Trends in Testing By Wool Type

There are many terms used to categorise wool according to its objective (measured) and subjective characteristics. One important and widely used classification is "Wool Type" which is determined from the descriptions that wool classers stencil on to bales after shearing. The wool description is reported on the AWTA Ltd Test Certificate and used within our quality control systems to check that the testing matches the type of wool described.  The wool type is identified as either Fleece, Skirting or Carding based on the description used, in accordance with the industry Code of Practice.

Wool is more widely classified as either Combing or Carding according to its likely end use.  Combing Wools generally comprise fleece and skirting wool types as these are longer in length and used in Worsted processing to produce fabrics and textiles.  Alternatively, Carding Wools have shorter fibres and are used in Woollen processes to make products like felts and carpets.  A table explaining these types is provided below:

These categorisations are important for Wool Exporters and Private Treaty Merchants who buy bales of different wool types to meet the specifications of their customers.  The availability of these types and the resultant competition between buyers to purchase them, has a direct impact on the prices paid for greasy wool. 

The graph below shows the historical variations in the weight of Fleece, Skirting and Carding wool tested by AWTA Ltd since 1991/92.  Click on the graph below to display a larger PDF image.

The progressive reduction shown above is consistent with the overall decline in wool production during the same period.  Further historical information on Wool Production in Australia and future production forecasts is available on the Australian Wool Production Forecasting Commitee page on this website.