Lubricating (Finishing)

Sewing threads and embroidery threads must be lubricated, i.e. coated with a lubricant, to ensure optimum sewing performance. Lubrication consists of a combination of silicones, paraffins, waxes and antistatic agents. The exact composition is the secret of every sewing thread manufacturer. The right formula for each product is compiled on the basis of many years of experience and numerous test series.

The lubricant is applied in the dyeing machines immediately after the dyeing process or after dyeing on separate lubricating machines. The selection of the appropriate process is mainly determined by the sewing thread's linear density and the sewing thread type. When finishing the threads in the dyeing machines, it must be ensured that the entire dyeing spool is evenly rinsed with the lubricant so that the goods are finished perfectly (i.e. also inside the dyeing spool). When finishing on separate machines, the thread is finished individually by means of fine dosing using computer-controlled pumps.

The lubricant application is usually approx. 2 to 4%, i.e. the lubricant weighs 2 to 4% of the total weight of the sewing thread. A precisely measured and even lubricant application is important to guarantee the required performance.                                                    

The main functions of lubrication for sewing threads and embroidery threads are:

• Improving gliding properties
• Improving abrasion resistance
• Needle cooling
• Reducing the tendency to static charge