Friction characteristics of polypropylene fibers

Friction is very important for all textile fibers, from production to end-use properties and it can occur both between fibers and fiber and fiber and metal. Synthetic fibers, which have been used for many years, are textile fibers that gain more acceptance in daily use. Their tribological performance is especially important, since their friction and wear behavior are critical during processing and end-use of these fibers. Therefore, investigation of the friction properties of synthetic fibers has become very important as the properties of these fibers are continuously improved. In this study, the friction behavior of polypropylene fiber passing over a ceramic guide has been examined. An experimental set-up, developed based on the capstan method, which is the easiest way to measure fiber friction, has been used. The effect of sliding speed and guide surface roughness on fiber friction have been investigated. It was observed that the friction coefficient ranges between 0.32 and 0.42 for polypropylene monofilament yarn against ceramic guide. It was also found that the increase of the surface roughness leads to decrease of friction coefficient.