HexForce® US Technical Fabrics Handbook - Hexcel.com

PARAMETERS FOR WOVEN
FABRIC SELECTION
In selecting a woven fabric for industrial applications, a
number of design parameters may be considered. These
are broken down into four basic variables: yarn weight,
thread count, weave pattern and fabric fi nish. The wide
range of yarn weights provides the base for fabric design.
Yarn weight, combined with thread count [the number of
warp ends (lengthwise) and fi lling picks (widthwise) per
inch] determines the strength, weight and thickness of
the fabric.
Basic weaving concepts are utilized in the manufacture of
fi ber glass and high performance fabrics. The technology,
however, is advanced to incorporate specialized precision
equipment to meet the exacting demands of modern
industry. Almost any weave can be woven; however,
for industrial purposes there are six basic patterns as
described below.
Plain
The plain weave consists
of yarns interlaced in an
alternating fashion one
over and one under every
other yarn. The plain weave
provides good fabric
stability but is generally the
least pliable.
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