Loop-pile spun yarn, method for manufacturing same, loop-pile towel using same, and method for manufacturing loop-pile towel

Abstract

A spun yarn for loop pile containing cotton fibers and containing no water-soluble fibers, wherein the spun yarn for loop pile is a no-twist or soft-twist single yarn having twist unevenness along the length direction of the yarn. A method for producing the spun yarn comprises producing a no-twist or soft-twist spun single yarn by applying real twist to a plurality of rovings (12a, 12b) with one traveler (22) using a Sirospun spinning apparatus (10), and applying false twist by a friction belt (25) located upstream of the traveler (22) to impart twist unevenness along the length direction of the yarn, followed by winding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a loop pile spun yarn using siro spun yarn as the pile yarn, a manufacturing method thereof, and a loop pile towel using the same and a manufacturing method thereof.Background Art

[0002] Traditionally, towel fabrics have been woven using warp pile yarns, warp yarns, and weft yarns to create pile fabrics. Furthermore, to improve absorbency, towel fabrics have a relatively high basis weight (mass per unit area) and are made of thick, high-fine yarns.

[0003] Patent Document 1 proposes using synthetic siro spun yarn to create a figured pile yarn. Patent Documents 2 and 3 propose using softly twisted siro spun yarn to create pile knit fabrics. In Patent Document 4, the present inventors propose a siro spun yarn using two or more rovings, which is a no-twist or soft-twist yarn.Citation List Patent Literature

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 10-088440 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2019-137941 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2019-137942 A [Patent Document 4] JP Patent No. 7372718 A Summary of Invention Technical Problem

[0005] However, the above-mentioned prior art has problems with towel properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability, and further improvements are needed.

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a spun yarn for loop pile that has good pile uprightness properties, a soft and fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as water absorption, washability, and durability, a manufacturing method thereof, and a loop pile towel using the same, and a manufacturing method thereof.Solution to Problem

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a spun yarn for loop pile that is composed of cotton fiber but does not contain water-soluble fiber, and that is a no-twist or soft twist single with a twist coefficient K of 0 to 2.9, featuring uneven twist along the length of the yarn, with hard twist and soft twist portions along the length of the yarn, the hard twist portions being thin, and the soft twist portions being thick. The twist coefficient (K) is calculated using the following formula (Equation 1). A twist coefficient K = t / s where t: number of twists (turns / 25.4 mm), S: cotton count (British cotton count).

[0008] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a manufacturing method for the above-mentioned spun yarn for loop pile, which involves drafting multiple rovings using a siro spun spinning device, plying and twisting them to form a no-twist or soft twist single yarn, and then winding the yarn with a false twist using a friction belt to impart twist unevenness along the length of the yarn.

[0009] Still another embodiment of the present invention relates to a loop pile towel using the above-mentioned loop pile spun yarn, in which the pile yarn of the loop pile towel is a no-twist or soft twist single with a twist coefficient K of 0 to 2.9 and stands approximately perpendicular to the ground weave.

[0010] Still another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned loop pile towel, in which the yarn is subjected to a first sizing in a cheese (wound yarn) state, and after warping, is subjected to a second sizing in a yarn state and reinforced with sizing, and the loop pile towel is manufactured at a warping speed of 500 m / min or less and a loom rotation speed (number of times the weft is driven per minute) of 200 to 350 rpm.Advantageous Effect of Invention

[0011] The loop pile spun yarn of the present invention is composed of cotton fibers and does not contain water-soluble fibers. The loop pile spun yarn is a single yarn with no twist or a soft twist. Due to the uneven twist along the length of the yarn, single fibers are in a migration state, with some fibers penetrating the inside and some twisting outward. The fibers are entangled, and the constituent fibers exist in a free state. This results in a pile yarn with good pile standability, a soft and fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as water absorbency, washability, and durability. Furthermore, in the loop pile towel of the present invention, the pile yarns are open from the base to the top, and are raised almost perpendicular to the ground weave. This allows each constituent fiber to exist in a free state, resulting in a towel with excellent pile raising, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent absorbency, washability, and durability.Brief Description of Drawings

