Physical properties of uas sheep wool and acrylic blended yarns

In order to enhance the optimum utilization and improve the properties of UAS (University of Agricultural Sciences) sheep fleece, it was blended with other synthetic fibres. The scoured and pre-carded UAS sheep fleece was blended with acrylic in the varied proportions viz., 70/30, 60/40 and 50/50 through sandwich/stack blending technique. The blended fibres were subjected to a woolen carding system and spun on a hand charka and friction spinning machine. Pure and blended yarns were subjected to physical properties such as yarn count (Nm), yarn twist (tpi), single yarn strength (kgf) and elongation (%). The results revealed that among the wool/acrylic blends, hand spun 70/30 blend exhibited a higher number of tpi (7.20) and single yarn strength (0.52). Whereas, the friction spun 50/50 blend possessed higher tpi (9.88), greater strength (0.55) and elongation percentage (14.62). In general, friction spun wool/acrylic blended yarns exhibited significantly finer yarn count (5.91–13.08), greater tpi (5.10–9.88) and elongation percentage (13.08–14.62) than the hand spun pure and blended yarns. Among the various blends compositions and spinning methods, the friction spun 50/50 blend possessed higher tpi (9.88), greater strength (0.55) and elongation percentage (14.62). Hence, 50/50 blend at friction spinning may be considered as recommended blend composition. In case of hand spinning, it is not possible to make recommendation as there is no clear trend for yarn properties. The blending of local coarse grade wool with acrylic and other natural and synthetic fibres will certainly meet the need ofthe present local woolen market and sustain the shepherds and local woolen spinners.