Integrated Quality Assurance For Nonwovens: USTER® In-Process Inspection For Tightly-Spaced Production Lines

USTER, Switzerland — November 21, 2019 — Fabric manufacturers serving critical applications need quality that is both precise and secured. But in the typical nonwovens process line, space is always at a premium, making it tough to fit suitable automated inspection systems which deliver these requirements effectively. The USTER® EVS FABRIQ VISION N inspection technology solves the problem, with customized solutions designed to slot neatly into tightly-spaced production units – at the same time ensuring light conditions allow the best detection results and reliable data for optimal first quality yield.

Uster offers quality solutions suited to nonwovens premium segments. In textile applications from fiber to fabric, Uster expertise is already appreciated worldwide. Now the nonwovens community is recognizing what has been acknowledged in the spinning industry for more than 70 years. Expert knowledge in yarn quality — including controlling all kinds of contamination — is now extended to fabric and nonwovens quality assurance. This is based on the know-how of EVS, a world-leading high-technology supplier of automated vision inspection, acquired by Uster in 2018.

Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N fabric inspection now represents a second solution for nonwovens — along with Uster JOSSI fiber cleaning systems — supporting the unique ‘Think Quality’ approach of Uster.

Automated in-process control

Consistently high rates of defect detection, to guarantee reliable quality, are required by fleece manufacturers. Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N ensures this, by using automated control during intermediate inspection. Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N locates any visible faults objectively and consistently. Defects in every roll are located and recorded, at normal line running speeds.

Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N stands for seamless integration of an inspection system into any production process — and ideally into nonwovens manufacturing lines — detecting holes, irregularities, contamination and any other defect. The installation is easy and flexible: a fixture bar bridges the full width of the process line holding as many spectroscopes as required for the application. The sophisticated spectroscopes offering best monitoring conditions for the inspection. To guarantee optimal defect detection in combination with the spectroscopes, various light sources are integrated in the installation — all customized and perfectly suited to mill light conditions.

The system may be slim and compact, but it delivers big-value benefits for the operator. Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N provides real-time alerts, showing all defects and automatically creating roll inspection charts. All detected faults are collected in an album review. Here, the operator can quickly mark faults and select which can be deleted. Users can set their own quality standards for different types of nonwovens, increasing the efficiency of the grading process — and finally delight the customers with consistent quality.

Optimized yield for manufacturers

“Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N offers manufacturers significantly improved first-quality yield, for all applications,” says John Belew, Uster vice president for fabric inspection. The combination of a full map of fabric defects and the cut optimization module means more first-quality rolls can be produced and bad quality taken out.

Uster EVS FABRIQ VISION N leads to total fabric quality assurance, and major advantages for production security and profitability. “Our customers aim for confidence in delivering the right quality to strengthen customer relationships. With Uster fabric inspection systems, they can guarantee quality compliance and protect their business,” Belew said.

Posted November 22, 2019

Source: Uster Technologies

JEC ASIA 2019 Reflected The Dynamism Of The Composites Industry In Asia Pacific

PARIS — November 21, 2019 — After three days of demonstrating the bright future ahead of composites, JEC Asia 2019 welcomed more than 200 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations to more than 6,600 attendees from 49 countries in Seoul. From global brands to visionary startups, these companies set the composite world abuzz with the promise of innovation, knowledge, and networking.

Once again, JEC Asia gathered a significant number of academic researchers and institutions, industrials in a spirit of innovation, to prove that the sector is rapidly growing. But this year, the Korean composites Golden Triangle has shown even more dynamism and a very strong ambition to become a leading country in composites.

JEC ASIA 2019 MAIN HIGHLIGHTS: Major announcements of this new edition

On the first day of the 12th edition of JEC Asia 2019, Eric Pierrejean, JEC Group CEO and Yoon Hyuk Bang, President of KCTECH gave a welcoming speech and present JEC Asia 2019’s main features during the opening ceremony.

