Hexcel’s Acousti-Cap® Technology Helping To Reduce Aircraft Noise In NASA-Boeing Flight Test

STAMFORD, Conn. — September 6, 2018 — Because aircraft engine noise contributes to environmental noise around airports and populated cities, the aerospace industry has been working on new aircraft designs that will emit less noise so they can meet the ever-increasing requirements imposed on the industry to reduce noise pollution. Shielding and absorbing aircraft engine noise at the source represents one of the most effective ways to address this issue.

Hexcel, a global leader in advanced composite technology, has been at the forefront of acoustic technology development with its Acousti-Cap® broadband sound-reducing honeycomb, which enables engine designers to reduce the noise from takeoffs and landings yet without adding significant weight to the aircraft.

“Hexcel has continued investing in the evolution of Acousti-Cap® product technology to improve performance and reduce cost,” said Imad Atallah, Group Product Manager for Honeycomb at Hexcel. “Collaboration with industry leaders, including NASA and Boeing, has been key to that development,” he added.

The 2DOF (Two Degrees of Freedom) honeycomb core acoustic liner was introduced in 2008 and was subsequently adopted and installed on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner inlet, the Boeing 747-8 inlet and transcowl, and more recently on the Boeing 737 MAX inlet. This success enabled continued technology development and evolution in MDOF (Multi-Degrees of Freedom) where the acoustic septum is inserted in the honeycomb cell at different heights, as well as having two septums in honeycomb chambers. This type of technology allows for improved acoustic attenuation at a broader frequency range, as well as increased absorption.

“Hexcel’s Acousti-Cap® technology has shown great performance benefits over competing technologies from the beginning” said Clark Smith, director of Technology – Core Products at Hexcel. “We have continued to improve the technology through taking advantage of the single cell treatment concept, by adding capability that the industry was looking for,” he added.

Hexcel’s latest Acousti-Cap technology was recently tested in a joint NASA-Boeing flight test on a B737 MAX test platform, and the results beat expectations as reported by Aviation Week. Collaboration between Hexcel and NASA over several years on the development of MDOF technology led to the successful test results on this latest flight test.

The ability to attenuate a broader noise frequency range and increase acoustic absorption with the Hexcel liner has allowed an optimized design of the overall inlet that reduces drag and improves noise attenuation. Hexcel continues to invest in acoustic liner technology and is proud of the positive results of this NASA-Boeing flight test.

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: Hexcel Corp.

DuPont Expands Kinston, N.C., Facility To Meet Growing Global Demand For Sorona® Polymer, Support Circular Economy

WILMINGTON, Del. — September 6, 2018 — DuPont Industrial Biosciences today completed the expansion of their Kinston, N.C., manufacturing facility that produces bio-based, high-performance DuPont™ Sorona® polymer. From the expansion, DuPont has increased the facility’s capacity to produce Sorona polymer by 25 percent. This investment is reflective of the growing demand for Sorona polymer throughout the carpet and apparel markets and an emerging global focus on building the circular economy.

“This expansion is a direct result of the significant growth in global demand for Sorona polymer and a testament to DuPont’s commitment to manufacturing innovative products in North Carolina,” said Dr. Michael Saltzberg, global business director of DuPont Biomaterials. “We are grateful for the support from partners that made this project possible including: Lenoir County Economic Development, North Carolina Community College System, Lenoir Community College, Duke Energy Corporation, North Carolina Department of Commerce and North Carolina Department of Transportation.”

DuPont Sorona polymer is made from 37 percent renewable plant-based ingredients and has many versatile applications. As compared to similar materials, like nylon 6, Sorona® polymer uses 30 percent less energy and releases 63 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, Sorona polymer combines eco-efficiency with function, as its high-performance qualities can be used in a variety of applications. Fibers made with Sorona polymer exhibit exceptional softness, inherent stain resistance and uncompromising durability, offering a sustainable, high-performing material option for customers throughout the supply chain.

DuPont Industrial Biosciences employs more than 90 workers in Kinston through the manufacturing of Sorona® polymer. With the startup of the line, four additional employees also are being recruited.

