James Fielding Joins Xcel Brands Inc. Board Of Directors

NEW YORK CITY — July 12, 2018 — Xcel Brands Inc. announced today the appointment of Jim Fielding to its Board of Directors. An expert merchant who has been a leader in both media and retail, Fielding currently serves as president, Consumer Products and Innovation at Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp. and Fox Network Group, one of the major American film studios.

Robert D’Loren, chairman and CEO, Xcel Brands Inc. said: “We are thrilled to have Jim Fielding join our Board of Directors. Jim brings extensive experience in licensing, merchandising, media and entertainment, and retail, while also bringing strong relationships in the media and retail industries to our Board and Xcel.  We look forward to working with him as Xcel expands its reach and partnerships within television and new media.”

A 25-year veteran in the consumer retail space, Fielding previously served as the Global Head of Consumer Products for Dreamworks Animation and Awesomeness TV.  Prior to that, Fielding served as the CEO of Claire’s Stores Inc., where he oversaw strategic growth and international development for the retail chain’s 3,000-plus stores worldwide. Previously, he was the President of Disney Stores Worldwide, a role in which he led a $1.2 billion global business that operated 360 stores in 12 countries, as well as the DisneyStore.com e-commerce business. Prior to his 11-year tenure at the Walt Disney Company, Fielding served as General Merchandise Manager for the co-ed division of Lands’ End. He previously held several key roles in the merchandising world at companies such as the Gap, the J. Peterman Co. and Dayton-Hudson.

“I’m honored to join the Xcel Board and look forward to working with my colleagues and management to support and advance their vision to reimagine shopping, entertainment, and social as one,” said Fielding.

Fielding’s appointment to Xcel’s board fills a vacancy following the retirement of Richard Kirschenbaum.  In accordance with Xcel’s board procedures, Fielding will be a candidate for re-election to the board at the company’s annual meeting of stockholders.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Xcel Brands, Inc.

Valmet To Supply A Third Advantage Tissue Production Line To Lila Group In Turkey

ESPOO, Finland — July 13, 2018 — Valmet will supply a complete Valmet Advantage DCT 200 tissue line to the Turkish tissue manufacturer Lila Group in Corlu, 100 kilometers west of Istanbul. The TM3 line will be equipped with all state-of-the-art options available including stock-preparation and an extensive automation package to achieve production with high efficiency and low energy consumption. Start-up is planned for 2020.

Valmet has previously delivered two Advantage DCT 200 tissue lines to the same mill. TM1 started up in 2007 and TM2 in 2012. In addition to the new tissue line, Lila Group also ordered a rebuild of their TM1 and TM2 to Advantage ViscoNip press configuration.

The orders were included in Valmet’s second quarter of 2018 orders received. The value of the order will not be disclosed.

“For us it is important to collaborate with a supplier who understands our demands and has the capability to deliver equipment that can meet our targets for efficient production, low energy consumption and high tissue quality. From our experience, we know that Valmet provides the best technology for our needs. In addition to the new tissue machine, we also have high expectations to improve our operations on TM1 and TM2 with the rebuild of the press sections,” says Orhan Ogucu, Chairman of Lila Group.

“The Valmet Advantage DCT 200 concept with the Advantage ViscoNip press has become standard in the Turkish tissue market. We are happy to once again be trusted as a partner, supporting Lila Group’s expansion plans and are looking forward to working together realizing their targets,” says Björn Magnus, Sales Director, EMEA, Valmet.

Technical information about the delivery

Valmet’s tissue machine delivery will comprise of a complete Advantage DCT 200 tissue production line with stock preparation equipment and the Advantage tissue technology. The scope will also include an extensive automation package with DCS, QCS and Softness sensor. Start-up, commissioning and training are also part of the delivery.

The new machine TM3 will add a capacity of 70,000 tons of tissue products for the domestic and export market.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Valmet Corporation

Orion Engineered Carbons Specialty Carbon Black Price Increase

LUXEMBOURG — July 13, 2018 — Orion Engineered Carbons announced today that it will implement price increases on all Specialty Carbon Blacks worldwide beginning September 1, 2018.

These actions are due to the continuously rising costs for raw materials and freight.  Increases will vary depending on the product grade, sales region and end market. These price increases are needed to maintain the service levels and technical support customers expect with Orion’s high quality Specialty Carbon Blacks.

Orion will review its costs and markets on an ongoing basis and will keep customers informed of any changes that may occur. In case of questions, contact your local Orion sales representative.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Orion Engineered Carbons S.A.