Eric Pierrejean also thanked Korean government officials, local companies and institutes who took part in the event. Thanks to JEC Asia platform, they were able to sign three major MOUs. The first one was between Jeonbuk region and Korea International Trade Association (KITA), the second one between Korea Pallet Pool Co., Jeonbuk Province and Hankuk Carbon. And the third one between Pitchcable Inc., Jeonbuk Province and BSM. These agreements reflect the national “Gloden Triangle” Composites strategy announced in August by Moon Jae-in, President of South Korea. Major economic investments of 7 to 8 trillion won (US$ 5.82 to 6.66) will support this strategy in the next seven years to structure and reinforce the local Composites industry.

Within this context, after three successful JEC Asia shows in Seoul, Eric Pierrejean officially announced the new name of the event, JEC KOREA, as of 2020, in order to promote the Korean composites sector and also to reinforce Seoul’s positioning as THE place to meet for the composites industry in the Asia Pacific region.

This strategic positioning has already been confirmed this year by the presence of many foreign government representatives: his Excellency Mr Philippe Lefort, French Ambassador to Korea, Alexander Renner, head of the Scientific Affairs Division of the German Embassy in Seoul, and Giampiero Valeo, Commercial Attache of the Italian Embassy in Seoul.

A very robust and high-level conferences program

JEC Asia 2019 held a robust conference program starting with the 14th International Carbon Festival, the Symposium on Carbon Materials, and Composite Technologies in partnership with KCTech. A total of forty speakers from Korea and across the world gathered to express their views and share their visions in the form of keynote presentations on composites applied to automotive and aeronautics. Experts from global companies such as Hyundai Motor Group, Chomarat, Solvay Ventures, but also Airbus, Composites United, and NIO could be found among the speakers.

Finally, to conclude the three-day conference sessions Avner Ben-Bassat, President & CEO of Plataine gave a keynote speech on a trending prospective topic: “The 4th Industrial Revolution: Implementing IIoT and AI to Composite Materials & Manufacturing.”

Tailored business meetings, composite tours and student programs

With the support of MAI Carbon and local universities, the Student Program was also a great success with more than 300 students attending specific conferences and getting to visit the show within a guided tour.

Through the exclusive Business Meetings Program, JEC Asia 2019 offered visitors and exhibitors access to effective marketing and relationship-building opportunities. Five hundred fifty business meetings took place over the three days of the show. These meetings were tailored to the specific needs and priorities of these professionals while allowing them to strengthen their positions, get involved in new programs, and meet new partners. Four composites sites and institutes tours were also provided to go even further in the discovery of the Korean composites ecosystem: Win & Win Co, Kookmin University (with Hankuk Carbon), KCtech and Hanyang University.

Overall, JEC Asia enhanced professionals’ knowledge, helped them network, and inspired the Composites community that attended the event.

Posted November 21, 2019

Source: JEC Group

OmniBloq™ Passes Rigorous Testing By Cotton Incorporated With High Marks For STORM COTTON™ And STORM DENIM™

FALL RIVER, Mass. — November 21, 2019 — After extensive testing, OmniBloq™ — Bolger & O’Hearn’s high powered, Stormproof/Breathable™ durable water repellent — meets all requirements to be used as a DWR technology for STORM COTTON™ and STORM DENIM™ finishes.

Storm Cotton and Storm Denim technologies combine the natural comfort of cotton with high performance characteristics normally found in synthetic materials.

Recent tests of OmniBloq conducted by Cotton Incorporated at their labs demonstrated that OmniBloq meets the stringent water repellence, breathability and durability requirements necessary for apparel utilizing the Storm Cotton and/or Storm Denim technologies.

Highly durable, Storm Cotton technology provides a durable, water repellent benefit to cotton and cotton-rich apparel without compromising the breathability for which that fabric is known.

According to materials supplied by Cotton Incorporated, many water-repellent treatments can inhibit a fabric’s ability to breathe and transfer moisture vapor. Storm Cotton technology, which can be created using products such as OmniBloq, repel liquid but do not impact or impede the natural ability of cotton to breathe. Instead, Storm Cotton technology allows moisture vapor to escape and evaporate.

The Cotton Incorporated Storm Denim technology provides the same benefits, specifically to denim. Applied in garment form, the finish allows flexibility for additional garment finishing techniques.

OmniBloq is a powerful new Durable Water Repellent finish developed by Bolger and O’Hearn that is both stormproof and breathable. Unlike most DWR’s on the market, OmniBloq has been engineered to keep working, even in heavy snow or pounding rain. Most DWR’s quickly lose power in those conditions, while OmniBloq maintains performance. In a class by itself, OmniBloq adds lightweight, breathable repellence against the elements without bulky membranes. OmniBloq also holds onto its power through multiple washings.

“We are very proud that OmniBloq has been acknowledged by Cotton Incorporated as a DWR chemistry for Storm Cotton and Storm Denim technologies apparel,” said Shaun O’Hearn, president of Bolger & O’Hearn. “When we began working with Cotton Incorporated on this project, we had no doubt OmniBloq would not only meet but surpass their criteria. The test results from Cotton Inc., which is one of the most respected institutions in the global textile industry, underscore what we have known all along about this unique chemistry,” O’Hearn said.

“We’re excited about the outstanding results,” he added, “and believe this points to the immense value OmniBloq is bringing to the global textile industry and Bolger & O’Hearn’s role as a trusted developer of next-generation chemistries.”

Known for innovation and the highest quality standards, Bolger & O’Hearn frequently develops new products for industry partners, which include several major brands. A bluesign system® partner since 2014, B&O is also actively committed to sustainability in both its manufacturing processes and the chemistries the company develops, manufactures and sells. For example, B&O is a leader in the development of fluorine-free water repellents and continually strives to improve the health, safety and environmental profiles of all of its products.

In fact, many are water-based and/or on the prestigious ZDHC list of environmentally-approved chemistries. B&O also generates half the energy it needs to run the company’s US manufacturing operations from an on-site solar field, reducing their annual carbon emissions by 125,000 pounds, or the equivalent of 14,065,489 gallons of gasoline.

Posted November 21, 2019

Source: Bolger & O’Hearn

Wazoodle Fabrics Launches A Composite Fabric That Is Super-Absorbent And Waterproof

BENSALEM, Pa. — November 21, 2019 — As part of its ongoing innovation initiative Wazoodle Fabrics, has introduced a unique multi-dimensional composite fabric that is super-absorbent and leak-proof. The newly released Zorb® 4D Organic Cotton Dimple Waterproof PUL Soaker Fabric is composed of multiple layers.

The super-absorbent face is a three dimensional, dimpled, soft 100-percent organic cotton 3D Zorb fabric that facilitates rapid absorption and superior holding capacity. The 3D Zorb is laminated with a durable, breathable polyurethane waterproof film and backed by an anti-skid polyester fabric. Light, breathable, and thin, the fabric is safe for sensitive skin, absorbing fluids many times faster than other materials (bamboo, cotton, hemp knits) and is manufactured by AKAS Tex.

Soft and organic this fabric caters to those who seek a skin — and earth — friendly alternative to heavy commercial disposables. The Zorb 4D offers multiple advantages in any application that requires absorbency with protective waterproofing such as undergarments for incontinence, sanitary pads, as well as for mattress and furniture covers, diapers, diaper changing stations, reusable wipes, pet bedding and sweat guards.

Like all of Wazoodle products, Zorb 4D Organic Cotton Dimple Waterproof PUL Soaker Fabric is Made in the USA from American-sourced raw materials. It is manufactured without harmful chemicals or finishes in highly-controlled settings.

Posted November 21, 2019

Source: AKAS

Web Industries Launches French And German Website Editions Reflecting Expanding Presence Throughout European Aerospace, Medical, Personal & Home Care, And Industrial Markets

MARLBOROUGH, Mass. — November 21, 2019 — In a move that places the online presence of its precision converting and outsource manufacturing services on the doorstep of European markets, U.S.-headquartered Web Industries has launched its website in German and French editions.

Each edition covers Web Industries’ four market sectors: Aerospace, Medical, Personal & Home Care, and Industrial. The sites went live November 1, 2019.

According to Web Industries Vice President of Corporate Development Kevin Young, the French edition supports the acquisition earlier this year of France-based Omega Systèmes Atlantique and Omega Systèmes Aquitaine. The German edition reinforces the marketing presence of Web’s precision formatting operations in Stade, Germany and its Hamburg sales offices.

“Our French and German website editions are a natural outgrowth of Web’s expansion into European markets,” Young said. “We acquired Omega just this year and opened our first European sales office in Hamburg a year earlier. France and Germany are gateway countries to the larger European aerospace industry and to other key markets. Web now has a presence in regions that reach far beyond the French and German borders. Businesses throughout Europe that converse in French or German can now readily access information on all Web divisions and interact with us without the need for translations.”

Web Industries Head of Business Development Europe Patrick Markert added: “Web Industries’ acquisition of Omèga Systèmes has enabled us to establish a European supply chain complete with material suppliers and end users. This has created tremendous market demand. Our new multilingual website reinforces Web Industries’ position as a company with global manufacturing and distribution capabilities that can meet the precision converting and outsource manufacturing needs of customers worldwide.”

Website Content

The website’s Markets section features separate landing pages for each of Web Industries’ marketing divisions: Aerospace, Medical, Personal & Home Care, and Industrial. Each landing page provides a detailed description of a division’s capabilities and an overview of its product line.

The site’s Services & Products section hosts Process Optimization Services, Outsource Manufacturing Services and Specialty Products pages, each with detailed coverage.

A Resources page takes visitors to a library of technical brochures, and an About Us section provides access to scores of industry opinion, technical and product-oriented news items published in leading trade publications.

Posted November 20, 2019

Source: Web Industries Inc.

Vidalia Acquires White Oak Draper x3 Selvedge Looms

Vidalia Specialty Mills, a subsidiary of Vidalia Mills, Vidalia, La., has acquired all 46 Draper x3 selvedge looms from JW Demolition LLC, Greensboro, N.C. JW Demolition was owner of the structure and the contents of Cone Mills’ White Oak Plant, which included the Draper looms. The iconic selvedge looms are now in place in Vidalia’s facilities in Louisiana, and the company recently conducted a demonstration and preview for more than 30 brands and retailers.

“The purchase of the most iconic selvedge denim production in the world is not only humbling to us but furthers our mission to reinvent the greatest tradition of denim, the quintessential American-made fabric,” said Vidalia Mills CEO Dan Feibus. “Our goal at Vidalia is to make high-quality, sustainably-produced yarns and fabrics exclusively using e3 sustainable cotton to meet the needs of brands and retailers in North America and around the world. Vidalia is a resource for brands, retailers, and consumers who appreciate small-batch premium selvedge denim produced in a sustainable, transparent environment.”

“We are delighted to have sold this equipment to Vidalia, as their management team has a proven track record in the industry and a 30-year history with these looms,” said Will Dellinger, owner of JW Demolitions. “We are proud that Vidalia will continue to build upon the more-than-100-year legacy of White Oak selvedge denim production in the United States.”

November/December 2019

The Crypton Companies Acquires Abercrombie Textiles

The Crypton Companies — Crypton LLC and Nanotex LLC — based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., have entered into a formal agreement to acquire the operations of Abercrombie Textiles, Mooresboro, N.C. Crypton reports it is “immediately infusing capital into the company and has been working closely with all suppliers and customers to ensure a smooth transition.” Abercrombie will continue to produce dobby and jacquard fabrics for upholstery, bedding, wallcovering, cubicle and drapery applications. Crypton CEO Lance Keziah will oversee the company assisted by Ernest Benbassat who was named executive vice president of operations. Former Abercrombie owner John Regan will remain with the company to provide continuity, knowledge and sales leadership.

“This acquisition will create the perfect synergy out of a shared vision,” said Lance Keziah, CEO, Crypton LLC. “Bringing together an American mill and an American textile innovator will not only preserve jobs but will also create growth and generate new opportunities for American-made textiles.

It will add a key vertical platform to our business that will help Crypton continue to grow and better serve the needs of our expanding customer base.”

November/December 2019

In Memoriam: Page Bryan Ashby

Page Bryan Ashby, founder of Gaffney, S.C.-based Carolina Cotton Works (CCW), recently passed away peacefully at his home. Ashby worked for more than 50 years in the textile industry, establishing the adaptive, family-owned dyeing and finishing company CCW in 1995.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from North Carolina State University where he also played quarterback on the football team and sprinted on the track team. Ashby enjoyed duck hunting, bass fishing, golf and spending time with his family.

“It has been a privilege to witness great leadership over the past 25 years,” said his son Bryan Ashby, vice president at CCW. “Dad was tough but fair. He taught me the responsibility that comes with running a business. He also taught me what sacrificial love of family is all about.”

Ashby’s son Hunter, CCW plant manager said his father “was a true visionary and a great leader.”

Sales Manager Stacey Bridges said he looked up characteristics of what people consider to be a great man and businessman, and, “Page Ashby checked every box: integrity, gentleman, faithful, honesty, hard worker, courteous, steadfast, innovator, confident, risk taker, positive attitude, listener, and most importantly, a leader by example,” he said.

“I watched Page impact the lives of hundreds of people and we are all better men and women for knowing him,” Bridges added. “He will be missed but never forgotten.”

Page Bryan Ashby (center) with sons Bryan (left) and Hunter.
Page Bryan Ashby (center) with sons Bryan (left)
and Hunter.

November/December 2019

U.S. Textiles: 2019 Builds Foundation For Successful 2020

BornemanBy Jim Borneman, Editor In Chief

As 2019 comes to a close, it’s an eventful year to look back on, as well as a fairly strong year in many ways featuring innovation in technology, investment and positive business environment.

The much anticipated ITMA 2019 yielded strong results in a very show heavy year.

As summarized in “ITMA 2019: Positive Reviews,” by TW’s Executive Editor Rachael Davis, a real look into the thoughts of on-the-floor exhibitors paints a fairly optimistic picture of the industry going forward.

The year 2019 saw a fair amount of investment in the industry, but also saw some businesses close for various reasons including capacity and business line adjustments.

Certainly the state of trade, trade agreements and tariffs has garnered a fair share of attention. The point where business and politics intersect is always a challenge, certainly when good policy stalls on “political win” politics. But trade issues don’t end there. With 2020 an election year and severe political division, businesses can only hunker down and focus on quality, service and innovation to keep the U.S. industry’s momentum.

European and Asian economies still face major challenges that will have an impact on the United States. Who would have imagined an economic environment that led to negative interest rates.

Many of the strongest technology manufacturers are based in Europe and are dependent on Mid-Eastern and Asian markets for sales volume. The United States is a significant market, but not a volume market. Between the Euro zone challenges and volume sales growth challenges, some consolidations and realignments may be on the horizon for textile technology companies in 2020.

Next year will be a calmer exposition and meeting year than the 2019 whirlwind. Expect nonwoven and technical textiles to play a significant role with FiltXPO™, INDEX™ and Techtextil North America leading off the 2020 calendar. Smaller meetings and conferences should be well attended in 2020’s less crowded event schedule.

And don’t forget, there is still plenty of innovations to digest from the wealth of technology on display at ITMA in Barcelona. U.S. interest surprised some exhibitors at ITMA and it will be interesting to see if that enthusiasm carries through to investments in 2020. Election year uncertainty and political gamesmanship will play its role in 2020 investment decisions, but for many, the ability to upgrade and have a positive impact on manufacturing capability will outweigh any of those uncertainties.

Tight labor markets will continue to cause challenges even with increases in automation. China trade will increase challenges in the agricultural sector of the economy, so it’s worth keeping an eye on domestic cotton production. Resolution of China trade issues could give a real green-light to U.S. textile production and investment.

Will a Black Swan land in 2020 and how will it impact U.S. textiles? Who knows, and that’s why those unexpected, unforeseeable events or inventions are called Black Swans. But if the United States textile industry, with all it has been through, is poised to react, embrace and leverage a Black Swan into a positive, the industry wins — and it can do so faster than competing markets. The industry’s flexibility, focus on innovation, and investment will lead the way in 2020.

November/December 2019

November/December 2019: Textile Activity At A Glance

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November/December 2019

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