As a non woven fabric supplier, I understand the importance of proper storage for maintaining the quality and integrity of these materials. Non woven fabrics are used in a wide range of industries, from healthcare and hygiene products to automotive and filtration applications. Ensuring that these fabrics are stored correctly can prevent damage, contamination, and degradation, ultimately saving time and money for both suppliers and customers. In this blog post, I will share some best practices on how to store non woven fabric effectively.
1. Choose the Right Storage Environment
The first step in storing non woven fabric is to select an appropriate storage environment. The ideal storage conditions for non woven fabrics typically include a cool, dry, and clean space. Temperature and humidity control are crucial factors that can significantly impact the quality of the fabric.
- Temperature: Non woven fabrics should be stored at a consistent temperature, preferably between 20°C and 25°C (68°F - 77°F). Extreme temperatures can cause the fabric to expand or contract, leading to dimensional changes and potential damage. High temperatures can also accelerate the degradation process, especially for certain types of non woven fabrics.
- Humidity: Humidity levels should be maintained between 40% and 60%. Excessive humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can not only damage the fabric but also pose a health risk. On the other hand, low humidity can cause the fabric to become brittle and prone to static electricity, which may attract dust and other contaminants.
- Cleanliness: The storage area should be kept clean and free from dust, dirt, and other debris. Regular cleaning of the storage facility can help prevent contamination of the non woven fabric. It is also advisable to use dust covers or protective packaging to shield the fabric from airborne particles.
2. Proper Packaging
Proper packaging is essential for protecting non woven fabric during storage. The packaging should provide a barrier against moisture, dust, and physical damage.
- Wrapping Materials: Non woven fabrics are often wrapped in plastic film or paper to protect them from moisture and dust. The wrapping material should be of high quality and have good barrier properties. For example, polyethylene (PE) film is a commonly used packaging material due to its excellent moisture resistance.
- Sealing: Ensure that the packaging is properly sealed to prevent the entry of air, moisture, and contaminants. Heat sealing or using adhesive tapes can effectively seal the packaging.
- Labeling: Each package of non woven fabric should be clearly labeled with information such as the fabric type,规格, lot number, and date of production. This information is useful for inventory management and quality control.
3. Storage Shelving and Racking
Using appropriate storage shelving and racking can help organize the non woven fabric and prevent damage.
- Sturdy Construction: The shelving and racking should be made of sturdy materials such as steel or heavy - duty plastic. They should be able to support the weight of the non woven fabric without sagging or collapsing.
- Adequate Space: Provide enough space between the shelves and racks to allow for easy access to the non woven fabric. This can prevent damage during handling and storage.
- Vertical Storage: For large rolls of non woven fabric, vertical storage on racks is often recommended. This helps to prevent the fabric from flattening or deforming over time.
4. Handling and Stacking
Proper handling and stacking techniques are crucial to avoid damage to non woven fabric.
- Gentle Handling: When moving non woven fabric, use appropriate handling equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks. Avoid dragging or dropping the fabric, as this can cause tears, scratches, or other physical damage.
- Stacking Rules: When stacking non woven fabric, ensure that the stacks are stable and evenly distributed. Do not stack the fabric too high, as this can increase the risk of collapse and damage to the bottom layers. It is also advisable to place a protective layer between each layer of fabric to prevent abrasion.
5. Inventory Management
Effective inventory management is essential for ensuring the quality of non woven fabric during storage.
- First - In, First - Out (FIFO): Implement a FIFO system to ensure that the oldest stock is used first. This helps to prevent the fabric from being stored for too long, which can increase the risk of degradation.
- Regular Inspection: Conduct regular inspections of the stored non woven fabric to check for any signs of damage, contamination, or degradation. Any damaged or contaminated fabric should be removed from the storage area immediately.
- Inventory Records: Keep accurate inventory records, including information such as the quantity, location, and storage time of the non woven fabric. This can help in managing the inventory effectively and ensuring timely replenishment.
6. Specific Considerations for Different Types of Non Woven Fabric
Different types of non woven fabric may have specific storage requirements.
- Wood Pulp Pp Spunlace Non Woven Fabric: This type of fabric is often used in applications where high absorbency and softness are required. It is important to store it in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption, which can affect its absorbency and strength.
- Degradable Spunlace Non Woven Fabric: Degradable non woven fabrics are designed to break down over time. To ensure their quality during storage, they should be stored away from direct sunlight and high - temperature environments, as these factors can accelerate the degradation process.
- Spunlace Non Woven Fabric: Spunlace non woven fabric is known for its high strength and good drapeability. It should be stored in a way that prevents creasing and folding, as this can affect its appearance and performance.
In conclusion, proper storage of non woven fabric is crucial for maintaining its quality and performance. By following the best practices outlined above, suppliers can ensure that their non woven fabric products are in optimal condition when they reach the customers. If you are interested in purchasing high - quality non woven fabric or have any questions about storage and handling, please feel free to contact us for further discussion and negotiation.
References
- ASTM International. (Year). Standards related to non woven fabric storage and handling.
- Industry guidelines on non woven fabric production and storage from relevant associations.
