Ⅰ.Classification by Weaving Texture of Polyester Forming Fabrics
(1)Plain Weave Fabric
Plain weave fabric adopts a 2-harness weaving method, being the simplest type among all forming fabrics.
(2)Half Twill Fabric
Half twill fabric uses a 3-harness weaving method, also known as the 1/2 weave pattern, meaning 1 harness is raised while 2 harnesses are lowered.
(3)4-Harness Fabric
It can be further divided into:
(4)5-Harness Fabric
5-harness fabric includes:
(5)7-Harness Fabric
7-harness fabric is mostly used as a multi-layer polyester forming fabric. Its weft consists of two rows: the upper row has thinner weft yarns and the lower row has thicker ones.
(6)8-Harness Fabric
8-harness polyester forming fabrics are classified into single-layer polyester fabrics and multi-layer polyester fabrics. The multi-layer 8-harness fabric is equipped with two types of weft yarns. The upper weft yarns are relatively thin, while the lower weft yarns are thicker and interwoven with nylon monofilaments of the same diameter. This design enhances the wear resistance of the fabric and extends the service life of the polyester forming fabric.
(7)14–24 Harness Fabric
Multi-layer polyester forming fabrics with 14, 16, 20, 24 harnesses, etc., have two rows of weft yarns. The diameter of the lower weft yarns is thicker, equivalent to the total diameter of two upper weft yarns, and nylon monofilaments are added. WB refers to weft binding and JB refers to warp binding. With a large weft pitch span, the fabric’s transverse stiffness and wear resistance are improved, thereby prolonging its service life.
Ⅱ.Classification by Yarn Sliding Mode
Warp-sliding Fabric
In polyester forming fabrics, if the yarns on the friction surface mainly bear sliding friction via the warp, it is called a warp-sliding fabric.
Weft-sliding Fabric
If the yarns on the friction surface mainly bear sliding friction via the weft, it is called a weft-sliding fabric.
From the perspective of the service life of polyester forming fabrics, the warp generally bears the tension of the fabric, while the weft mainly endures wear from components. Therefore, the weft-sliding fabric is the preferred choice for polyester forming fabrics.
