This carrier has also been used very effectively for braiding high tech fibers such as Kevlar and Spectra. For these applications a composite aluminum and nylon bobbin with 8, 10 or 12 inch traverse is used.

SWIVEL LET-OFF

The swivel let-off supports the wire on a pulley mounted on a ball bearing. The pulley is supported on a swivel with a pair of ball bearings that allow the pulley to follow the braiding point while the carrier is rotating relative to the braiding point as it follows a sinuous path about the center axis of the braiding machine.

The rolling action of the wire on the let-off pulley eliminates friction and heat at the let-off. This is a greatadvantage, especially for stainless wire, since the abrasive qualities that cause problems for let-off eyelets is neutralized. Since the swivel let-off also does not form the wire, if the wire is to be formed a separate carbide forming pin is added to the carrier in a position that does not scrub the wire again minimizing damage and debris. The swivel let-off is also effective for a much larger range of tension. In some special applications the swivel let-off is being used at tensions up to 75 pounds. For this reason the swivel let-off is versatile and is often used for all types of wire and high tech textiles such as Kevlar.

HIGH TENSION CARRIER

The high tension carrier was introduced in 1995 for braiding up to 48 ends of high strength stainless steel wire of up to .016 inch. in diameter. This carrier has a heavy duty aluminum retainer and uses heavier springs than the standard carrier. It can be used for tensions up to 75 pounds but requires some reduction in speed depending on the tension.