H&M Group Praised By Greenpeace For Leading The Way On Responsible Water And Chemicals Management

STOCKHOLM, Sweden— July 12, 2018 — At H&M group we have been working on a responsible water and chemicals management in our supply chain for many years, having one of the strictest standards in the industry. With our commitment to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals, we took this to yet another level and increased our ambition to lead the way towards a toxic-free fashion industry as a whole together with other brands and partners.

Among the big fashion brands/companies, H&M, Inditex, Benetton and Fast Retailing are leading the pack. Greenpeace report Destination Zero: seven years of Detoxing the clothing industry.

The latest report from Greenpeace praises the progress and achievements of committed companies, like H&M group, on key areas such as water, chemicals and circularity. It also raises the challenges the industry as a whole faces, which we remain committed to tackle, together with our partners, other brands and increasingly also with the support of policy-makers. Our global partnership with WWF or our work with other brands within the Swedish Textile Water Initiative (STWI), which aims to improve industry standards on water and chemical management and energy use, are some examples of that.

“Solving environmental challenges is not something a single company or organisation can do on their own. Collaboration is fundamental when it comes to industry-wide challenges such as water and chemicals management, and it is also necessary to set up next steps at industry level as it is stated in the report from Greenpeace,” says Ylva Weissbach, Sustainability Business Expert on chemicals at H&M group.

H&m Group’s Goals On Water And Chemicals Management And Circularity

  • Our vision to lead the change towards a toxic free fashion future includes our commitment to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals and hence achieve zero discharge of such substances from the production of our products by 2020 and to achieve full traceability of input chemicals by 2030.
  • Our partnership with WWF aims to lead the fashion industry on key environmental impacts towards solutions that fit within the boundaries of our planet, both at H&M group’s value chain and beyond, having a special focus on water and climate.
  • The way we address our water and chemicals management is crucial to achieve H&M group’s ambition to become circular, which includes among others, our aim to only use recycled or other sustainably sourced materials by 2030 and to become climate positive by 2040.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: H&M Group

Kaman Composites/Wichita Announces New Work With Bell

WICHITA, Kan. — July 12, 2018 — Kaman Composites – Wichita Inc. (KCW), announced today that Bell Helicopter (Bell) has signed a purchasing agreement for KCW to build flight critical skin and skin to core composite assemblies for Bell model 407, 409 and 412 helicopters. KCW, a subsidiary of Kaman Aerospace Group Inc. and part of its Aerosystems Division, is a leading supplier of complex composite structures, components, and assemblies for the commercial and defense aerospace industry.

“This award demonstrates the strength in the ongoing collaboration between Kaman and Bell as we look forward to deliveries commencing later this year with production continuing through 2022,” said Mark Withrow vice president and general manager, Kaman Composites U.S.

“KCW’s continued outstanding performance and value across multiple platforms with skin and skin to core composite assembly production made this award possible,” added John Unghire, senior director, Business Development.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Kaman Aerosystems

Cathleen Benko Joins Nike Inc. Board Of Directors

BEAVERTON, Ore. — July 12, 2018 — NIKE Inc. today announced that Cathleen Benko has been appointed to the company’s Board of Directors.

Benko, 59, is vice chairman and managing principal of Deloitte LLP.

“Cathy’s proven leadership in advising the world’s most influential technology companies will be a tremendous benefit to Nike’s digital transformation,” said Mark Parker, chairman, president and CEO, Nike Inc.

A former leader in Deloitte’s “Digital Giants” practice, Benko has guided several highly-respected global businesses in driving transformational efforts critical to creating shareholder value.

Appointed Deloitte Consulting’s first Global e-Business Leader and subsequently serving as its technology sector leader, Benko was instrumental in positioning the firm’s services and capability development for the post-internet marketplace. She subsequently went on to serve as Deloitte’s first Chief Talent Officer where she devised a more agile and inclusive career development model. As the leader of Deloitte’s award-winning Women’s Initiative and broader Inclusion focus, Benko led vanguard efforts that spurred innovation in diversity.

A graduate of Harvard Business School (HBS), Benko currently serves as a member of Catalyst’s Board of Advisors and chairs the HBS Advisory Council.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: NIKE Inc.

Lakeland Industries Announces Promotion Of Charles D. Roberson To COO

RONKONKOMA, N.Y. — July 12, 2018 — Lakeland Industries Inc. — a global manufacturer of protective clothing for industry, healthcare and to first responders on the federal, state and local levels — today announced the appointment of Charles D. Roberson to the position of COO, effective immediately. Roberson’s appointment is a promotion from his role as the company’s senior vice president, head of International Sales & Research & Development.  He replaces Stephen M. Bachelder who retired as COO from the company in March 2017.

