Supima® cotton, our premium raw material
The most important quality characteristic of cotton is the fiber length (staple length). It is not only a critical parameter for the maximum spinable yarn count but it also affects several aspects of the yarn quality.
With a staple length of more than 35 mm, the extra long staple (ELS) variety Gossypium barbadense provides the best quality and represents only 3% of the worldwide production. The middle staple varieties G. hirsutum und G. arboreum are with 96% the most widespread species and produce a staple length of 24 to 34 mm. G. herbaceum has a short and coarse fiber (less than 24 mm) and represents only about 1% of the worldwide cotton production.
Bühler uses only American extra long staple Supima® cotton in both, the Swiss and in the US production. ELS cotton is ideal for premium textile products and provides a number of very important advantages:
Compared to middle staple, ELS cotton has a 45% higher breaking strength! The higher fiber strength leads to a considerably higher yarn strength which allows a smooth further processing, even in critical applications. Additionally, the high strength is an important precondition for several finishing processes.
For instance, a resin finish (e.g. for a non-iron treatment) often requires ELS cotton since the fiber loses up to 50% of its strength. Therefore, our yarns are the first choice when good running characteristics, a high resistance in the finishing process and a good durability of the final-article are needed.
ELS cotton is also characterized by outstanding fiber fineness. Fine fibers are optimally distributed in the yarn cross-section which results in an even, steady yarn. Moreover the very fine fibers are extremely soft and allow for an extraordinary smooth touch of the product. Due to the nice light reflection of the finest fibers, a silky sheen is achieved.
As the long fibers of ELS cotton are spun more firmly into the yarn, the hairiness is reduced. A low hairiness reduces fiber fly in further processing and improves the pilling behavior of the final-article.
In order to meet the highest requirements of our clients, we trust in Supima® cotton which provides considerable advantages over other ELS cotton proveniences. Next to an excellent and stable fiber quality, Supima® stands out due to minimal foreign fibers contamination. Therefore, Supima® is the right choice for applications in white and light shades. In addition, Supima® provides the best running characteristics in down-stream processing compared to other ELS cotton fibers.
