Quantifying Anti Friction Lubricant Protection Limits for Elastane Cores under High Drag Jet Processing
Sustaining a 1.8 percent ester lubricant film on elastane cores prevents elastomeric rupture when jet nozzle pressure exceeds 2.2 bar.
Micro Friction
Surface Resistance
Tiny resistive forces occurring at the contact points between individual fiber surfaces govern the tactile hand and structural cohesion of spun yarns. Minimizing micro friction prevents fiber abrasion and static buildup during high speed yarn spinning and winding. This property is typically controlled by applying spinning lubricants or spinning finishes.
Yarn Behavior
Fibers with low surface resistance slide past each other too easily, reducing the tensile strength of the spun yarn. Conversely, a controlled amount of micro friction is necessary to hold the fibers together within the yarn core during drafting and twisting. Finding the correct balance is the primary goal of fiber finishing.
Fabric Drape
The movement of yarns against each other when a fabric is bent or compressed determines the softness of the material. By applying silicone softeners, finishers reduce micro friction, resulting in a fabric that bends easily and feels smooth to the touch. This treatment is standard for cotton and blended apparel fabrics.
Testing Methods
Specialized laboratory instruments measure the drag of single fibers or yarn bundles over a standard friction surface. This test evaluates the effectiveness of the applied finish in reducing micro friction under low loads. The resulting data helps mills adjust their lubricant formulas before starting bulk yarn production.