How did a series of invention in 18th century increase the efficiency of each step of production process in the cotton textile industries?
IN the 18th century, a series of inventions increased the efficiency in every step of the production process, especially of cotton. The process of producing cotton involved carding, twisting, spinning and milling.
- The inventions enhanced the output per worker, enabling each worker to produce more, and they made possible the production of stronger threads and yarn.
- Richard Arkwright then created the cotton mill. Cloth production was spread all over the countryside and was carried out in village households.
- Also now the costly new machines could be purchased, set up and maintained in the mill under one roof and management. This allowed more careful supervision over the production process, a watch over the quality and the regulation of labour, all of which was difficult to do when production was in the countryside.