Airslide fabric and polyester fabric are used in a wide range of industrial applications. While both types of fabrics are made of polyester fibers, they differ in their construction, durability, and suitability for specific applications.
Materials and Construction
Airslide fabric is typically made of woven polyester fibers that are thermally bonded together. The weaving process creates a tight-knit, uniform structure that is porous, durable, and abrasion-resistant. To aid in flow, the fabric is coated with a low-friction material, such as PTFE or silicone.
Polyester fabric, on the other hand, can be woven or knitted and comes in various weights and finishes. It is made from polyester fibers that are spun into a continuous thread and then woven into a fabric using a loom. Polyester fabric is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinking but may not be as porous as airslide fabric.
Comparison of Airslide Fabric and Polyester Fabric
| Property | Airslide Fabric | Polyester Fabric |
| Construction | Woven | Woven/Knitted |
| Porosity | Highly porous | Less Porous |
| Strength | High | High |
| Abrasion-Resistance | High | High |
| Coating | Coated with low-friction material | No specific coating |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Applications | Pneumatic conveying systems | Clothing, upholstery, and other industrial applications |
Considerations for Choosing Airslide or Polyester Fabric
- Porosity: Airslide fabric is highly porous, allowing for efficient powder transport. Polyester fabric may not be as porous, so its suitability will depend on the specific application.
- Strength: Both fabrics have high strength and abrasion resistance, making them suitable for industrial applications.
- Coating: Airslide fabric is coated with a low-friction material to aid in powder flow, polyester fabric is usually not coated.
- Cost: Airslide fabric is more expensive than polyester fabric.
- Applications: Airslide fabric is primarily used in pneumatic conveying systems, while polyester fabric is widely used in clothing, upholstery, and other industrial applications.
Conclusion
Airslide fabric and polyester fabric are both made from polyester fibers but differ in their construction, porosity, durability, and suitability for specific applications. Airslide fabric’s woven construction, porosity, and coatings make it ideal for use in pneumatic conveying systems.
Polyester fabric’s strength, durability, and versatility make it a popular choice in clothing, upholstery, and other industrial applications. By considering the specific application requirements and understanding the differences between these two types of fabrics, users can choose the fabric that is best suited to their needs.