Patent ID: 8370981
Filing Date: 2013-02-12
Classification: D06F

Abstract:
1. A method of washing fabric articles in a continuous tunnel washer, comprising the steps of: a) providing a continuous tunnel washer having an interior, an intake, a discharge, and a plurality of sectors that divide the interior into a plurality of zones; b) moving the fabric articles from the intake to first and second sectors that are part of a pre-wash zone; c) counter flowing liquid in the washer interior along a flow path that is generally opposite the direction of travel of the fabric articles; d) transferring the fabric articles to a main wash zone; e) adding a washing chemical to the main wash zone; f) reducing counter flow after step “d”; g) increasing counter flow after steps “e” and “f” to provide a pre-rinse zone; and h) using an extractor to remove excess water after step “g”.