Product knowledge introduction
Elastic fabric, also known as stretch fabric, is a type of textile that has the ability to stretch and recover its original shape. It typically contains a combination of fibers, with one of them being spandex or elastane, which provides elasticity to the fabric.
Four-sided elastic fabric: Elastic fabrics, commonly used in swimwear, are known for their stretchability in multiple directions. However, they are not limited to four sides. Elastic fabrics can stretch horizontally, vertically, and diagonally, allowing for freedom of movement.
Non-deformable: While elastic fabrics have the ability to stretch and return to their original shape, they are not entirely non-deformable. Repeated stretching, exposure to chlorine or saltwater, and other factors can gradually affect the elasticity and shape retention of the fabric.
Waterproof: Traditional swimwear fabrics are not completely waterproof. They are designed to be water-resistant, meaning they can repel water to a certain extent, but they will eventually absorb water, become saturated, and lose their water-repellent properties. This is particularly true when the fabric is subjected to prolonged water exposure, stretching, or repetitive use.
In the case you mentioned, the widest part of the fabric is 160 cm, and it contains 3% spandex. This means that the fabric has a width of 160 cm when it is not stretched or under tension. However, when stretched, the fabric can expand by a certain percentage due to the presence of spandex.
Since the fabric contains 3% spandex, it suggests that the fabric can stretch or expand by up to 3% of its original width. Therefore, when the fabric is stretched, it can increase its width by approximately 4.8 cm (3% of 160 cm).
Keep in mind that the actual stretch or elasticity of the fabric can vary based on the quality of the fabric, the construction, and the specific blend of fibers used. It's always a good idea to check the fabric's care instructions or consult with the manufacturer to understand its stretch properties better.