Twist Level / The Amount of Twist

Twist Level / The Amount of Twist:
The amount of twist in the yarn is commonly expressed by the number of turns per unit length. In B.S. 946: 1952 it is stated that the amount of twist in a thread at each stage of manufacture is denoted by a figure giving the number of turns of twist per unit length at that stage. It affects the characteristics and properties of a yarn including appearance, behavior and durability.

The amount of twist is an important factor in finished consumer goods. It determines the appearance as well as the durability and serviceability of a fabric. Fine yarns require more twist than coarser yarns. Warp yarns, which are used for the length wise threads in a woven fabric, are given more twist than filling yarn which is used for cross wise threads.

The amount of twist also depends upon the type of the fabric to be woven:

1. Yarns intended for soft surfaced fabric are given slack twist. They are called as soft twisted yarns.
2. Yarns intended for smooth surfaced fabrics are given optimum twists. Such twisted yarns contribute strength, smoothness and elasticity.
3. Yarns intended for crepe fabrics are given maximum amount of twists.