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Abstract

Methods of forming a loop product are provided. Some methods include (a) introducing a sheet-form substrate and a layer of polymeric fibers into a needle loom, with the fibers disposed on a first surface of the substrate, and (b) needling the fibers through the substrate to form hook-engageable loop structures of the fibers extending from a second surface of the substrate through holes formed in the substrate by the needling. Needling the fibers includes piercing the substrate with a plurality of needles while advancing the substrate in a machine direction at a predetermined speed, while cyclically advancing the needles in the machine direction, during piercing of the substrate, in a manner that causes the needles to travel in a substantially elliptical path, such that while the needles extend through the substrate the needles are moving in the machine direction.

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First Claim