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Abstract

An apparatus and method for the dyeing raw cotton fibers in a continuous wet process includes cleaning raw cotton fibers, aligning and forming a cotton batt, and then providing the cotton batt to a continuous wet process dye system. The continuous wet process system includes a dye applicator, a steamer, a first rinser, an oxidizing applicator, a second rinser, and a finish rinser. The batt is conveyed at ambient temperature and pressure along a series of conveyor belts through the system, first being immersed in the dye solution in the dye applicator. The dye solution is an aqueous solution of dye, alkali, penetrant, and a solubilizer. After a short immersion in the dye solution, the batt is conveyed to a set of squeeze rollers which squeeze excess dye solution from the cotton. The cotton is then moved through a steamer to fix the dye, through a first rinser, and then through a second set of squeeze rollers to remove water. The oxidation process which occurs in the oxidizing applicator further fixes the dye. The batt is then moved through a third set of squeeze rollers to remove remaining oxidizing chemicals and conveyed to the second rinser where it is subjected to a heated soap spray. The cotton batt is then sent through a fourth set of squeeze rollers. Finally, the cotton is conveyed through the final water rinse, conveyed through squeeze rollers, and then dried preparatory to baling.

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First Claim