Yarn number

Description

A textile measurement term used to indicate the fineness of a fiber. Yarn numbers are determined by two different types of systems: The first is the direct, or denier system, in which the yarn number is equal to the linear density, or mass per unit length of yarn. By the direct system, finer yarns have smaller numbers. It is typically used for silk and synthetic fibers. The second measurement type is the indirect system, in which the yarn number is equal to the reciprocal of linear density, or lenth per unit mass of yarn. In the indirect system, finer yarns have larger numbers. This systems is used for spun yarns such as cotton, linen, and wool.

Synonyms and Related Terms

indirect system; direct system; denier system

Authority

• G.S.Brady, Materials Handbook, McGraw-Hill Book Co., New York, 1971

• Hoechst Celanese Corporation, Dictionary of Fiber & Textile Technology (older version called Man-made Fiber and Textile Dictionary, 1965), Hoechst Celanese Corporation, Charlotte NC, 1990

• Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "Textile." Encyclopædia Britannica. 19 Jan. 2004 .