“We are thrilled at the continued success of both the outstanding team at the Kinston facility, as well as all of our team members and partners that have helped to drive the success of a high-performance, sustainable polymer in the marketplace,” said René Molina, global product manager for DuPont Biomaterials.

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: DuPont Industrial Biosciences

Standfast & Barracks Encourages Own Customers To Join Wave Of Innovation Provided Through Durst

BRIXEN, Italy — September 6, 2018 — Digital production now accounts for more than half the business revenues at Standfast & Barracks with customers being encouraged be part of the new wave of innovation provided through Durst, manufacturer of advanced digital production technologies.

Less than three years since a devastating flood closed the factory for more than four months, Standfast & Barracks continues to cement its partnership with Durst. It expects 60 percent of turnover to be from digital production by the start of next year. The cutting-edge technology is also helping to drive export growth that by the end of 2018 will represent 20 percent of sales, of which half are to the USA.

Standfast & Barracks produces more than 150,000 yards of printed fabric per month. And until five years ago, this was all done by conventional printing. Turnover at 15.4 million pounds ($20 million) is now back at the same levels prior to the flooding, with sales success largely down to digital print production advances. The UK fabric printing company has two Durst Alpha 190 systems, which are part of a new generation of super high-performance multi-pass printers with the One-Step Greentex P ink.

Standfast & Barracks has now trademarked its innovative direct-to-fabric Greentex pigment printed collection, Ecofast™,  which is sustainable and has highest lightfastness in its class. Using the system that allows printing on almost any type of surface, Standfast & Barracks plans to formally launch the new Ecofast line at Heimtextil in January 2019. Durst’s technology will enable the company to open up market opportunities in areas such as contract and apparel, including outdoor and roller-blinds.

Standfast & Barracks, with a heritage stretching back almost 100 years, employs 200 people and is one of the most versatile and distinctive printers in the world. It is part of the British luxury furnishings group Walter Greenbank Plc and has an international reputation for a commitment to quality, innovation and advanced technologies.

A perfect example is the Durst Alpha is the Alpha 190, part of the Alpha Series that features different configurations and print widths for industrial printing of fashion garment and apparel, home textiles and upholstery. Durst developed the One-Step Greentex P ink especially for the Alpha Series. The environmentally friendly pigment and the reactive and dispersion inks are based on Durst Water Technology.

Stephen Thomas, managing director of Standfast & Barracks, said: “Our order books are definitely growing and we are actively encouraging our customers to do more digital printing, pointing out the many benefits. Our investment in Durst’s digital technology continues to trigger new waves of innovation. Digital gives unlimited opportunities and colour variations with the ability to develop new application and products and continue to develop our business — all with the support of Durst. Digital is by far our biggest growth area. It’s the future.”

Martin Winkler, segment manager Durst Textile Printing, said: “Standfast & Barracks is an exceptional example of how innovative companies are pushing the barriers by continue to invest in new digital technologies. We take great pride by working in partnership with our customers to help them to bigger and better things. And we look forward to continuing to work closely with Stephen and his great team to further help them grow opportunities that are virtually unlimited with digital.”

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: Durst Textile Printing

Outdoor Industry Association Names David Weinstein As State And Local Policy Director

BOULDER, Colo. — September 6, 2018 — Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced that David Weinstein will lead close-to-home recreation advocacy as its state and local policy director. Weinstein is currently the Western conservation finance director for The Trust for Public Land, where he advises local and state governments throughout the Western United States on how to design, pass and implement legislative initiatives and electoral measures that create funding for land and water conservation. During his time at The Trust for Public Land, Weinstein worked on or led campaigns that generated more than $550 million in voter-approved funding and more than $4 billion in legislative funding for conservation in the West.