[0012] [Fig. 1] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a siro spun spinning device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a towel fabric according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a woven structure diagram of the fiber towel fabric according to the same embodiment. [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a side view (magnification 100x) of pile yarn according to one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a side view (magnification 100x) of pile yarn according to Comparative Example 1. [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is a side photograph (magnification 100x) of the pile yarn of Comparative Example 2. [Fig. 7] Fig. 7 is a side photograph (magnification 30x) of the towel fabric of one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). [Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is a side photograph (magnification 30x) of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 1. [Fig. 9] Fig. 9 is a side photograph (magnification 30x) of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 2. [Fig. 10] Fig. 10 is a plan photograph (magnification 10x) of the towel fabric of one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). [Fig. 11] Fig. 11 is a plan photograph (magnification 10x) of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 1. [Fig. 12] Fig. 12 is a plan photograph (magnification 10x) of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 2. Description of Embodiments

[0013] The spun yarn for loop pile of the present invention contains cotton fiber. Cotton fiber has excellent water absorption properties and has traditionally been used in towel fabrics. It does not contain water-soluble fibers such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Water-soluble fibers are later dissolved in water and discarded, which not only poses problems of high cost but also of environmental pollution. The spun yarn for loop pile is a single yarn of siro spun yarn, and has uneven twist along the length of the yarn. As a result, as described above, the yarn is in a migration state in which single fibers are twisted inward or outward, and the fibers are entangled with each other, while the constituent fibers exist in a free state. This results in a pile yarn with excellent pile standability, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as water absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0014] Normally, no-twist or soft twist yarns have a low number of twists, making them weak and prone to slipping through, making them difficult to wind on a ring spinning machine. However, the spun yarn of the present invention has twist unevenness along the length of the yarn, resulting in a migration state in which single fibers are twisted inward or outward, and the entanglement of the fibers gives the yarn strength sufficient to be wound on a ring spinning machine, even without the inclusion of water-soluble fibers. The twist unevenness can be achieved by imparting false twist.

[0015] The spun yarn for the loop pile preferably has a twist coefficient K of 0 to 2.9, more preferably 0.5 to 2.8, and even more preferably 1 to 2.9. The twist coefficient (K) is calculated using the following formula (Equation 1): A twist coefficient K = t / s where t: number of twists (twists / 25.4 mm), S: cotton count (British cotton count). As described above, a no-twist or softly twisted yarn with uneven twist results in pile yarn with excellent uprightness properties, a soft, fluffy feel, and excellent absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0016] The cotton fiber is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of long fibers and extra-long fibers. Specific examples include the long staple fibers and extra-long staple fibers shown in Table 1 below. Since long or extra-long staple fibers have a large amount of crimp and high crimp strength, when they are applied to the Siro spun yarn of the present invention, the twist tendency and migration of the primary twist tend to remain, the fibers tend to entangle with each other, and because the yarn is a non-twisted or softly twisted yarn, each constituent fiber exists in a free state. As a result, the pile yarn has good uprightness properties and a soft, fluffy texture. [Table 1]NameCotton-producing countryCotton varietyAverage fiber length (mm)Micronaire (µg / inch)Extra-long staple fiberEgyptGiza 7036.54.0ChinaXinjiang cotton T / 14638.14.0USAAmerican Pima36.54.1Long staple fiberPeruTangis30.25.8EgyptGiza 8632.04.3IndiaShankar 631.04.5TurkeyTurkish cotton29.04.1Medium staple fiberUSASan Joaquin29.44.1USAArizona28.65.0USAMemphis27.84.8AustraliaAndy28.64.7West AfricaT / Mambo27.84.5heavy count staple fiberPakistanAfzal26.24.9ChinaT / 427~52727.04.2PeruAspero26.26.7

[0017] The cotton fibers that make up loop pile yarn are preferably aligned parallel to one another. This ensures a smooth, textured surface when made into towels, and the loops of the loop pile yarn are visible, making it clear that the towels are of high quality. Furthermore, because each component fiber exists in a free state, the pile has excellent uprightness properties, a soft, fluffy feel, and excellent absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0018] The manufacturing method for spun yarn for loop pile of the present invention includes the following steps.(1) Siro spun Spinning Process

[0019] In the Siro spun Spinning process, a ring spinning device is used to add true twist to multiple rovings using a traveler to produce a spun yarn. The twist direction of the multiple rovings is reversed from the twist direction of the plied spun yarn to produce a no-twist or soft twist yarn. Preferably, the multiple rovings consist of two to three rovings.(2) False-Twisting Process

