Flocking is the process of depositing many small fiber particles (called flock ) to the surface. It may also refer to the texture produced by the process, or to any material used primarily for its flocking surface. Flocking articles can be done for the purpose of increasing its value in terms of tactile sensation, aesthetics, colors and appearance. It can also be done for functional reasons including isolation, slip-or-grip friction, and low reflectivity.
Video Flocking (texture)
Usage
Flocking is used in many ways. One example is in building models, where grass texture can be applied to the surface to make it look more realistic. Similarly, these are used by model car makers to get the effect of scale carpet. Another use is on a Christmas tree, which may be flocked with white fluffy sprays to simulate snow. Other things may flock to give them velor textures like t-shirts, wallpapers, gift boxes/jewelry, or upholstery.
In addition to the application of velvet lining to the surface and objects there are various flocking techniques as a means of color and product design. From screen printing to modern digital printing to refine such as cloth, clothing or books with multicolor patterns. Currently, the exploration of flock phenomena can be seen in art.
Flocking in the automotive industry is used for decorative purposes and can be applied to a number of different materials. Many rally cars also have dashboards in droves to reduce the rays of the sun that bounce through the windshield. Views on current flocking conditions can be found in the first international exhibition "Flockage: the flock phenomen" at Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & amp; Museum in Bournemouth.
In the photographic industry, flocking is one method used to reduce surface reflectivity, including the inside of multiple bellows and lens hoods. It is also used to produce light parts for films such as in 135 film cartridges.
The herd consists of synthetic fibers that look like tiny hairs. Flock print feels a bit velvety and slightly higher. The fiber length may vary in thickness which determines the appearance of the product in droves. The thin fiber produces a soft velvet surface, thicker fibers, more featherlike surfaces.
High-quality model cars are known to use flocking for decorative purposes. The premium model maker AUTOart is well known for the use of droves in their model cars.
Maps Flocking (texture)
Process
Flocking is defined as the application of fine particles to adhesive coated surfaces. Currently, this is usually done by the application of high voltage electric fields. In a clustered machine, "flock" is given a negative charge while the substrate is earthed. The flock material flies vertically to the substrate attached to the glue that was previously applied. A number of different substrates can be crowded including textiles, fabrics, woven fabrics, paper, PVC, sponges, toys, and automotive plastics.
The majority of flocking done worldwide use natural or synthetic fibers that are finely cut. The coated layer imparts decorative and/or functional characteristics to the surface. A variety of materials are applied to various surfaces through different flocking methods creating a variety of end products. Group processes are used in goods ranging from retail consumer goods to products with high-tech military applications.
History
Historians write that flocking can be traced back to about 1000 BC, when Chinese people use resin glue to bind natural fibers with cloth. Dust fibers are scattered on adhesive-covered surfaces to produce wall coverings that flocked in Germany during the Middle Ages. In France, the flocking wall cover became popular during the reign of Louis XIV in France.
Health issues
Flocking can expose workers to small nylon particulates, which inhalation can cause the lungs of herd workers, a kind of interstitial lung disease. Other exposures in the flocking industry may include acrylic adhesives, potato starch ammonium ether, heat transfer oil, tannic acid, and zeolite.
See also
- Finishing (textiles)
- The final surface
References
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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