Technical Threads for Outdoor Use

Technical threads for harsh conditions

Outdoor products work in sun, rain, wind, cold and under constant load. An awning is stretched daily, a tent is folded and gets wet, a boat sail endures strong wind, and a truck tarpaulin vibration and abrasion. In such conditions the seam is often the weakest point. Technical threads are designed to keep the strength, colour and tightness of the seam for years. Polkom supplies technical threads wholesale to manufacturers of awnings and sunshades, tents, garden furniture, sails, inflatable structures, tarpaulins, straps and filters.

UV degradation and how to prevent it

Ultraviolet rays gradually break down the polymer – the thread loses strength, abrades more easily and fades. This process is called UV degradation. UV-stabilised threads slow down the process and keep the seam strong and colourful for much longer. They are available in different constructions: continuous polyester, textured and microfibre polyester, core-spun polyester with a polyester or cotton wrap, bonded polyester and polyamide 6.6.

Types of technical threads

High-tenacity continuous polyester threads

Filament polyester threads combine high tenacity, low elongation and resistance to abrasion and bleaching. The range of thicknesses is very wide – from about 12 to 270 tex – and the colour cards reach about 300 shades. Medium thicknesses are preferred for awnings, garden furniture, mattresses, bags and leather.

Bonded threads

The bonded plies do not separate when sewing through thick materials and do not absorb moisture on the surface. With correct tension, bonded threads limit the passage of water through the needle hole. They are suitable for tarpaulins, tents, sports equipment and heavy textiles.

Polyamide 6.6 threads

Extremely strong and elastic, they withstand impact and dynamic load. They are used for parachutes, straps, belts, inflatable products and upholstery. The low moisture content allows quick drying after getting wet.

Water-repellent threads

A special PFC-free water-repellent finish stops the capillary effect, so the thread does not absorb or wick water. They are used for raincoats, jackets, hiking footwear, tents and bags.

Threads for filters and chemical environments

Silicone-free threads with a controlled lubrication free of grease, graphite, wax and paraffin perform reliably when sewing filters for paint shops and industrial installations, as well as gloves and clothing for chemical environments.

Applications

• awnings, sunshades and umbrellas;
• tents, canopies and marquees;
• sails, boat covers and inflatable structures;
• tarpaulins and covers for trucks and trailers;
• garden furniture and outdoor cushions;
• straps, belts, backpacks and sports equipment;
• industrial filters.

For tarpaulins and awnings the seam is complemented by metal accessories – Polkom also supplies round and oval eyelets for awnings, yachts and truck tarpaulins.

How to choose a technical thread

• How long the product will be in the sun – with constant exposure, choose a UV-stabilised thread.
• Whether the seam must be waterproof – then a water-repellent or bonded thread is combined with suitable tension.
• What the dynamic load is – for straps and parachutes polyamide is more suitable.
• Whether there are fire-resistance requirements – see the threads for protective clothing.

Why Polkom

Polkom has over 30 years of experience as a manufacturer and supplier of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags. We give technical advice on the thread, needle and finish, and offer samples and delivery throughout the EU. For car interiors, also see the threads for the automotive industry.

How to order

Send an enquiry with the material, the application, the conditions of use, the thickness, the colours and the quantities. Minimum quantities depend on the item – send an enquiry and you will receive exact information. See all types of threads.