Linear Mass
Yarn thickness represents a fundamental physical property that dictates the performance of woven fabrics. The measurement known as 20 tex yarn defines a specific density where one thousand meters of the linen thread weigh exactly twenty grams. This intermediate grade is commonly spun from long-line flax fibers to produce durable yet breathable summer shirtings.
Mill records track this specification on daily spinning logs to ensure uniformity across different production lots. The resulting material bridges the gap between delicate handkerchief linens and heavy decorative fabrics. It provides a standard reference point for calculating fabric weight in grams per square meter before warp preparation begins.
Spinning Behavior
Processing flax fibers to achieve this specific weight requires precise control over draft ratios and spindle speeds in the wet-spinning frame. When producing 20 tex yarn, the spinner maintains a moisture level in the drafting zone that optimizes fiber lubrication. This level of control reduces the occurrence of thick and thin spots that would otherwise compromise the strength of the subsequent warp.
A high draft ratio applied to wet-spun flax yields a smoother surface finish than coarser yarn counts.
Tensile Limit
Ultimate break strength during warp preparation acts as the primary metric for batch acceptance. A standard lot of 20 tex yarn must exceed a minimum force threshold measured in centinewtons to survive the mechanical stress of modern rapier looms. Mill laboratories test twenty samples from each bobbin to establish a statistical average for tensile strength.
Lots that fall below this strength threshold are diverted to lower-tension weft applications or rejected entirely to protect insertion efficiency.
