Structural equation modeling of seam failures analysis

The study aims to establish significant fabric and thread mechanical properties that influence seam strength sewn with different parameters using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Fabrics were tested for their mechanical properties using Kawabata Evaluation System (KES) and Fabric Assurance for Simple Test (FAST). Seam was constructed using different types of threads, stitches and needles. It was found that SEM was able to identify the thread and fabric mechanical properties that highly correlated with the seam strength. The selection of these properties gives the apparel manufacture guideline on the best selection of sewing parameters to achieve minimum failure of the seam.