ABSTRACT

In order to generate the most meaningful data, the Fineness and Maturity Tester (FMT) must be as precise as possible. A new mechanical device has been developed to insert the sample into the chamber of the FMT that has resulted in improved precision compared to an existing mechanical tool. Advantages of the new insertion device include the ability to reuse a sample. With greater precision of FMT data the amount of cotton consumed in the analysis is reduced since a smaller number of replications are needed to arrive at mean values with less uncertainty. The new device helps to retain the original cylindrical dimensions of the sample after compression in the FMT sample chamber by inducing lines of crimp equally spaced and parallel around the major axis of the cylinder. After compression, the lines of crimp are transformed into zigzag patterns like miniature springs. After the compressed sample is allowed to "bloom", the zigzag pattern is transformed back to straight lines of crimp.