What the difference between woven and non woven fabric
Woven and non-woven fabrics are two distinct types of materials with notable differences in their structure and production methods.
Woven Fabric:
Woven fabric is made by interlacing two sets of yarns, known as the warp and weft, at right angles to each other. The warp yarns run lengthwise, while the weft yarns run widthwise. This interlacing creates a stable and regular pattern of intersecting yarns, resulting in a fabric with visible crisscrossing threads. Woven fabrics are commonly used in clothing, upholstery, bedding, and many other applications. They can be made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, or silk, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon.
Key characteristics of woven fabrics include:
- Strength and durability: Woven fabrics tend to be strong and resistant to tearing.
- Stability: They have limited stretchability and retain their shape well.
- Visible grain: The regular crisscross pattern of threads creates a visible grain or texture on the fabric surface.
- Betterbreathability: Woven fabrics generally offer good breathability since the interlacing leaves small gaps between the yarns.
Non-woven Fabric:
Non-woven fabric, on the other hand, is manufactured by bonding or felting fibers together rather than weaving them. It involves processes such as entangling fibers mechanically, chemically, or thermally, or by using adhesives. Unlike woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics do not have a regular, visible pattern of interlacing yarns. They are often made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene, polyester, or nylon, but natural fibers can also be used.
Key characteristics of non-woven fabrics include:
- Versatility: Non-woven fabrics can be engineered to have specific properties, such as strength, absorbency, or filtration capabilities.
- Lack of grain: Non-woven fabrics do not have a grain or visible pattern, making them more uniform in structure.
- Absorbency: Some non-woven fabrics can be highly absorbent, making them suitable for applications like medical products or wipes.
- Lower cost: Non-woven fabrics can be produced more efficiently and at a lower cost compared to woven fabrics, as they require fewer production steps.
Both woven and non-woven fabrics have their unique advantages and are used in various industries based on their specific characteristics and requirements.