Using The Taguchi Method and Grey Relational Analysis for Down Fabrics’ Heat Storage Modification and Process Optimization

Abstract

Down fabric is the most natural form of thermal insulation due to its significant breathability, rendering down jackets excellent warmth retention effect. This study focused on the down heat storage technology to increase the heat storage temperature. The single quality optimization using the process parameters of the Taguchi method was discussed in the first stage. The experimental down heat storage process parameters included carbon powder, bridging agent, resin adhesive, and ethyl acetate. The corresponding down fabric quality characteristics were temperature rise, dust, and oxygen number. The Taguchi method was combined with the grey relational analysis (GRA) in the second stage to determine the grey relational grade (GRG) and perform multi-quality optimization. The optimized process parameters simultaneously achieved higher temperature rise, lower dust, and lower oxidation value, which were verified by verification experiments. The optimal process parameters are: carbon powder content at 1.2%, resin adhesive at 6%, bridging agent at 2.0%, and ethyl acetate at 0.4%. These yield a temperature rise of 7.8 °C, dust level 2, and oxygen number 1.6 mg/100 g, which are exceeding the industry standards: Temperature rise ≥ 3 °C, dust < Grade 4, oxygen number < 10 mg/100 g.