Joe W. Thomas, William D. Beeland, Donald W. Van Doorn, and Ross D. Rutherford. Lummus Corporation, One Lummus Drive, P.O. Box 4259, Savannah, GA 31407-3030
It has long been known that saw ginning of upland cottons results in less than optimum fiber lengths, increased short fiber in the sample and an increase in nep count. Roller ginning of upland cottons while producing a longer staple fiber with fewer short fibers and neps has here to date been impractical due to its limited throughput capability and subsequent high per bale cost when compared to saw ginning. Recent developments utilizing high speed technology are leveling the field in favor of roller ginning. As markets change and more of the US crop is exported the benefits of roller ginning upland cottons will merit further consideration.