Investigation of dimensional changes during garment production and suggestions for solutions

Abstract

Dimensional change problems experienced in textile products have always been an important subject and in the focus of attention. Today it is expected that dimensional changes in fabrics, the basic material of textile products, must range within certain limitations. Fabrics processed in the finishing divisions are wound or decatized in various forms according to the fabric structure and the demands of garment manufacturers. However, fabrics may be distorted in these storing processes, which results in undesired dimensional changes under the stress incurred. Nevertheless fabrics are required to be delivered to garment manufacturers at specific tension values. Indeed these values are not acquired as expected; consequently, it is known that they represent a core conflict subject between finishing plants and garment manufacturers. The present study investigated the structures of garment manufacturers and dimensional change problems they experience during fabric layout. The aim was to determine the severity of the problem in terms of the garment manufacturer and fabric types, which cause problems frequently, and to search for solutions to overcome this issue by means of a survey study. Solutions which would increase production efficiency and reduce processing time have been emphasized. © 2015, Institute of Biopolymers and Chemical Fibres. All rights reserved.