Shearing is a vital process in high-volume textile manufacturing that involves the removal of excess fibres or yarns from the surface of the fabric to create a smooth finish. The process is carried out by shearing machines that use sharp blades to cut off the protruding fibres.
The shearing process is critical in the textile industry because it helps to improve the quality and value of the fabric by enhancing its appearance, texture, and durability. It also helps to reduce the likelihood of pilling and snagging of the fabric, which can reduce the lifespan of the garment.
History of Shearing in Textile Manufacturing
The shearing process has been used in the textile industry for centuries. The first recorded use of shearing machines dates back to the 17th century, when they were used to shear woolen fabrics in England. Over time, the process was refined and became an essential part of the textile manufacturing process.
During the Industrial Revolution, the shearing process was further improved with the development of new technologies, such as power looms and spinning machines. These innovations enabled textile manufacturers to produce fabrics on a large scale, which led to increased demand for shearing machines.
Today, shearing machines are widely used in high volume textile manufacturing to produce a variety of fabrics, including wool, silk, cotton, and synthetic blends.
(BELOW: Textile mills Phoenox’s at Spring Grove in Clayton West have used the shearing process for hundreds of years.)
The Shearing Process in High-Volume Textile Manufacturing
The shearing process in high-volume textile manufacturing involves the following steps:
-
Preparation of the fabric: The fabric is prepared by washing, drying, and pressing to ensure that it is free of dirt, debris, and wrinkles.
-
Inspection: The fabric is inspected for defects, such as holes, snags, or loose fibres, which can affect the quality of the finished product.
-
Shearing: The fabric is fed through a shearing machine with one or more blades. The blades rotate at high speeds and cut off the protruding fibres, creating a smooth finish.
-
Inspection and testing: The sheared fabric is inspected again to ensure that it meets the required quality, texture, and appearance standards. It may also be tested for durability, strength, and other properties.
Benefits of Shearing in High-Volume Textile Manufacturing
The shearing process offers several benefits in high-volume textile manufacturing, including:
-
Improved quality: Shearing helps to remove excess fibres and create a smooth finish, which improves the quality and value of the fabric.
-
Enhanced texture and appearance: Shearing can be used to create different textures and patterns on the fabric, enhancing its appearance and appeal.
-
Increased durability: Shearing helps to reduce the likelihood of pilling, snagging, and other forms of wear and tear, which can increase the garment’s lifespan.
-
Cost-effective: Shearing is a cost-effective way to improve the quality and value of the fabric, as it can be done on a large scale using automated machines.
Learn more about textile shearing
If you’d like to learn more about the shearing process we use to create fine textiles at Phoenox, please contact a member of our friendly team.
