Introduction:
Textiles are evolving, and nonwoven fabrics are at the forefront of this change. Among them, stitch-bonded nonwovens are notable for their softness and flexibility. This blog delves into the world of stitch-bonded nonwovens, examining their production, properties, and applications, which make them indispensable in various industries.
What is Stitch-Bonded Nonwoven?
Stitch-bonded nonwoven fabrics are crafted on a weaving machine that uses longitudinal yarns to bond the web, ensuring stability without sacrificing softness. Unlike needle-punch, thermal-bond, or chemical-bond methods, which can stiffen the texture, stitch-bonding retains the original softness of the web. This results in a flatter surface, making stitch-bonded nonwovens ideal for applications requiring a smooth texture.
Production Process:
Producing stitch-bonded nonwovens is highly adaptable. Acrylic resin can be added later for fixation and texture adjustments. Additionally, other treatment additives can be incorporated for flame-retardant or water-repellent properties, highlighting the material’s flexibility. Techniques such as Maliwatt and Arachne involve stitching fibers into the fabric as it moves through a knitting-stitching machine, suitable for thermal insulation, packing, and quilt foundations.
Types of Stitch-Bonded Nonwovens:
- Thread-stitched Nonwovens: Utilized for decoration, beach wear, and towels. Pile loop materials rival woven shag fabrics.
- Sheet-stitched Nonwovens: Enhanced by stitching a pile-woven textile sheet with napped yarn.
- Foundations for Tufted Carpets: Created by stitching with carpet yarn and securing loops with adhesive.
- Threadless Nonwovens: Form sturdy loops on the reverse and a deep, fluffy pile on the front, ideal for thermal stuffing or linings.
Properties:
Stitch-bonded nonwovens offer a range of textures, from soft to stiff, with a flat surface. Polyester fibers’ high melting point suits various printing methods. The production process is compatible with various treatment additives to enhance fabric properties.
Specifications:
- Colors: White, Black, and others
- Width: 36″, 44″, 54″
- Bar System: Single/Double Bar
- Stitch Count: 10, 14, 18, 22
- Thickness: 0.4mm to 1.2mm
- Texture: Soft, Standard, Stiff
Applications:
Stitch-bonded nonwovens are versatile, with applications in:
- Shoe Fabrics: Reinforcing sports-shoe linings.
- Bags: Producing various bags.
- Curtains: Offering soft, durable window treatments.
- Special Purpose Applications: Such as fire retardant wire harness tape.
Raw Material Description:
Stitchbond fabric, or RPET fabric, primarily uses recycled plastic bottles. These bottles are cleaned, shredded, and melted into recycled fibers, then blended with polyester to create eco-friendly nonwoven fabric. This process reduces petroleum resource dependence and carbon emissions, promoting sustainability.
Recycled Coca-Cola Bottles: The PET from recycled bottles is transformed into fibers for textile production. Recycling 20 bottles can yield material for a garment, showcasing the potential of recycling in waste reduction and sustainability.
Conclusion:
Stitch-bonded nonwovens exemplify textile innovation, combining softness, flexibility, and durability. Their adaptable production and diverse applications make them a popular choice in the textile industry. As new uses for this material are discovered, the future of stitch-bonded nonwovens remains as promising as the fabric itself.
