Crude Oil To Chemicals Project Moves Forward

HOUSTON — July 22, 2018 — With startup in 2025, the fully integrated Crude Oil to Chemicals (COTC) complex is on track to become the largest of its kind in the world. It will become a major contributor to Saudi Vision 2030, enabling a new era of industrial diversification, job creation, and technology development in the Kingdom.

The complex is expected to process 400,000 barrels per day of Arabian Light crude oil, which will produce approximately nine million tons of chemicals and nine million tons of fuels per year. Also notable, it is projected to achieve a direct conversion rate from crude oil to chemicals of up to 50%, which is unprecedented globally.

Saudi Aramco and the Saudi Basic Industries Corp. (SABIC) — who are partnering on the giga-project — awarded a contract to KBR, a global leader in project management and engineering services, to develop a part of the COTC complex.

KBR will provide the front-end engineering and design for the downstream petrochemicals and chemicals component within the COTC master complex. The scope includes engineering studies, infrastructure planning and development for both of the polymer and glycol units, along with the aromatics complex, the COTC master plot plan, and offsite utilities.

The KBR project management contract is the second that Saudi Aramco and SABIC have awarded for the COTC project. Wood, also a leading project management and engineering firm, was granted the first contract to provide engineering and design for the refining components, mixed feed steam cracker, on-site utilities, interface and site integration, and selection of technology providers.

“We are counting on the long-standing relationship between Saudi Aramco and SABIC on one side, and KBR on the other, to develop this preliminary engineering package for the world-class complex.” says Fahad E. Al-Helal, vice president of Project Management.

Commitment to safety

A recently held kickoff meeting included a ceremonial signing of a safety pledge by senior leadership and project team members from all three companies. Dubbed “Zero Harm,” the KBR safety program engages project sponsors and team members at all levels to commit to a 24/7 safety mindset — one that never waivers and can never be compromised.

The KBR leadership members expressed their appreciation to Saudi Aramco and SABIC for the partnership, and further acknowledged the pivotal role KBR will have in the COTC project.

KBR’s president and CEO Stuart Bradie: “We are excited about the opportunity to continue our proud legacy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, delivering giga-projects such as COTC.”

KBR was also a major partner in development of the Sadara Chemical Project. Ibrahim noted, “Through this contract, we will continue our commitment to meeting the objectives of both the in-Kingdom local content and Vision 2030 programs.”

Saudi Aramco’s U.S. affiliate company Aramco Services Company (ASC) is managing the KBR contract on behalf of Saudi Aramco. Basil A. Abul-Hamayel, ASC president and CEO, said: “We are excited about the COTC project, and its enormous potential to make such a positive impact. The ASC team will continue to give its full support to the project management team to help ensure success.”

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: The Saudi Arabian Oil Co.

Toyota Motor Corp. Founder Kiichiro Toyoda Inducted Into Automotive Hall Of Fame

DETROIT — July 20, 2018 — Cited for his extraordinary vision and entrepreneurial spirit, Toyota Motor Corp. founder and former president Kiichiro Toyoda was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame last evening in Detroit.

Kiichiro Toyoda was one of five industry leaders named to this year’s Automotive Hall of Fame induction class. He is credited with expanding Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, a successful textile business created by his father, Sakichi Toyoda, into the world of automotive manufacturing in 1933. Kiichiro Toyoda served as president of Toyota Motor Corp. from 1941 to 1950. His technical skills and leadership forged the foundations of a company that would eventually grow to be one of the most respected corporations in the world.

“Kiichiro Toyoda embodied the foresight and innovation that few people in history possess, demonstrated by his significant contributions to the automotive industry. We are honored to include him in the 2018 induction class to the Automotive Hall of Fame”, stated Ramzi Hermiz, President and CEO, Shiloh Industries and Board Chairman, Automotive Hall of Fame.

A contingent of Toyota Motor Corp. executives, led by Chairman of the Board Takeshi Uchiyamada, were on hand at the Automotive Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala Ceremony on July 19. Uchiyamada accepted Kiichiro Toyoda’s award on behalf of the company and the family.