Prior to joining The Trust for Public Land, Weinstein was the outreach and advocacy manager for OIA and the OIAPAC treasurer, where he represented the outdoor industry in President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, engaged Congress and federal agencies to shape recreation policy and enhance funding and worked to elect and re-elect congressional champions for the outdoor industry. He has been involved in conservation politics for more than nine years, including positions with U.S. Senator Mark Udall’s Office and Colorado Governor Hickenlooper’s first gubernatorial campaign. Weinstein is a Wyss Foundation fellow and also serves of the boards of directors for the Montana Conservation Corp and the Alaska Wilderness League.

“David’s deep experience working with state and local governments on conservation funding initiatives will help ignite and grow OIA’s close-to-home efforts,” said Amy Roberts, OIA executive director. “We are excited about the good work that OIA will continue to accomplish in this area on behalf of the outdoor industry with David guiding the close-to-home advocacy work.”

In his role, Weinstein will lead the close-to-home advocacy program for the outdoor industry. The program focuses the following:

  • Educate state and local policymakers about the power of the outdoor recreation economy in their communities and promote local investment in the outdoor recreation industry.
  • Continue to drive the creation of state offices of outdoor recreation across the country. Since the inception of the program three years ago, OIA members have led the effort to create offices or commissions in 12 states across the nation.
  • Pursue funding and access for close-to-home outdoor recreation through ballot measures and state-level legislative advocacy initiatives. In 2017, OIA-supported ballot measures generated more than $1 billion for parks and trails near people’s homes around the country.
  • Build and support coalitions of industry professionals, nonprofit leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders to advocate effectively for outdoor recreation at the state and local levels.

“The outdoor industry is uniquely positioned to influence policies and enhance public funding for outdoor recreation and conservation,” said Weinstein. “I’m thrilled to return to an industry that I’m so passionate about, and to rejoin the esteemed team at OIA.”

As a Colorado native, Weinstein now lives in Bozeman, Mont. He is an avid backcountry skier, mountain biker, hunter, angler, backpacker and pack rafter. Weinstein holds a B.A. from Colorado State University, and an M.A. from Georgetown University.

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

Mahlo America Inc. Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — September 6, 2018 — For more than 70 years, the name Mahlo has stood for high-quality control and measuring technology “made in Germany”. Now, the U.S.-based subsidiary Mahlo America Inc. is celebrating its 50th birthday — and looks to a promising future.

Mahlo America Inc. opened its doors for the first time in Spartanburg in 1968. Located in South Carolina, a center of the textile industry, the subsidiary of the German machine manufacturer Mahlo GmbH quickly made a name for itself in the field of straightening machines and became synonymous with straight-edged products. However, with the increasing move to cheaper Asian production areas, the US textile industry found itself increasingly in a crisis. Roughly 650 textile factories had to close between 1997 and 2009. Fortunately, Mahlo had already positioned itself broadly. Quality measuring systems for all web-type products in various industrial sectors had long been the focus of the machine manufacturer. The Qualiscan QMS had been introduced decades ago. There is a wide range of sensors, traversing the running web on scanners, measure and control parameters, such as thickness, moisture, or basis weight. It is just the right tool for a fast growing plastics and coating industry.

New avenues to success

Mary Heath remembers the exciting years of change. The bright office worker has been with Mahlo America for over 30 years. She had started when the company was still concentrating on textiles and carpets. But then one factory after another closed. “Our focus on the QMS-10, 10A and QMS-12 provided the growth potential that we needed to insure our long term success,” says Heath. Of course, the new path also presented some challenges: Training for sales and service staff, new customers, new sales channels. “Certainly this was a learning curve and a good piece of work to be recognized in another core competence,” says Heath. However, the effort was worthwhile. Today, Mahlo is considered as one of the experts in the field of web gauging.

