How To Match PVC Coated Fabric of Different Thicknesses with Applicable Scenarios?

Introduction

PVC coated fabric, as a widely used semi-finished material, has become a core raw material in fields such as truck tarpaulin, tents and outdoor products due to its waterproof, wear-resistant and weather-resistant properties. For purchasers, the appropriate thickness of PVC-coated fabric is directly related to the performance, cost and service life of the end products. This article will analyze the applicable scenarios of PVC-coated fabrics of different thicknesses for you, helping you select the appropriate thickness.

The relationship between the thickness and performance of PVC coated fabrics

PVC coated fabric is composed of base fabric (polyester fiber) and PVC coating, and its total thickness is usually between 0.1mm and 1.5mm. The thickness difference directly affects the following key indicators:

Mechanical strength: The greater the thickness, the stronger the resistance to tearing and puncture

Weather resistance: The thick coating is more effective in resisting ultraviolet rays and acid rain erosion

Flexibility: Thin materials are easier to fold and bend

Weight and cost: For every 0.1mm increase in thickness, the material cost rises by approximately 8-12%

Scenarios applicable to different thicknesses

0.1-0.5mm (lightweight)

Terminal products: Temporary sunshades/activity tents

                                        Advertising banner/pull-up banner

                                        Lightweight dust cover

                                        Agricultural insect-proof net

Such scenarios have high requirements for the portability and economy of materials. For instance, temporary exhibition tents need to be frequently disassembled and reassembled. PVC fabric with a thickness of 0.4mm can not only ensure an outdoor service life of 1-2 years but also reduce transportation costs.

0.6-0.8mm (Standard type)

Terminal products: Truck/cargo ship tarpaulin

                                        Storage waterproof tarpaulin

                                        Geotextile

                                        Swimming pool cover

                                        Outdoor furniture cover

                                        Inflatable amusement facilities

0.6-0.8mm is the thickness range with the largest market usage. Take the truck tarpaulin as an example. A thickness of 0.6mm can balance the wind pressure resistance performance (it needs to withstand a wind speed of 60km/h) and the load limit of the vehicle body.

0.9-1.2mm (Heavy Duty)

Terminal products: Industrial oil storage tank cofferdam

                                        Chemical defense fence

                                        Large inflatable warehouse

                                        Heavy machinery protective cover

Heavy-duty PVC-coated fabric is suitable for professional application scenarios in extreme environments. Chemical defense fences should be made of a thickness of 1.0mm or more and flame retardants added to ensure resistance to acid and alkali corrosion and fire resistance.

1.3mm and above (Special type)

Terminal products: Helicopter landing pad

                                        Marine pontoon bridge components

                                        Hazardous chemicals transport containers

PVC coated fabric with a thickness exceeding 1.3mm usually needs to be custom-produced. Both the helipad pad and the Marine floating bridge components need to pass a 5,000-hour salt spray test, which imposes strict requirements on the corrosion resistance of the coating.

Conclusion

Choosing the appropriate fabric thickness not only enables the production of excellent products but also helps to control costs to the greatest extent. It is suggested that purchasers pay close attention to the various parameters of PVC-coated fabrics and jointly develop customized solutions with suppliers. Through the above article, we believe you must have a certain understanding of the fabric thickness suitable for different terminal products. If you still have any difficulties in selection, please do not hesitate to contact us.