Textile Term: Tensile Strength
Tensile strength is a measurement of the amount of force required to pull a material to the point where it breaks. In textile industry, tensile strength is an important parameter as it measures the strength of the fibers in a textile material.
Tensile strength is usually determined by using a tensile testing machine which pulls a sample of the textile until it breaks, while measuring the force applied. The result is expressed in units of force per unit of cross-sectional area, such as pounds-force per square inch (psi) or newtons per square millimeter (N/mm²).
Several factors influence a material's tensile strength, including the type and quality of fibers, the spinning, weaving or knitting process, and any post-treatments applied to the fabric. High tensile strength is highly desirable for many applications, such as industrial fabrics, protective clothing, and outdoor gear, as it ensures durability and resistance to tearing or breaking under stress.
In various textile applications, including the production of fabrics, ropes, and threads, tensile strength is critical to the material's ability to bear weight or withstand tension. For example, in safety equipment such as seat belts and parachutes, where failure could be catastrophic, textiles with high tensile strength are essential.
Moreover, a fabric's tensile strength determines its durability and ability to withstand wear and tear caused by regular use or washing in clothing.