Modern mini-spinning machinery for processing jute and allied fibres for small enterprises

Background/Problem Description:
For processing the large quantity of jute, mesta and flax fibre in terms of approximately 1-10 tonnes/day established machinery are commercially available in the Indian market system and also available to the industries also. But for processing the small quantity (100-300 kg/day) of these fibres and also other natural fibres i.e. angora, yak, nettle, ramie, hemp, etc. suitable processing machinery is not available. Though these fibres have great potential in technical textiles, and increasing demand in the present context. Therefore, a smaller capacity of spinning machinery consisting carding, hybrid drawing and spinning is need of the hour for the benefit of farmers and entrepreneurs at rural level. These machines will also help in up-liftmen of socio-economic status under ’Self-reliant India’ movement.
Technology Details:
ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology, Kolkata, has developed a mini-spinning machinery set for spinning 100-300 kg of yarn per day from jute and allied fiber for empowering the small enterprises. The developed spinning machinery system comprised a Mini-carding, Hybrid mini-drawing and Mini-spinning machines. ICAR-NINFET, Kolkata has executed the herculean task of scaling down of huge machinery of capacity from 10,000 kg per day to 100-300 kg per day with the technical support of Industrial Partner, M/s. Bhowmick Calculators, Kolkata, and financial support of National Jute Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India.
The mini-carding machine of the developed mini-spinning machinery, which is almost half in size of the commercially available carding machine. Apart from the mini card, a mini hybrid-drawing machine with two drawing heads and mini-spinning machine having 30 spindles capacity developed under the spinning machine set. The developed mini-spinning machine has almost 80 less spindles than a commercial model. The efforts taken by the scientists of ICAR-NINFET have reduced the machinery. cost for establishing the jute fibre processing plants through developed machinery set from Rs. 5 Crores to in the range of 30 to 40 lakhs.
Key points of the technology:
In contrast, the developed mini spinning machinery offers a compact, cost-effective, and decentralized solution tailored for small enterprises, rural artisans, and start-ups. Key advantages of the developed system include:
Size reduction: The mini carding machine is almost 50% smaller than standard commercial models, making it ideal for limited-space installations.
Innovative Hybrid Drawing: A mini hybrid-drawing machine with two drawing heads has been incorporated, enhancing flexibility and reducing power consumption.
Lower Spindle Count: The system operates with 30 spindles than a traditional spinning frame, significantly reducing machinery cost, maintenance, space saving and energy usage.
Affordability and Accessibility: By reducing the machine size and complexity, the cost of the mini spinning unit is substantially lower, enabling adoption by micro and small-scale enterprises.
Sustainability: The smaller setup is suitable for localized fiber-to-yarn production, reducing transport costs and environmental impact.