1. Waterproof and breathability requirements
In many applications, waterproofness is an important criterion for selecting composite coated fabrics, especially in the fields of outdoor equipment, rain gear, tents, etc. However, different application scenarios have different requirements for waterproofness and breathability, so it is necessary to balance the requirements of the two when choosing.
High waterproof requirements: For applications that need to provide strong waterproofness in bad weather (such as tents, raincoats, car awnings, etc.), PVC coated fabrics are a common choice. PVC coated materials have very good waterproof properties and can effectively prevent water penetration. They are suitable for outdoor equipment exposed to rain and snow for a long time.
Breathability requirements: In some applications (such as outdoor clothing, mountaineering equipment, etc.), in addition to waterproofness, breathability is also a very important requirement, especially when high-intensity activities are required, staying dry and comfortable is very important. PU coated fabrics have good breathability and can also provide certain waterproof properties. They are ideal for making waterproof but breathable clothing and backpacks.
Comprehensive performance: If the application requires high waterproofness and a certain degree of breathability, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) coated fabric may be the best choice. TPU coating has a good balance of waterproofness and breathability, and its softness is good, which is suitable for equipment that requires comfort.
2. Weather resistance and UV resistance requirements
For equipment that is used outdoors or exposed to the sun for a long time, the UV resistance (UV) performance of the fabric is crucial. Ultraviolet rays not only accelerate the aging of the fabric, but may also cause harm to the human body. Depending on the different use environments, it is necessary to select composite coated fabrics with certain UV resistance.
High UV resistance requirements: For tents, awnings or outdoor furniture that need to be exposed to strong sunlight for a long time, PVC coated fabrics usually provide higher UV resistance. This is because UV stabilizers are usually added to PVC coatings, which can effectively delay the aging process of the fabric and extend its service life.
Mild UV resistance: If the main demand is lightweight and environmentally friendly materials (such as outdoor clothing, backpacks, etc.), you can consider using PU coating or TPU coating. Although these coatings are slightly inferior to PVC in terms of UV resistance, they can also provide certain UV protection through specific formulations and treatments.
3. Wear resistance and durability requirements
In some high-friction application scenarios, the wear resistance and durability of the fabric are important factors that must be considered when choosing composite coated fabrics. Fabrics with strong wear resistance can extend the service life of the product and reduce the cost of frequent replacement.
High wear resistance requirements: If the fabric needs to withstand strong friction, such as for seat covers, tent bottoms or ground coverings, PVC coated fabrics are usually the first choice. PVC coatings are relatively hard and have high wear resistance, suitable for high-friction, heavy-load environments.
Soft but durable: For products that require a certain degree of softness and comfort (such as backpacks, shoe uppers, furniture fabrics, etc.), PU coated fabrics are a more ideal choice. PU coatings have good wear resistance and are relatively soft, suitable for applications that need to withstand a certain amount of friction during use.
Strength and flexibility: For industrial applications or products that need to withstand high-intensity pulling (such as industrial protective gear, transport bags, etc.), TPU coated fabrics are a better choice due to their excellent wear resistance and toughness. TPU coating is not only wear-resistant, but also has good ductility and strength, suitable for environments that need to withstand strong stretching and friction.
4. Oil resistance and cleanliness requirements
Some industries (such as kitchens, industry, transportation, etc.) require fabrics to have good oil resistance. In particular, protective clothing, industrial equipment, etc. are easily exposed to oil, chemicals, etc. during work, so cleanliness and oil resistance are very important performance indicators.
High oil resistance requirements: If the fabric needs to be frequently exposed to oil, chemicals or other industrial liquids, you can choose fabrics coated with special coatings, such as oil-proof PU coatings or silicone coatings. Silicone coatings have excellent oil resistance and high temperature resistance, and are suitable for high temperature and high pollution environments.
Easy to clean requirements: For daily use that does not require high-strength oil resistance, such as kitchen aprons, work clothes, etc., you can choose PU coatings with water resistance and oil resistance. PU coatings are not only easy to clean, but also have good stain resistance.
5. Temperature and environmental adaptability
Some special environments (such as high or low temperature environments) have higher requirements on the performance of composite coated fabrics. Fabrics not only need to have basic functionality, but also need to be able to withstand a specific temperature range.
High temperature environment: If the fabric is used in a high temperature environment (such as industrial protective clothing, fire protection equipment, etc.), silicone coating or TPU coating is usually more suitable. Silicone coating has excellent high temperature resistance. It can not only withstand high temperatures, but also maintain a certain degree of softness, which is suitable for occasions that require high temperature resistance.
Low temperature environment: For applications in low temperature environments (such as ski suits, tents in cold areas, etc.), composite coated fabrics that adapt to low temperatures need to be selected. PU coating and TPU coating are relatively soft and can withstand the stretching and use requirements in low temperature environments.
6. Comfort and aesthetic requirements
For some products that involve direct contact with the skin (such as clothing, backpacks, bedding, etc.), comfort is a key consideration when choosing composite coated fabrics. At this time, the softness, breathability and touch of the fabric will affect the final use experience.
Softness and breathability: PU coated fabrics are usually softer than PVC coatings and have better breathability. They are suitable for products that require high comfort, such as underwear, sportswear and backpacks.
Aesthetics: Composite coated fabrics also need to meet certain aesthetic requirements, especially in the fashion or home furnishing fields. PU coating not only has a good appearance, but also provides rich colors and textures, making the product both functional and aesthetic.