Surface Resistance
Physical interactions between protruding fibre ends and mechanical surfaces influence the smoothness and durability of a textile during processing. The phenomenon of yarn hairiness friction describes how the loose fibres on the yarn surface create drag as the thread passes through needles and reeds. This resistance is a primary factor in determining the maximum speed of knitting or weaving machines.
Wear Mechanism
High levels of surface fibre lead to an increase in the coefficient of friction, which generates heat and can cause the yarn to snap. During the manufacturing process, yarn hairiness friction is managed by applying lubricants or waxes that flatten the protruding hairs against the yarn body. This treatment reduces the snagging that occurs when the yarn contacts the metallic parts of the loom or the knitting feeder.
Pilling Propensity
Surface texture and mechanical components also affect the final appearance of the cloth. Excessive yarn hairiness friction often indicates that the fibres are poorly bound into the yarn structure, leading to the formation of small balls of fluff known as pills. Testing this property involves pulling the yarn through a calibrated ceramic eyelet and measuring the tension fluctuations that occur at different velocities to predict how the fabric will perform in the field.
Guide Maintenance
Continuous monitoring of the friction levels helps prevent damage to the delicate machine parts. It also ensures that the handle of the fabric remains consistent across different production lots.