“Charlie has been an invaluable contributor to Lakeland’s strategic direction and global growth for many years. As one of the industry’s most respected professionals, we are pleased to have appointed him as COO,” said Christopher J. Ryan, president and CEO of Lakeland Industries. “Under his leadership, we have doubled our international sales and elevated Lakeland to a very prominent worldwide market position. More recently, he also has spearheaded the development of new products which are unique to the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) market and are expected to continue to drive revenue growth and profitability.”

As COO, Roberson will leverage his 33 year career in textiles, 27 of which are in the PPE industry, to further enhance Lakeland’s sales, marketing, product development, manufacturing, distribution and customer service activities. With six patents for PPE fabrics and garments, he was the designer of Lakeland’s ChemMAX chemical protection product line. His experience in the industry and with Lakeland position Roberson to accelerate the company’s new product initiatives, including the domestic and worldwide launch of innovative Arc/FR rated rainwear for the electric and gas utility sectors and disposable garments for pharmaceutical clean room applications.

Roberson, age 55, has served as Lakeland’s senior vice president of International Sales since March 2009 and head of Research & Development since 2008. In 2008, he added the responsibilities of being the company’s head of Research & Development. Roberson joined Lakeland in 2004 as Technical Marketing Manager and later served as International Sales Manager. He has represented Lakeland to various standards writing bodies and currently sits on the Board of Trustees for the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA).  Prior to joining Lakeland, Roberson was employed by Precision Fabrics Group Inc. as a market manager from 1995 to 2001 and as a Nonwovens Manufacturing manager from 1991 to 1995. He began his career as a manufacturing manager for Burlington Industries Inc. in its Menswear Division from 1985 to 1991.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Lakeland Industries Inc.

Stäubli To Exhibit At Exintex 2018

PFÄFFIKON, Switzerland — July 5, 2018 — Stäubli will be among the exhibitors when the Exintex trade fair opens its doors in Puebla, Mexico this October. This major business platform for the Latin American textile industry is taking place within a challenging economic environment. For weaving and knitting mills to remain competitive, they must find ways to boost productivity and efficiency. Visitors to the Stäubli booth at no. 110-111 will have an excellent opportunity to find out how Stäubli’s solutions for workflow automation, automated weaving preparation, shedding for frame and Jacquard weaving, and sock knitting can help them optimize their mill operations and reinforce their market position.

SAFIR S40 – automatic drawing in for denim and gray material warps

With the SAFIR S40 automatic drawing-in installation, Stäubli offers further time savings in the weaving preparation process for cotton fabrics. Featuring AWC (ActiveWarpControl) technology, this machine assures one-stroke drawing in into drop wires, healds, and reed, resulting in perfectly aligned yarns with no crossed or double ends. The end product of this efficient warp preparation is a perfectly prepared weaving harness that leads to first-quality fabrics and higher weaving machine output. This installation allows optimized workflow planning, including just-in-time preparation if needed. Different installation layout possibilities are possible, in accordance with the available space and the mill’s transport equipment. This flexible machine can easily be integrated into any weaving mill.

High-speed frame weaving solutions for standard woven applications

The broad range of Stäubli cam motions and dobbies includes ideal machines for any type of weft insertion system for any application. The latest generation of the S3000 and S3200 series of rotary dobbies incorporates a new locking system, which is the heart of every dobby. This evolutionary feature provides enhanced security for heald frame selection, allowing higher running speeds, superior reliability, and less noise and vibration. And Stäubli has increased the efficiency of frame weaving installations even further with its recently launched maintenance-free harness motions.

Extremely reliable Jacquard machines for high-quality fabrics

When it comes to Jacquard weaving, mills can choose from Stäubli’s wide and competitive range of Jacquard machines. The renowned SX model is very robust, wear-resistant, and designed for many years of daily use with a minimum of maintenance. Available in two formats (1,408 or 2,688 hooks) the machine supports excellent results in the form of e.g. terry cloth, apparel fabrics, or seat cover fabrics.

For large-format patterned fabrics with heavy weaving loads, Stäubli offers the LX series, including the LXL Jacquard machine, designed for extra-heavy load capacity. This model can be equipped with 6,144 to 16,384 hooks. Formats up to 32,768 can be achieved by combining two machines. And because a precisely matched Jacquard system gives mills even higher performance, Stäubli offers high-end harnesses for any application, which also enables weavers to swiftly respond to changing market needs.

