The aim of this study was to conduct processing trials at the CMSE Cotton Mill, with a bale of the current Australian Long Staple Upland variety (Sicala 340BRF) with fibre properties that fall into stipulated specifications. Fine count combed ringspun yarns were produced to determine the quality and processing performance of these yarns, with information from these trials assisting in the commercial mill trials planned for 2013.

We were able to spin 40-60 Ne combed ringspun yarns without any processing performance issues; we were however not able to spin 74 Ne yarns successfully. The quality of the yarns produced was uneven and not strong enough for the weaving process.

The trial showed that although the fibre properties reported by the HVI such as length, strength and Micronaire were within the contracted specifications we were unable to produce even strong yarns needed for weaving. The reason for this was due to the fact that the fibre was immature resulting in higher than expected nep and short fibre content which affected the evenness and strength of the yarns.

The message is clear; we will need to fully describe the cotton; adding fibre properties such as maturity, fineness and nep content to HVI measurements to ensure that spinners can produce quality 40-80 Ne yarns without any processing performance problems. This will increase the demand for this cotton and ultimately lead to more growers growing the cotton due to the premiums spinners are prepared to pay for this cotton.