Sulantasäikeitys

Sulantasäikeitys, also known as feather splitting or down splitting, is a process used in the textile industry to modify the properties of down and feather fills. It involves a mechanical treatment that separates the fine barbules of the down clusters and feathers, creating a more voluminous and loftier material. This process enhances the insulating capabilities of the fill by trapping more air, which is crucial for thermal regulation in garments and bedding.

The sulantasäikeitys technique can be applied to various types of down and feather, including goose down and duck down. The degree of splitting can be controlled to achieve different levels of loft and softness. Materials that have undergone sulantasäikeitys are often preferred for high-quality down jackets, sleeping bags, and pillows due to their superior warmth-to-weight ratio and comfort. The process does not typically involve any chemical treatments, making it an environmentally friendly method for improving natural fill materials. While the term "sulantasäikeitys" is specific to certain regions or industries, the underlying process of mechanically enhancing down and feather loft is a recognized practice in down processing globally.