Elastic bands utilize elastic fibers (such as rubber) wrapped in yarn and then braided or knitted together to create a strong, tensile force when stretched, yet return to their original shape when the pressure is released.

The elasticity and durability of elastic bands vary depending on the braid structure.

Webbing is a process where yarns (warp and weft) are interwoven on a loom through various weaving, braiding, or knitting methods to create a ribbon-like fabric. Common methods include woven webbing, which uses a figure-eight interlacing pattern; woven webbing, which interweaves warp and weft yarns; and knitted webbing, which uses needles on a knitting machine to weave yarns into loops. Reflective webbing utilizes the "retro-reflective" principle, where light is reflected back along its incident path.

Elastic Band Structure and Principle

Core Elastic Material: The elasticity of elastic bands primarily comes from the rubber or other elastic fibers within them.

External Yarn Covering: These elastic fibers are covered with yarns such as polyester, cotton, or nylon to form a complete webbing.

Weaving/Knitting Methods: The yarns covered with rubber filaments are interwoven using various weaving or knitting methods to create elastic bands with elastic properties.

Elastic Recovery: When the elastic band is stretched, the elastic fibers are stretched. When the force is removed, the elastic fibers' elastic force causes them to return to their original length, which is how the elastic band can contract.

Different Types of Elastic Band Constructions

Knitted Elastic: This band is woven using a warp-in-weft knitting method, where the warp threads form a braided chain, and the weft threads connect the chains, with the rubber filaments encased within the chain. This type of elastic band typically has a loose, soft texture and long-lasting elasticity.

Woven Elastic: Also known as Spindle-Woven Elastic, this band uses longitudinal warp threads to enclose the rubber filaments in a figure-8 pattern. The disadvantages of this type of elastic are that it tends to roll and lose its elasticity after processing and sewing. However, it is suitable for applications requiring a narrower width, such as cuffs or collars.

Woven elastic: This is another common type of elastic.

Weaving Methods

Braiding

Principle: Yarns are interwoven in a figure-eight pattern to form a ribbon or tube.

Features: Highly strong weave, commonly used for bag straps or belts.

Equipment: Braiding machine.

Weaving

Principle: Warp and weft yarns are interwoven on a loom, forming a smooth weave.

Features: Stable weave, high strength, and the ability to create a variety of patterns. Commonly used in industrial belts such as seatbelts and suspenders.

Equipment: Shuttle loom (traditional and modern shuttleless looms).

Knitting

Principle: Needles weave yarn into continuous loops, which are then connected to form a ribbon.

Features: High elasticity, suitable for making elastic webbing.

Equipment: Knitting machine.

Reflective Webbing

Mechanism: Glass beads are used to reflect light back toward the source, making the webbing easier to see in dim conditions.

Features: Improves wearer safety and is commonly used in sportswear, footwear, and safety equipment.

Manufacturing Process: Glass beads are embedded into the webbing surface to form a reflective layer.

Functions and Features of Elastic Bands

Elasticity: Stretch and return to their original shape, maintaining product tightness and comfort.

Security and Support: Provides a secure fit on various fabrics, preventing loosening.

Durability: Offers excellent abrasion and weather resistance, suitable for use in various environments.

Processability: Easy to cut, sew, and secure, facilitating the manufacture of a variety of products.