Water Measurement
Water weight ratios represent the mass of water present in a textile material divided by the total wet mass of that material. Determining the moisture content percentage is essential during the spinning of flax because the strength of the fibre changes with its wetness. Technicians test this value by weighing a sample before and after drying it in a heated oven.
The resulting value is recorded in the laboratory log to monitor the processing environment of the mill.
Commercial Value
Commercial transactions for raw flax fibres and yarns require a standardized weight basis to ensure fair pricing. Buyers use the moisture content percentage to calculate the dry weight of the yarn, adding a standard allowance for moisture afterward. Since flax can hold up to twelve percent of its weight in water without feeling wet, this prevents the buyer from paying for unneeded moisture.
The official laboratory certificate lists this value to guarantee the authenticity of the trade weight. For example, a batch weighing ten tons with a high percentage of water will be discounted to match the dry fibre equivalent.
Technical Limit
Spinning machinery requires a narrow range of humidity to prevent the flax fibres from breaking or static from building up. If the moisture content percentage falls too low, the fibres become brittle and snap during the drafting process. Maintaining the correct dampness ensures a smooth spinning operation and high-quality yarn.