[0020] A false-twisting machine is installed upstream of the ring-shaped rotating traveler of the ring spinning device, producing a no-twist or soft twist spun yarn with uneven twist. A friction false-twisting machine is preferred, and a friction belt is more preferred. An example of a false-twisting machine using an endless rubber belt is one. The false-twisting machine applies a false twist perpendicular to the plied yarn. In the case of an endless rubber belt false twisting machine, the double-twisted yarn is contacted twice, resulting in an S-twist-Z twist or a Z-twist-S twist. The speed of the endless rubber belt is preferably 0.1 to 10 times the winding speed of the double-twisted yarn, more preferably 0.2 to 8 times, and even more preferably 0.3 to 7 times.(3) Winding Process

[0021] After passing through the friction false twisting machine, the yarn passes through a rotating ring-shaped traveler and is wound onto a bobbin.

[0022] In the loop pile towel of the present invention, the pile yarn is open from the base to the top, and each constituent fiber exists in a free state. Furthermore, the pile yarn is raised approximately perpendicular to the ground weave. Here, the "vertical direction" is preferably 75 to 115°, more preferably 70 to 110°, even more preferably 75 to 105°, and most preferably 80 to 100°. The pile yarns are open from the base to the top, and the piles are raised in a nearly vertical direction, which combine to give the towel a soft, fluffy texture and excellent properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0023] The pile yarns preferably cross each other once at the base, forming a one-loop raised pile. This single-loop raised pile structure stabilizes the raised structure and makes it easier for the piles to raise in a nearly vertical direction from the ground weave.

[0024] The loops of the loop pile spun yarn are preferably visible on the surface of the loop pile towel fabric. This allows the user to tell at a glance that the towel is of high quality. Furthermore, the cotton fibers that make up the loop pile spun yarn of a loop pile towel are preferably aligned parallel to one another. As a result, each constituent fiber exists in a free state, resulting in a pile yarn with excellent pile standability, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0025] The loop pile towel of the present invention has the following characteristics: (1) Low shedding. (2) High bulk. (3) High fluffiness before washing and a fluffy feel. (4) Lack of fluffiness after washing and resistance to washing deterioration. (5) Low rewetting, providing a comfortable wiping experience. (6) Low residual moisture content immediately after dehydration.

[0026] Furthermore, since the towel is in a migration state in which single fibers are twisted inward or outward, and the fibers are entangled, and each constituent fiber exists in a free state, the towel has excellent pile standability, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0027] The manufacturing method for the loop pile towel of the present invention includes the following steps. All of these steps are designed to prevent thread breakage.(1) Sizing (Sizing) Step

[0028] The first sizing is performed on the wound cheese (yarn), and after warping, the yarn is sized and reinforced with sizing. The first sizing is preferably performed on the wound cheese (yarn) at 85 degree Celsius for 30 minutes, followed by drying at 125 degree Celsius for 30 minutes. The second sizing is preferably performed on the wound cheese (yarn) at a sizing speed of 30 m / min, followed by drying at 140 degree Celsius for 30 minutes. A highly penetrating starch solution is preferably used as the sizing component.(2) Warping Speed

[0029] The warping speed is typically around 700 m / min, but is preferably 500 m / min or less, more preferably 400 m / min or less, and even more preferably 350 m / min or less. For a 16-count yarn, the warping tension is typically around 36 cN, but is preferably reduced to 30 cN.(3) Loom Speed (Number of times the weft is driven per minute)

[0030] The loom speed is typically 400 rpm, but is preferably set to 200-350 rpm.(4) Post-Processing

[0031] After weaving the towel fabric, it is bleached, scoured, dyed, and other processes are performed according to standard methods to produce a towel fabric.

[0032] The towel of the present invention is suitable for bath towels (after-bath towels), bath towels, face towels, towel handkerchiefs (handkerchiefs), hand towels, washcloths, hand towels, bath mats, sports towels, beach towels (body towels), and other uses. The fabric blend ratio, yarn type, yarn usage, and unit weight (bath weight) are appropriately determined to meet desired properties such as shedding and absorbency. The basis weight can be controlled (large to small) by changing the pile length (long to short) of the pile yarn. Examples of preferable basis weights that can achieve the effects of the present invention include a basis weight of 100 to 250 g / m 2< for thin fabrics, 250 to 500 g / m 2< for medium-weight fabrics, and 500 to 1000 g / m 2< for heavy fabrics. A weight of less than 100 g / m 2< is thin and lacking in bulk, while a weight of more than 1000 g / m 2< is too thick and heavy, and neither is preferable.

