Carding Machine - Used to comb and brush the raw cotton. Men would load the cotton onto the carding machine.  Cotton comes out the coiler end as a rope called “sliver”. The American Thread Company’s Mill No. 4 in Willimantic had about 150 carding machines

This machine was invented in the 1780s in England.It was a very dangerous machine, as there were no protective guards or off switches. Injuries were common while trying to clean it (while running). Workers were reluctant to  turn it off as they did not get paid for down time.