Last Updated on: 10-May-2024 (4 months, 4 days ago)
Share on Facebook • Share on Twitter
In textile manufacturing, a micron is a unit of measurement used to describe the fineness of fibers. Specifically, it refers to the diameter of individual fibers in micrometers (one millionth of a meter). The lower the micron count, the finer the fiber, which typically results in softer, more luxurious fabrics.
Micron measurement is particularly important in the production of high-end textiles, such as cashmere, silk, and fine wool. For example, cashmere fibers typically range between 14 and 19 microns in diameter, while fine merino wool can be as low as 12 microns. The micron count of a fiber affects its texture, strength, and durability, as well as its ability to be spun into yarn and woven into fabric.
In addition to measuring fiber fineness, micron measurement is also used to assess the quality of finished textiles. For example, fabrics with a high micron count may be considered coarse or rough, while those with a low micron count are often associated with luxury and softness. Manufacturers and retailers may also use micron count as a way to differentiate their products from competitors and appeal to consumers who prioritize high-quality materials.
Some of the top users of micron measurement in textile manufacturing include luxury fashion brands, high-end textile mills, and specialty retailers. For example, Loro Piana, an Italian fashion brand known for its premium cashmere products, sources its cashmere fibers from specific regions of Mongolia where the goats produce fibers with a particularly low micron count. Similarly, luxury textile mills such as Zegna Baruffa Lane Borgosesia and Cariaggi Fine Yarns specialize in producing high-quality yarns made from fine fibers, often with a micron count of 19 or less.
Another major player in the micron measurement industry is the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO), a global trade association for wool producers and processors. The IWTO has established standards for measuring fiber fineness, including a standardized micron measurement system that is widely used in the industry. The organization also offers training and certification programs for wool growers and other industry professionals to ensure that high-quality fibers are being produced and used throughout the supply chain.
In recent years, advancements in technology have made it easier for textile manufacturers to measure micron count accurately and efficiently. For example, laser micrometers can quickly measure the diameter of individual fibers without damaging them, allowing for precise and consistent measurements. This technology has become particularly important as demand for high-quality textiles continues to grow, and consumers become more discerning about the materials they wear and use in their homes.
Overall, micron measurement plays a crucial role in the textile industry, enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality fibers and fabrics that meet the needs of discerning consumers. As technology continues to improve and the demand for luxury textiles grows, micron measurement is likely to become even more important in the years to come.
A unit of measure that describes the average staple fiber diameter in a lot of wool. Over he past 30 years, the Micron measurement has evolved to become the predominant term used commercially to describe the fineness of a wool fiber. A Micron is determined by the actual measurement when the wool lots are tested for sale during wool processing. Most wool fibers range in the area of 18-40 micron. Merino wool falls into the 18-24 micron range. The 25-32 micron, medium range wool, is usually defined by the word 'Shetland', and is used in such applications as blankets and knitwear apparel. The 33-40 range Micron usually describes the wool most often used in the carpet industry.
Note: This content is for informational purposes only. Please read our full disclaimer for more details.
Some more terms:
Donegal Tweed
A medium to heavy of plain or twill weave fabric in which colorful yarn slubs are woven into the fabric. Made from wool but can also be made from rayons and cottons. It is mostly made from a plain...
Read about Donegal TweedOilcloth: A Detailed Study of Its Composition and Application
Oilcloth was, traditionally, heavy cotton or linen cloth with a linseed oil coating: it was semi-water-proof. The most familiar use was for brightly printed kitchen tablecloths. Dull colored oilcloth...
Read about OilclothReturn
Distance or portion of a curtain rod that extends beyond the bracket and meets back at the wall. A return conceals the working parts of the hardware and prevents daylight from coming in between the...
Read about ReturnAtlas
In textiles, an atlas is a type of fabric that is characterized by its lustrous, shiny appearance and its tightly woven construction. It is typically made from a combination of silk and cotton or...
Read about AtlasArran
Arran, also known as Arran tweed, is a type of woven fabric that originated from the Isle of Arran in Scotland. This textile is a type of tweed that is made from wool and is known for its soft...
Read about ArranCrabbing
Crabbing, also known as "skewing" or "skewing correction," is a process used in the textile industry to rectify or prevent distortion or biasing of fabric during manufacturing. It involves applying...
Read about CrabbingBeaded Elegance: Exploring the Art of Textile Embellishment
Beading in Textiles: Embellishing with EleganceBeading, an artful technique in textiles, has a rich history spanning cultures and eras. From ancient civilizations to modern fashion, beads have been...
Read about BeadingCotton Count Chronicles: The Fabric of Textile Quality
Unraveling Cotton Count: A Critical Parameter in Textile QualityHistory and Origin of Cotton CountThe concept of Cotton Count emerged with the industrialization of the textile industry during the...
Read about Cotton Count- The term you want to define
- Its definition in 500 words or less
- Attach an image if necessary.
- Optionally, tell us about yourself in 200 words or less!
- Company name
- Company address
- Attach a logo, if necessary.
- Optionally, tell us about yourself in 200 words or less!
The textile industry in Bangladesh is committed to improving working conditions and safety standards.