In the textiles and fabrics industries, product quality is paramount. If products do not meet set standards, recycling or discarding may be the only options. Moisture content plays an important role in the product quality of textiles. It can affect the quality, durability, fit and appearance of fabric. Improper moisture levels in textile production can lead to shrinkage and color defects. Ensuring the proper moisture levels can improve product quality, reduce inconsistencies and cut down on rework. A moisture sensor from MoistTech brings a multitude of benefits to textile mills.
Fabric Shrinkage from Moisture
Consistent moisture monitoring can prevent fabric shrinkage during manufacturing. The hydroscopic nature of fibers makes measuring moisture levels essential to prevent shrinkage. No matter if the moisture content is coming from the surrounding air humidity or from wet processing, it is crucial to have data to visualize how much moisture is absorbed into the fabric. Not only does shrinkage affect the length or width of the product, but it can also lead to other defects, such as seam puckering or changes in the way the garment fits. Consumers expect garments to fit as indicated by the size and shrinkage can alter the expected fit. Shrinkage can weaken the fibers for a lower quality product. Incorrect moisture levels can lead to product distortions and shrinkage following processing, but this is an avoidable situation with the proper moisture monitoring system. Moisture sensors monitor the moisture levels of a product so adjustments can be made before quality is affected. By maintaining the proper moisture levels, the fabric will not shrink after it is dried. When the quality of the product is on the line, you need a moisture sensor that will allow the operator to make immediate adjustments to avoid the need for product rework or discarding.
Excessive Moisture Causes Color Defects
Improper moisture levels also contribute to color defects in textiles. Color defects can be presented in many different ways. Too much moisture changes the dye consistency, which results in noticeable changes in color variation, such as unevenness, streaks or stark differences in color shade. If the fabric is too saturated with moisture, there could be uneven dye absorption. Excessive moisture content can also contribute to color bleeding when the consumer launders the fabric. It is important for colors to be consistent to meet consumers’ expectations and also match the product requirements. Using a moisture sensor can help each textile emerge with the correct color that was expected. By constantly monitoring the moisture content of textiles to ensure they fall within the correct range, dyes can work as intended to produce results that are free from color defects.
Moisture Sensor for Textile Applications
MoistTech offers cutting-edge moisture monitoring solutions designed specifically for the textile and fabric industries. The IR-3000 on-line moisture sensor uses near-infrared (NIR) technology to deliver fast, accurate, and repeatable results—without contacting the material.
IR-3000 Key Features:
- Non-contact, real-time moisture measurement
- No downtime or sampling required
- Immune to heat and humidity interference
- No recalibration or drift over time
- Plug-and-play design with free software and unlimited licensing
- Easy installation on nearly any part of the production line
- With the IR-3000, textile manufacturers can experience:
- Up to 400% increase in production efficiency
- Reduced scrap and product waste
- Consistent quality control and compliance
- Improved customer satisfaction
Contact MoistTech for a Consultation
Boost the quality of your textile products while reducing shrinkage and color defects. By installing a moisture sensor at your textile mill, you can accurately and consistently measure the moisture content of materials. In addition to product quality consistency, experience less line downtime, reduced materials waste and fewer needs for rework. Contact MoistTech today to learn more about our on-line moisture sensors and to receive a consultation.