Magazine July 2013

All the latest information from the textile world

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In focus – The new plastic heald OPTIFIL® 3D

Three dimensions – one optimal heald

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Special heald geometry

The special geometry of the plastic heald OPTIFIL® 3D guarantees optimal guidance of neighboring warp threads. This prevents unwanted deflection of the threads, reduces torn filaments, and ensures uniform shedding.

The new OPTIFIL® 3D thread eye

The new and special shape of the OPTIFIL® 3D thread eye has been registered for patent approval. It has been optimized for efficient transportation of the warp threads as well as the neighboring ones. During use of filament yarns, and also in combination with matting and finishing aids, conventional plastic healds tend to become quickly worn in the area of the thread eye. The reinforced surface of the OPTIFIL® 3D thread eye leads to longer service life of the healds with high row densities. The OPTIFIL® 3D thread eye and also the stable heald frame enable uniform shedding, increasing efficiency during picking.

The material: light yet stable

Selected materials prolong the service life of the heald and enable an extremely smooth surface for improved thread movement. The lower weight facilitates handling in everyday use, simultaneously lowering energy costs. The color used for the healds is visually attractive, and takes strain off users during manual drawing-in.

No sticking: End loops with spacers

End loops with spacers

During operation on waterjet weaving machines, the end loops with spacers prevent the healds from sticking. They are also kept at a uniform distance from each other during the weaving process. This ultimately leads to an improvement in weave quality.

Minimal effort with warp draw-in

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Healds with double-row thread eyes have to be separated before automatic drawing-in. To minimize the effort required to separate the healds, dividing slots are integrated into the end loops for the relevant spacing bars.

Specially shaped end loops for drawing-in rods

For improved handing during manual drawing-in, the lower end loop is equipped with a larger surface. This enables the individual healds to be separated more easily and simply with an adhesive strip.

OPTIFIL® 3D - Overview

  • Optimized thread eye
  • Spacers to combat sticking
  • Light and stable plastic
  • Automatic drawing in on all conventional drawing-in machines
  • Less effort required during manual drawing in

Convincing arguments:

  • Optimal warp thread guidance
  • High wear resistance
  • Produces flawless fabrics
  • Less need for spares
  • Long service life and easy handling


If you have any questions about the new plastic heald OPTIFIL® 3D, feel free to contact the experts from the Weaving division. Groz-Beckert looks forward to a discussion with you!