“America was a special place for Kiichiro. He was amazed by the prevalence of automobiles driving around U.S. cities in the late 1920s, and that was the catalyst for his determination to establish an automotive industry in his home country. As a successor and his grandson, I am very grateful and proud that Kiichiro has been inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in America,” said Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corp. “Kiichiro boldly changed Toyota’s business model from automatic looms to automobiles without being constrained by previous successes. As his induction comes at a time when our industry is facing profound changes, I believe his message today would be to work hard to help the industry revolutionize the future of mobility, even if success is not immediate. I deeply appreciate the Automotive Hall of Fame for inducting my grandfather and our founder,” he added.

The celebration was highlighted by the presence of a 1936 Toyoda AA replica vehicle, on loan from the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. The Toyoda AA was designed and manufactured under the guidance of Kiichiro Toyoda. The AA was the company’s first production automobile and served as Kiichiro Toyoda’s initial opportunity to experiment with waste-free and efficiency-focused production techniques, including the famous “just-in-time” concept. The vehicle helped pave the way for the renowned “Toyota Production System.”

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: The Automotive Hall of Fame

Town & Country Holdings Completes Acquisitions Of Home Dynamix, Amalgamated Textiles USA

BOSTON — July 23, 2018 — H.I.G. Capital, a global private equity investment firm with more than $25 billion of equity capital under management, is pleased to announce that one of its portfolio companies, Town & Country Holdings Inc. (T&C) has acquired Home Dynamix LLC (HDX) — a wholesaler of floor rugs, mats and bedding headquartered in North Arlington, N.J. — and Amalgamated Textiles USA (ATI) — a supplier of window treatments and hardware, headquartered in Montreal.

T&C, already a recognized leader in table linens, kitchen textiles, rugs, and innovative solution-based home products, will now offer additional home textiles products spanning across floor and accent rugs, bedding, pet beds, decorative pillows, window treatments, and window hardware. Through these acquisitions, T&C has expanded its sizeable footprint of major retailers across the globe, supplying both licensed programs and private label programs, as well its capabilities in ecommerce sales and fulfillment.

David Beyda, chairman of Town and Country Holdings, and CEO of the combined entity, said: “We are pleased to welcome both Home Dynamix and Amalgamated Textiles into the Town & Country family. We have a deep respect for the people and products that have made these companies successful. The acquisitions of Home Dynamix and Amalgamated Textiles are in line with our long-term strategy to grow T&C into a diversified, multi-channel and multi-product leader.”

“We are extremely excited to materially expand T&C’s customer base and product offerings so quickly after our initial investment, “ added H.I.G. Managing Director Todd Ofenloch. “Both HDX and ATI bring significant management experience, product expertise, and successful track records that immediately bolster T&C’s efforts to execute on our long-term strategy.”

Rami Evar, president of Home Dynamix, said: “We are thrilled to partner up with a very respected, dedicated and passionate team in the home furnishing space. We strongly believe that joining Town & Country and H.I.G. will lead to a strong next chapter of our combined business.”

“We are very pleased to partner with Town & Country and H.I.G.,” said Bobby Stoller, president and CEO of Amalgamated Textiles. “They have demonstrated an understanding of our vision for the business, an appreciation for how we have differentiated ourselves in the market and they have the expertise to allow us to accelerate our growth and serve our customers.”

The consummation of these two add-on acquisitions represents the successful completion of the first phase of H.I.G.’s investment strategy for Town & Country following the initial platform investment completed in January 2018. Town & Country will continue to pursue acquisitions in the home textiles and accessories sector.

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: H.I.G. Capital

 

Jump Design Group Acquires Cathy Daniels Apparel, Planning Major Technology Upgrade Across All Platforms

NEW YORK CITY — July 23, 2018 — Jump Design Group announced today its acquisition of the sportswear label Cathy Daniels. Jump Design Group has taken on all assets related to Cathy Daniels. The Cathy Daniels sales team and factory groups will continue while President Jerry Passaretti — the face of Cathy Daniels for the past 40 years — will spearhead its business development as part of Jump Design Group.

