Nonwovens are better described as a “fabric-like” material in that it’s made of short and continuous long fibers. They are not woven but BONDED together by specialty processes. These fabrics, often referred to as felts, are not woven, nor are they knitted.
According to Wikipedia, “Nonwoven fabrics are engineered fabrics that may be single-use, have a limited life, or be very durable. Nonwoven fabrics provide specific functions such as absorbency, liquid repellent, resilience, stretch, softness, strength, flame retardant, washability, cushioning, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, filtration, use as a bacterial barrier and sterility. These properties are often combined to create fabrics suited for specific jobs, while achieving a good balance between product use-life and cost.”
Consequently, nonwovens are used for a few reasons. Namely, it’s a cost-effective solution for a variety of challenges. For example, nonwovens are versatile in that they can be treated, printed on, molded, embossed, and laminated. Here are some other properties of nonwovens:
Abrasion Resistant
Breathable
Conductive
Dense
Durable
Dust-Free
Dyeable
Impermeable
Light
Liquid Repellent
Printable
Protective
Mildew Resistant
Strong
Tear Resistant
Weatherproof
Speaking broadly, applications are vast and include the following:
Medical
Surgical gowns and drapes; covers; scrub suits; gloves; isolation gowns; shoe covers; bath wipes; wound dressings; plasters.
Filters
Gas; hair; oil; HEPA; coffee; water; tea bags; vacuum bags; allergen membranes.
Geotextiles
Soil stabilizers; underlayment; erosion control; frost protection; canal water barriers; sand filtration; landfill liners.
Other Uses
Diaperstock; feminine hygiene; carpet backing; composites; acoustic insulation; pillows and padding; mailing envelopes; tarps; cleanroom wipes; potting material for plants.
Let’s go into some details:
Spunbond fabrics have a uniform structure. These nonwovens are also referred to as “spunlaid.” This nonwoven is made by spin fibers dispersed onto a web by deflectors or air streams. This process can be done quickly and cheaply.
Spunbond nonwovens have excellent thermal resistance, durability, strength, UV stable, and permeable. They feel soft while being highly economical.
Needle punched nonwovens feel like felt and high flexibility. Since they have pores, our customers often use this geotextile for filtration and drainage applications.
Through fiber entanglement, the material bonds mechanically. Then, fine needle barbs punch through the material. As a result, this versatile material features thermal resistance, chemical resistance, flame retardancy, and abrasion resistance.
Using a weaving machine, stitchbonded materials become fiber bonded. This method, versus chemical or needle punched, provides a soft texture. The flat surface has a high melting point, which makes it suitable for printing purposes. Therefore, for materials with unique needs, Canwil can source additives to create the desired solution.
Common applications for stitchbonded materials are bags, curtains, shoe fabrics, and other special applications.
Raw materials for this material is thermo-plasitc synthetic. It’s melted and forced through an extruder with a number of tiny nozzles. Hot air streams direct the melted plastic creating fine lines. Use this material for a number of needs. For instance, meltblown wovens offer UV protection, comply with FDA standards, and even compostability. Most importantly, Canwil Textiles works with you to find the material that best fits your application.
Polyester has a wide range of uses and deniers. Therefore, use this material in air and liquid filtration, furniture padding, pen tips, cured-in-place pipes, clothing, and crafting. Canwil Textiles creates felts in various sizes depending on your needs. Use this fabric to line your exhibit display crates. Nonwovens do a good job protecting your gear. Available in 10, 14, 16, 20, and 22 oz weights.
Why polyester?
Polyester is more cost effective than wool felts. But, it offers great resistance to most acids. It’s popularly used for dirt collection, and has a higher heat tolerance than polypropylene. Lastly, polyester’s durability wears well when exposed to sunlight.
This felt is made from a thermoplastic polymer. Polypropylene felts are often used for liquid absorption, such as the materials used in diapers and wipes. Above all, this material features resistance to bleaches, acids, and temperature. Material features: lightweight, low cost, and flexible.
For certain tech needs, nonwovens need to have anti-static properties. Meanwhile, static causes the malfunction of electronic equipment with an integrated circuit. This destroys data storage and may interfere with the hardware’s ability to function.
Important to note, nonwovens naturally charge when rubbed. Anti-static agents come in many forms. Upon request, Canwil applies agents per your project need. Therefore, Canwil Textiles will work with you to ensure you get the right material.
In short, we want your next project to be a success! Therefore, our nonwovens application experts are ready to assist you with whatever your needs are. In addition, we’ll work with you on price, so you can stay within your budget.
Call 678.985.5434 x201 or use our contact form and our experts will help you get started today.
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