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
There are four main weaves that we will explore, which include plain weave, basket weave, ripstop and open weave.
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TYPE
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PLAIN |
BASKET |
RIPSTOP |
OPEN |
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WEAVE EXAMPLE |
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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 |
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PROS |
• Tight and durable weave • Excellent dimensional stability • Abrasion resistant
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• Better resistance to wear than plain weave • Better flexibility than plain weave
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• Highly resistant to tearing/ripping • Lightweight
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• Very flexible • Lightweight • Breathable
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CONS |
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• Can be heavier than plain weave • Lower tensile strength and dimensional stability than plain weave
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• Limited stretch • Lower breathability • Slightly lower abrasion resistance than a plain weave
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• Lower strength compared to other weaves • Less durable than other weaves
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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 |
