Nåltyp

Nåltyp is a Swedish term used to classify needles by their design, intended use, and material. In practice it encompasses a wide range of needle types—from everyday sewing and knitting needles to medical, dental, and industrial variants. The concept is applied in product documentation, catalogs, and procurement to help users choose the appropriate needle for a given task.

Core features used to define a nåltyp include the tip shape (sharp, ballpoint, blunt), the eye type and position, the shaft length and thickness (gauge), and the taper or curvature. Materials and coatings also influence the choice, affecting strength, flexibility, friction, and corrosion resistance. Common materials include plain or stainless steel and coated or alloyed variants.

Major categories include sewing needles, knitting needles, embroidery and tapestry needles, surgical and dental needles, and acupuncture needles, as well as industrial or automotive needles used in machinery. Each category is further subdivided by point design, eye configuration, length, and thickness to match fabrics, threads, or biological tissue and to meet safety standards.

Selecting the right nåltyp depends on the application, fabric or tissue, and required handling properties such as sterility for medical uses or thread compatibility for textile work. Standards and labeling vary by region and purpose, with manufacturers providing size codes and usage recommendations. Understanding a nåltyp is essential to achieve proper penetration, minimal damage, and reliable performance.