What you see is what you get

Eric Reber made a major contribution to this fact. The technical sales manager is something like the father of web gauging at Mahlo America. He spent many years in Europe and the US working on the development of online measuring systems. “In this way, I have also acquired a certain understanding of the needs of customers,” says Reber. American customers were among the most demanding and knew exactly what they wanted. This experience has also been incorporated into the development of the Qualiscan QMS-12, the latest system. “It has enabled us to catapult ourselves out of our pursuit position in a short time and to overtake the existing technology on the market,” says Reber. The scanners are built solidly, and the electronics absolutely reliable. After all: “The best sensors are only useful if they traverse reliably and smoothly.” With the Qualiscan QMS 12, these mechanical features, supplemented by easy-to-use software, have been used to produce a complete package that is on the advance. The spectrum of sensors with beta, X-ray, laser and unique optical measurements guarantees a wide range of applications. According to Reber, this means that almost all materials can be measured. This would help the customer to achieve greater efficiency and better quality as well as save costs.

To ensure that every customer receives the optimal system for their application and thus the desired results, the responsible persons in Spartanburg have installed a pilot line. “The interested parties send us material samples and the required parameters and then we check whether and which sensor is suitable,” explains Mike Weathers, who is mainly responsible for the tests. Only when it is certain that the measurement will work as desired will the customer receive a concrete offer. “Otherwise, both sides are only dissatisfied.” Should questions, technical problems or maintenance work arise, Mahlo has a well-trained service department which is available around the clock. The combination of technical leadership and customer proximity has turned Mahlo from an underdog into a valuable player in the field of web gauging technology.

Positive Outlook

“The many years of experience of our engineers and the constant development of the systems are reflected in our success,” says Alan Lavore, Executive Vice President of Mahlo America Inc. One of the reasons is that Mahlo stands out in terms of measuring reliability, customer service, and technical support. There is also positive news from Mahlo’s second sales market: The carpet and textile industry in the US is recovering, and many companies are investing in new technology to meet customer requirements. “The future looks bright if we keep working hard.”

After all, they want to continue the decades of success story of Mahlo GmbH, which is still family-owned. “Being successful in business for over 70 years is a real testimony that we can be proud of,” says Lavore. A large part of this was contributed by the employees. “We not only have highly qualified personnel, but also people who identify with the company and its values.” Like Mary Heath, Service Manager John Flynn, Service Technician Scott Plumley and Technical Manager Mike Weathers. They have been part of the Mahlo family for well over 20 years. Coupled with motivated junior staff, they ensure that Mahlo will remain successful in the decades to come.

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG

Multi-Industry Coalition Urges USTR To Avoid
Further Trade Escalation With China

WASHINGTON — September 6, 2018 — The National Retail Federation and 150 organizations representing U.S. retailers, manufacturers, farmers, technology companies, natural gas and oil companies and other industries today submitted comments to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer on the administration’s proposed tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports. The groups urged the administration to avoid further escalation with China and warned of the negative impact of tariffs on American businesses, families and workers. 

“Continuing the tit-for-tat tariff escalation with China only serves to expand the harm to more U.S. economic interests, including farmers, families, businesses and workers,” the coalition wrote in a letter. “Our organizations agree that longstanding issues in China have negatively impacted many U.S. companies, and we support the administration’s efforts to negotiate meaningful, binding and long-term solutions with the Chinese government, (but) applying these high levels of tariffs on Chinese products will continue to miss the mark.”

“The negative impact will fall particularly hard on small- and medium-sized businesses and their workers, who lack the scale, resources and options to weather or adapt to these tariffs,” the groups said. Tariffs “are counterproductive and so far have only produced increased costs” for U.S. businesses and consumers.”

The groups expressed concern over the administration’s suggestion that the United States might impose tariffs on all Chinese imports.

“The effects of the administration’s actions will most hurt the very consumers, small- and medium-sized businesses, manufacturers, farmers and workers the administration wants to protect,” the letter said. “Should all trade to and from China be subject to tariffs, the impacts and disruptions to the U.S. economy would reach across the entire country, from sector to sector, and negatively impact every American family.”

The letter said imposing a 25 percent tariff on a total of $250 billion in Chinese imports —  including both tariffs that have already gone into effect this summer and those currently under consideration – would result in $62.5 billion in tariff costs for U.S. businesses and consumers each year. By contrast, the U.S. government collected only $33 billion in total tariffs on all global imports in 2017.

In addition to the coalition letter, NRF submitted its own comments to USTR regarding the impact of tariffs on retailers and consumers.

