When it comes to industrial sewing thread for athletic equipment, there are a few important factors to consider. These factors include strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion and moisture.
Here are a few key areas of consideration when choosing a thread for the production of outdoor athletic nets, tarps, mats, and more.
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4 Tips for Choosing Industrial Sewing Thread for Athletic Equipment
- Durability, sustainability, UV protection, mildew resistance.
- High-tenacity, resilient, and continuous filament thread that is specifically designed for demanding outdoor applications.
- Distinguish if the UV and environmental exposures will be occasional or prolonged.
- Polyester and nylon threads work equally well for outdoor athletic equipment manufacturing.
Three physical properties of sports equipment sewing thread
Physical properties 1#: Physical properties of thread
- Larger threads are typically higher in strength but have less yield per pound
- Larger threads also require a large needle size and can increase the visibility of the stitch
- Elastic modulus is the ability of a given thread to recover its original length immediately after an applied force has been released
- The elasticity of a sewing thread affects the strength and the finished quality of a stitched seam
- A typical Polyester thread stretches about 20% before it breaks. Nylon has even better elastic and abrasion resistance properties than polyester
- When seam elasticity is not desirable, alternative materials are available to provide the combination of strength and flexibility you need
Physical properties 2#: Colorfastness
- If colorfastness is important to your application, you might consider using a solution-dyed material
- Solution-dyed material is made by incorporating the pigment or dye into the base polymer during extrusion. This method results in a material that is colored completely through as opposed to a surface treatment resulting from a package dyeing process
- The downside to a solution-dyed product is that your options for custom colors can be limited
Physical properties 3#: UV Resistance
- Outdoor materials require threads that can withstand severe weathering conditions and require properties such as UV resistance, high strength, and resistance to abrasion to extend their life
- Polyester is the most common thread for outdoor applications because it is inherently UV resistant and can withstand direct exposure longer than nylon while still retaining the majority of its strength
- In the presence of UV rays, Nylon will break down and start to degrade, yellow, and become brittle quickly if untreated
- Polyester and nylon can be treated to further improve their UV resistance
- If you take part in sports equipment manufacturing for nets, padding, storage bags, and other outdoor athletic gear, it is essential to choose a sewing thread that incorporates the physical, colorfastness, and UV resistance properties needed to maintain a durable and sustainable design.
Final Words
When it comes to industrial sewing thread for athletic equipment, there are a few important factors to consider. These factors include strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion and moisture.
Many athletic equipment manufacturers prefer to use synthetic threads made from materials like polyester or nylon, as they tend to have excellent tensile strength, are resistant to moisture and mildew, and hold up well to repeated use and washing.
Bonded polyester and nylon threads are commonly used in the sewing of athletic equipment, as they have a protective coating that adds to their strength, increases their durability, and improves abrasion resistance.
Additionally, colorfastness is another important consideration, as athletic equipment is often used outdoors and exposed to sunlight, which can cause colored threads to fade over time. Choosing a high-quality, colorfast industrial sewing thread can help ensure that the finished good product maintains its visual appeal for a long period of time.
Lastly, it is important to choose a thread that is appropriate for the weight and density of the fabric being sewn, as well as the stitching technique that is being employed. Selecting the right type of thread for the job can help to ensure that the seams are strong and secure and that the finished product performs well under stress and wear.
Works Cited: Industrial Sewing Thread for Athletic Equipment – 3 Things to Consider