Finishing of Textiles: Definitions-Objectives, And Classifications

Finishing of Textiles

Textile finishing is the final step of wet processing technology. Textile products, whether dyed or printed need to add some finishing touches before marketing. By applying different finishing techniques, a product becomes more comfortable to use. So finishing should be easier to apply.
Dyeing, Printing + Finishing = RMG/Marketing

The making of marketable and consumer-useable textiles becomes complete after fabric production, dyeing, or printing operations. Fabrics usually still need to undergo additional steps known as finishing. Finishing is the final processing before the fabric is cut into apparel or made into any articles of textiles. Finishing is what improves attractiveness and makes fabrics suitable for use. There are different types of finishing operations. Some make the fabric stiffer, some make softener, some make it water repellent or waterproof, some make shrink-resistant or fire-proof, etc.

Classification of Textile Finishes

There are different types of textile finishes. The following are the classifications of finishes in textiles. They are-

The most common classifications are:

Classification Based on Functions:

The following two are classifications based on functions. They are-

1. Aesthetic Finishes: This type of finish changes or modifies the appearance of the fabric or the hand/drape properties of the fabric.
2. Functional Finishes: This type of finish changes the internal performance properties of the fabric.

Classification Based on Finishing Applying Technique:

Finishes are also classified as follows:

1. Mechanical Finishes: This type of finishes alfinish isd as dry finishes. This type of finishes involves specific physical treatment to a fabric surface to cause a change in fabric appearance.
2. Chemical Finishes/Wet Finishes: This type of finishes usually applied to fabric by padding followed by curing or drying.

Classification Based on Their Degree of Performance:

Finishes also can be classified by their degree of performance. The following are the classification of textile finishes based on their degree of performance. They are-

1. Permanent Finishes: It involves a chemical change in fiber structure and do not change throughout the life of a fabric.
2. Durable Finishes: Usually last throughout the life of a fabric, effectiveness becomes diminished after each cleaning and near the end of normal use life of the fabrics, the finishing is nearly removed.
3. Semi-Durable Finishes: Usually last several launderings or dry cleanings and many are removal in home laundering or dry cleaning.
4. Temporary Finishes: Removed or substantionaly diminished the first time an article is laundered or dry cleaning.

Objectives of Textile Finishing Process

The following are the objectives for finishing. They are-

• Firstly, to improve attractiveness of the fabric.
• Secondly, Finishes apply to increase the life time or durability of the fabric.
• Lastly, to meet up specific requirement of the fabric for achieve the final goal.

In sum, textile finishing plays an important role in the modern age. Everyone likes to wear finished products with some special types of finishing. The finishing of the fabric depends on the requirement of the buyer. By the same token, different types of finishing machines are essential for finishing operations in the textile industry.