Characterizing and modeling of low twist yarn mechanics

Abstract

Twist in yarns can be used for handling or testing purposes, but it is not necessary when using continuous multifilament yarns as compared to the spinning required for a short fiber yarn. Small amounts of twist have shown to increase the strength of the yarn while decreasing the longitudinal stiffness. Previous models, including Gegauff’s cos2 θ model and Rao and Farris’ model, are compared and discussed. A para-aramid (Kevlar 49) and a regenerated cellulose (BioMid) yarn are tested at various levels of twist to compare with these models. Twist is manually applied, and the samples are tested under continuous rate of extension to determine chord modulus, breaking tenacity, and elongation and break. The results are then fit to existing prediction models using a minimization of the standard error of the regression. Finally, a linear regression is also applied to the data to contrast the fit compared to traditional models. It was found that while the Gegauff model and the Rao and Farris model may capture the overall trend and decrease in longitudinal stiffness over a large range of twist, the small range over which twist can practically be used is not well represented by these models and is better represented by a simple linear relationship.