Polyester-Cotton and Other Blended Yarns
topic
Polyester-cotton (PC) blends (65:35, 52:48, 50:50) are the largest volume ring-spun product globally. Blending challenges: polyester (38–44 mm, 1.3–1.5 dtex) and cotton (22–28 mm UHML) have different fibre length, requiring blow room blending and careful card and draw frame settings. Dyeing challenges: polyester and cotton require different dye classes (disperse + reactive, two-bath process). Ring spinning adjustments: slightly higher TM than pure cotton for equivalent strength, higher RH (60–65%) to control static.
Role
PC blend yarn production knowledge is commercially essential because PC blends account for 35–40% of global ring-spun apparel yarn production. The blend ratio, fibre selection, and process settings that optimise the PC blend for a specific end-use (workwear: higher polyester for durability; shirting: more cotton for comfort) determine fabric performance and commercial value. This knowledge is the everyday practical application of ring spinning engineering in most industrial mills.