Force attenuation capacity of weft-knitted spacer fabric in low-velocity impact

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to determine the peak impact force and force attenuation capacity of weft-knitted spacer fabrics intended for padding that can be used for human body protection against impact.Design/methodology/approachA total of five weft-knitted spacer fabrics were fabricated with four different diameters of nylon monofilament yarns and one doubled monofilament yarns, respectively. The impact performances of the weft-knitted spacer fabrics were tested using a drop test method with a customized test rig to simulate falling. Impact tests were conducted on single- and multilayered experimental spacer fabrics to investigate the peak impact force and force attenuation capacity.FindingsIt was found that weft-knitted spacer fabric with a coarser or larger diameter of monofilament spacer yarn generated lower impact force and higher force attenuation capacity, thus resulting in better impact performance. Greater force attenuation can be achieved by utilizing a higher number of spacer fabric layers. However, the increase in thickness must be considered with the spacer fabric end use.Originality/valueThis study employed relatively coarse nylon monofilament yarn as spacer yarns to gain knowledge on the impact performance of weft-knitted spacer fabrics compared to warp-knitted spacer fabrics which are more common. The results showed that the diameter of spacer yarn significantly influenced the impact performance of the experimental weft-knitted spacer fabrics. These results could be useful for designing and engineering textile-based impact protectors.

Study of Structural Parameters of Weft Knitted Spacer Fabrics on Wound Dressing Performance

“…Knitted spacer fabrics are a promising option in this context, offering potential solutions to overcome the limitations associated with traditional dressings and enhance effectiveness. It is characterized by a threedimensional (3D) textile structure, composed of two layers of outer fabrics connected by spacer yarns [34][35][36][37][38]. The resilient pile yarn that runs between the two surfaces ensures consistent spacing, even after compression.…”

P061_0142_ Evaluation of 3d Knitted Fabrics to Protect Against Mechanical Risk and Suitable to Wear Next to Skin

“…Although requirements for comfort during wearing, including flexibility and thermo-physiological properties such as air permeability should also be considered. The main advantage of 3D fabrics, knitted using weft knitting technology, is the possibility to use different raw materialshigh-performance fibres and conventional fibres, in different layers, giving an opportunity to achieve an optimal ratio between protection and comfort properties [1][2][3][4]. The aim of this research was to identify how the index of resistance and comfort properties of the 3D weft knitted fabrics varies when changing their composition and structural parameters, such as the quantity of steel wire, stitch density and others.…”