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American Institute of Marine Underwriters |
Commodity Search Form
FIBERS
- Description: MANILA HEMP - Manila hemp is obtained from the abaca, a plant of the banana family (Musaceae), which is also known as the fiber or weaving banana, so explaining the term banana hemp. Manila hemp is a leaf fiber (hard fiber) obtained from the leaf sheaths of the large banana leaves. These sheaths together form a pseudostem 3 - 4 m in height. Fiber strips up to 8 cm in width ("tuxies") are cut lengthwise from the leaf sheaths, separated from the fleshy parts and dried and bleached in the sun. Manila hemp is lustrous, yellowish white, 2 - 4 m in length and, like sisal, is a hard fiber. Manila hemp must not be confused with hemp, which is a soft fiber. It is classified into the following grades on the basis of fineness: - "Bandala" is the fiber obtained from the outer, older leaf sheaths of the pseudostem. It is brownish to purple in color. It is a coarse fiber which is preferably converted into tarred ships' ropes, nets and other cordage. - "Lupis" is a somewhat finer fiber. - "Tupoz" is the light-colored fiber obtained from the inner, younger leaf sheaths. The best qualities are milky white. These are the finest fibers which are converted into nets, ropes, hammocks, furniture coverings, binder twines, cords and hats. - "Tow" is the fiber waste which is converted into very high quality paper (Manila paper). Manila hemp is distinguished by its low weight, tear strength and resistance to weather and water. Its tensile strength is three times that of cotton and twice that of sisal.
- Index: 832
- Commodity Name: FIBERS