“We’re not on a mission to take companies that are in trouble and turn them around,” explains Ashesh Amin, CEO of Jump Design Group. “We’re on a mission to acquire companies that have a sound business portfolio, and complement them with our strategies, marketing and customer base.”

The late Herbert L. Chestler started Eccobay in 1972, out of the back seat of his station wagon. In 1984, a few years after his sons Steve and Danny joined the team, the Cathy Daniels label was launched, and continues to grow and expand as a leader in the moderate sportswear area. Steve and Danny stated, “He taught us the business, which was built on hard work, honesty, integrity, and commitment to making the best product for our customers.”

“We are extremely proud of the fact that we have left a legacy and made sure our entire Cathy Daniels team, including our factory groups, will have an opportunity to continue to run the business under new leadership,” said Steve and Daniel Chestler, “Now for the next phase, we have passed the torch to Jump Design Group, but more importantly to Glenn Schlossberg, Ashesh Amin and Jerry Passaretti — we wish them continued growth and success with our family legacy.”

Amin, an apparel industry veteran who has helped build brands J.Crew, BCBG, Adrianna Papell and Bombay Shirt Company commented, “Over the last 30 years, our founder Glenn Schlossberg built a rock-solid business foundation here at Jump. In the next two or three years, we will chart a new course by using the most innovative technology to get the best product to the customer at the right time. Our acquisition strategy is to synergize our robust back end infrastructure with the acquired companies, while the front end — the brands and sales teams — remains the same.”

Jump Design Group intends to inject this technology DNA into its acquired companies that, while already successful, could either not afford the technology, or didn’t have the faith that technological investments would make them more profitable. This integration of design, technology and branding, with demand, logistics and finance is at the heart of Jump’s planned expansion from dresses, into athleisure, sportswear, and denim.

Jump Design Group captures and manufactures women’s runway trends for retail using fast-turn, made-in-America production. With an extensive team of designers and state-of-the-art technologies, Jump is uniquely positioned to understand what sells and deliver the highest quality quickly.

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: Jump Design Group

Hygienix™ Promises To Disrupt The Status Quo

CARY, N.C. — July 23, 2018 —  Hygienix 2018, the premier event for the absorbent hygiene & personal care markets announces its fourth edition conference, networking, tabletop display, and training event will focus on sustainable and disruptive technologies and products that help advance human health, November 5-8 at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando, Florida.

The conference promises to attract more than 500 senior-level professionals involved in the important absorbent hygiene and personal care sector with content topics that include: Absorbent Hygiene Design Advancements, FemCare Disruptors, Nonwoven Markets and Economic Trends, Technical Updates, Urinary and Fecal Incontinence, Skin Health, Upcycling for Disposable Absorbent Hygiene Products, Haptics and Odor Control. For the full program and Registration visit www.inda.org/events/hygienix18/

Keynote speaker, Diana Sheehan, director of Kantar Consulting kicks off the event presenting “The Amazon Effect – Retail Market Disruption”. Other conference highlights include a panel discussion on FemCare Disruptors to include Alyssa Dweck, MS, MD, FACOG, Obstetrics & Gynecology CareMount Medical, Rachel Braun Scherl, Managing Partner, Entrepreneur, SPARK Solutions for Growth, and Shannon Klingman, Founder & CEO, Lume. 

The high level content includes presentations from 23 industry experts. Participants will connect with representatives from companies such as American Truetzschler, Euromonitor International, Evonik Nutrition & Care, H.B. Fuller, Lenzing, Price Hanna Consultants, Quick-Med Technologies, Shelton Group, Smith Johnson & Associates, Suominen, Procter & Gamble, Dermatology Healthcare, Yixing Danson Science & Technology, among others. Scheduled events include 19 hours of networking amid tabletop displays, receptions, breakfasts, coffee breaks and an opening welcome reception at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville on the Universal CityWalk.

