Fibre Classification
The average diameter or linear density of the long, combed flax fibres used for high-quality yarn production determines the spinning limit of the raw material. Line flax fineness dictates how thin a yarn can be spun without causing excessive breakages on the spinning frame. This characteristic is determined by the growth conditions of the flax plant and the efficiency of the hackling process.
Spinning Performance
Finer fibres allow more individual strands to be present in the yarn cross-section, which increases yarn strength and uniformity. Evaluating line flax fineness helps the spinning mill select the correct drafting parameters and spindle speeds for each batch. This measurement ensures that the mill can produce fine, high-count yarns that are suitable for luxury apparel and delicate household linens.
Measurement Technique
Technicians measure this characteristic by using airflow instruments or gravimetric methods to assess the specific surface area of the fibre bundle. High surface area indicates a higher proportion of fine fibres, which correlates with superior spinning properties. These measurements are recorded on the raw material datasheet and used to blend different flax lots to achieve a consistent quality level before spinning begins.
By blending coarser and finer lots based on these results, mills can optimize raw material costs while ensuring that the finished yarn meets the buyer’s strength and uniformity requirements.