Types and characteristics of tarpaulin fabric

For centuries, tarpaulin fabric has been a reliable material because of its strength and adaptability. Tarpaulin fabric is widely used in a variety of industries, whether it’s for weatherproofing cargo or serving as a strong cover during construction.

There are various varieties of this fabric, and each has unique qualities that make it appropriate for particular uses. Knowing the various kinds of tarpaulin fabric can help you select the one that best suits your needs, from waterproof to fire-resistant options.

This article will examine the different kinds of tarpaulin fabric and go over their characteristics and typical applications. Regardless of your needs—a dependable cover for outdoor use or industrial-grade material—this guide will give you the information you need to make an informed choice.

Tarpaulin fabric is a widely used material for outdoor gear, coverings, and industrial applications because of its versatility, water resistance, and ability to withstand harsh conditions. This post will examine the various varieties of tarpaulin fabric, emphasizing their distinctive qualities and assisting you in determining which one best meets your requirements.

Types and characteristics

Tarpaulin is a fabric made from densely twisted fibers that is woven using a plain weave technique. Typically, raw materials like cotton, flax, or jute are utilized. The material is impregnated with a unique synthetic composition that prevents the fabric from rotting and gives it specific properties. The production of standard tarpaulin fabric follows GOST 15530-93.

There are three varieties of the material, which is regarded as a sort of canvas.

  1. Fireproof. Impregnation colors the fabric in warm colors – from light yellow to brown. Used for sewing technical clothing for work associated with high temperatures, fire, electric current, fire hazard, etc.
  2. Water-repellent. Impregnation colors the material in shades of green, most often khaki. The fabric does not allow water to pass through, but allows air to pass through. Used in all areas where moisture protection is important.
  3. Bio-resistant. Impregnation is used that protects the fabric from penetration and reproduction of microorganisms in it, from rotting and moisture. This material is also light-resistant, it is usually used in excavation and forestry work.

The fabric’s composition determines the classification based on technical features.

  • Half-linen canvas.

The material is primarily made of flax and cotton in a ratio of either 49% to 51% or 35% to 65% (the latter being softer, lighter, and more pliable).

  • Hard jute tarpaulin.

Equal parts cotton and jute make up the composition. Much more affordable than the prior choice, but denser and heavier.

A traditional tarpaulin cut’s width is 90 cm. Although they are less common, options with a width of 150 cm are typically made to order. There are two types of edges: shaggy (having a fringe along the edge) and earned (even, processed).

This is fascinating. The word "tarpaulin" (presenning), which translates to "shell," is Dutch in origin. Made in the eighteenth century, the fabric was used to create a range of awnings and covers. However, tarpaulin was primarily used by the sailing fleet.

How to decipher the marking according to GOST?

Tarpaulin is identified by its functional properties, which vary according to the type of impregnation and degree of density.

  • OP – fireproof fabric, resists combustion from 35 s to 50 s.
  • VO – water-repellent, withstands moisture up to 100 mm of water. st.
  • SKPV – light-resistant combined with increased water resistance, resistance up to 250 mm of water. st.
  • SKOP – light-resistant combined with increased fire resistance, withstands open fire for more than 50 s.

Density is taken into consideration when marking in accordance with GOST. The table* displays the standard classification by density.

Marking Fabric density, g / m 2
11135OP from 380 to 420
11255OP from 430 to 460
11255VO 380-400
11293OP 480-500
11293SKPV 420-450
11292OP 530-580
11292SKPV 450-520
11252OP 600-650
11252SKPV 580-620
11252SKVP U (“U” — improved) 620-640
11252SKVP UU 640-680

*Technological differences up to 30 g/m are permitted, either 2 up or down.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The primary advantages of tarpaulin are:

  • tensile and puncture strength;
  • extremely high wear resistance;
  • water-, bio- and fire-resistant properties depending on the type of fabric;
  • wind resistance;
  • long service life – up to 50 years with proper care;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • availability and low price.

Among the "disadvantages" are the following characteristics:

  • Canvas products are difficult to wash, as the fabric is very heavy;
  • not recommended for use in frosty conditions;
  • outfit made of tarpaulin fabric has a lot of weight.

Tarpaulin, although highly resistant to fire, moisture, and microorganisms, becomes "afraid" when left in a humid environment for an extended period of time. Practical material is helpless against dampness, the only enemy. It must therefore be thoroughly dried after being wet and kept only in a warm, dry location.

Application area

There are numerous applications for tarpaulin fabric.

  • Military affairs. Tents, covers, tents, protective workwear.
  • Tourism. Tents, backpacks, various elements of camping equipment.
  • Emergency services. Tarpaulin is used for sewing equipment, fire hoses and sleeves. If such fabric is used to cover an open fire, it will not succumb to its effects for up to 50 seconds or even longer (increased fire resistance fabric). This is enough to block the air supply to the flame and eliminate a small source of fire.
  • Construction. To protect objects from humidity, precipitation, and other atmospheric phenomena.
  • Industry. Work clothes for welders, oil workers, metallurgists.
  • Agriculture. Shelters, bags, gloves.
  • Fashion. Decorative elements for military-style clothing, belts, backpacks, bags.

How to wash tarpaulin?

Although the fabric is simple to maintain, washing the entire item is difficult. Tarpaulin gets very heavy when wet, so it’s best to remove dirt with a wet towel and use a brush to wash stains with regular soap.

Clothes, tarpaulin bags, and backpacks still require occasional hand washing; hand washing is preferable. Moreover, adding strong detergents is not advised as their effects may exacerbate the impregnation’s qualities.

Type of Tarpaulin Fabric Key Characteristics
Canvas Tarpaulin Durable, water-resistant, breathable, ideal for outdoor use
Polyethylene Tarpaulin Lightweight, waterproof, UV-resistant, often used for temporary covers
Vinyl Tarpaulin Heavy-duty, waterproof, mildew-resistant, suitable for long-term applications
Mesh Tarpaulin Breathable, allows airflow, used for shade or wind protection

Tarpaulin fabric is a multipurpose material that provides protection and durability in a range of environments. It is a dependable option due to its strength and resilience to adverse environments, whether it is utilized for industrial applications, outdoor equipment, or protective coverings.

Knowing the various varieties and qualities of tarpaulin fabric enables you to choose the best material for your particular requirements. There is tarpaulin fabric made to satisfy your needs, whether you’re looking for heavy-duty protection, fire resistance, or waterproofing.

You can make sure that your projects and products are well-protected, last longer, and function better under different conditions by selecting the right tarpaulin fabric. Because of this, tarpaulin is a necessary fabric for numerous applications and industries.

Video on the topic

Tarpaulin/canvas half-linen with OP and SKPV impregnations

Tarpaulin – types of tarpaulins, processing, properties, production. Buy in Stankomash. Part 2.

Tarpaulin – types of tarpaulins, processing, properties, production. Buy at Stankomash. Part 1.

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Sergey Litvinov

I have been working in the field of textile art for over 20 years. I am passionate about textile design and create unique things inspired by traditions and modern trends. In my articles, I talk about how you can use fabrics to create unique and stylish things with your own hands.

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