PE laminated non woven fabric is a versatile material that combines the strength and durability of non woven fabric with the moisture resistance and flexibility of polyethylene (PE) film. This combination makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from packaging and agriculture to construction and healthcare. As a leading supplier of PE laminated non woven fabric, I often get asked about the different thicknesses available and how they affect the performance of the material. In this blog post, I'll delve into the various thickness options, their applications, and factors to consider when choosing the right thickness for your specific needs.
Understanding Thickness Measurements
Before we explore the different thicknesses, it's important to understand how they are measured. The thickness of PE laminated non woven fabric is typically expressed in grams per square meter (gsm) or micrometers (μm). GSM measures the weight of the fabric per unit area, while micrometers measure the physical thickness of the material. Both measurements are commonly used in the industry, and it's essential to be familiar with both to make an informed decision.
Common Thicknesses and Their Applications
1. Lightweight Thicknesses (15 - 35 gsm or 10 - 20 μm)
Lightweight PE laminated non woven fabrics are characterized by their thinness, flexibility, and softness. These fabrics are often used in applications where breathability, comfort, and cost - effectiveness are crucial.
- Packaging: They are ideal for packaging delicate items such as clothing, cosmetics, and food products. The lightweight nature of the fabric reduces the overall weight of the package, which can lead to cost savings in shipping. For example, a thin PE laminated non woven bag can be used to package a piece of lingerie, providing a protective barrier while still allowing the product to be visible.
- Agriculture: In agriculture, these fabrics are used as floating row covers. They protect plants from insects, birds, and light frost while allowing sunlight, air, and water to penetrate. This helps in promoting healthy plant growth without the need for chemical pesticides.
2. Medium - Weight Thicknesses (35 - 70 gsm or 20 - 40 μm)
Medium - weight PE laminated non woven fabrics offer a balance between strength, durability, and flexibility. They are more robust than lightweight fabrics and are suitable for a wider range of applications.
- Medical and Hygiene Products: These fabrics are commonly used in the production of disposable medical gowns, masks, and sanitary napkins. The medium thickness provides a good level of protection against fluids and microorganisms while maintaining comfort for the user. For instance, a medical gown made from a 50 gsm PE laminated non woven fabric can effectively prevent the spread of infectious agents during medical procedures.
- Advertising and Promotional Materials: Medium - weight fabrics are also used for making banners, flags, and promotional signs. They can withstand outdoor conditions to some extent and can be printed with high - quality graphics to attract attention.
3. Heavy - Weight Thicknesses (70 - 200 gsm or 40 - 100 μm)
Heavy - weight PE laminated non woven fabrics are known for their high strength, durability, and resistance to tearing and abrasion.
- Construction: Coated Non Woven Fabric For Construction is often made from heavy - weight PE laminated non woven materials. These fabrics are used as house wraps, roofing underlays, and geotextiles. They provide a protective barrier against water, wind, and UV rays, which helps in extending the lifespan of the building. For example, a 150 gsm PE laminated non woven house wrap can prevent moisture from entering the building envelope, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
- Industrial Applications: In industrial settings, heavy - weight fabrics are used for making protective covers for machinery, equipment, and vehicles. They can withstand harsh environmental conditions and protect the assets from dust, dirt, and damage.
4. Extra - Heavy - Weight Thicknesses (200+ gsm or 100+ μm)
Extra - heavy - weight PE laminated non woven fabrics are the thickest and most durable option available. They are designed for applications that require extreme strength and long - term durability.
- Geotextiles: In civil engineering projects, these fabrics are used as geotextiles for soil stabilization, erosion control, and drainage systems. The high strength of the fabric can withstand the pressure of soil and water, ensuring the stability of the infrastructure.
- Marine Applications: They are also used in the marine industry for making boat covers, dock fenders, and other protective equipment. The fabric's resistance to water, UV rays, and abrasion makes it suitable for the harsh marine environment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Thickness
1. Application Requirements
The intended use of the PE laminated non woven fabric is the most important factor in determining the appropriate thickness. If you need a fabric for a short - term, disposable application, a lightweight fabric may be sufficient. However, for long - term, heavy - duty applications, a heavier fabric is required.
2. Cost
Thicker fabrics generally cost more than thinner ones due to the increased amount of raw materials used. It's important to balance the performance requirements of your application with the cost of the fabric. Sometimes, a slightly thinner fabric may meet your needs at a lower cost.
3. Environmental Conditions
If the fabric will be exposed to harsh environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, high humidity, or strong sunlight, a thicker and more durable fabric is recommended. UV - resistant and water - repellent properties may also be necessary depending on the application.
4. Printing and Finishing
If you plan to print on the fabric or apply special finishes, the thickness of the fabric can affect the quality of the printing and the adhesion of the finish. Thicker fabrics may require different printing techniques and finishes compared to thinner ones.
Specialized Thicknesses and Variations
Pe Film Laminated Nonwoven Fabric
This type of fabric can come in a wide range of thicknesses and is designed to provide a high - quality barrier against moisture and contaminants. It is often used in applications where a clean and hygienic environment is required, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Three - Layer Laminated Hydrophilic PP+PE+PP
This specialized fabric combines the properties of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) in a three - layer structure. The thickness of each layer can be adjusted to achieve the desired performance characteristics, such as hydrophilicity, strength, and breathability. It is commonly used in medical and hygiene products.
Conclusion
Choosing the right thickness of PE laminated non woven fabric is crucial to ensure the success of your application. By understanding the different thicknesses available, their applications, and the factors to consider, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs. As a trusted supplier of PE laminated non woven fabric, I am committed to providing high - quality products in a wide range of thicknesses. Whether you need a lightweight fabric for packaging or a heavy - duty fabric for construction, we have the solution for you.
If you are interested in purchasing PE laminated non woven fabric or have any questions about the different thicknesses, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you in finding the perfect fabric for your project.
References
- Textile Institute. (2022). Handbook of Non - woven Fabrics. Woodhead Publishing.
- ASTM International. (2021). Standards for Non - woven Materials. ASTM Publications.