SHIMA SEIKI Produces Knitted Masks For Schoolchildren

WAKAYAMA, Japan — May 26, 2020 — Japanese flat knitting solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI Mfg., Ltd. has produced 3D knitted masks for use at elementary schools and junior-high schools (primary and intermediate schools) in Wakayama Prefecture where the company is based.

The masks are produced at Shima Seiki headquarters by request of the prefectural government of Wakayama, based on knitting data for one of several types of masks released by the company since March 19 in its effort to help alleviate the worldwide shortage of masks due to the spread of the CoVID-19 coronavirus infection. The data is originally intended for Shima Seiki users to knit masks on their own knitting machines, and is available for download from the Shima Seiki Users’ Site, a knit sample archive featuring over 10,000 items. There have been over 300 downloads for various mask data so far.

The mask data drew interest from the prefecture, which promptly made its request for mask production. It is rare for Shima Seiki to accept requests for knit production in mass quantities, but the company views it as an opportunity to contribute to its community, which it has continuously cherished. The arrangement also benefits children of Shima Seiki employees who attend school in those school districts.

8,000 children’s masks have been produced on Shima Seiki’s SVR093SP computerized flat knitting machine in 14 gauge. Although a conventional shaping machine, SVR093SP is capable of producing masks in one-piece without the need for sewing afterward, identical to the WHoLEGARMEnT® masks whose data is also available for production on the company’s SWG-n2 series WHoLEGARMEnT knitting machines. The children’s masks are available in three sizes to cover the wide age-range of schoolchildren.

The 3D form-fitted masks provide superior fit and comfort. Integral ear straps that are knitted along with the mask portion reduces stress on the ears, and require no further sewing for quick response production. A filter-pouch is knitted-in for inserting commercially available virus filters and other filtration fabrics. Holes are also knitted-in for insertion of wires that provide further adjustment for improved fit.

The knitted cotton masks can be washed and reused repeatedly. Unlike common non-woven surgical masks however, knit masks do not have virus- and pollen-filtration functionality. Their main purpose is to contain spray from coughing and sneezing, and for reducing exposure to allergens.

Mask Data Details

  • Mask type: Shaped 3D knit mask
  • Size: Kids’ S, M and L sizes
  • Material: Cotton, nylon, polyurethane
  • Machine: SVR093SP computerized knitting machine
  • Gauge: 14G
  • Quantity: 8,000 pcs.

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: Shima Seiki Mfg. Ltd.

Sateri Enters China’s Lyocell Fiber Market With New 20,000-Ton Lyocell Line In Shangdong

SHANGHAI — May 25, 2020 — Sateri reports it has successfully commenced production of Lyocell fiber in Rizhao, Shandong, China. In collaboration with Asia Symbol, China’s leading producer of pulp and packaging board, the newly installed 20,000 ton per annum production line will broaden Sateri’s portfolio of high quality fiber products, and bolster Lyocell supply to the textile and non-woven markets.

Industry associations such as the China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC) welcome the news. Duan Xiaoping, deputy president of CNTAC and president of the China Chemical Fibers Association (CCFA), said: “Lyocell is not only a higher value product but also an eco-friendly fiber that is bio-based and minimizes chemical use and emissions. Sateri’s investment in Lyocell is very much aligned with the aim for technical and product upgrading for China’s textile industry.”

A natural and biodegradable fiber, Sateri’s Lyocell is made from wood pulp sourced from sustainable plantations. It is manufactured using closed-loop technology, requiring minimal chemical input during the production process, and utilizing an organic solvent that can be almost fully recovered and recycled. Lyocell is used to produce high quality textiles and personal hygiene materials. Textiles made from Lyocell possess high tenacity and bright luster, and share similar qualities with textiles made from viscose — soft and silky with good drape, breathability, and absorption.

Allen Zhang, president of Sateri, said: “The in-house development of Lyocell is part of Sateri’s pursuit of innovation. We have worked intensively on developing this in recent years. While we may be the world’s largest viscose producer, we are not wedded to any single technology or process for fibre production. We are steadfast in our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement even in the face of global health and economic challenges currently confronting us.”

Sateri is part of the RGE group of companies which has committed to investing $200 million to advance next-generation textile fiber innovation and technology. In March this year, Sateri achieved a breakthrough in commercial production of viscose using recycled textile waste.

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: Sateri

Polygiene Treating Respirators From Carbonado With ViralOff

MALMÖ, Sweden — May 26, 2020 — Indian brand Carbonado just launched AerFit NEO respirators with Polygiene ViralOff® textile treatment technology. The company will place orders in volumes of 500,000 to 1 million respirators in the coming three to six months and has a broad distribution network of multiple retail chains in India, the Bplugd webstore and Amazon, among other outlets.

