How to Scour Spandex®
Spandex® is generally used in blends with other fibers. Do not exceed the boil in any procedure using Spandex® as the physical properties may deteriorate and do not use chlorine in any bleaching procedures with Spandex® as it will cause yellowing and possible degradation of the fiber.
- In a scouring bath with liquor ratio of 20:1 and temperature at 100°F(37°C), add:
- 0.25% owg Orco Ferrosol NA4™
- 1.5-2.0% owg Orcopon PCA™
- 1.0% owg Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate(TSPP)
- Slowly raise temperature to 170°F(77°C) and run for 30 minutes.
- Overflow rinse until clear.
Note:
In a pressure vessel such as a jet or beam, it is advisable to use a low-foaming scouring agent such as Orco Penetrant 120™. In this case, a lower scouring temperature of 110-120°F(44-49°C) is required as the cloud point of this product is 120°F(49°C). A higher temperature may be used at which point the Orco Penetrant 120™ will be above its cloud point and cease foaming. When the temperature is brought back down to 120°F, the Penetrant 120 will re-solubilize and its scouring/detergent properties will re-activate and prevent redeposition of oils and soil onto the fabric.
In a situation where the fabric is heavily stained/soiled, a solvent scour may be necessary.
- In a fresh bath at 100°F(38°C) add 0.5% owg TSPP and 3-5% owg Orco Citrisolve DL-AAS-2™.
- Slowly bring temperature to 175°F(80°C) and run for 30 minutes.
- Drop bath and set new scour bath as described above. The running time may be decreased from 30 to 15 minutes.