The Autocrimp system introduced at ITMA 1995 by SCS Consultancy Services of Bradford, United Kindom, is expected to create an entirely new dimension in fiber production. The system automatically provides polypropylene with a three dimension in fiber production. The system automatically provides polypropylene with a three dimensional helical crimp as it is extruded. The process provides the fiber with differential shrinkages that result in a permanent crimp, eliminating the need for processing flat tow on bulking equipment. Autocrimp could change the carpet pile industry by eliminating the need to pack in a considerable pile weight per unit area to achieve the necessary pile resilience. Eliminating the need for a separate crimping machine will also reduce capital costs and production times. The system can be used to manufacture either bulk continuous filament or high loft staple fibers that can be blended with wool. The fibers feature a 30 percent shrinkage rate and a less waxy hand. ESL has been granted a manufacturing license to commercialize the Autocrimp process. Other potential advantages from the system include more resilient nonwoven floor coverings and the incorporation of flame resistant additives, ultraviolet stabilizers, and pigments into the polymer.