shuttleless loom

weaving

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June 17, 2026

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A shuttleless loom is a type of weaving machine that differs from traditional looms by drawing the crosswise threads (weft) from a stationary supply, rather than using a spindle-shaped device called a shuttle to carry the weft through the lengthwise threads (warp). This innovation allows for greater efficiency and speed in fabric production.12

There are three main types of shuttleless looms:
* Dummy shuttle looms: These use a projectile that carries the weft through the shed.2
* Rapier looms: These employ rigid rods or flexible steel tapes to convey the weft.2
* Fluid-jet looms: These use a jet of air or water to propel the weft.2

Shuttleless looms have largely replaced older shuttle-based designs due to their increased speed, reduced noise, and improved safety.2

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textile
Modern looms
…a stationary supply, usually called shuttleless looms. (This term is not entirely satisfactory, as some primitive looms make no use of a shuttle, merely passing through the shed a stick with weft wound on it.) Shuttle looms fall into two groups according to whether the shuttle is replenished by hand…
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…a stationary supply, usually called shuttleless looms. (This term is not entirely satisfactory, as some primitive looms make no use of a shuttle, merely passing through the shed a stick with weft wound on it.) Shuttle looms fall into two groups according to whether the shuttle is replenished by hand…
Read More