Impact of material, structure and relaxation process parameters of elasticized single-knitted fabrics on loop length

The development of knitted fabrics with incorporated elastane has increased in recent decades. Knitting with these elasticized yarns usually results in a very compact structure. Loop length is considered to be the primary parameter for knitted structures. Consequently, knowledge of all factors influencing loop length is vital for planning yarn consumption, comfort fit, quality, performance and aesthetic properties of knitted fabrics made from elasticized yarns. The objective of this research was to study the impact of material, knitted structure and relaxation process parameters on loop length. In addition, the objective was to examine the differences in loop length of single weft knitted fabrics, produced from different types of elasticized and non-elasticized yarns. For both groups of knitted fabrics, elasticized and non-elasticized, knitted fabric density and relaxation process influence the loop length most of all. Loop length decreases during the process of consolidation, but this decrease is not substantial. Addition of elastane does not significantly influence the loop length.