Conventional leno selvedge devices on weaving machines are often the cause of time consuming leno thread breaks and the source of a creeping degradation in the running behavior of the machine. This applies particularly on higher machine speeds, for example on airjets. Performance and quality suffer as a consequence. Our patented Disc-O-Leno^®, a 2-thread leno device, has been on the market since 1997. Gentle treatment of the leno threads and the easy handling for operators had a decisive effect in reducing thread breaks. A considerable improvement of the leno selvedges on DORNIER weaving machines was achieved. The new MotoLeno^® represents a further development of this successful concept. A patent secured this idea already a number of years ago. Realization however, was a long-term project because of the evaluation time required for a new roller bearing technology. Because of this, the MotoLeno^® first became available in September 2001.

Time still means money, and optimization efforts still must concentrate on saving time. The first priority for this is elimination of production interruptions by thread breaks and reduction of maintenance interruptions of machine elements - in this case of the leno device. Rotating mechanical parts have to be checked from time to time for function. Fewer mechanical parts mean less maintenance time. The MotoLeno^® is based on this simple principle. The motor itself serves as the disc, which means a considerable reduction in mechanical parts, as illustrated. Conventional satellite lenos still widely used on other type airjets account for over 50 moving components. The MotoLeno^® consists of just one single rotating part. The result is that this new DORNIER leno device has hardly any wear point, which improves the relation between machine operating time to machine down time immensely.


During operation of the machine the direction of rotation and the number of revolutions in each direction as well as the timing of each one of the discs in relation to the weaving machine, can be electronically modified. Thus it is possible to adapt the function of the device to the requirements of the fabric as regards to pick density and yarn material. On the Dialog Panel of the machine, the leno function and the specific settings for any particular style can be entered, preprogrammed and stored in the master data of the style.

Comparison between mechanical wear parts on MotoLeno® and conventional satellite leno

A further advantage: The use of double discs with independent rotors allows to adjust a different shed closing time for each leno cord. Also the consequence and frequency of rotation of each disc is individually adjustable. This is of great importance for fabrics with high pick density. The name MotoEco^® – was chosen analogue to the existing double disc EcoLeno^®. It "economizes" on filling yarn waste and eliminates the use of catch selvedge spools, thus economizing again on yarn material.

MotoEco® –double disc leno for fabric selvedge and catch selvedge

The MotoLeno® offers the same proven advantages of the DORNIER Disc-O-Leno® generation: Modular design No need for catch selvedge spools No winding of catch selvedge spools required No storage of spare selvedge spools Fewer leno thread breaks Lower weaver and technician work-load Reduced set-up times Finer and better appearance of fabric selvedges No speed restrictions from leno unit Extremely long operating length of leno spools Fast width changes with Jacquard For MotoEco®, reduced filling and catch selvedge waste (certain limitations of application exist) Filling waste is reusable Filling waste sorted by fiber material Lower spare parts and maintenance costs Unit can be retrofitted to all DORNIER weaving machines with CAN Bus control.