Loop length of plain single weft knitted structure with elastane

Abstract

For decades, scientists have been trying to define relationships among yarn parameters, knitted fabric parameters, and knitting parameters with loop models. Recently, the geometrical loop models have returned to focus as they assist finding the effective parameters which cause dimensional changes during relaxation. Furthermore, they help designing knitted structures for technical applications and obtaining computer simulations of knitted structures. In the past, geometrical loop models considered more or less porous structures and the yarns used were mostly conventional, without elastane. The behavior and characteristics of compact knitted fabrics made from elasticized yarns have been investigated only recently. In general, mostly the structures with plated elastane threads have been analyzed. The aim of the research was to study the geometrical parameters (yarn thickness, loop width, loop height, fabric thickness, loop length) of plain single weft knitted structures made from various elasticized yarns, in comparison to equivalent structures made from conventional yarns. In the study, the most frequently applied loop models for the loop length calculations were evaluated with the emphasis on their adequacy for elasticized knitted structures. A new loop model for an elasticized weft knitted structure based on the multiple linear regressions was defined.