[0033] Furthermore, in this invention, cotton is the most suitable material in terms of texture, absorbency, moisture absorption, and ease of handling. However, cotton may also be blended with small amounts of linen, rayon, cupra, acetate, or wool. Blends of rayon, cupra, and acetate provide moisture absorption, while wool provides heat retention. The woven fabric is desized in a jet dyeing machine, following the same process as cotton, and then scoured under standard cotton scouring conditions (a constant temperature of 95-98 degree Celsius, a hold time of 50 minutes, and a dilute caustic soda solution and alcohol ethoxylate-added bath). Following scouring, it is then bleached under standard conditions (98 degree Celsius, 50 minutes, and a hydrogen peroxide solution). It is then dehydrated and finished by setting it in a tenter (off-white finish). This bleaching process also involves hot water treatment. If it is desired to incorporate crimped synthetic fiber yarns, the crimp of the false-twisted yarn is developed during the scouring process, and the fabric is then finished as is.

[0034] Next, if dyeing is to be performed following scouring and bleaching, cotton is dyed with a reactive dye (60-80 degree Celsius, 40 minutes). Polyester fibers are dyed with a disperse dye (130 degree Celsius, 40 minutes). When dyeing fabrics containing cotton and polyester, in addition to producing solid dyes using this two-bath process, disperse and reactive dyes can be used interchangeably to dye different colors or chambray (shades). Printing is also possible on scoured and bleached off-white fabric. In the case of pre-dyed polyester yarn, crimping can be simultaneously achieved during scouring, followed by bleaching and dyeing, and then weaving to produce pre-dyed towel fabric. In the case of pre-dyed cotton yarn, the process is scoured, bleached, dyed, and then woven to produce pre-dyed towel fabric. In this way, the present invention allows for the commercialization of products with excellent color and design properties through a variety of dyeing processes.

[0035] The following description will be made using the drawings. In the following drawings, identical reference numerals refer to identical components.

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a sirospun spinning device according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this Sirospun spinning device 10, two roving bobbins 11a, 11b are hung per spindle on a creel (roving supplying device), and rovings 12a, 12b supplied from the two roving bobbins 11a, 11b are sent in parallel to a drafting device 15 through a two-mouth trumpet guide 13 provided upstream (on the roving bobbin side) of a back roller 14. The rovings 12a, 12b are drafted at a predetermined interval between the back roller 14 and an apron 16, and between the apron 16 and a front roller 17, to form fleeces 18a, 18b. The fleeces 18a, 18b are then spun from the front roller 17 and twisted together to form the single yarn of spun yarn 19. This yarn is then false-twisted by the friction belt 25, imparting a twist unevenness along the length of the yarn. After passing through the snell wire 20, the yarn passes through the traveler 22 rotating on the ring 21, where it is twisted and wound onto the bobbin 23. The bobbin 23 is rotated by the drive belt 24. A is an enlarged view of the ring 21 and the traveler 22.

[0037] For example, the twist direction of the primary twist of the two rovings 12a, 12b is both the Z direction, and the twist direction by the traveler 22 is the S direction, and they are twisted in the untwisting direction. The number of twists by the traveler 22 (secondary twist number) is set to be the same as or greater than the number of twists in the primary twist.

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a towel fabric 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This towel fabric 1 is composed of warp pile yarns 2a, 2b, weft ground yarns 3, and warp ground yarns 4a, 4b, and the warp pile yarns 2a, 2b form loop piles while being held in place by a ground weave composed of weft ground yarns 3 and warp ground yarns 4a, 4b. The resulting towel fabric 1 is cut to a specified size and the ends are processed to make towels.

[0039] Figure 3 is a weave diagram of a towel fabric according to one embodiment of the present invention. This weave is a three-weft towel weave (three-pick terry motion weave). The warp pile yarns cross over every three weft ground yarns. Warp ground yarns G and warp pile yarns P are arranged alternately. Weft yarns 1 to 3 indicate the order. In Figure 3, when viewed from the warp, black and "x" indicate floating yarns, and white indicates sinking yarns.

