret 24 is suppressed, thereby suppressing the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area. In addition, the suppression of the airflow of cooling air CF supplied to the spinning drum 31 only needs to be suppressed at least compared to before the spinning of molten polymer P stops during production.

[0187] However, when the supply of cooling air CF to the spinning drum 31 is stopped or the supply of cooling air CF is suppressed during maintenance of the spinning equipment 1, the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 will not be cooled and solidified, making the threading operation to the spinning drum 31 after maintenance difficult. However, the crosswind SF emitted from the air nozzle 62 flows in a direction that intersects with the filament channel of the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24, thus allowing the molten polymer P spun from the spinneret 24 to cool and solidify. Therefore, the temperature drop of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area can be suppressed, and the threading operation to the spinning drum after maintenance can be easily performed. As a result, after returning to operating conditions, the time until the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area returns to its original temperature can be shortened, reducing the amount of discarded filaments.

[0188] [3. Verification results of the maintenance procedures of the present invention or its modifications]

[0189] When maintenance is performed through the maintenance process of the present invention or its variations, the time until the yarn properties return to normal after the yarn is restored to its operating state can be shortened. Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the results of the circular knitting dyeing evaluation over time after maintenance and restoration to operating status through the maintenance process of the present invention. Figure 29 This is a graph showing the changes in thermal stress and untwisting tension of the yarn over time after it has been restored to its operating state, both when maintenance was performed using the usual maintenance procedures and when maintenance was performed using the modified maintenance procedures.

[0190] like Figure 28 As shown, as a result of the circular knitting dyeing evaluation, after returning to operating conditions, it became close to the color of BM after approximately 15 minutes, and was judged to be normal yarn. Thus, compared to maintenance procedures performed previously, the time required to determine that the yarn is normal can be significantly reduced.

[0191] In addition, such as Figure 29 As can be clearly seen, compared with the case of maintenance through conventional maintenance procedures, the maintenance through the modified example shows good results in terms of untwisting tension and thermal stress.

[0192] Figure 30 This is a graph showing an example of the change in the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 after maintenance begins, over time, in conventional maintenance procedures, the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and the maintenance procedures of modified examples. Figure 30 The example shown in (a) illustrates an example of the change in the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 after the start of maintenance and the passage of time during a conventional maintenance procedure. Figure 30 (b) shown represents an example of the change in the surface temperature of the corresponding spinneret 24 after the start of maintenance and the passage of time in the maintenance process of the present invention. Figure 30 (c) shown represents an example of the change in the surface temperature of the corresponding spinneret 24 after the start of maintenance and the passage of time during the maintenance process of the modified example.

[0193] like Figure 30As can be seen from the diagram, in any of the conventional maintenance procedures, the maintenance procedures of the present invention, and the maintenance procedures of the modified examples, the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 decreases when the cooling device 3 is lowered relative to the spinning box 21. However, compared to the conventional maintenance procedures, in the maintenance procedures of the present invention and the modified examples, the time from the end of maintenance and the raising of the cooling device 3 until the surface temperature of the spinneret 24 returns to its original temperature is shorter. This can be attributed to the fact that, in the case of maintenance performed through the conventional maintenance procedures, when the cooling device 3 is raised, the temperature of the spinneret 24 and its surrounding area decreases significantly due to the upward flow of cooling air CF from the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31. In this regard, in the maintenance procedures of the present invention, since the cooling air CF is not supplied to the spinning cylinder 31, the upward flow of cooling air CF from the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 is either absent or the airflow of the upward flow of cooling air CF from the opening on the upper side of the spinning cylinder 31 can be suppressed, thus suppressing the decrease in the surface temperature of the spinneret 24. Furthermore, in the maintenance process of the modified example, although the cooling air CF supplied to the spinning bobbin 31 is directed upwards, the cooling air CF is blocked by the crosswind SF released from the air nozzle 62 of the cooling device 3, thus suppressing the decrease in surface temperature of the spinneret 24.

Claims

1. A spinning device, characterized in that, have: A spinning box housing into which a spinning assembly is inserted to spin molten polymer downwards from the spinneret; A cooling device is disposed below the spinning box and has a spinning bobbin extending in the vertical direction in a manner that surrounds the molten polymer spun from the spinneret. The molten polymer is cooled by cooling air supplied circumferentially from the spinning bobbin. The moving mechanism enables the cooling device to move downward relative to the spinning box to form a gap between the cooling device and the spinning box. as well as The temperature reduction suppression unit suppresses the temperature reduction of the spinneret, at least when the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box. The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression unit includes a control device that performs at least some control related to the supply of cooling air to the spinning bobbin. The aforementioned control device is capable of, at least when the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box, stopping the supply of cooling air to the spinning bobbin, or controlling the amount of cooling air supplied to the spinning bobbin to be suppressed compared to the state before the spinning of the molten polymer was stopped. The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression unit includes an air supply device that supplies air in a direction that intersects the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret between the spinning box and the cooling device.

2. The spinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the spinning box comes into contact with the cooling device, the air supply device stops operating.

3. A spinning device, characterized in that, have: A spinning box housing, into which a spinning assembly is inserted to spin molten polymer downwards from a spinneret; and A cooling device, disposed below the spinning box, has a spinning bobbin extending vertically in a manner that surrounds the molten polymer spun from the spinneret. The molten polymer is cooled by cooling air supplied to the spinning bobbin. The above-mentioned spinning equipment performs the following processes: In the preparation process, the cooling device is moved downward relative to the spinning box to form a gap between the cooling device and the spinning box. The temperature reduction suppression process, at least while the cooling device has been moved downward relative to the spinning box, suppresses the temperature reduction of the spinneret; and In the recovery process, after the cooling device has been moved downwards relative to the spinning box for maintenance, the cooling device is moved upwards relative to the spinning box while suppressing the temperature drop of the spinneret. The aforementioned temperature reduction suppression process includes: stopping the supply of cooling air to the spinning bobbin, or suppressing the amount of cooling air supplied to the spinning bobbin compared to the state before the aforementioned preparation process. The temperature reduction suppression process includes an air supply process in which air is supplied in a direction that intersects the filament channel of the molten polymer spun from the spinneret between the spinning box and the cooling device.

4. The spinning equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The above air supply process is as follows: After the above maintenance is performed, the air supply shall be stopped during or after the above restoration procedure.

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