Domestic technical textiles Industry Segment-wise consumption of ...

Outer fabric: These are almost exclusively synthetic materials which are windproof and usually have
a water-repellent coating.
Inner fabric: Synthetic fabrics (especially Nylon) are used predominantly. Cotton / poly cotton
usually costs less than a high-wicking synthetic but traps moisture which can have a chilling effect.
These fabrics have a GSM range of 60-300.
Filling: Weight and pack size, for a given amount of warmth, are two of the key considerations when
choosing a filling. The fillings are - Down, Kapol or Synthetics.
• Down: This filling is made up of highly specialised insulating feathers, normally from ducks
or geese.
• Kapol: The fibre is light, very buoyant, resilient, highly flammable and resistant to water. It
cannot be spun but is used as an alternative to down as filling.
• Synthetic: This term encompasses a whole range of sleeping bag fillings made from synthetic
fibres. They range from simple hollow fibres to complex fibres which are designed to mimic
the structure of down. Ultra-holofil or polyfil is the most commonly used material. Synthetic
fillings tend to cost less than down, but they last for a shorter time.
Key machinery manufacturers/suppliers in India
The following machines are required for the manufacture of Sleeping bags.
• Teasing machine for opening / cleaning for kapok
• Foot operated / power Driven Heavy Duty sewing machine for stitching.
• Power Driven K-45 Heavy duty machines for quilting
These machines are available locally.
Quality Control and standards
The following tests and equipments are required to determine the quality of the sleeping bags.
• Tensile Testing machine for measurement of breaking strength.
• Testing facilities for Ends/ picks per dm.
• Beesley' Balance for count of yarn.
• Testing facilities for cone test.