[0040] Figure 4 is a side-view photograph (100x magnification) of pile yarn from one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). As is clear from Figure 4, there are areas 26 with high twist and areas 27 with low twist along the length of the yarn, indicating twist unevenness. Twist unevenness can be identified using an optical microscope at a magnification of approximately 100x. As shown in Figure 4, there are high-twist and low-twist sections 26 and 27 along the length of the yarn. The high-twist sections 26 are thin, while the low-twist sections 27 are thick. The high-twist sections 26 have a high twist angle relative to the yarn axis and a thin yarn diameter. The low-twist sections 27 have a low twist angle relative to the yarn axis and a thick yarn diameter. The high-twist and low-twist sections each preferably have an average length of 0.5 to 10 mm, and more preferably an average length of 1 to 8 mm. In other words, each cotton fiber constituting the pile yarn has high-twist and low-twist sections. As shown in Table 1 above, the average fiber length of cotton fibers is 26 mm or more, and the high-twist and low-twist sections are significantly shorter than the average fiber length of cotton fibers.

[0041] Furthermore, as is clear from Figure 4, the yarn has a fluffy texture overall.

[0042] Figure 7 is a side photograph (magnification 30x) of towel fabric according to one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). This towel fabric is composed of pile yarns 30 and a ground weave 31. The pile yarns 30 cross once at the base, and the loops are open and raised. In other words, it is a one-loop raised pile. This results in excellent pile raising and a soft, fluffy texture.

[0043] Figure 10 is a planar photograph (10x magnification) of towel fabric from one embodiment of the present invention (Example 1). The loops are visibly raised and neatly aligned, creating a good texture. At a glance, it is clear that this is a high-quality towel. Furthermore, because each constituent fiber exists in a free state, the pile has excellent raising, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability.[Example]

[0044] The following provides a more detailed explanation using examples. The present invention is not limited to the following examples. <Evaluating the Texture of Finished Towel Fabric>(1) Evaluation of Soft Texture

[0045] Softness of the texture is measured by the bulkiness, expressed as the volume per gram of towel fabric, using the following formula. The higher the value, the softer and better the texture. Thickness was measured according to JIS L-1096 (2010) 8.5, Bulkiness Test, and basis weight was measured by weighing a 1-m square area. Measurements were taken at five locations and the average value was expressed. Bulkiness cm 3 / g = Thickness mm / Basis Weight g / m 2 × 1000(2) Evaluation of Fluffy Texture

[0046] The towel fabric was compressed at a constant speed using a compression measuring device: KES-G5 (manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd.) to determine the compression work: WC = (gf.cm2). Measurements were taken at five locations and the average value was expressed. The WC value represents the energy required to compress the fabric. The higher the value, the better the towel is compressed, resulting in greater fluffiness and a softer, more fluffy feel.(3) Evaluation of Texture Washing Durability

[0047] Towel fabric was washed 20 times in a washing machine in accordance with JIS L-0217 (1995), Method 103. After drying, the compression work (WC = (gf.cm2)) was measured at five locations and expressed as the average value. The smaller the difference in WC values before and after washing, the less loss of fluffy texture due to washing, and the more durable and better the towel is.(4) Evaluation of Water Drainage in Washing

[0048] A 35 cm wide towel fabric was cut to a length of 80 g, weighed to one decimal place, and soaked in water for 20 minutes. The wet towel fabric was then removed and centrifuged in the washing machine's spin tub for 4 minutes. The weight was then accurately weighed, and the residual moisture content (%) of the towel fabric was calculated using the following formula. The lower the value, the better the drainage. Better drainage tends to result in faster subsequent drying. Three measurements were taken and the average was calculated.

[0049] Dropping fluff rate in washing was measured according to JIS L0217 (1995), Method 103. The dropping fluff rate (%) was calculated using the following formula. The lower the value, the less dropping fluff rate and the better the result. Five measurements were taken and the average was calculated. (6) Water Absorbency Evaluation (Modified Larose Method)

[0050] Five measurements were taken according to the modified Larose method of JIS L 1907 (2010), and the average value was calculated. The Larose Index (Water Absorbency Index) was calculated according to the following formula: Larose Index Water Absorbency Index = 2545 V × 1411 W + 79 V: Maximum water absorption rate (ml / s), W: Water absorption amount at maximum water absorption rate (ml) The higher the value, the faster and more water is absorbed from the skin, which is preferable.(7) Water Absorbency Rate (Drop Method)

