Absorbency Rate How It Changes with Construction and Elastane Content
Absorbency Rate does not stay constant when construction changes. Understanding the direction of change helps during development.
Effect of knit structure
Loop length and density move results first, usually before any yarn change is made. Working figures for Absorbency Rate normally sit around below 1-3 seconds in mainstream production. Note AATCC 79 absorbency on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Effect of elastane content
More elastane raises recovery but changes the value measured by AATCC 79 absorbency, so retest after any blending change. Record elastane content alongside Absorbency Rate, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside below 1-3 seconds usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
Effect of finishing
Heat setting and softeners shift results, which explains differences between a hand sample and bulk. Keeping reference values for Absorbency Rate lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with AATCC 79 absorbency, since both affect the reading.
Typical range
Working values stay around below 1-3 seconds for mainstream activewear. Working figures for Absorbency Rate normally sit around below 1-3 seconds in mainstream production. Note AATCC 79 absorbency on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Development advice
Change one variable at a time, then verify against AATCC 79 absorbency before moving to the next sample round. Record elastane content alongside Absorbency Rate, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside below 1-3 seconds usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