Posted September 6, 2018

Source: The National Retail Federation

Apricot Lane Boutique Strengthens Management Team With Retail Industry Leader Chris Lanning

VACAVILLE, Calif. — September 4, 2018 — Apricot Lane Boutique — a women’s fashion boutique franchise offering branded apparel, accessories and gifts in 75+ stores around the country — has brought on 30-year retail industry veteran Chris Lanning as president of retail to enhance the continued success of franchisees as the brand experiences national growth momentum.

Lanning brings Apricot Lane extensive experience from previous senior leadership roles at worldwide retail brands, including GAP Inc., DSW Inc., Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. Through an independent consulting practice, Lanning has also lent expertise to various prestigious brands across multiple retail segments. He was inspired to join the burgeoning brand after learning of their innovative, locally-driven business model and commitment to making an impact.

In his latest role as president of retail for Apricot Lane, Lanning will leverage his expertise to help franchisees maximize sales potential within the four walls of their boutiques, focusing on merchandising and customer presentation. Lanning will provide new and existing franchisees with the proper tools, resources and guidance to enhance the brand’s overall customer experience.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with a number of global brands, but there was something special about Apricot Lane’s approach to women’s retail that made me want to be a part of it,” Lanning said. “In today’s multi-channel era, price is not the sole factor in driving purchase intent. Providing unique, on-brand customer experiences — connecting with people — is more important than ever before. Apricot Lane offers a special and engaging in-store experience. I’m looking forward to working with franchisees on creative ways to heighten that experience; all designed to optimize sustainable profitable sales and build brand awareness.”

Lanning discovered Apricot Lane by way of 3Strands — a non-for-profit foundation founded by Ken Petersen, founder of Apricot Lane, dedicated to combatting human trafficking. Impressed by Apricot Lane’s commitment to making an impact locally and internationally, Lanning saw an opportunity to dive into a business where his strengths and passion lined up. The addition of Lanning to the Apricot Lane leadership team comes on the heels of the company’s announcement in 2017 to appoint Patrick Stewart, who also boasts an impressive resume with big-name retailer brands, as CEO.

With more than 75 locations across the country, each Apricot Lane boutique is locally owned, and carries a uniquely-curated selection of merchandise that features a mix of established and up-and-coming brands, many of which are not yet available in traditional retail stores. Apricot Lane’s network of franchise owners serve as individual, expert fashion merchandise buyers, and are given the freedom to fill their boutique with merchandise that keeps up with their community’s sense of style. Franchisees also take advantage of vendor-leveraged discounts, allowing them to sell new, quality styles at affordable prices.

“At Apricot Lane, we are dedicated to empowering our franchisees to be their best self by helping them run a unique local business. We don’t set rules when it comes to the merchandise, but offer franchisees the support and guidance they need to successfully operate their business,” Stewart said. “Chris will serve as yet another expert resource on our leadership team, and we are certain his knowledge and experience in the retail industry will help propel our franchisees toward greater success.”

Posted September 5, 2018

Source: Apricot Lane Boutique

Terra Firma, Himadri Announce Carbon Black Distribution Partnership

BALTIMORE, Md. — September 4, 2018 — The Terra Firma Co. is pleased to announce that it has been chosen by Himadri Carbon Black as its exclusive distributor for select end use markets in Northeastern, Southeastern and Southwestern United States effective September 6, 2018.

Anurag Choudhary, CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd., commented: “We are excited to partner with Terra Firma for the carbon black grades with applications in Plastics, Inks, Coatings, Wire & Cable. Terra Firma’s strong presence in multi-regional specialty chemicals has made it a natural choice for us. I am also pleased to share that we have undertaken significant capacity expansion of our specialty carbon facility. Our proven product line-up combined with Terra Firma’s partnership will make a compelling value proposition for US companies while sourcing carbon black. I am sure that our exclusive partnership with Terra Firma will be a long and successful one.”