[0051] The water absorption rate of towel fabric was measured according to the drop method (Vuillet method) of JIS L 1907 (2010). The test outline involved dropping a single drop of water onto the towel fabric from a height of 10 cm. The time (seconds) it took for the mirror-like surface of the drop to disappear was measured three times and the average was calculated. The shorter the time, the faster and better the water absorption.<Wet-Back Rate Test Method>

[0052] The water-back-back rate is described in Patent No. 6991633, proposed by the applicant. This test method involves dropping a drop of water onto a fabric test specimen, allowing it to absorb the water, absorbing it with filter paper, and evaluating the fabric's ability to retain the water. This test method, known as the water-back-back rate, is consistent with the assessment of water absorbency perceived by humans when using fiber fabrics such as towels. The lower the water-back-back rate, the greater and more excellent the fabric's water absorption.(1) Test Environment and Other Conditions

[0053] The test environment was standard conditions, with a temperature of 20±4 degree Celsius and a relative humidity of 65±4% RH.

[0054] The filter paper used was stored for at least 24 hours under standard conditions at a temperature of 20±4 degree Celsius and a relative humidity of 65±4% RH.

[0055] The test specimens used were stored for at least 24 hours under standard conditions at a temperature of 20±4 degree Celsius and a relative humidity of 65±4% RH.

[0056] The dripped water temperature was 20±15 degree Celsius (5-35 degree Celsius).(2) Operating Procedure

[0057] The fiber towel fabric test specimen 1 measured 10 cm in length and 10 cm in width. Test specimen 1 was placed on a sample stage (not shown).

[0058] The filter paper used was 110 mm in diameter and 0.22 mm thick, made from α-cellulose in accordance with JIS P 3801 Type 1 standards. The weight of the filter paper was measured.

[0059] The filter paper used was Advantec Co., Ltd., product name "Circular Qualitative Filter Paper No. 1."

[0060] 0.8 ml of water was measured into a pipette and dropped onto Test Sample 1. The test sample was allowed to absorb the water for 5 seconds.

[0061] A filter paper was placed on top of the test sample, and a 1.3 kg (1274 Pa) load was placed on top of it.

[0062] The load was then removed after 5 seconds.

[0063] The filter paper was weighed after absorbing water.(3) Calculation of Water Rewetting Rate

[0064] This was calculated using the following formula: W = B − A / A × 100 W: Water rewetting rate (%) A: Weight of filter paper before measurement (g) B: Weight of filter paper after absorbing water (g) <Pile Uprightness>

[0065] The pile portion of the towel fabric was photographed sideways using an optical microscope.(Example 1)(1) Warp Pile Yarn

[0066] Warp pile yarn was produced using the Siro spun spinning apparatus shown in Figure 1. American Pima extra-long staple cotton was used. The primary twist direction of the two rovings 12a and 12b was the Z direction, and the twist direction by the traveler 21 was the S direction, and they were twisted in the untwisting direction. The roving fineness was 5 g / 6 yards (9113 decitex), and the Z-direction twist number of the roving was 5 turns / inch (twist coefficient K = 1 in cotton count). The speed of the endless friction belt was the same as the winding speed of the ply-twisted yarn (spun yarn 19).

[0067] The resulting spun yarn had a cotton count of 16, a twist count of 9 turns / inch (twist coefficient K = 2.22), and fine twist irregularities along the length of the yarn.

[0068] This warp pile yarn underwent a first sizing in a cheese state. A starch aqueous solution was used as the sizing component, and 0.75 g / L of a surfactant containing a higher alcohol was added as a penetrating agent. The yarn was sized by the immersion method at 80 degree Celsius for 30 minutes and then dried at 125 degree Celsius for 30 minutes. The sizing concentration during the first sizing was 0.2% by mass, and the adhesion rate was 0.5% by mass.(2) Warp Yarn

[0069] The warp yarn used Indian cotton filling as the cotton filling. It was a 40-count ring-spun two-ply yarn with a twist coefficient of 3.8 for the first twist and 2.2 for the second twist. Like the warp pile yarn, the warp yarn was also sized in a cheese state.(3) Weft Yarn

[0070] The weft yarn used Indian cotton filling, ring-spun 20-count single yarn with a twist factor of 4.0. The weft yarn was sized in the cheese state, just like the warp pile yarn.(4) Warping