Carbonado, India-based Bplugd IOT’s flagship brand, is an award-winning maker of high-tech urban mobility gear. In recent times, given the unprecedented situation that the world is facing at large, Carbonado has also come out with the AerFit NEO — a filtering face-piece respirator that is reusable.

“More than ever, there is a global need for products with an anti-viral treatment that is reliable and effective,” said Pradeep Reddy, founder of Bplugd IOT. “We want our AerFit respirators to not just protect people but also give them the assurance that they can breathe easy and with confidence. This is why Carbonado (Bplugd) has chosen to partner with a trustworthy name like Polygiene so that the end customers can breathe easy indeed and give out a healthy sigh of relief!”

”Thanks to a local reinforcement on both the technical and the sales side, as well as dedicated work during the last year, demand has increased in India,” said Ulrika Björk, CEO Polygiene. “With the Covid-19 pandemic we see an additional rise in inquiries and a number of Indian partners coming onboard — Carbonado by Bplugd IOT is a good example of this. India has a huge internal market and is also an important production hub globally.”

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: Polygiene

American Cord & Webbing Acquires Advantage Plastic Products

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — May 22, 2020 — American Cord & Webbing Co. Inc. (ACW) announced that on December 31, 2019, it acquired custom injection molding company Advantage Plastic Products Inc. (APP) — which has operated out of Concord, N.H., for more than 21 years. The new entity will operate under the name ACW Plastic Products Inc. (APP), doing business as Advantage Plastic Products. The acquisition adds 25,000 square feet as well additional capabilities.

Founded in 1917, ACW is a fourth-generation family-owned manufacturer of narrow textile webbing, industrial sewing and injection molded plastic hardware. As part of ACW’s continuing expansion, this acquisition will improve the company’s business growth, allowing both companies to combine resources and enhance performance. United by a common business culture, combining the expertise, innovation and solutions of both companies will greatly expand the product offerings and markets.

ACW’s goal is still 100-percent customer satisfaction. The company reports it is dedicated to increasing the selection and quality of products as well as maintaining the support its customers have come to expect from ACW. All sales contacts and support procedures outside of accounting will remain unchanged.

Shipping on most plastic molded products will move from ACW’s facility in Woonsocket, R.I., to the new facility in Concord. Order acknowledgements, packing slips and invoices will now be generated from APP. Please note that the remit to address for all payments on plastic molded products will change. This will be noted on all order acknowledgements and invoices.

ACW looks forward to this new era as it continues to form its legacy and build on a strong reputation. The company recognizes that it could not have achieved this level of success without its employees, customers and suppliers, and for that, it would like to express its sincere gratitude and appreciation.

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: American Cord & Webbing (ACW)

Borealis Appoints Erik van Praet As Vice President Innovation & Technology

Van Praet

VIENNA, Austria — May 26, 2020 — Borealis announces the appointment of Erik van Praet as vice president Innovation & Technology effective April 1, 2020. Van Praet succeeds Maurits van Tol, who decided to pursue his career outside of Borealis in October 2019.

Van Praet started his career with Borealis in 1995 as development engineer in Zwijndrecht, Belgium, followed by various research manager positions in Porvoo, Finland; Stenungsund, Sweden; and the positions of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) manager and technology commercialisation manager in Mechelen, Belgium. Prior to joining Borealis, Van Praet worked at Desotec, a company specialized in air and water purification.

Most recently, Van Praet has held the position of director strategy and Portfolio for over a decade, first in Linz, Austria, and then in Beringen, Belgium.

Van Praet holds a Ph.D. in Quantum Chemistry and a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Leuven, Belgium. He is a board member of both the Dutch Polymer Institute and Borealis Technology Oy.

Van Praet is a Belgian citizen, is married and has four children.

“For many years, Erik van Praet has been a mastermind and key pillar of our Value Creation through Innovation strategy, which remains a key differentiator of the Borealis Polyolefin strategy,” comments Lucrèce Foufopoulos, executive vice president Polyolefins, Innovation and Circular Economy. “He is a true innovator who has been, and will continue to be, integral to Borealis’ purpose of reinventing for more sustainable living.”

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: Borealis

VDMA TFL Supports Postponement: Texcare International Will Be Postponed To November 27 – December 1, 2021

MUNICH — May 26, 2020 — International trade fair Texcare International is being postponed to 2021. “VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies supports Messe Frankfurt’s decision. In view of the current circumstances caused by the COVID-19 crisis, we consider it right to postpone Texcare International to November 2021”, says VDMA TFL Managing Director Elgar Straub.