Himadri Carbon Black is a division of Himadri Specialty Chemical Ltd., a leading supplier of carbon-based products based in Kolkata, India. It is one of the few global companies with an integrated raw material base for carbon black, giving it a highly consistent feedstock for its wide range of specialty and commodity product grades. David Behan, CEO of Terra Firma, commented, “We are extremely pleased to have been chosen to represent Himadri across our entire twenty-four state geography — from Maine to New Mexico. Given the current supply constraints of carbon black, we believe U.S. manufacturers will be excited to have a new source for their carbon black needs. Himadri, with its global operations and a broad portfolio of carbon black products is ideally positioned to support the North American market.”

The Terra Firma Company is a super multi-regional specialty chemicals distributor offering stability to chemical suppliers and customers in an evolving world. The company services its 24 states with 24 seasoned sales personnel and 12 distribution centers. Terra Firma utilizes three full service regional customer service centers (Boston/Baltimore/Dallas) to support its regionally based business model. The company covers a wide array of chemical markets, including C.A.S.E. (coatings, adhesives, sealants & elastomers), plastics, construction, food, personal care, cosmetics, graphic arts, oil & gas, rubber, textiles and others.

Posted September 5, 2018

Source: The Terra Firma Company

Amazon Fashion Launches J.Crew Mercantile

SEATTLE — September 5, 2018 — Amazon Fashion announces the arrival of J.Crew Mercantile on Amazon. For the first time, starting today customers in the U.S. shopping for fashion on Amazon have access to a wide selection of J.Crew Mercantile, further enhancing the robust fashion selection available on Amazon.

The curated Fall ’18 assortment from J.Crew Mercantile focuses on great style at great value and is available to customers through a dedicated storefront at amazon.com/jcrew. Specializing in reimagined classics, everyday necessities and statement pieces at friendly prices, the Mercantile assortment also features customer-loved J.Crew favorites, including classic field jackets, denim and outerwear pieces, to name a few, all under $300. The selection is available with convenient free shipping options for all customers, and in addition, Prime members have access to FREE Two-Day shipping, and more, across Mercantile selection.

“From seasonal trends to everyday essentials across known and emerging brands, we are delighted to offer our customers selection for all their wearing occasions,” said Michelle Rothman, Vice President of Amazon Fashion. “ no quote We are thrilled to partner with J.Crew, an iconic brand our customers love, to offer Mercantile and thereby make it even easier to access great styles and premium selection. We are focused on continually enhancing our assortment and innovating the shopping experience to enable fashion discovery and inspiration on Amazon, and we are excited about the opportunities we see ahead for customers and brands alike.”

Aaron Rose, J.Crew chief of Emerging Business, said, “J Crew’s mission to engage our customers wherever they want to shop makes Amazon the right partner for J.Crew Mercantile. Their broad-reaching shopping destination supported by our shared interest in service and convenience will introduce the initial collection of colorful everyday basics and fashion to a new audience. We look forward to working together to expand the Mercantile Shop on Amazon and help our customers build their wardrobes.”

This partnership is a natural extension of J.Crew’s mission to be where people are shopping and is an exciting opportunity for Amazon Fashion to represent an iconic American brand.

Posted September 5, 2018

Source: Amazon.com Inc.

National Safety Apparel Offers Heavyweight Zip Front FR Sweatshirt

CLEVELAND — September 5, 2018 — National Safety Apparel offers the Heavyweight pullover FR Sweatshirt, available in navy and grey, and in zip front and crew neck styles. At 14.25 oz., the soft AR/FR fleece provides warmth on even the coldest days. The generous cut of this sweatshirt allows for unrestricted movement while the rib knit cuffs and waistband keep it in place and prevent riding. A large drawstring hood fits over standard hard hats and has cord locks to keep the hood cinched in place. Made in the USA, this dual hazard sweatshirt provides offers durable CAT 3 protection with an arc rating of 28 cal/cm2, and is UL Certified to NFPA 2112 for flash fire. Warm and comfortable, this is the FR sweatshirt you’ve been looking for.

Posted September 5, 2018

Source: National Safety Apparel

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