2025-09-18
With the functional development of fiber materials, demand for shaped cross-section fibers is growing rapidly. Shaped cross-sections—triangular, trilobal, hollow, and others—can impart special luster, hand feel, or functionality to fibers. However, they impose higher requirements on spinneret micro-hole machining. Machining a triangular hole with 0.1mm side lengths requires not only dimensional precision but also consistency across all three sides and control of corner radii.
Meet Precision successfully developed technology for machining triangular holes with 0.1mm side lengths through a composite process combining precision EDM (electrical discharge machining) and micro-milling, coupled with specialized electrode design and machining path optimization. This technology enables precise control of shaped micro-hole geometric characteristics, ensuring consistent hole shapes to meet production requirements for functional fibers. Research has demonstrated that extrusion dynamics simulation can help determine appropriate spinneret micro-hole diameters and length-to-diameter ratios for optimal fiber formation . Additionally, advanced tooling engineering approaches, including laser powder bed fusion for tri-axial spinnerets, have shown promise for accommodating multiple materials in fiber spinning applications .
In November 2021, this technology was implemented at the China Textile Academy and received high recognition. Differentiated fibers produced using shaped micro-hole spinnerets command higher added value in textile markets, helping downstream customers enhance product competitiveness. This breakthrough provides critical equipment support for the development of functional fibers in China. Advanced spinning nozzle designs, such as those using hollow tubes press-fitted into nozzle plates, have historically demonstrated the importance of smooth inner surfaces and uniform hole diameters for stable fiber production
