Adhesive Coating
Warp sizing polymers strengthen spun yarns before weaving by coating them with a protective film to reduce hairiness and friction. The pva sizing binder acts as a synthetic adhesive that adheres to flax fibres, providing the necessary tensile strength to withstand loom abrasion. This compound wash out easily during the scouring stage, making it popular in modern textile mills.
Producers rely on this polymer to minimize warp breaks on high-speed air-jet looms.
Viscosity Control
Preparing the sizing mix requires careful control of the concentration and cooking temperature to achieve the desired viscosity. Flax yarns have a rough surface with many protruding fibre ends, which requires a binder that penetrates the yarn core while leaving a flexible coating on the exterior. When the viscosity is too high, the size remains on the surface and becomes brittle, leading to flaking on the loom.
If the mix is too thin, it fails to protect the yarn against the high tension of weaving. Sizing technicians blend polyvinyl alcohol with starch and lubricants to achieve a balanced film. This combination provides both elasticity and smooth passage through the loom reed.
Wash Efficiency
Removing the adhesive during the finishing process is essential to ensure uniform dyeing and bleaching of the woven linen. The polyvinyl alcohol dissolves readily in hot water during the scouring process, which allows the textile to regain its natural softness and absorbency. Residues of the binder can block dye uptake, leading to uneven shading and streakiness in the finished cloth.