Different Types of Yarns: Structure, Features & Applications


Yarns are the fundamental building blocks of textiles, formed by twisting fibers together to create long, continuous strands. Based on construction and fiber arrangement, yarns can be classified into various types, each with distinct characteristics that influence the performance, texture, strength, and end-use of the fabric. Understanding these yarn types is essential for selecting the right yarn in apparel, home textiles, and technical textile applications.




1. Single Yarn

  • Definition:
    A single yarn is the most basic form of yarn, composed of a single strand of fibers twisted together. It can be made from natural (e.g., cotton, wool) or synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, nylon).

  • Characteristics:

    • Simple structure

    • Lightweight and soft

    • Prone to pilling, snagging, and lower durability compared to multi-ply yarns

    • Commonly used in lightweight garments and knitted fabrics

2. Plied Yarn (Twisted Yarn)

  • Definition:
    A plied yarn is made by twisting two or more single yarns together in the opposite direction of their original twist, enhancing the yarn’s strength and performance.

  • Characteristics:

    • Stronger and more durable than single yarns

    • More balanced in tension and less likely to untwist

    • Better abrasion resistance

    • Used in denim, formal wear, home furnishings, and outerwear

3. Core-Spun Yarn

  • Definition:
    A core-spun yarn has a central core made of one type of fiber (usually synthetic like polyester or spandex), wrapped with a sheath of another fiber (commonly natural, like cotton).

  • Characteristics:

    • Combines advantages of both fibers (e.g., strength from the core and softness from the sheath)

    • Excellent stretch and recovery when elastomeric cores are used

    • Good comfort, durability, and dimensional stability

    • Widely used in stretch denim, activewear, and socks

4. Drawn Covered Yarn (DCY)

  • Definition:
    Drawn covered yarn refers to a type of yarn where a drawn (elongated and oriented) filament core is wrapped with another fiber or filament, usually to enhance elasticity or appearance.

  • Characteristics:

    • Provides controlled stretch and elastic recovery

    • Smooth appearance due to covering layer

    • Often used in hosiery, underwear, sportswear, and swimwear

    • Can be single-covered or double-covered depending on the requirement

🔍 Note: Drawn Covered Yarn is commonly used in the context of elastic yarns (like covered spandex).

5. Bicomponent Yarn (Bico-Yarn)

  • Definition:
    A bicomponent yarn is manufactured by extruding two different polymers simultaneously through the same spinneret to form a single filament with distinct sections, such as side-by-side, sheath-core, or segmented pie.

  • Characteristics:

    • Exhibits special properties like self-crimping, differential shrinkage, and dye uptake

    • Enables advanced functionalities like thermal bonding, moisture management, and aesthetic effects

    • Commonly used in nonwovens, smart textiles, automotive fabrics, and hygiene products


I hold a BSc in Textile Engineering specializing in Fabric Manufacturing from BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology. As an Industrial Engineer, I optimize processes, conduct time and motion studies, improve production planning, ensure quality, and implement cost-saving strategies to enhance efficiency and drive success.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Difference Between Time Study, Production Study, Method Study, and Motion Study

Aspect Time Study Production Study Method Study Motion Study Definition Measurement of the time taken to complete a task. Analysis of production output and efficiency. Study to improve the process or method of work. Study of physical movements to optimize efficiency. Objective Determine standard time for tasks. Evaluate and improve production performance. Simplify and standardize work methods. Eliminate unnecessary movements and reduce fatigue. Focus Time required for a task or operation. Output, efficiency, and bottlenecks. Work process, tools, and layout. Worker movements and ergonomics. Tools Used Stopwatch, time sheet, or software. Production records, efficiency reports. Flowcharts, process charts, layout diagrams. Motion charts, video analysis, and stop-motion tools. Outcome Standard time for operations. Improved productivity and reduced downtime. Optimized methods for higher efficiency. Reduced unnecessary motions and improved ergonomi...
Read more

Understanding Yarn Count: A Simple Guide

Yarn count is an important concept in the textile industry. It tells us how thick or thin a yarn is, and it relates the length of the yarn to its weight . In simple terms, yarn count shows the ratio of length to weight .  Two Types of Yarn Count Systems There are two main systems used to measure yarn count: Direct Count and Indirect Count . 1. Direct Count System In this system, the weight of a fixed length of yarn is measured. The weight per unit length determines the yarn count. The formula is: N = (I × C) / L Where: N = Yarn count I = Unit of length (like meters or yards) C = Weight of the sample L = Length of the sample In the Direct Count System , the length of yarn is fixed , and its weight varies based on the yarn's thickness. Common Direct Count Systems: Tex : The weight in grams of 1000 meters of yarn. Example : A 40 Tex yarn means 1000 meters of yarn weighs 40 grams. Denier : The weight in grams of 9000 meters of yarn. Example : A 150 Denie...
Read more