Design of a Dyeing Process for Automation

The development of the concept of a dyeing process from the early days is reviewed and the various conditions influencing the design of a dyeing process in semi-automated systems are studied. It is concluded that temperature control will assume greater importance with the increasing use of automated equipment and that methods of pH control need to be rationalised. There is a lack of detailed information on the effects of dyebath additives, pH, depth of colour, and machine and fibre characteristics that is likely to hinder the development of simple standardised dyeing methods. The future of full automation is discussed and it is concluded that the design content of the dyeing process will be almost completely eliminated and the characteristics of the machine will be the major factor.