THE EFFECT OF FIBER CROSS-SECTIONAL SHAPE ON FABRIC MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES AND HANDLE

In order to clarify the effects of different fibre cross-sectional shapes on fabric mechanical properties and handle, polyester 'Shingosen' fabrics of different fibre cross-sections were investigated using the KES-FB system. The results were discussed by comparing them with typical women's fine dress fabrics and the following conclusions were obtained. Polyester fabric becomes soft and deformable with an increase in the space ratio in the fibre cross-section, however, it does become inelastic and unrecoverable. FUKURAMI (fullness and softness) and SHINAYAKASA (flexibility with a soft feel) of polyester fabrics is greater with higher space ratios, but, KOSHI (stiffness) and HARI (anti-drape stiffness), however, is lowered. Fabric bending rigidity is in proportion to fibre bending rigidity if all other conditions such as yarn density, count and finishing conditions remain the same. However, in general, the fabric mechanical properties and handle are controlled by the fibre assembly structure rather than fibre cross-sectional shape.