Fiberglass Loom

Fiberglass

Detail

#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

  1. Shedding – Warp threads are lifted/lowered to create a shed.
  2. Weft Insertion – Weft is inserted carefully via rapier or projectile method.
  3. Beat-Up – The inserted weft is pushed into position with a low-impact reed.
  4. 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: