This is a guide about technical fabrics and the different applications and industries that they are used in. The development of commercial and consumer textiles has primarily looked at how to improve the aesthetic and the comfort levels, whereas technical fabrics are designed to improve function, and this is why you see them utilised within industrial applications where there is heavy use and specific processes to consider.
What is a technical fabric?
Technical fabric is any type of fabric that has been designed for a functional purpose and is non-decorative. They are conceptualised and designed with performance a priority, making them the perfect fabric for many industrial applications and where physical properties are required. Industrial textiles are commonly designed and manufactured to include specific properties that are suitable for very specific applications and industries. These properties could be:
- Antibacterial
- Anti-static
- Flame retardant
- Resistant to chemicals
- Odor and fluid absorbent
- Resistant to UV
- Insect repellent
There are even more uses for technical fabrics, depending on the specific industry and application in question.
Are there different classifications of technical fabric?
There are different categories of technical textiles, depending on the manufacture process, the properties they have and the intended use. The standard global definition of each category is as follows:
Protective textiles – These are fabrics that are used to protect workers from potential injury, providing protective barriers between a harsh and potentially dangerous environment and the person wearing the clothing. This could be to prevent exposure to dangerous chemicals, spilled materials and bodily fluids to name just a few hazards.
Textiles for transportation – Fabrics are coated and reinforced for use within transportation vehicles and assets, where they are under extreme stress, such as within cars, lorries, boats, ships, and trains that transport goods and need to provide ultimate protection.
Medical textiles – Fabrics that are worn by medical professionals, that are used to create medical devices and other medical applications must meet strict cleanliness and hygiene standards whilst being antibacterial and resistant to chemicals.
Industrial textiles – Where there is a need for greater robustness and physicality within industrial applications, and for an expansive potential use, industrial textiles are important. You see industrial technical fabrics used in myriad industries and sectors.
Sports textiles – Sporting fabrics are required to be breathable yet robust when discussing sports clothes, catering for a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports. There is a need for anti-bacterial fabrics for sports devices and water repellent properties for both clothing and devices.
Suppliers of technical fabrics and textiles are always on the lookout for the next development, where the fabric used within heavy industry or in locations and scenarios that face heavy pressure and consistent use, can be used in the best way possible. Whether you are discussing industrial applications, healthcare settings, or manufacturing, the need for robust textile fabrics that perform tasks to a high standard, safely, with a long life cycle is an important one. Working with the right type of supplier for your needs will go a long way to providing peace of mind and efficient performance levels.