[0071] The yarn underwent a second sizing during warping. It was immersed in a sizing bath at 70 degree Celsius at a sizing speed of 30 m / min and then dried at 140 degree Celsius for 30 minutes. A starch solution was used as the sizing component, and 5 g / L of polyethylene oxide (PEO) was added as a thickener. The warping speed was 300 m / min, and the tension during warping was 30 cN. The sizing concentration during the second sizing was 2% by mass, and the adhesion rate was 2.1% by mass.(5) Weaving of Terry Cloth

[0072] The fabric shown in Figure 2 was woven using a pile loom. The fabric weave is shown in Figure 3. The loom rotation speed (number of weft threads per minute) was 250 rpm. The warp density was 46 threads / inch, the weft density was 56 threads / 2 inches, the basis weight was 423 g / m 2< , and the fabric content was 100% cotton.(6) Scouring and Finishing of Towel Fabric

[0073] Next, this greige fabric was desized using a jet dyeing machine in the usual manner for cotton processing (55 degree Celsius x 20 minutes, amylase and surfactant-added bath). It was then scoured on the same machine at 98 degree Celsius for 50 minutes in a dilute caustic soda and alcohol ethoxylate-added bath.

[0074] The fabric was then bleached in a standard hydrogen peroxide bath at 98 degree Celsius for 50 minutes. Next, the fabric was softened and finished for 20 minutes in a bath containing Nikka Silicone AQ166 fabric softener (3.3% owf, 40 degree Celsius, pH 4.5). The yarn was then set in a tenter at 135 degree Celsius and finished (off-white finish). The pile length was 1.13 cm.(Comparative Example 1)

[0075] The warp pile yarns were made by twisting two rovings 12a, 12b in the Z direction for the primary twist, and the twist direction of the traveler 21 was also in the Z direction. No false twist was applied. The remaining steps were the same as in Example 1. The resulting spun yarn had a cotton count of 16 single yarn and a twist coefficient K of 3.2.(Comparative Example 2)

[0076] The warp pile yarns were made by twisting a cotton count of 16 single yarn and a water-soluble vinylon (PVA) count of 80 single yarn in the S direction using a twisting machine. The water-soluble vinylon (PVA) yarn was dissolved during post-processing, and the warp pile yarn for the towel product was made from a cotton count of 16 single yarn without twist. The twist coefficient K of the twisted yarn was 4.0. The results are shown in Table 2. [Table 2]Example 1Comparative Example 1Comparative Example 2GSM (g / m 2< )423423423Pile Length1.131.131.13False TwistWithWithoutWithoutTwist UnevennessWithWithoutWithoutMaterial100% Cotton100% Cotton100% CottonBulkiness (cm 2< / g)11.519.9610.45Compression Workload WC Before Washing (gf.cm 2< )5.3193.6294.198Compression Workload WC After 20 Washes (gf.cm 2< )5.6864.1333.067Drainage after Washing, Residual Moisture (%)707885Dropping fluff Rate (%)0.02390.04090.3312Modified Larose Method, Water Absorption Index881611605Dropping Method, Water Absorption Rate (Seconds)Less than 1Less than 1Less than 1Wet Rebound Rate (%)11.615.320.9Side View of Pile YarnFigure 4Figure 5Figure 6Side View of Pile FabricFigure 7Figure 8Figure 9Flat View of Pile FabricFigure 10Figure 11Figure 12

[0077] As is clear from Table 2, the pile yarn for the towel fabric in Example 1 had twist unevenness along the length of the yarn. This confirmed the following effects: (1) Less dropping fluff. (2) High bulk. (3) High volume and fluffiness before washing. (4) Less loss of volume after washing, less deterioration after washing. (5) There is little rewetting, providing a comfortable wiping experience. (6) Residual moisture content immediately after spin-drying is low. Furthermore, the towel is in a migration state, with individual fibers twisting inward or outward, and the fibers are entangled with each other, while the constituent fibers remain free. This confirms that the pile has good uprightness properties, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0078] Furthermore, as is clear from the side view of the pile yarn of Example 1 in Figure 4, there are areas 26 with high twist and areas 27 with low twist along the length of the yarn, resulting in a fluffy yarn overall.

[0079] In contrast, Figure 5 is a side view of the pile yarn of Comparative Example 1, which shows a tighter yarn.Figure 6 is a side view of the pile yarn of Comparative Example 2, in which the water-soluble vinylon (PVA) yarn 29 has embedded itself into the cotton fiber 28, resulting in a distorted yarn with no fluffiness.

