Abstract: To further enhance the protective properties of knitted fabrics for fencing uniforms, a series of knitted anti-puncture fabrics was produced using computerized flat knitting machines. Through experimental analysis and simulation, the mechanical behavior and failure mechanism of the fabrics during quasi-static puncture processes were thoroughly examined. Using 400 D ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) filament yarn on the front surface, the study investigated how the type of back yarn, knitting density, and penetration direction affect the fabric’s anti-stab performance. Results show that during testing,fabric deformation occurred in this order: longitudinal > diagonal > transverse, while stress distribution followed this sequence: transverse > diagonal > longitudinal. The highest stress was observed at the contact point between the fabric and the top rod edge, which served as the site of failure initiation. Following that,loop disintegration led to the tear developed longitudinally. Fiber failure primarily appeared as fracture expansion, adhesion, flattening, and axial splitting. When UHMWPE filaments were used on the reverse side, the peak puncture force reached the highest, followed by nylon 66 filaments, with polyester filaments showing the lowest force. Fabric density positively correlated with peak puncture force. Different testing orientations yielded varying results: the fabric exhibited significantly better puncture resistance when the reverse side was facing up compared to the front side. This study offers experimental evidence and atheoretical reference for optimizing the performance of fencing uniform fabrics.

Key words: ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene filaments; fencing uniform fabrics; knitting process;puncture resistance