Studies on cyclic loading of mulberry silk warp yarns

Abstract

Mulberry silk warp yarns were subjected to cyclic loading on tensile testing instrument by simulating the conditions of weaving. Minimum and maximum load for these cyclic loadings were selected based on the theoretical base tension on the warp yarns and maximum tension at beat-up process. The speed of cyclic loading was adjusted to match with the speed of the conventional power loom. The stress-strain curves of the yarns were investigated and the deformation behaviour was analysed with respect to yield point, maximum load, elongation and energy. The behaviour of silk warp yarn to fatigue developed during weaving due to its tensile deformation was studied at the fabric formation stage. All the three warp yarns showed significant deformation during weaving.