Prestigious Awards

Three finalists will present their innovative product or technology for the prestigious Hygienix Innovation Award™ that recognizes innovation in consumer or institutional hygiene end-products that expand the use of nonwoven fabrics. INDA president Dave Rousse will recognize and present the 2018 Lifetime Service Award and 2018 Lifetime Technical Achievement Award.

Added Value Education Training for Industry Professionals

The event also offers an optional highly focused 3-hour Absorbent Hygiene Product workshop to cover key information on diaper components, performance, differentiation and trends in recycling, sustainability and environmental friendliness, on Monday, November 5. Terry Young, retired Research Fellow from Procter & Gamble leads the valuable instruction. Young developed one of the first in-house material training courses (Nonwoven Technology: From Basic to Advanced) for P&G’s baby diaper category.

To take advantage of early registration discounts, sign up before Tuesday, October 2

Posted July 23, 2018

Source:  INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

SAURER’s  Autoconer X6 Takes A Definitive Step Towards Automation 4.0 In The Winding Field

ÜBACH-PALENBERG, Germany — July 23, 2018 — The new Autoconer X6 represents a quantum leap in process automation. With its revolutionary Bobbin Cloud material flow system based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, the Autoconer X6 takes a definitive step towards Automation 4.0 in the winding field. This E3-certified machine is distinguished by even lower resource consumption and increased production. With its outstanding winding technology, the Autoconer is and remains the globally recognised benchmark for quality yarn and package production.

Automation 4.0 with Bobbin Cloud, a revolution in material flow

Characteristic features of the Bobbin Cloud include the decentralised processing aggregates and the material flow designed in a round loop. Like during a pit stop in Formula 1, the bobbins and tubes automatically move to the processing aggregates positioned along the guideways. In order to increase cycle speed and capacity, several bobbin preparation stations, which operate in parallel, can be installed. The winding units are supplied reliably with prepared bobbins directly from the Bobbin Cloud. The entire circuit functions as a material storage area.

The new optical tube inspector with infrared sensor is another important feature necessary for increased process reliability. Through noncontact scanning, it reliably detects single yarns and all yarn structures even at high cycle rates.

Bobbin Cloud and RFID technology form the basis for a future-orientated direct link between Autoconer and ring spinning machine. A key feature is the integrated online quality monitoring system SPID. This means every spinning mill now has the opportunity to establish its quality level at the highest standard. Optimum machine networking and more intensive process automation are becoming the new standard.

Energy: Up to 20 percent lower resource consumption

A comparison between the performances of the 5th and 6th Autoconer machine generations highlights the impact of process automation. The Autoconer X6 also offers attractive energy consumption reductions of up to 20 percent, which is mainly due to its high energy efficiency. All components and functions have been optimised in terms of this. These measures include improved aerodynamics in the airflow, state-of-the-art drives with high efficiency levels and the unique Power on Demand vacuum control.

Energy Monitoring, which continuously monitors compressed air and energy consumption online, helps the operating personnel to optimize winding processes in an energy-efficient manner and thus reduce costs.

But above all, the Autoconer X6 conserves the most valuable resource, the yarn, through perfectly coordinated winding and cycling processes. Here, Schlafhorst achieves unique improvements with a complete comprehensive solution. The upper yarn sensor, aerodynamically optimised suction nozzle, SmartCycle with intelligent cycling sequence and SmartJet in the doffer work in perfect harmony.

Economics: Up to 6 percent higher productivity

The Autoconer X6 has been consistently designed for maximum economy. Extra-long machines with up to 96 winding units increase productivity per square metre. The Bobbin Cloud reliably supplies all winding units along the entire length with material at the highest cycle rates.

Benefit from the quality benchmark

Autoconer packages are considered the benchmark for package quality in the textile industry — both in commodity and special applications. Even in its basic configuration, the Autoconer ensures high-quality packages with many functional details; the package build offers high process reliability and thus higher benefits in downstream processing. With innovations in splicing technology, the Autoconer X6 offers interesting possibilities for successfully processing modern, sophisticated yarns.

