Classification Standards of Textiles in China: An Overview
Textiles in China have been classified according to various standards for over a century. The current classification system, which is the most commonly used, was established in 1984 and is based on three main criteria: fiber type, fabric structure, and end use. Fiber type includes natural fibers such as cotton, wool, silk, and jute, as well as synthetic fibers like polyamide and polyester. Fabric structure refers to the arrangement of fibers in a textile, with different structures giving rise to unique properties such as durability, wrinkle resistance, and moisture management. End use includes clothing, bedding, industrial fabrics, and non-woven materials. The Chinese government has set specific requirements for each criterion to ensure consistent quality and safety. In addition, there are also international standards that may be applied depending on the product's intended market. Overall, the classification system serves as a crucial tool for ensuring compliance with regulations and consumer expectations, while also facilitating trade and innovation in the textile industry.
Textile industry is an essential part of the global economy, with China being one of the largest producers and exporters of textiles worldwide. Understanding the classification standards of textiles in China is crucial for businesses looking to enter the Chinese market or for those seeking to expand their existing operations. This article provides an overview of the classification standards of textiles in China, including the various categories and subcategories, as well as the key characteristics and uses of each category.
1、Fabrics
Fabrics are woven or knitted materials made from fibers that are used to create clothing, bedding, upholstery, and other textile products. In China, fabrics can be classified into several categories based on their properties, such as texture, color, durability, and washability. The main fabric categories include:
a) Cotton Fabrics
Cotton is a popular fiber for textile production due to its softness, breathability, and versatility. Cotton fabrics can be further classified into different types based on the degree of twisting, spinning, and weaving techniques used. Some common cotton fabric types in China include plain weave, sateen weave, twill weave, and double-faced cotton.
b) Silk Fabrics
Silk is a luxurious fiber known for its smooth texture, sheen, and hypoallergenic properties. Silk fabrics are produced using various weaving methods, including silk yarn, silk thread, and silk crepe. In China, silk fabrics are typically classified into three categories: plain silk, satin silk, and crepe silk.
c) Polyester Fabrics
Polyester is a synthetic fiber derived from oil that is widely used in the production of textiles due to its durability, resistance to wrinkles, and low moisture absorption. Polyester fabrics can be classified into different types based on their texture, finish, and stretch properties. Common polyester fabric categories in China include:
i) Woven Polyester Fabrics
Woven polyester fabrics are produced by interlocking yarns using various weaving techniques such as plain weave, twill weave, or satin weave. These fabrics are often used for casual wear, bedding, and upholstery applications.
ii) Knitted Polyester Fabrics
Knitted polyester fabrics are produced by twisting yarns together using knitting machines. These fabrics are often used for winter wear, sportswear, and fitness apparel due to their warmth and moisture-wicking properties.
iii) Filmy Polyester Fabrics
Filmy polyester fabrics have a lightweight and translucent appearance due to the presence of thin layers of polyurethane film on the surface of the fabric. These fabrics are commonly used in summer wear and swimming attire.
2、Clothing Materials
Clothing materials refer to the components used in the production of garments, such as knitwear, woven fabric, accessories, and trims. In China, clothing materials can be classified into several categories based on their functional properties and aesthetic appeal. The main clothing material categories include:
a) Knitwear Materials
Knitwear materials are made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere and are characterized by their soft texture, warmth retention, and flexibility. Knitwear materials in China can be further classified into different types based on the length of the fibers (fineness), number of ply (thickness), and stitch count (tightness). Common knitwear materials in China include lambskin, alpaca, merino wool blends, and cashmere blends.
b) Woven Fabric Materials
Woven fabric materials are made from synthetic fibers or natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or silk and are characterized by their durability, resistance to wrinkles, and easy care. Woven fabric materials in China can be further classified into different types based on the structure of the fabric (plain weave vs. patterned weave), weight (light vs. heavy), and texture (smooth vs. rough). Common woven fabric materials in China include cotton jersey, linen canvas, silk crepe de chine, and damask.
c) Accessory Materials
Accessories are small items added to clothing or footwear to enhance their style or function. In China, accessory materials can be classified into several categories based on their material type (metal vs. plastic), shape (pins vs. buckles), and purpose (earrings vs. necklaces). Common accessory materials in China include gold plating for metal jewelry, acrylic resin for eyeglass frames, and silicone rubber for watchbands.
3、Textile Production Techniques
The choice of textile production techniques depends on factors such as product quality requirements, cost considerations, technological capabilities, and environmental regulations. In China, some common textile production techniques include:
a) Weaving
Weaving is the process of interlacing threads or wires to create fabric by passing them over a set of warp threads or weft threads. Weaving techniques can be classified into horizontal weaving (such as plain weave or twill weave) or vertical weaving (such as ribbed fabric or plaid). Weaving machines can be operated manually or automatically depending on the size and complexity of the fabric being produced.
b) Knitting
Knitting is the process of interlooping yarns using circular needles to create fabric by repeatedly passing the stitches over two sets of needles held at right angles to each other. Knitting techniques can be classified into flat knitting (such as single-ply yarn or double-ply yarn) or round knitting (such as cable knit or ribbing). Knitting machines can be programmed to produce different types of stitches depending on the desired texture and appearance of the fabric being produced.
c) Finishing Techniques
Finishing techniques refer to processes used to enhance the appearance or functionality of textile products before they leave the manufacturing plant. In China, some common finishing techniques include dyeing (using chemicals to add color to fabric), printing (applying designs or patterns using special inkjet technology), steaming (relaxing fabric fibers by exposing them to hot steam), and sewing (seaming together pieces of fabric using various stitching methods).
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