What is the difference between air jet and water jet looms?

The core difference between jet looms and water jet looms lies in the weft insertion medium and applicable scenarios, which directly affect equipment selection and production management

1. Differences in the principle of latitude insertion
Water jet loom: The high-pressure water pump sprays a softened water column to pull the weft yarn. The water jet has strong penetration power, but it requires full waterproof treatment (hydrophobic yarn+dehydration device).
Jet loom: The air compressor generates a compressed air flow to drive the weft yarn, which is easily diffused and relies on auxiliary nozzle relay to maintain stable flight.

2. Raw material adaptability
Water jet loom: limited to synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon (not affected by water), while natural fibers such as cotton and linen may experience weight gain and yarn breakage upon absorbing water.
Jet loom: It can handle all types of fibers, especially hydrophilic fibers such as cotton yarn and viscose, but has poor control over ultra-fine yarns.

3. Workshop supporting requirements
Water jet loom:
Essential water treatment system (softening+filtration+circulation)
The workshop drainage ditch needs to be rust proof, and the ground should be treated with anti slip measures (such as water mist settling)
air-jet loom:
Investment in large-scale air compressor units (with energy consumption accounting for over 40% of the entire plant)
Need to build soundproof rooms (with jet noise exceeding 100 decibels)

4. Compare pain points for maintenance

5. Fabric quality performance
Water jet loom:
Good flatness of the fabric surface (minimal impact of water flow on the yarn)
But the fabric feels too hard (high tension during high-speed weaving)
air-jet loom:
Easy to cause weft yarn bending hooks (large airflow disturbance)
Thick fabrics have advantages (relay nozzle can adjust airflow intensity)

The Golden Rule of Selection:
Make synthetic lightweight fabrics (such as chiffon and Chunya spinning) → choose a water jet loom (energy-saving 30%)
Making cotton towels/denim → Must use air-jet loom
Insufficient power in the factory building → Be cautious when choosing air jets (air compressors eat electric tigers)
Local water quality is hard → stay away from water spray (unless willing to use water treatment equipment)