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: The Saurer Group

CORDURA® Brand Expands TrueLock™ Fiber Platform, Powered By INVISTA Solution Dyed Nylon (SDN) Technology For Enhanced Color Durability

WICHITA, Kan. — July 23, 2018 —  INVISTA’s CORDURA® brand launches new TrueLock™ brand to propel and underscore its commitment to best-in-class solution-dyed nylon (SDN) 6,6 fiber technology innovation and its commitment to developing the durable, eco-efficient fabric solutions of tomorrow. A new Wolf Gray color debut at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, July 23-26, 2018,  leads the pack of the brand’s next generation of durable colors.

Cordura TrueLock fiber is created from INVISTA nylon 6,6 multi-filament fiber that is solution dyed, locking the color in at the molten polymer extrusion level to create deep, durable color throughout the entire fiber structure.

The announcement is a major milestone for Invista’s Camden, S.C., facility, which expanded last year to increase U.S. capacity of high-tenacity, specialty fibers for Cordura fabrics. The Camden investment has accelerated progress in the development of new SDN capabilities, which complement the facility’s existing high tenacity nylon 6,6 filament fiber manufacturing processes. Plans currently being put into action at Camden include expansion of the Cordura TrueLock filament product line to introduce additional standard colors and deniers, as well as the flexibility to work to smaller minimum order quantities and custom colorways.

MMI Textiles, a premier supplier and one-stop shop supplying fabric, webbing and elastics in the textile marketplace for more than 21 years, is the exclusive North American provider of fabrics and webbing made with the new Wolf Gray Cordura TrueLock fiber, now through December 2018. Solution-dyed Cordura TrueLock fiber is also available in six classic colors designed to not fade or diminish over time — Desert Sand, Tan, Coyote, Ranger Green, Camo Green and Black.

Cordura TrueLock fiber is a key component of the Cordura CaresSM initiative and aligns with Invista’s efforts to communicate its commitment to conserve resources, reduce emissions, protect the environment and increase the utility and durability of its products, with the end-goal of providing long-term value to its customers and society.

Since its launch in 2009, the Cordura Cares Program remains committed to supporting efforts that promote environmental, health and safety excellence and corporate citizenship. Anchored by its tagline “Sustainability Begins with Products that Last™,” the program pursues goals in four key pillars: responsible manufacturing, sustainable performance, enduring materials, and corporate citizenship.

The process of color encapsulation used in Cordura TrueLock fiber offers several environmental benefits such as reduced water and energy consumption*, and reduced dye and chemical usage in textile processing. The fiber also delivers additional tangible benefits, including:

  • Abrasion resistant color;
  • UV fade resistant color;
  • Inherent stain resistance;
  • Color that doesn’t bleed or crock;
  • Lot-to-lot color consistency/color uniformity;
  • Color consistency across different textile components (ex., fabric and webbing); and
  • Option for fiber with inherent Near-Infrared (NIR) capability.

“Throughout our 50-year journey, we’ve worked to establish a foundation built on durable and long-lasting fiber technologies, including our legacy of solution dyed, high-performance nylon 6,6 offerings,” said Cindy McNaull, global Cordura brand and marketing director. “As we advance on this journey, we continue to invest and expand our capabilities to include solutions that are not only durable, but step lighter on the path to sustainability. Our recent Camden facility expansion will allow us to provide enhanced nylon 6,6 fiber offerings with added performance and eco-efficiency benefits, opening our doors to the next generation of durable fabrics.”

Take the Cordura TrueLock journey at booth #54037-UL at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver.

*2013 LCA study based on the average comparison of conventional level acid Piece Dyeing to SDN at 3 independent/3rd party dyeing and finishing mills located in China, Taiwan and Korea.

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: INVISTA’s CORDURA® Brand

DuPont™ Sorona® Brand Becomes bluesign® System Partner

WILMINGTON, Del. — July 23, 2018 — DuPont Industrial Biosciences announced today its partnership with bluesign® for the bio-based, high-performance polymer Sorona®. The bluesign® system unites the textile supply chain to jointly reduce its impact on people and the environment, ensure responsible use of resources, and guarantee the highest level of consumer safety.

