Textile coating system

Types of textile coating systems

A textile coating system applies coatings to textiles, which are then used for different purposes. Such systems vary in type depending on the nature of the fabric and what kind of coating is being applied- foam coating machine, dip coater machine, spray coating machine, vacuum coater machine, and knife-over-risk coating machine, to name just a few.

• Foam coating machines: Foam coating machines are the most general coating devices. It works by generating a foam on a fabric using a coating solution, usually a polymer emulsion. Once the foam is stabilized, the fabric is immersed in the foam, allowing the coating to adhere to the fabric surface. The coated fabric is then heated to cure and solidify the coating, creating a durable, water-resistant, or specialized-function layer on the fabric.
• Dip coater machines: Dip coater machine applies coatings by immersing substrates in a liquid solution or suspension. This machine coats the textiles through the interaction between the fabric and coating solution. The chemical reaction subsequently occurs, allowing the coating to adhere to the fabric. The dip-coated fabric is then cured, usually by drying or exposure to heat, to anchor the coating.
• Spray coating machines: Spray coating machines provide a coating to a substrate or surface by atomizing coating material onto the material's surface. This machine is often used to apply protective coatings, paints, or finishes to various materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and textiles. One of the advantages of the spray coating machine is that it can create a uniform even coating on complex shapes and surfaces.
• Vacuum coater machines: A vacuum coater machine works by using a vacuum to hold a substrate or surface against a coating source. The coating source can be a spray nozzle, a vapor deposition source, or another device that delivers the coating material. Vacuum coating machines are widely used in manufacturing to apply thin films or coatings for specific functional or aesthetic purposes.
• Knife-over-Risk coating machines: Knife-over-risks coating machines are popular in the textile industry for applying various coatings to fabrics. They are suitable for coating materials such as polyurethane, PVC, and acrylates onto different types of textiles, including woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, and composite materials. The coated fabrics are widely used in waterproof textiles, outdoor gear, fashion garments, and industrial protective clothing.

Maintenance of the Textile Coating System

Textile coating equipment may vary depending on the type of device. Manufacturers and sellers may provide their machinery with a manual to help users understand what to do and what not to do. However, there are some general coating system maintenance tips that users need to know.

• Regular Cleaning: Surfaces, residual chemicals, and materials should be cleaned regularly. To avoid damaging the machine, only appropriate cleaning agents and equipment should be used. Regularly cleaning the system helps to prevent buildup and blockage of coating material.
• Scheduled Servicing: Regular professional servicing should be done to ensure that the machine operates smoothly. During machine maintenance, coating parts may be checked, including rollers, blades, pumps, and spray nozzles. Any sign of premature damage, blockage, or wear should be promptly addressed to ensure coating quality.
• Lubrication: During operation, the textile coating system faces friction. Lubrication should be done to keep moving parts running smoothly. This helps to lower the risk of unexpected breakdowns and equipment damage.
• Adjustments: If there are any issues with the coating system, adjustments can be made to enhance the performance. Systems like blade coater or roll coating machine have the coating thickness that can be adjusted to improve precision and ensure uniform coating.
• Equipment checks: Equipment should be frequently inspected to see if there are any signs of wearing or damage. System performance should be monitored as well.
• Cleanliness: Users should keep their coating areas clean to prevent contamination. Airborne particles may be settled on the coated material, resulting in defects. Additionally, walking through cleaned areas helps to prevent slipping and tripping hazards.
• Proper use: Proper use of coating machines is important if users want their machine to last longer. Users should be well trained and familiar with the features and specifications of the coating machine. Before using the machine, they should know the appropriate coating material and substrate.

Scenarios of using textile coating systems

The following industries and applications typically use a textile coating system.

• Apparel and fashion industry

  This industry uses coated textiles to make various garments, including outdoor jackets, weatherproof clothing, and activewear. Coatings like polyurethane or PTFE for breathability and waterproofing are commonly used.3

• Automotive and transportation industry

  The automotive industry uses textile coating systems to improve the quality and durability of vehicle textiles. For instance, the interior fabrics, curtains, and seats in vehicles are enhanced with PVC, PU, or silicone coatings for better abrasion resistance, stain resistance, or easy maintenance.

• Home furnishing and interior design

  The interior design industry uses coated textiles in various home decor items to add style and functionality to living spaces. Textile coatings used in this industry include silicone and acrylic, which improve light transmission without compromising durability.

• Industrial and technical textiles

  Many industries use coated technical textiles for different applications, like filtration, insulation, or reinforcement. Textile coating systems can provide specific functionalities to meet the distinct demands of industrial applications.

• Healthcare and medical sector

  Some medical devices and healthcare products are made with coated textiles. This includes surgical drapes, market bags, and stoma bags. Coated textiles meet the strict hygiene requirements of the healthcare industry, as they are easy to clean and antimicrobial.

• Agriculture and landscaping

  The agriculture and landscaping sector uses coated textiles in greenhouse covers, erosion control fabrics, and agricultural tarps. Textile coating systems provide UV protection, durability, and moisture control in agricultural applications.

How to choose textile coating systems

Buyers need to consider several factors before investing in any coating system. To begin with, they should evaluate their production capacities. They should determine what volumes they need to coat on a monthly basis. Once they have this figure, they should settle for a machine that can comfortably handle the stated capacity without straining.

Floor space is another thing that needs careful evaluation before investing in a coating system. Buyers with limited floor space should consider compact coating systems with the capacity to fulfill their coating needs.

Maintenance requirements also come into play when choosing coating machines. Buyers should look for machines that have maintenance-friendly features such as accessible parts. They should also go for machines that don't require overly frequent maintenance to minimize downtime and reduce service expenses.

Skill set of the in-house employees should also be considered. If the employees do not have sufficient expertise in handling the coating machine, the buyer will incur extra training expenses. To avoid such additional costs, buyers should choose coating systems that are easy to operate and intuitive.

Potential buyers should also consider the quality of the final product. If the item to be coated is of high value and quality, the buyer should invest in a coating machine that will deliver high precision and accuracy, such as the digital coating machine.

The type of coating to be applied to the fabric in question is a critical consideration when buying a coating machine. Buyers should take time and research the kind of coating required for their application. This includes knowing the chemical composition of the coating material. Once they have this information, they should settle for a coating machine compatible with the coating material they intend to use.

FAQ

Q1: How does the textile coating machine work?

A1: The coating machine works by applying a liquid substance to the fabric. The coated textile can then be cured using heat or air drying techniques, which will help strengthen the adhesion between the two materials. Once completely dried, it may go through other processes like laminating and perforating before being cut into final products.

Q2: What are the benefits of a textile coating system?

A2: The advantage of using this method is that by adding layers to the cloth, waterproof coating fabric gives it greater resistance against environmental factors such as water, fire, dirt, etc. It can also provide some functional features like anti-microbial or UV protection.

Q3: What are the limitations of a textile coating system?

A3: The drawbacks of coating textiles include limited breathability since water-proof fabrics cannot absorb moisture, leading to overheat and discomfort for wearers. Besides, despite durability being one aim, all coated fabrics will eventually wear out requiring replacement or repair sooner than uncoated ones.

Q4: How is the coating of textiles managed qualitatively?

A4: It is possible to control the coating amount applied to both sides of the fabric, the uniformity of the coating, and the adherence to the substrate by adjusting the parameters of the coating machine, such as speed and temperature, as well as by choosing the coating formulation.