Due to worldwide travel restrictions and contact bans, it is evident that this year, considerably fewer exhibitors and visitors would have taken part in Texcare International in November. With this background and in view of the considerable uncertainties for ongoing business in the entire worldwide textile care sector this year, the postponement is a wise decision. Texcare International is the central meeting place for the worldwide textile care sector and only by postponing, it can once again live up to its own standards as the leading international technology fair in autumn 2021.

New impulse for the industry

The new date in November 2021 is then the eagerly awaited opportunity to provide new impulses for the industry after the COVID-19 crisis. The trade fair will then offer global technology providers from the textile care sector the ideal platform to present their innovations to an international audience and to position themselves together with their customers for the challenges of the future after the COVID-19 crisis.

VDMA TFL is conceptual sponsor of Texcare International

Texcare International is the international trade fair for the laundry and dry-cleaning sector. From November 27 to December 1, 2021, international exhibitors in Frankfurt present trade visitors at Texcare International their latest machinery, plant, processes and services for laundry and dry-cleaning technology.

Posted May 26, 2020

Source: VDMA TFL – Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies

Mondi To Produce Meltblown Nonwoven Fabric And 1 Million Surgical Face Masks A Day With New Production Lines In Germany

SURREY, England — May 22, 2020 — Mondi, global supplier of packaging and paper, is set to build new production lines in its plant in Gronau, Germany, to produce meltblown nonwoven fabric and surgical face masks. This is part of Mondi’s efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and respond to increased demand by health authorities, businesses and consumers for face masks.

Mondi Gronau has a proven track record of producing and handling films, laminates, nonwovens and elastic ear laminates for hygiene products. This knowledge will be applied to the entire value chain of face mask production.

“We are well positioned for the increased production of face masks and melt blown nonwoven fabric in Gronau,” said Jürgen Schneider, managing director, Mondi Personal Care Components (PCC). “Our people have the needed know-how and expertise on working with these materials and the technology required. The in-house production capability of all substantial components positions us to build up a long-term competitive local supply. Once up and running, we will be able to produce more than one million face masks per day.”

The production lines will produce melt blown nonwoven fabric and surgical masks. Given the shortage of melt blown fabric in the market place, Mondi´s plant in Gronau will offer approximately 50 percent of its production to other face mask manufacturers in Europe.

Technical details:

  • Melt blown nonwoven fabric provides a better filtering function than cotton.
  • The single threads of nonwoven fabric are twenty times thinner than a human hair.
  • Surgical face masks type IIR have to meet the following requirements:
  1. Bacterial Filtration Efficiency: 98%
  2. Breathing Resistance: < 60.0 Pa/cm2
  3. Splash Resistance: ≥ 16 kPA

Posted May 25, 2020

Source: Mondi Group

Vantage Healthcare Linen Service Achieves TRSA Clean Green Certification

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — May 22, 2020 — Vantage Healthcare Linen Service recently affirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by achieving TRSA’s Clean Green Certification. Vantage Healthcare Linen Service provides linen and laundry service to hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout western Pennsylvania and neighboring states. The Clean Green certification reflects the company’s dedication to operational efficiency and sustainability. Linen, uniform and facility services companies receive this distinction by adhering to TRSA-designated water and energy use thresholds and deploying best management practices (BMPs) consistent with the ASTM International environmental laundering standard.

Vantage Healthcare Linen Service’s customers can be assured their reusable healthcare textiles are washed, dried and finished with processes that maximize sustainability and reduce greenhouse emissions. Clean Green certified operations demonstrate significant commitment to conservation and green operations through these BMPs:

  • Recovering heat from drained hot water and heat dispersed from the process of warming water;
  • Recapturing drained water from rinses for reuse;
  • Using environmentally friendly detergents;
  • Removing solids and liquids from wastewater;
  • Solar energy and energy-efficient lighting;
  • Recycling programs;
  • Re-routing trucks to save vehicle fuel; and
  • Spill prevention plans.

The Clean Green certification is valid for three years at a time. TRSA inspects laundry facilities seeking certification and approves documentation of their water and energy use and BMP deployment through production reports they submit to auditors during the inspections. TRSA’s certification management protocol includes auditor training by the association’s inspection program administrator.

Clean Green aligns with the ASTM International standard, Guide for Sustainable Laundry Practices, which recognizes key criteria for the certification as universal indicators of maximum sustainability in commercial laundry work. ASTM’s review of TRSA BMPs verified these as the most effective and practical techniques for a laundry to achieve green objectives.

TRSA members prompted development of the standard, which was vetted in the sustainability subcommittee of the ASTM Committee on Textiles. Top technical experts, scientists and environmental professionals from outside the linen, uniform and facility services industry reviewed the BMPs. ASTM is the global leader in developing and delivering voluntary consensus standards unparalleled in building consumer confidence in product and service quality.

