When looking for suitable materials for the manufacture of different products in the industrial fabrics sector, aramid becomes the star synthetic fiber, as manufacturers are in a constant search for materials that are characterized by being resistant, strong and durable. This is why today at Textiles Omnes, we will show you some reasons that allow us to demonstrate that aramid fiber is revolutionizing industrial applications.
¿What is aramid?
Aramid is a type of synthetic fiber that stands out for being highly heat resistant, durable and strong, which is why it is specially designed for applications that must withstand harsh conditions, an example of this occurs in the manufacture of composites. ballistics, armor type fabric, aerospace applications, bicycle reinforcements, etc.
Likewise, aramid is composed of aromatic polyamide fibers, in which the chains of the molecules are oriented along the axis of the fiber, which guarantees its resistance, since we must not ignore that the density of this type of fabric is given thanks to the number of threads per square inch in a fabric.
In addition, this type of fabrics also stand out for their coating, as this is responsible for improving all the basic properties of aramid such as resistance, durability, the ability to resist chemicals and fire; which makes it essential in the textile industry, since the coating helps to improve the performance and functionality of the fabric.
Properties of aramid
Before knowing the properties of aramid, it is important to know that this fiber is manufactured from aromatic polymers, which are molecules with benzene rings in their structure. It must be taken into account that these polymers are spun into fine fibers that can then be woven or converted into other textile fabrics. Below we will tell you what the most relevant properties of aramid are:
- High resistance: Aramid fiber is almost 5 times stronger than steel, which means that it withstands a large amount of force without breaking and is therefore ideal for applications where great tensile strength is required, as is the manufacture of tires, cables and structures.
- Tenacity: Aramid is a fiber that is characterized by being resistant to abrasion and tearing, which makes it ideal for applications such as fabrics for protective clothing, industrial filters and geotextiles.
- Heat resistance: Aramid fiber withstands temperatures of up to 500°C without losing its properties, which is why it is ideal for applications in which heat resistance is essential, an example of this is in the rubber industry and component manufacturing. of engines.
- Lightness: Aramid is 50% lighter than steel, which is why this fiber is much more attractive to use in different applications, an example of this is the use of this fiber in the construction sector and the aerospace industry.
- Chemical resistance: Aramid fibers are noted for resisting a wide range of chemicals, including acids and solvents.
Applications of aramid fibers
Likewise, it is important to recognize that thanks to these properties, aramid fibers are used in a wide range of industrial applications. Below we will show you the 4 main industries in which this type of fiber stands out.
- Rubber industry: This type of fibers are used to reinforce tires, transmission belts and hoses, this being a fabric that provides resistance to breakage, abrasion, heat, pressure and chemicals.
- Ballistic protection: For this industry, aramid fabrics are essential for the manufacture of bulletproof vests, military helmets, police helmets and bulletproof shields.
- Filtration: Aramid is used to make high-strength filters for the chemical industry, pharmaceutical industry, food industry, filters for vehicle engines, industrial machinery and ventilation systems.
- Geotextiles: Synthetic aramid fibers are used to make geotextiles that control erosion, stabilize land, and protect infrastructure such as roads and bridges.
Without a doubt, aramid fibers are an innovative material that provides great benefits for different industries and that is why it is currently revolutionizing the industrial sector. If you found this article interesting, do not hesitate to contact us and obtain more information about industrial fabrics.