Dtex
Dtex is a unit used to express the thickness of thread and fibers in grams per 10,000 meters of length, and a larger value indicates a thicker thread made from the same material and structure.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Decitex, written as dtex, is a unit that indicates the linear density of fibers and yarns. It expresses the mass of 10,000 meters of yarn in grams, and for example, even if the yarn is long or short, it can be used to compare thickness by weight per fixed length.
It is mainly used in the specifications of filament yarns and synthetic fibers, but it may also be shown for spun yarns. It is not a unit that indicates the thickness or weight of the textile itself, but a unit that indicates the specifications of the yarn that makes it up.
Characteristics Shown by the Numbers
In general, when comparing the same fiber material, cross-sectional shape, and processing conditions, yarns with a higher dtex value are thicker and more likely to give a stronger appearance and presence. Yarns with a lower value tend to express delicacy, lightness, and smoothness more easily.
However, texture, luster, sheerness, strength, and water absorption cannot be determined by dtex alone. It is necessary to check the material, the difference between single yarn and multifilament, twist, number of yarns, weave or knit structure, density, and finishing treatment together.
- Yarns equivalent to a coarse count tend to give the textile thickness and firmness more easily.
- Thin yarns may make it possible to achieve both lightness and a dense surface by weaving or knitting at high density.
- Even with the same dtex, the feel and luster change depending on the number of filaments and the cross section.
Main Applications
Decitex is not a classification that indicates a specific item or season, but is used in a wide range of situations for selecting yarns, such as apparel, linings, sports and outdoor applications, and industrial materials. Thin yarns are considered for applications that require lightweight textiles or a delicate surface feel, while thick yarns are considered for applications that require durability and volume.
Actual applications are not determined by yarn dtex alone, but are decided based on the textile weight, density, structure, and the required strength and stretchability. Seasonality also varies greatly depending on the moisture absorption and release properties of the material, whether brushed or not, and the textile design.
Selection and Handling Notes
During planning, check the dtex of the warp and weft yarns or the face and back yarns in the specification sheet, and evaluate them together with the textile weight and width. When comparing yarns of different materials, it is important to confirm thickness, appearance, and strength with a sample textile, because even with the same dtex, specific gravity and bulkiness differ.
Shrinkage and dimensional changes after washing cannot be predicted from dtex alone. They vary depending on the material properties, whether heat setting is applied, dyeing and finishing, and the structure, so testing in accordance with the care label and checking the shrinkage rate are necessary. In sewing, adjust the needle, thread, and sewing conditions according to the textile's thinness, thickness, and elasticity.
Difference from Similar Terms
Denier is also a unit of linear density that indicates yarn thickness, but it is expressed as the number of grams per 9,000 meters. Decitex, on the other hand, is the number of grams per 10,000 meters. Since the reference length differs between the two, be careful not to treat the numbers as directly identical.
Count is a thickness indication mainly used for spun yarns. It differs from decitex in how thickness is expressed, and in count, a larger number generally indicates a finer yarn. With decitex, the important point is that a larger number indicates a thicker yarn.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the dtex value is larger, does the textile always become thicker?
Not necessarily. Yarn with a higher dtex tends to be thicker, but the thickness of the textile is also affected by density, weave or knit structure, material, processing, and the number of yarns used. Make the judgment by checking the textile sample for fabric weight, thickness, and texture.
How do you convert decitex and denier?
Decitex is based on grams per 10,000 meters, while denier is based on grams per 9,000 meters. Therefore, 1 denier is approximately 1.11 dtex, and 1 dtex is approximately 0.9 denier. In the specification sheet, check which unit is being used before comparing.
Can shrinkage after washing be determined from dtex alone?
No, it cannot be determined from dtex alone. Shrinkage is affected by the type of fiber, yarn processing, weave or knit structure, dyeing and finishing, and the condition after sewing. Before mass production, it is necessary to test under the intended washing conditions and check the shrinkage rate.