“I applaud Vantage Healthcare Linen Services for their sustainability efforts and maintaining the highest standards in their production and delivery operations,” said Joseph Ricci, TRSA president and CEO. “Meeting all the criteria for certification is not easy, but this company is committed to industry-leading processes and technologies.”

Posted May 22, 2020

Source: TRSA

VirusGuard — Denver Screen Company Offers Air Filtration Screen And Mask Material

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — May 22, 2020 — Metro Screenworks is excited to announce the inclusion of VirusGuard, a virus-filtering material, to its product offerings. VirusGuard can be utilized in several applications including creating masks, filters for masks, and constructing partitions and recently passed NH1 testing. The Denver-based screen company offers VirusGuard in bulk rolls and ships internationally.

VirusGuard utilizes NanoScreen™ nanotechnology to restrict airborne, virus-carrying droplets, and is manufactured primarily to be made into masks and filters for masks. VirusGuard may help to increase the safety of personal masks as other safety materials may become scarce.

VirusGuard offers multi-faceted functionality and comes in two types: Type 9001 and 9002. Type 9001 has three layers and can be cut, sewn, and inserted into pre-made face masks. Type 9002 consists of five layers and is ready to be cut and sewn into personal protective equipment (PPE) masks. Both types can be hand-washed without degrading their functionality, though machine washing isn’t suggested. A Virus Guard mask can be worn 30 to 40 days with proper care. VirusGuard comes in white and black, though black requires extra manufacturing time.

VirusGuard is manufactured to be used for disposable and reusable safety masks. However, it lacks the resistance required for other applications like creating quarantine partitions. Allergy Guard, a related product, has the same potential virus-blocking capabilities as VirusGuard, but can be utilized for other applications, like constructing safety barriers and window screens, as well as creating filters.

Allergy Guard barriers are see-through and talk-through for effective team functionality in the field and are incredibly strong. Allergy Guard has a high puncture resistance of 487 Newtons, making it four-times stronger than conventional stainless steel window screen, which only has a puncture resistance of 114. Allergy Guard’s strength, however, doesn’t cause it to be cumbersome to manipulate. It can be cut to create custom barriers and used with materials such as heavy-duty duct tape, Gorilla tape, and other common means of attachment found in the field.

Allergy Guard was first retailed as a solution to allergies, allowing homeowners to open their windows, even during the height of allergy season, and enjoy fresh air without suffering from the effects of allergens. However, it isn’t just insects and allergies that this material can keep out of your home. This screening material and VirusGuard can filter out pollution, bacteria, fly ash, dust, and other harmful substances.

Both VirusGuard and Allergy Guard can filter particles as small as 0.02 microns due to their use of nanotechnology, making the coronavirus, measuring 0.1-0.3 microns, easy work for these filters. Allergy Guard’s porosity of 80% allows for excellent circulation; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mentions that fresh air is vital for fighting the spread of coronavirus and for maintaining one’s health. What’s more, Allergy Guard is also extremely durable, provides UV and heat protection, corrosion resistance, moisture and rain protection, and is easy-to-clean. Allergy Guard can be purchased in pre-assembled window screens or bulk rolls.

The effectiveness of VirusGuard and Allergy Guard have been both lab-tested to meet or exceed ASHRAE 52.1 test standards.

Posted May 22, 2020

Source: Metro Screenworks

Gordon Brothers Announces Term Loan To Brooks Brothers Group Inc.

BOSTON — May 21, 2020 — Gordon Brothers — a global advisory, restructuring, and investment firm — announced today that it has provided a $20 million secured term loan facility to Brooks Brothers Group Inc., the prototypical American apparel retailer headquartered in New York City. A family business founded in 1818, the company has grown into a truly global brand with stores across the United States and Canada as well as a footprint that spans over 70 countries.

“We are excited to provide a capital solution to one of the most iconic American apparel brands in the market today,” commented Ramez Toubassy, president of Brands for Gordon Brothers. “With a heritage of over 200 years, global brand awareness and broad consumer affinity, Brooks Brothers is a brand that is positioned to thrive for the long run.”

“Gordon Brothers’ experience with brand-focused financings allowed them to quickly and commercially put together a financing solution for Brooks Brothers that will allow us to execute upon our operating plan,” said Steven G. Goldaper, executive vice president and CFO for Brooks Brothers Group.

Gordon Brothers’ Brands division values, acquires, restructures and invests globally in underleveraged, distressed, or dormant intellectual property to help revive and reimagine some of the world’s most iconic brands.

Posted May 22, 2020

Source: Gordon Brothers

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