Optimization of fabric’s tensile strength and bagging deformation using surface response and finite element in stenter machine

Abstract

Optimization of fabric’s mechanical properties, such as strength and bagging deformation of worsted fabrics, is considered one of the most important cases in relation to the use of stenter machine. Because, in this machine, for providing fabric’s dimensional stability with drying and stretching operations, fundamental changes would occur in these properties. Therefore, in the present study, the mechanical properties of the fabric in stenter machine were optimized through simulation of laboratory conditions as well as simulation by the finite element method. First, using laboratory stenter, the experiments were performed on six common worsted fabric samples by the Design Expert software through changing temperature, percentage of fibers, and weight of the fabric, which were considered as the most effective factors. Then, the changed conditions were determined by the central composite design for optimization. For performing the finite element simulation, the initial design was first created using TexGen software and then, the strength and bagging deformation model was investigated by Abaqus software. The results of the simulation showed a statistically acceptable relationship between actual and practical conditions.