How To Pick the Right Industrial Knit Fabric

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Industrial fabrics are a type of textiles created exclusively for industrial use. They are purposefully designed and produced to have particular qualities and features that make them suitable for various industrial environments. The fabrics are usually constructed from synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, aramid, or fiberglass. This enhances their strength, durability, and resilience.

The right choice of industrial fabric can significantly impact the end product’s performance, functionality, and overall appeal. This article will delve into the key considerations when selecting the right industrial knit fabric for specific applications.

Factors To Consider for Industrial Fabric Selection

When choosing industrial knit fabrics, it is essential to carefully consider several factors to ensure optimal performance and suitability for the intended use. The following are some critical considerations to keep in mind:

Yarn Type

Each yarn type has distinct properties that can impact the resulting fabric’s characteristics. For example, polyester is known for its strength and durability, making it the best choice for applications requiring high tensile strength. On the other hand, nylon has exceptional elasticity and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for uses that need flexibility and resilience. Finally, monofilament consists of a single, thick strand that provides specific properties, such as increased transparency or decreased elongation.

Knitting Technique

Weft, warp, and circular are just some knitting techniques that can be utilized for industrial fabric. Each method produces a unique form of fabric with distinctive characteristics. Here is a brief overview of these techniques:

• Circular knitting: This versatile method involves knitting in a circular motion, resulting in seamless tubular fabrics. It can produce various fabric types, including stretch and non-stretchy ones.
• Warp knitting: Under the umbrella of warp knitting are both tricot and raschel knits. Raschel knits are characterized by producing heavier fabrics that are stable with minimal stretch. It entails interlacing parallel yarns to create a fabric structure. Tricot knitting is much lighter and produces material with stretch in the width.
• Weft knitting: This involves interlocking yarns in a horizontal direction, creating a fabric with more stretch and flexibility. Weft knitted fabrics are commonly used in apparel, sportswear, and other applications requiring stretchability and comfortable fit.

Fabric Weight

The fabric weight is measured in ounces per square yard (OSY) or grams per square meter (GSM) and usually depends on the application’s requirements. A lighter fabric weight may be more suitable for applications where flexibility, breathability, and ease of movement are important. It is often employed in sportswear, activewear, and uses that require drape and comfort.

In contrast, a heavier fabric weight may be preferable for increased strength, durability, and abrasion resistance. Heavyweight fabrics are commonly used in industrial applications, upholstery, or products that need to withstand rough conditions.

Color

Industrial knitting fabrics can be dyed in various custom colors to meet specific requirements. One common method is solution dyeing, where the color is added to the fiber before it is spun into yarn. Solution-dyed fabrics offer excellent color fastness and resistance to fading, making them suitable for applications where long-lasting color integrity is important.

Finish

The finish of a fabric refers to any treatment applied to it after it is knitted and dyed Common finishes in industrial knitting include:

• Resins: After dyeing a stiffening agent made of chemical or animal origin is added to make the fabric firm or abrasive. This can be applied to the fabric to improve its functionality and durability.
• Fire Resistance And Water Repellency: A waterproof coating can make the material resistant to water penetration, while a flame-resistant layer can enhance its safety properties.
• Laminating: This involves bonding a layer of film or another fabric to the base fabric. It can provide additional strength, improve tear resistance, or enhance properties like water resistance or breathability.
• Anti-static treatment: Fabrics used in industrial settings often undergo anti-static treatments to reduce the buildup and discharge of static electricity, preventing potential hazards.

Choose Jason Mills for Unparalleled Industry Textile Solutions

At Jason Mills, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable and innovative textile solutions tailored to different industries’ diverse needs. Our industrial knit fabrics are meticulously engineered and tested to ensure exceptional performance, durability, and reliability even in demanding environments. Some industries we serve include healthcare, occupational safety, and indoor and outdoor recreation.

Contact us today to access a wide range of specialty materials! You can also request a quote now, and we will gladly help you with your needs.