[0080] Figure 7 is a side view of the towel fabric of Example 1 of the present invention. This towel fabric is composed of pile yarn 30 and ground weave 31. Pile yarn 30 is open, crosses once at the base, and stands almost perpendicular to ground weave 31. In other words, it is a one-loop piled pile. This results in good pile standing and a soft, fluffy texture.

[0081] In contrast, Figure 8 is a side view of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 1. The pile yarn crosses twice at the base and midway, the loop is tight, and the pile yarn is tilted from the base. Figure 9 is a side view of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 2. The pile yarn is further flattened from the base.

[0082] Figure 10 is a plan view of the towel fabric of Example 1 of the present invention. The loops are large enough to be visible, neatly arranged, and have a good texture, making it clear at a glance that this is a high-quality towel. Furthermore, because each constituent fiber exists in a free state, the pile has good uprightness properties, a soft, fluffy texture, and excellent properties such as absorbency, washability, and durability.

[0083] In contrast, Figure 11 is a planar photograph of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 1, which shows that the loops are small, fine, and tightly packed.

[0084] Figure 12 is a planar photograph of the towel fabric of Comparative Example 2, which shows that the loops are messy and lying flat.Industrial Applicability

[0085] The towel fabric of the present invention is suitable for use in face towels, bath towels, towel handkerchiefs, sports towels, bathrobes, towel blankets, and other items, as well as clothing, socks, rugs, and bedding.Reference Signs List

[0086] 1. Towel Fabric 2a, 2b. Warp Pile Yarns 3. Weft Yarns 4a, 4b. Warp Yarns 10. Siro spun Spinning Device 11a, 11b. Roving Bobbins 12a, 12b. Roving Yarns 13. Trumpet Guide 14. Back Roller 15. Drafting Device 16. Apron 17. Front Roller 18a, 18b. Fleece 19. Spun Yarn 20. Snel Wire 21. Ring 22. Traveler 23. Bobbin 24. Drive Belt 25. Friction Belt 26. High-Twist Area 27. Low-Twist Area 28. Cotton Fiber 29. Water-Soluble Vinylon Yarn (PVA) 30. Pile Yarn 31. Ground Weave

Claims

1. A spun yarn for loop pile fabrics composed of cotton fiber, containing no water-soluble fiber wherein the spun yarn for loop pile is a no-twist or soft twist single yarn with a twist coefficient K of 0 to 2.9, featuring uneven twist along the length of the yarn, with hard twist and soft twist portions along the length of the yarn, the hard twist portions being thin, and the soft twist portions being thick; and wherein the twist coefficient (K) is calculated using the following formula (Equation 1) a twist coefficient K = t / s where t: number of twists (turns / 25.4 mm), S: cotton count (British cotton count).

2. The spun yarn for loop pile fabrics according to claim 1, wherein the cotton fibers are at least one selected from the group consisting of extra-long staple fibers and long staple fibers.

3. The spun yarn for loop pile fabrics according to claim 1, wherein the cotton fibers constituting the spun yarn for loop pile fabrics are aligned parallel to one another.

4. The spun yarn for loop pile fabrics according to claim 1, wherein the hard twist and soft twist portions each have an average length of 0.5 to 10 mm, and wherein hard twist and soft twist portions exist within each cotton fiber constituting the pile yarn.

5. A method for producing the spun yarn for loop pile fabrics according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, when producing a single spun yarn, the yarn is false-twisted using a friction belt to impart twist unevenness along the length of the yarn before being wound.

6. A loop pile towel using the spun yarn for loop pile fabrics according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pile yarn of the loop pile towel is a single yarn with a twist coefficient K of 0 to 2.9 that is untwisted or softly twisted, and is raised approximately perpendicular to the ground weave.

7. The loop pile towel of Claim 6, wherein the pile yarn is crossed once at the base, forming a one-loop raised pile.

8. The loop pile towel of Claim 6, wherein the loops of the loop pile spun yarn are visible on the surface of the loop pile towel.

9. A method for manufacturing a loop pile towel using the loop pile spun yarn of any one of claims 1 to 4, which involves first sizing the yarn in a cheese (wound) state, warping it, and then second sizing it in a yarn state to reinforce it with sizing, setting the warping speed to 500 m / min or less, and setting the loom rotation speed (the number of times the weft is driven per minute) to 200 to 350 rpm.

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