The new or continuous process, before referred to,[211] is the method of chemical bleaching at present in the most general use; and, indeed, it has nearly superseded all other methods. In this system the pieces, previously tacked together endwise so as to form a chain, are drawn, by the motion of rollers, in any direction, and any number of times, through every solution to the action of which it is desired to expose them, and this entirely and completely under the control of the operator.
[211] See ‘Hist.’ (antè).
The following Table exhibits an outline of the several operations in the improved form of the continuous process as practised by Messrs McNaughten, Barton, and Thom, at Chorley, and in most other large bleach-works:—
1. Preliminary operations:—a. The ‘pieces’[212] are separately stamped with the printer’s name, a solution of silver, or sometimes coal-tar, being employed for the purpose.
[212] Usually about 30 yards each.
b. They are tacked together endwise either by hand or a machine, so as to form one continuous piece of 300 to 350 yards in length, according to the weight of the cloth.
c. They are singed.[213]
[213] Generally on one side only; but for goods to be subsequently finely printed, on both sides. For very fine printing the nap is sometimes removed by shearing instead of ‘singeing,’ an ingenious and effective machine being employed for the purpose.
d. They are crushed into a rope-like form by drawing them through a smooth aperture,[214] the surface of which is generally of glass or porcelain—the rope-form being given them to enable the water and other liquids to penetrate the goods more easily, and to allow them to be laid in loose coils in the kiers.
[214] Such apertures are also used instead of pulleys, in the transfer of the rope from place to place.