A test apparatus to measure vertical wicking of fabrics - a case study on shirting fabrics

摘要

A test apparatus based on electrical conduction principle was designed and manufactured to overcome some difficulties and deficiencies in vertical wicking measurements of fabrics, which is one of the test methods used to determine liquid moisture transmission performance of fabrics. In order to test effectiveness of the apparatus, capillary time with regard to height was measured for woven shirting fabrics, which have different raw material, weave type and weft density. It was found that twill weave type and fabric looseness improved the wickability of fabrics. It was also revealed that raw material was an important factor for vertical wicking. The wicking rate of fabrics obtained from the new test apparatus correlated well with DIN 53924. Consequently, the test apparatus clearly demonstrated differences between the fabrics used in the study, and can be used to determine vertical wicking behaviour of fabrics.