Textile processing aims to ennoble the fabrics that are used in industry. It has different phases and types of processes, each of which provides a different result.
Previously done manually, processing is now increasingly automated, bringing even more benefits to those who invest in this process. Want to understand the topic better? Continue reading!
Processing steps
Before we talk about the value added to products after processing, you need to understand the stages of the process. It is divided into primary, secondary and tertiary, check out more about each one:
- Primer: prepares the material for receiving dye and final finishing (pre-bleaching), which may include brushing, shaving, singeing, among others;
- Secondary: coloring fabrics with reactive dyes, pigments, dry dyes, among others. It can be total (dyeing) or partial (printing);
- Tertiary: improves the characteristics of the fabric, providing shine and touch, marbled, splashes, sprays, waterproofing, softening, flame retardant finishing, among others.
Change in physical characteristics
Through processing it is possible to change the physical characteristics of the fabric so that it can have special uses. The flannel process, for example, is made with fabric made from thicker fabrics, on one of its sides there is friction in the movement trimmings that lift its fibers, providing a plush touch.
The razor process, carried out on plush fabrics, occurs when circular and rotating razors pass through the fabric, cutting the pile and leaving the threads with their ends in the same direction. This type of fabric is widely used in vehicles, vans and buses.
These two processes, among others that make it possible to change the physical characteristics of fabrics, fulfill functions such as providing more softness, shine, resistance, among other benefits.
Dimensional stability
Dimensional stability is obtained through processes in which the fabrics are clamped on the sides by morsels or passed through heated cylinders in order to obtain dimensional stability.
Therefore, after it goes through processes such as washing and drying, the dimensional structure (height and width) of the fabric will not change and shrinkage will not occur.
Customization
The world of fashion changes all the time, with new trends emerging or old ones returning, such as the most recent Tie Dye trend, in which models are produced with colored spots. Fabric customization is an important benefit, as it allows fabrics to be produced with different specificities.
Benefits of automating processing
By automating processing, it is possible to obtain a series of benefits such as automatic temperature control, rapid diagnosis of problems at points in the process, as well as savings on spent inputs, including chemicals, water, steam, among others.
Sample washer, for example, makes it possible to carry out tests with water savings and agility in the process.
It is also possible to implement new processes, using state-of-the-art equipment in processes such as packaging the fabrics automatically with the packaging machine, as it vacuum-packs the fabric and prevents the exchange of moisture with the external environment.
There is also a hydrosprinkler that applies finishes such as softeners, flame retardant treatments, waterproofing, water, among others. Through it, it is possible to obtain benefits such as improved sewability, better fit and touch and reduced process breakage, in addition to restoring the natural moisture of the fabric or knit.
In addition to equipment, it is possible to insert peripherals that have functions to optimize processing, such as the non-stop winder, coupled with compaction or gloss calenders to eliminate stretching and optimize inspection.
Another example is the branch alignment and introduction system which, combined with the photocell and selvedge opener, promotes the rapid and efficient movement of the branch rails into the correct position, ensuring the perfect positioning of fabrics and knits on the needling.
Did you see how textile processing can add value to the product and also provide several benefits through automation? Discover now how to reduce the impacts of textile production problems!
