Types of Nylon Carpet

Type of Nylon

• The two types of nylon carpet fibers are called Type 6 and Type 6.6. These fibers have molecular differences that give them different shapes and some different properties. Type 6 carpet fibers basically are round, while 6.6 fibers have a cross section that looks like a three-leaf clover. This clover shape, the manufacturers claim, refracts light making it harder to see any soiling or stains. Type 6.6 carpet generally is more expensive.

Continuous Filament or Staple Yarn

• Nylon fiber is extruded from liquid in long, continuous filaments. The yarn that is spun from these filaments is more durable, and carpet made from this yarn won't fuzz or "pill." However, continuous filament yarn is hard for manufacturers to work with and they pass on the extra cost to the consumers. The less expensive and more common process is to chop the fibers into "staple" lengths of about 8 inches then twist and spin them together into yarn. Essentially, carpet made of continuous filament yarn is more durable and costs more and carpet made of staple yarn is more affordable but not as durable.

Dye Methods

• Nylon carpet can be dyed during one of three stages of the manufacturing process. The dye can be added to the liquid—or solution—from which the fiber is extruded. While this method, called solution-dyed, makes the carpet colorfast, the color tends to have a slightly streaking effect making it unsuitable for use in some styles.

  Fiber dyed after the extrusion and spinning is done is referred to as yarn-dyed. This results in better color clarity and allows for more variety of colors.

  Carpet also can be made from undyed yarn then dyed either in a vat or spray-dyed as it moves through a conveyor. These are called piece-dyed carpets. This method allows the carpet mills to keep undyed carpet in stock, dye it to order and ship it out quickly.

  Choosing between these methods often depends on circumstances. A solution-dyed carpet is recommended in situations where colorfastness is needed—kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas—anyplace where chemicals, bleach or food dyes could discolor the carpet. A yarn-dyed carpet would be the best bet if a color is being special-ordered to match something. Designers usually insist on yarn-dyeing.