With the ESSETEX, fabric tension is measured in real time throughout the load cells and/or dancing rollers. This value is then relayed to the PLC and compared to the nominal value supplied by the operator. Synchronizing motors automatically set any difference to zero through the inverter. This system, called “closed loop control,” is accurate, fast, and one of the most advanced washing technologies currently available in combination with short, center-to-center distances among drums and rollers, the closed loop control system makes the ESSETEX washing unit suitable for process-knitted fabric as well as woven fabrics with critical problems of stability, e.g., selvedges curling, high-tension sensitivity, and so on.

A circulation pump feeds six sets of sprayers per drum to improve the washing effect by hydro–mechanical energy; stainless steel deflectors are provided on each sprayer to avoid direct spraying of fabric, whenever forceful mechanical action is not recommended. Fluted drums improve the washing effect by allowing the sprayed water to pass through the fabric, thereby washing not only the surface but deeply into the fabric itself.

Mezzera introduced the HWT concept more than 20 years ago on roller-type compartments. Now, it is working to its fullest in the ESSETEX. Before reaching the sprayers, the water is overheated by a heat exchanger up to 105°C; thus the fabric is treated with a mix of steam and water, providing an effective combination of thermal and mechanical energy.

Several processes can be carried out combining the ESSETEX with other washing units. The washing range for knitted fabrics (with and without elastomer) can also treat woven fabrics, especially curtains. The same range can scour and wash woven fabrics prone to creasing. In fact, the ESSETEX’s accurate fabric guide and perfect tension control ensures the total absence of creases.

The ESSETEX can scour, bleach, and mercerize all knitted and woven fabrics, ensuring the best final quality. The PC/PLC manages all process parameters (temperature, speed, tension, working water, products, etc.).

When the ESSETEX is combined with the ropewashing range CONCORD, it achieves near flawless after-printing treatment; when the ESSETEX is also coupled with the dwelling unit STT, it can swell and wash off printing thickeners before the CONCORD completes the cycle. The same process applies to open width: simply combine the ESSETEX with the soaping compartment ONDALAX when the fabric quality does not permit working in rope.

This solution increases the washing effect dramatically, facilitating the removal of glues like PVA, ACRYLIC, CMC, and, when performed in combination with enzyme HT amino-acid glues as well.