DuPont™ Sorona is a versatile polymer comprised of 37 percent renewable plant-based ingredients, using 30 percent less energy and releasing 63 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions as compared to Nylon 6. In addition to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, Sorona polymer combines eco-efficiency with function for use in a variety of applications due to its performance attributes. Its exceptional softness, inherent stain resistance and uncompromising durability offer a sustainable, high-performing material option for customers throughout the supply chain.

As a bluesign system partner, DuPont Sorona brand joins a growing collection of chemical suppliers, manufacturers and brands that are responsible acting parties of the textile value chain. The partners are committed to applying the system in their business through continuous improvement of environmental performance and a focus on a sustainable future.

“This recognition from bluesign as a verifier and supporting partner of the responsible industry underscores the commitment of Sorona brand to embracing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact in the long term,” said Rene Molina, global product manager for DuPont Industrial Biosciences. “With Sorona polymer, we’re not only providing customers with an eco-efficient, practical materials solution, but also laying the groundwork for a sustainable textile future — and this certification truly reinforces our mission.”

To qualify for the bluesign system partnership, DuPont Sorona brand completed a comprehensive company assessment and roadmap meeting — demonstrating its merit for the certification of its products.

“Our unique Input Stream Management approach ensures approved chemicals and raw materials, such as DuPont Sorona polymer, are used in all steps of the manufacturing processes to reduce risks to both people and the environment at the very beginning of the supply chain,” said Kurt Schlaepfer, head, Customer Relations Management at bluesign technologies. “Sustainable chemical and material inputs are the foundation for the bluesign system, driving a socially and environmentally responsible value chain within the textile industry, and the natural origins of DuPont Sorona polymer adeptly align with the bluesign criteria.”

Posted July 23, 2018

Source: DuPont Industrial Biosciences

Concept III Announces North American Partnership With HeiQ

RED BANK, N.J. — July 20, 2018 — Concept III announces a new partnership with HeiQ, wherein Concept III will help optimize sales channels and bolster HeiQ’s brand presence across North America.

For 35 years, Concept III has helped source and produce some of the most advanced textiles available. It is highly revered for working closely with the world’s premier mills and technology innovators and bringing their fabric-based creations to market. Today, Concept III’s customers include some of the world’s most iconic apparel brands.

“We really pride ourselves on our ability to work with the world’s best, so it’s a real honor to have HeiQ as a partner,” said Chris Parkes, president of Concept III. “As HeiQ forges ahead to become a global leader in textile innovations, I know my team will be unrelenting in achieving their goals for this region.”

Founded in 2005, HeiQ is a global company located in eight countries across four continents. Comprised of industry-leading researchers and development specialists, HeiQ is revered for its use of disruptive technologies to create some of the most inventive high-performance textile effects.

“In our search for a North American partner, we knew it was critical for us to have someone who not only had clout in the industry but also demonstrates a sincere commitment to pushing new textile innovations to the forefront,” said Carlo Centonze, CEO and founder of HeiQ. “Knowing of Concept III’s market expertise and reputation for integrity, it was clear they had to be our partner.”

Concept III and HeiQ will be present at Outdoor Retailer in Denver from July 23 to 26. To learn more about this partnership or how either company can benefit you, stop by the Concept III booth #54069-UL.

Posted July 20, 2018

Source: Concept III

JEC Group’s Frédérique MUTEL Has Been Promoted To The Rank Of Officer In The Order Of The Legion Of Honour

PARIS — July 20, 2018 — Frédérique MUTEL has just been promoted to the rank of Officer in the Order of the Legion of Honour by decree of the President of the French Republic, on July 13, 2018.

Frédérique MUTEL dedicated herself to advanced technologies at Dassault Group Sogitec, Accenture, Thales and Blenheim before joining the company JEC, recently created to develop composite materials, in 1997.

From 1997 to 2018, Frédérique MUTEL, president of JEC Group, made a major contribution to the composites industry. Her pioneering and unifying work helped to secure the international exposure of this industry.

Posted July 20, 2018

Source: JEC Group

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