Oerlikon Barmag, Germany, has sold its first eAFK automatic texturing machine to stretch-yarn producer Sapona Manufacturing Co. Inc., Cedar Falls, N.C. The machine features Oerlikon Barmag's eFK, AFK and MPS machine technologies, along with a new modular structure; and has 480 positions and an annual production capacity of some 1,400 tons. Automatic operation eliminates manual contact with the packages, all of which have equal winding lengths. Automatic doffing improves machine efficiency and productivity and results in an increased product yield, the company reports. The eAFK is also suitable for fully automatic removal transport of finished drawn textured yarn packages and for further plant automation.

Sapona will use the eAFK for texturing of 40- to 100-denier nylon yarns and 50- to 150-denier polyester specialty yarns for use in various textile applications. Oerlikon Barmag will assemble and commission the machine in the second half of 2012.

July/August 2011