Softness of Cotton Yarns as Affected by Fiber and Yarn Properties

Abstract

Yarn softness is evaluated quantitatively as the percent increase in yarn width under a definite lateral force. Single-yarn softness decreases with twist and increases with yarn number and fiber maturity. With the above parameters constant, softness has no relation to fiber linear density. An equation is developed for estimating single-yarn softness from yarn diameter and twist and from fiber maturity. The softness of 2-ply yarns as related to the component single yarns is discussed. For modified cottons, in creased fiber friction apparently contributes to the decrease in yarn softness. An equation is developed to estimate the single-yarn diameter from yarn number and twist multiplier. The possibility that the diameter of the 2-ply yarn is related mathematically to the ply yarn twist multiplier and to the softness of the original unplied single yam is discussed.