Tangled in Textiles

Understanding Fabric Weave Types for your Application

Zippertubing® offers many different types of materials with differing weave types. Understanding how weave types can impact the overall performance of a fabric when in use, is critical to making the best choice. In this article, we will explore some of the weave types that are offered and present the pros and cons to these.

Before diving into the weaves, it is important to understand some terminology used when describing fabrics. Warp and weft are terms often used to describe threads that make up the fabric. Warp refers to threads that are vertical and held in tension, whereas weft are threads that are drawn horizontally through the warp threads.

Figure 1. Warp and weft threads

Figure 1. Warp and weft threads

There are four main weaves that we will explore, which include plain weave, basket weave, ripstop and open weave.

 

TYPE

 

 

PLAIN

 

BASKET

 

RIPSTOP

 

OPEN

WEAVE EXAMPLE

Plain weave example
Basket weave example Ripstop weave example

Open weave example        

DESCRIPTION

Simplest weave where warp and weft threads cross in an alternating pattern

A variation of the plain weave, where multiple warp weft threads are woven in a checkerboard pattern

A grid pattern that incorporates thicker reinforcement threads at regular intervals

A loose woven structure similar to a plain weave with noticeable spaces between warp and weft threads

PROS


       Tight and durable weave

       Excellent dimensional stability

       Abrasion resistant

 


       Better resistance to wear than plain weave

       Better flexibility than plain weave

 


       Highly resistant to tearing/ripping

       Lightweight

 


       Very flexible

       Lightweight

       Breathable

 

 

CONS


       Less flexible

 


       Can be heavier than plain weave

       Lower tensile strength and dimensional stability than plain weave

 


       Limited stretch

       Lower breathability

       Slightly lower abrasion resistance than a plain weave

 


       Lower strength compared to other weaves

       Less durable than other weaves

 

APPLICATION EXAMPLES

Airbags, seat covers, tarpaulins

Aerospace structural components, industrial mats, heavy duty bags

Parachutes, tents, machinery covers, backpacks

Ventilation screens, filters for large particles, drainage mats

Brittany Stann - Materials Engineer

Written by Brittany Stann - Materials Engineer