(168) In Fig 88 is illustrated a plan by which the necessity for piercing the flat either with holes or nicks is entirely obviated. This is patented by Mr. Tweedale, manager for Messrs. Howard and Bullough, and consists in the employment of a metallic clip, which grips the clothing at one side, and is bent round and under a small rib on the underside of the flat. The clip is closed by means of a special machine, which runs rapidly along the flat, the two sides being gripped simultaneously, and the fillet stretched by the same machine and at the same time. With this construction the maximum strength of the flat is preserved throughout all its positions and under all working pressures. A similar arrangement is used by Messrs. Ashworth Brothers, but the shape and construction of the clip and the method of fixing slightly varies from that described. It is to be noted, however, that the width of the flat strip must be rather less in each case than that of the flat, and that the strip must in consequence be stretched so as to cover the surface. It is essential that the clips shall be fixed so as to be in contact with the planed edge of the flat throughout its entire length. The edges of the flats ought to be quite straight, especially if they are closely pitched, as otherwise they would come into contact in places. If, therefore, the clips referred to are not pressed closely against the sides of the flats throughout their entire length the danger of touching is increased.
(169) Messrs. Platt Brothers and Company have recently devised a fastening of tinned wire, which is bent up by special machinery so as to form a continuous series of staples, the pitch of the points of which is about 1/2 inch. The staples are connected at the points, so that a length can be produced sufficient for fastening any flat. Holes are drilled in the flat through which the staples are pushed, and are pressed downwards and held. While in that position the points are clenched similarly to Messrs. Whiteley’s clip, and the clothing thus secured. This arrangement is practically a system of sewing without the disadvantage arising from the sawing of the edge of the flat. A strength equal to a riveted flat is obtained, with the advantage of a continuous grip along the flat strip. All these arrangements, however, imply the use of special machines to fix them, which is a condition not always attainable in a mill. For these reasons, where it is difficult to return the flats to a machinist for re-clothing, the use of rivets is most desirable.