#SKS-L08
A fiberglass loom is a weaving machine specifically engineered to weave fiberglass rovings or yarns into fabrics. Since fiberglass is brittle, abrasive, and non-elastic, the loom must accommodate its unique characteristics to prevent fiber breakage and wear on components.
Fiberglass fabrics made on these looms are used for: ✔ Reinforcement materials (composites)
✔ Insulation (thermal, electrical, and soundproofing)
✔ Filters (industrial, automotive, HVAC)
✔ Fireproof and heat-resistant fabrics
2. Key Features of a Fiberglass Loom
(A) Special Beating and Shedding Mechanisms
- Fiberglass yarns are fragile, so looms use gentle beating to avoid damage.
- Modified cam, dobby, or jacquard shedding systems are used to create the required weave patterns.
(B) Low-Tension Weft Insertion
- Projectile or rapier weft insertion is preferred over air jet, as air jets can fray the fiberglass yarn.
- Special coated rapiers prevent wear and friction-related fiber damage.
(C) Temperature and Humidity Control
- Fiberglass weaving rooms often maintain low humidity to prevent yarn sticking and breakage.
- Some looms have dust extraction systems to handle fiberglass dust safely.
(D) Advanced Warp and Weft Control
- Fiberglass yarn has low elasticity, requiring precise warp tension control.
- Teflon-coated parts are used to minimize friction and fiber wear.
(E) Special Take-Up and Let-Off Systems
- The take-up roller prevents slippage and ensures even tension distribution.
- Edge binding techniques (tucking selvages) improve fabric integrity.
3. Working Principle of a Fiberglass Loom
- Shedding – Warp threads are lifted/lowered to create a shed.
- Weft Insertion – Weft is inserted carefully via rapier or projectile method.
- Beat-Up – The inserted weft is pushed into position with a low-impact reed.
- Fabric Take-Up & Warp Let-Off – The woven fabric is slowly wound onto a roll.
Due to fiberglass’s fragility, the loom operates at a controlled, moderate speed (lower than traditional looms).
4. Types of Fiberglass Looms
(A) Rapier Looms
✔ Most commonly used for fiberglass weaving.
✔ Uses a gripper or band rapier to insert the weft gently.
✔ Suitable for tightly woven fabrics like fiberglass mesh and composite reinforcements.
(B) Projectile Looms
✔ Uses small projectiles to carry the weft across the shed.
✔ Ideal for wide and heavy fiberglass fabrics (e.g., industrial filters).
✔ Known for durability and energy efficiency.
(C) Water Jet and Air Jet Looms (Less Common)
❌ Not ideal because fiberglass does not absorb moisture and can break due to air pressure.
5. Advantages of Fiberglass Looms
✔ High Durability – Built with wear-resistant components to handle abrasive fiberglass yarn.
✔ Precise Weaving Control – Prevents breakage and ensures uniform fabric quality.
✔ Versatile Fabric Production – Can weave different fiberglass fabric types (plain, twill, satin, leno, etc.).
✔ Low Maintenance – Designed with coated surfaces and dust extraction to reduce fiber buildup.
6. Applications of Fiberglass Fabrics
Fiberglass looms produce fabrics used in: