KARL MAYER: High-Performance Warp Knitting Machines For Heimtextil

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — December 13, 2024 — Heimtextil will take place in Frankfurt am Main from January 14-17, 2025, and KARL MAYER is taking advantage of the proximity of its headquarters to the Main metropolis to invite its customers visiting the trade fair to a machine presentation in Obertshausen.

Mark Smith, deputy vice president Sales, of the Business Unit Warp Knitting at KARL MAYER.

The focus of the product show will be on tricot machines, which are among the most successful in the product portfolio of the world market leader and cover a wide range of applications.

“Our tricot machines offer our customers a wide range of opportunities to increase sales in their traditional markets and develop new business areas. We look forward to presenting these to our visitors at Heimtextil 2025,” said Mark Smith, deputy vice president, Sales, of the Business Unit Warp Knitting at KARL MAYER.

A highly efficient Raschel machine for the production of sacks will also be on show at KARL MAYER.

HKS 3-M

Bestsellers from the tricot machine portfolio and an efficient special raschel machine

An HKS 3-M with a working width of 210″ and in a gauge of E 28 will be on show producing a trendy upholstery cord article. In addition to upholstery fabrics and velour, the all-rounder also produces textiles for automotive interiors, sportswear and outerwear, mosquito nets, shoe fabrics, coating carriers, terry toweling, cleaning textiles and cuddly blankets, each with a uniquely high output.

A TM 4 EL, also with a 210″ working width and in E 28, completes the range of efficient machines on display. The model is perfect for the production of price-sensitive articles. It has been equipped with KARL MAYER’s proven CFRP technology and thus offers 30% more speed than its predecessor. A stylish seersucker fabric for clothing will be produced on the TM 4 EL in Obertshausen.

An HKS 2-SE PLUS, 130″, in E 40, will also be demonstrating its skills in the production of special elastic warp knitted fabrics for swimwear, sportswear and lingerie.

Thanks to a modified knitting motion, the machine can incorporate the elastic material as a twill lapping and thus produce fabrics with exceptional performance. The new twill fabrics are extremely strong and resistant to elastic deformation. They are supple against the skin, drape well and dry quickly. The HKS 2-SE PLUS also produces the proven HKS 2-SE items.

Another successful product from the warp knitting department is sacks, for example for packaging potatoes. The robust net articles can be produced on the proven RDS 11-EL with maximum efficiency and almost ready-to-use, as will be demonstrated in Obertshausen. At a speed of 700 rpm, the simultaneous production of six fabric sheets and 100 % efficiency, 870 bags/h measuring 69 cm x 58 cm can be produced depending on the selected stitch densities and dimensions. These can be designed extremely flexibly. Variable sack lengths and lappings are possible thanks to the EL pattern drive.

KARL MAYER Development Center

The production process takes place online, from the production of the tapes on a film cutting and stretching unit to processing on the Raschel machine.

An exhibition of novel textile innovations for a wide range of applications and the latest digital product and care solutions will complement the machine presentation.

So it’s worth making a detour from Heimtextil to KARL MAYER in Obertshausen! The development center with the machine presentation will be open from January 14 to 17 from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm. Interested parties are requested to register for their personal time slot with their respective sales manager.

Posted: December 13, 2024

Source: KARL MAYER

Lindström Group Secures Top 1% Sustainability Ranking With EcoVadis Platinum Medal

HELSINKI, Finland — December 13, 2024 — Lindström Group, a global textile service company, has earned the EcoVadis Platinum Medal, placing it among the top 1 percent of more than 130,000 companies worldwide for sustainability. The recognition reflects Lindström’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices into its global operations and supply chain.

EcoVadis, a leading sustainability rating agency, assessed Lindström across 21 criteria in four areas: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Lindström scored an impressive 83/100, with standout performance in Environmental Practices (90/100) and strong results in the other categories.

“This achievement is the result of a collective effort,” said Inari Laveri, Climate and Compliance manager at Lindström. “Our project team has worked tirelessly to enhance our policies, practices, and reporting, while our employees have actively participated in training sessions. The feedback from EcoVadis during the past few years has been invaluable, helping us identify areas for improvement and shape effective development plans.”

Lindström’s recent upgrades to its HR systems have improved monitoring and enhanced employee training. In 2024, 92 percent of employees completed Code of Conduct training, while more than 10,000 hours were spent on Health and Safety sessions.

Lindström India aligns its initiatives with the group’s global sustainability goals while addressing local challenges.

“This global recognition strengthens our resolve to advance sustainable solutions in India,” said Jayant Roy, Managing Director, Lindström India. “From optimizing laundry processes to working with local recyclers, we are actively contributing to both global and regional sustainability goals. In the coming years, we aim to sustain 100 percent textile waste recycling.”

He added, “India presents unique opportunities for innovation. By blending global expertise with local strategies, we aspire to set new benchmarks in responsible business practices.”

Lindström’s circular economy approach focuses on reducing waste and maximising resource use. The company has achieved an impressive 100% textile waste recycling in India. Certifications like ISO 14001 further underscore its dedication to environmental management.

Posted: December 13, 2024

Source: Lindström Group

3M Sponsors Recent High-Altitude Races At Mt. Siguniang And Ultra-Trail Ninghai

ST. PAUL, Minn. — December 13, 2024 — 3M, a global supplier of insulation and surface modification technology for apparel and accessories, recently sponsored the 7th annual Mt. Siguniang Mountaineering Festival and the 2024 Ultra-Trail Ninghai Race by UTMB.

The Mt. Siguniang Mountaineering Festival, located in the majestic Mt. Siguniang, or Four Sisters Mountain, is a high-altitude event that tests both the endurance and spirit of athletes. The festival featured four distinct trail races within Siguniang National Park, each named after one of the mountain’s four unique peaks, the tallest of which rises to 6,250 meters (20,510 feet).

The Ultra-Trail Ninghai Race by UTMB, a trail race held in East China’s mountain area, started in 2013 in Ningbo, Zhejiang. The racecourse begins in the western mountain area of Ninghai and passes through forests, streams, and mountains. The Ultra-Trail Ninghai by UTMB is more than just a race – it inspires countless runners to embrace the outdoors, pushing their limits while discovering the breathtaking beauty of the Yangtze Delta.

3M provided cutting-edge technology for both events by incorporating 3M™ Thinsulate™ Anti- Static Insulation (Type AS) and 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector into race apparel. Every racer received a vest featuring 3M™ Thinsulate™ Anti-Static Insulation (Type AS) and 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector. The vests are designed specifically for the demanding conditions of mountain environments and helped keep athletes warm by trapping heat, essential for staying comfortable in extreme cold temperatures at high altitudes. The anti-static properties reduce the buildup of static electricity, which is common in dry, cold conditions. Additionally, 30% of the fibers are made from recycled post-consumer plastic bottles.

3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector Water Resistant treatment enhances fabric performance with water repellency and stain resistance. This treatment allows fabric to maintain softness and breathability, keeping the wearer dry by preventing water absorption while maintaining fabric breathability in wet and snowy conditions.

“These athletes embody the highest levels of dedication and physical endurance,” said Melissa Blakely, Global Portfolio Director for 3M™ Thinsulate™ and Scotchgard™. “We’re excited to see 3M’s cutting-edge technologies help them achieve peak performance.”

For sales and/or further details on 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation and Scotchgard™ Protector, please contact Totti Liang (tliang2@mmm.com) or Joann Lin (jlin26@mmm.com).

Posted: December 13, 2024

Source: 3M

Bally Ribbon Mills Highlights Broad Product Line Of Medical Textiles And Fabrics

BALLY, Pa. — December 13, 2024 — Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM) — an industry designer, developer, and manufacturer of highly specialized engineered woven fabrics — highlights its broad product line of medical textiles and fabrics ideal for use in cardiovascular, orthopedic, and dental prosthetic applications.

Tubular prosthesis of medical textiles can become one with the repaired vessel over time and can provide less invasive options than operations like open heart surgery. BRM’s woven seamless tubular materials for stent and knitted grafts offer solutions for aortic repair and endoluminal devices. Other BRM cardiovascular textiles facilitate Trans Aortic Valve Replacement and Aseptal Defect repair.

BRM’s medical textiles also include woven tapes and webbing in flat fabrics, or straight or bifurcated tubular structures. Monofilament materials used in blood filtration, aspirating devices, and bone marrow transplants are also available. For materials used in the manufacture of dental prosthetic devices, BRM offers braided composite substrates.

BRM works closely with major manufacturers to help support medical device development due to its capability to go from prototype into full-scale production.

BRM manufactures medical textiles in a certified clean room to ensure cleanliness and quality and maintains the rigorous ISO 13485:2016 certification for the design and manufacture of medical devices. Additionally, medical textiles engineers, prototype weavers, and braiders at BRM work on a confidential basis to protect the intellectual property of customers.

Posted: December 13, 2024

Source: Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM)

AATCC Announces New Student Chapters

DURHAM, N.C. — December 13, 2024 — AATCC is proud to announce two new student chapters that have recently been established. AATCC student chapters enable university students to connect with one another outside of the classroom environment, advancing their engagement within the textile industry. Additionally, as a globally recognized association for textile professionals, AATCC’s student chapters can also benefit from the multitude of textile resources and networking opportunities available to professionals.

AUST Student Chapter – Dhaka, Bangladesh

In August, the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST) in Dhaka, Bangladesh established their AATCC student chapter with Mohammad Tajul Islam as the faculty advisor. By establishing this new chapter, the AUST students hope to further align their educational experiences with the current industry standards, grow their textile community, enhance their textile knowledge, and contribute to advances textile science and technology.

Bangladesh is a country that is heavily involved in textile production, with much of the country’s export revenue generated from the readymade garment industry. The Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology established a program for textile technology in the late 1990s, later changed to textile engineering, which has produced more than 2400 graduates employed globally. The program boasts a holistic educational experience, collaborating with textile and research institutions across the board.

This chapter is led by Abir Hossain as Chair, Sadman Hossain Mridul as Vice-Chair, Mahbub Alam Emon as Treasurer, Imamul Hossain as Secretary, Rudrotosh Kumer Dey as Organizing Secretary, and Noor Mohammad Belal Towsif as Operational Secretary.

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Suraj Sharma

UGA Student Chapter – Athens, Ga.

In December, the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens, Ga., re-established its AATCC student chapter with Suraj Sharma as the faculty advisor.

Chair: Kavyashree Mruthyunjaya Swamy

This chapter aims to expand the awareness around AATCC test standards and deepen their understanding of textiles by collaborating with other chapters and AATCC.

Treasurer: Yahya Absalan

The UGA student chapter was originally established in 1978 but was not active until it was recently revived.

Public Relations Officer: Tyanna Tejada

This new phase of the AATCC student chapter will be led by Kavyashree Mruthyunjaya Swamy as chair, Yahya Absalan as treasurer, and Tyanna Tejada as Public Relations officer.

Posted: December 13, 2024

Source: American Association of Textile Chemists & Colorists (AATCC)

The Chinese Junma Group Expands High Modulus Low Shrink (HMLS) Polyester Capacities By 20 Positions

ZHANGJIAGANG (Jiangsu Province), China/REMSCHEID, Germany — December 12, 2024 — The Chinese Junma Group has expanded its High Modulus Low Shrink (HMLS) capacities by 20 positions, hence becoming one of the largest tire cord manufacturers in China. At present, the company has 64 positions of HMLS systems, all of which are from Oerlikon Barmag.

The ACW high-speed winder processes HMLS yarn at speeds of up to 6300 m/min.

Junma processes the tire yarn produced in the titer range of 1100 dtex to 2200 dtex in-house into tire cord using the downstream processes of dipping and weaving. The largest HMLS single project for Junma and Oerlikon Barmag to date was put into operation in record time. After just two weeks, the various yarn specifications were approved. “The fact that we achieved the required yarn parameters so quickly shows how reliable our industrial yarn systems are,” says process engineer Li Jiangang. “Our systems guarantee a stable spinning process and reliably produce quality yarns – our many years of experience in the industry help us here.”

Wang Hongbin, General Manager at Junma, is also aware of this: “We entered the HMLS polyester tire cord manufacturing business in 2008 and at the time, we decided on Oerlikon Barmag systems. All the subsequent expansion stages have confirmed our decision from back then; today, we are convinced Oerlikon Barmag customers.”

High-end HMLS technology for the international tire market

Junma supplies its end products to renowned international tire manufacturers and sees definite growth potential in this segment of the automotive industry. “This year, we opened our first branches outside of China. And for the coming year, we are planning our first production facility in Thailand,” says Wang Hongbin. In doing so, Junma continues to rely on the expertise of Oerlikon Barmag. The HMLS process from Oerlikon Barmag scores particularly highly with production speeds of up to 6300 m/min, at which the core components of high-speed godets and winders demonstrate their reliability.

Posted: December 12, 2024

Source: Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division

ITMA ASIA + CITME SINGAPORE 2025 Expands Exhibition Space To Accommodate Strong Response

SINGAPORE — December 5, 2024 — ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 has received overwhelming support, surpassing the show owners’ expectations with a 30 percent increase in the number of applicants to date.

ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 is owned by CEMATEX (the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers), China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA) and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT (CCPIT TEX).

Scheduled to be held at the Singapore Expo from October 28-31, 2025, the exhibition has attracted over 770 technology and service providers from 33 countries and regions to apply for space. They include many international textile machinery manufacturers, as well as new technology providers. As a result of the increased demand, the show owners have expanded the booked hall space from 60,000 to 70,000 square meters.

Speaking on behalf of the owners, Alex Zucchi, president of CEMATEX said: “We are grateful to have the continued support of the industry. To accommodate all the eligible applicants, we have increased the booked hall space to allow more machinery manufacturers to showcase their latest products and solutions to the region’s buyers who aspire to leverage technology to drive cost efficiency and remain competitive.

“The strong interest in the Singapore edition, despite being scheduled just a year after the Shanghai edition, highlights the need to penetrate deeper into emerging markets to sustain and grow our manufacturers’ businesses.”

Gu Ping, president of CTMA, concurred: “In recent years, digital technology has significantly influenced the development of the textile industry, with burgeoning new demand from regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. In response, we have added the Singapore edition between ITMA ASIA + CITME 2024 and 2026 exhibitions to meet the expectations of global exhibitors and visitors, hoping to bring them greater benefits.”

At the close of space application on 12 November, almost all the booked exhibition space at Singapore Expo had been snapped up. Since then, applications have continued to stream in, prompting the show owners to expand space at the venue.

Hall sector plan

Spanning seven halls of the Singapore Expo, the sector plan features 19 product chapters of the complete textile and garment manufacturing chain. Based on the exhibition’s unique selling proposition, the exhibits have been clustered in product sectors, enabling buyers to source more conveniently. The three biggest sectors based on space booked are finishing, followed by spinning and knitting.

Billed as The Leading Textile Technology Exhibition Driving Regional Growth, ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 will be held from October 28-31, 2025. The exhibition is organised by ITMA Services and co-organized by Beijing Textile Machinery International Exhibition Company. Japan Textile Machinery Association (JTMA) is a special partner of the exhibition.

For the latest updates, visit www.itmaasiasingapore.com.

Posted: December 12, 2024

Source: CEMATEX, CCPIT Tex & CTMA

Configura Expands Configura Extension Technology (CET) Commercial Interiors With Materials Database

NEW YORK CITY — December 12, 2024 — Configura, a provider of innovative design solutions for the commercial interiors industry, is continuing to revolutionize the design process for its user community by creating a comprehensive materials database. With key partners like Mayer Fabrics, Momentum Textiles, and Maharam contributing to the effort, this new database will address the long-standing need for more accessible and accurate material options, and is designed to streamline workflows and enable designers to visualize and select materials with precision and ease.

“Over the years, we’ve heard directly from our user community about the challenges they face in accessing accurate, high-quality materials within a unified system,” said Stefan Persson, CEO of Configura. “By partnering with trusted manufacturers, we’re addressing these needs and delivering solutions that simplify workflows by equipping designers with preeminent choices to accurately translate their ideas into reality.”

By working with leading manufacturers, including Mayer Fabrics, Momentum Textiles, and Maharam, Configura Extension Technology (CET) offers users a rich array of high-quality, standardized materials, making the design process faster and more efficient. These new additions provide users with the right tools and resources to bring their visions to life, ensuring that material choices align with client expectations and brand identities.

“Reflecting the collective innovation of its partners, Mayer Fabrics highlights how this collaboration revolutionizes how dealer designers execute projects. Two years ago, we became the first and only textile company to join the Commercial Interiors Library. Building on that milestone, we’ve expanded our partnership with Configura to empower designers with faster workflows, exceptional accuracy, and high-quality imagery,” said Rob Mayer, President of Mayer Fabrics. “This innovation streamlines the specification process, enhances communication with clients, and transforms how projects come to life—a true game-changer for the industry.”

With the continuous integration of fabric manufacturers onto its platform, Configura continues to answer the design industry’s call for a more consolidated and efficient approach to material selection. Allowing material manufacturers to manage and update their product data reduces the burden on furniture manufacturers while providing a broader, up-to-date selection for designers. With an interactive and visually immersive design environment, CET allows users to view materials in 3D and configure products with precision to truly capture the look and feel they envision.

CET continues to evolve as a platform that empowers designers to work more confidently to achieve exceptional results. Configura actively listens to feedback from its user community and incorporates their insights to create tools that truly meet their needs.

The materials database is set to go live in 2025, marking a significant milestone in Configura’s commitment to enhancing the design process for its user community. As the launch approaches, the database will continue growing, with additional manufacturers and material options being added. When the platform becomes fully available, designers will be able to access an even broader selection of textiles, laminates, and finishes. Configura remains dedicated to driving innovation and providing tools that enable the design community to work more efficiently and creatively.

Posted: December 12, 2024

Source: Configura

Ultrafabrics Partners With Pantone To Celebrate 2025 Color Of The Year: Mocha Mousse

NEW YORK CITY — December 5, 2024 — Ultrafabrics and the Pantone Color Institute are proud to announce their third annual collaboration, celebrating Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025: Mocha Mousse (Pantone 17-1230). Together, the two brands celebrate the harmonious balance of modern design and timeless simplicity that Mocha Mousse represents, inspiring designers to create interiors and exteriors that evoke comfort, connection, and understated elegance. The announcement was unveiled at the Pantone Color of the Year celebration in New York and the corresponding webinar, heralding a year of design exploration inspired by the warm, indulgent hue.

Image courtesy of Ultrafabrics

Central to this year’s theme is “Simple Pleasures,” a design philosophy championed by Ultrafabrics that celebrates the beauty of slowing down and savoring quiet moments, brought to life through soothing colors and soft textures. The partnership will feature Simple Pleasures, an exclusive color palette by Ultrafabrics, along with interactive events and bespoke color customization across the brand’s extensive range of vegan leathers.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Pantone once again for the Color of the Year 2025. This year’s color embodies harmony and balance, aligning perfectly with Ultrafabrics’ commitment to creating interiors that inspire sensorial comfort and connection,” said Jennifer Hendren, Vice President of Product Development at Ultrafabrics. “Its timeless beauty and calming essence resonate deeply with our philosophy of redefining luxury through mindful design. This color reminds us of the power of simplicity and the joy of everyday moments, and we can’t wait to see how it transforms spaces across industries.”

Throughout 2025, Ultrafabrics and Pantone will ignite creativity within the design community, offering a refined palette, sensory workshops, and curated inspirations. This collaboration will empower designers to transform spaces, foster harmony, and spark inspiration across industries.

For over 25 years, New York City-based Ultrafabrics has redefined premium performance textiles, blending craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable innovation. Known for its collaborations with industry leaders such as Jaguar Land Rover, Fitbit, MillerKnoll, Airstream, Virgin Galactic, and Gulfstream, Ultrafabrics continues to set new standards for performance and design with its Japanese-crafted materials.

Ultrafabrics and Pantone’s partnership highlights the transformative power of color in shaping environments and enhancing experiences. Together, they aim to inspire designers worldwide to embrace Mocha Mousse’s rich yet approachable appeal.

Posted: December 12, 2024

Source: Ultrafabrics

Dow Transforms The Comfort Experience With Production Of VORANOL™ WK5750 At Freeport Polyol Plant

MIDLAND, Mich. — December 12, 2024 — Dow is excited to announce that VORANOL™ WK5750, a cutting-edge polyether polyol, is set to be produced at its Freeport polyol plant, marking its continued commitment to high application performance.

With its unique design and ability to produce soft and hypersoft foams, VORANOL WK5750 aims to transform the comfort experience in products such as mattresses, furniture and automotive seating. Its ability to serve as a powerful cell opener further extends its utility to viscoelastic and high resiliency foam applications, offering unprecedented softness and resilience.

As a critical enabler of specialty slabstock flexible foam applications, VORANOL WK5750 also offers:

  • Enhanced reactivity, ensuring superior cross-linking for a broad spectrum of applications.
  • Optimal viscosity, providing a good range of 1000-1500 cSt at 25 ºC to balance ease of processing and quality performance.
  • High standard of purity and quality, delivering a maximum water content of 0.06 Wt %.
  • Aesthetic appeal with a maximum color specification of 50 APHA, ensuring products maintain visual quality.

“At Dow, we are committed to improving flexible foam capabilities as our customers continue to look for high performance in viscoelastic and hyper soft foam applications,” said Kevin Meyer, associate technical service & development director at Dow. “By producing VORANOL™ WK5750 at our Freeport polyol plant, we can offer innovative polyol options that help meet our customers’ performance needs.”

Posted: December 12, 2024

Source: Dow

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