From terry cloth to technical textiles, Stäubli Jacquard machines master every challenge and allow the mill to profit from quality results while reducing production time thanks to very high running speeds.

Automatic toe-linking device for a shorter sock production process

Stäubli’s recently launched D4S device is an automation solution that significantly shortens the production process for socks. Socks must no longer be removed from the knitting machine for closing the toe on a separate machine. The D4S can be mounted directly on the circular sock knitting machine; it closes the sock immediately after knitting. The D4S significantly increases output and ensures optimum quality. It is also available for new circular knitting machines.

Original spare parts for longevity and close customer service

Stäubli wants its customers to get the most out of their machines, benefitting from long and dependable operation and maximum service life. That’s why Stäubli specialists help mills select the right equipment for their needs, support the mill during installation and startup, ensure local after-sales service, and assure availability of original spare parts even many years after the purchase.

The pioneering products of Stäubli are the result of a well-balanced combination of reliable performance, technical perfection, and proven technologies and relied on by weavers around the world to produce high-quality fabrics for demanding markets such as the automotive sector.

Posted July 13, 2018

Source: Stäubli Group

AREVO Unveils First 3D-Printed Carbon-Fiber eBike

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — July 12, 2018 — AREVO® today announced the launch of its eBike — the world’s first battery-assisted bike using a 3-D carbon fiber frame. On the heels of launching the first 3-D printed all terrain city bike in May, AREVO’s eBike is another real-world example of the company’s capabilities and time savings that come with its one-of-a-kind, 3-D printing process.

AREVO’s 3-D printing process combines software, robotics, machine learning and thermoplastic materials to provide designers and manufacturers with unprecedented freedom to create products with unparalleled strength and durability. As a result, AREVO’s eBike can be customized for individual riders, printed as and when needed at scale, and competitively manufactured anywhere in the world.

“We have created a new paradigm for manufacturing that empowers businesses to create and source products locally by leveraging advancements in dynamic software and automation,” said Jim Miller, CEO of AREVO. “The development of the eBike has proven that we can 3-D print a new product when needed, at a low cost and localize the manufacturing process — significantly cutting down on the process and time it has taken historically to create bike frames.”

AREVO partnered with OECHSLER, a manufacturer mainly for automotive and medical parts, to leverage their DRIVEMATIC three-speed automatic gearbox with AREVO’s 3D printed carbon fiber frame for an electric 3D printed bike. The bike has a unique feature set ideal for the modern bike commuter including Bluetooth capability and smartphone connectivity to easily track bike data like battery life, current speed and distance.

“We’re committed to being at the forefront of manufacturing innovation, and partnering with AREVO allowed us to explore a unique use case for our integrated drive system,” said Michael Oppermann, Director Business Development, from OECHSLER. “With AREVO’S ability to quickly produce custom bike frames, we’ll be able to meet the increasing demand for eBikes at a fraction of the time, cost and environmental impact of the standard bike production process.”

Posted July 12, 2018

Source: AREVO

Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Rebar: A Revolution In Concrete Construction

DHAHRAN, Saudi Arabia — July 11, 2018 — Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) rebar has brought a concrete construction revolution that is in full alignment with Saudi Aramco efforts to promote nonmetallic solutions.

The corrosion resistant rebar is an ideal replacement of steel reinforcement for the aggressive environment in the region. And at only one-quarter the weight of steel, FRP rebar is easy to transport and construct.

Recently, the company successfully implemented FRP rebar in the foundations of a 400-meter long perimeter in one of its construction projects. The FRP rebar was much faster to construct than conventional steel rebar due to its lightweight and prefabricated nature.

In a parallel effort, Engineering Services, Project Management, and Procurement and Supply Chain Management are undertaking a major initiative to use FRP rebar in a 21-kilometer long storm water drainage channel in the Jazan Economic City project. Once constructed, it will be the largest project ever to be constructed using FRP rebar in the world.

A short history of FRP rebar

A few years back, Saudi Aramco collaborated with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and King Saud University, on separate projects to evaluate the performance and durability of FRP rebar and FRP sheets under the typical local environmental conditions — specifically considering exposure to alkaline solutions (i.e., seawater and subkha), acidic solutions, thermal variation, the outdoors, and fire. The results of these studies confirmed the excellent potential for the use of these materials on new construction and for the strengthening or repair of existing structures.

Realizing the many benefits of FRP rebar in construction, Saudi Aramco has recently mandated FRP rebar be included in its engineering standards for noncritical structural members such as slab on grade, drainage channels, sidewalks, and pipe sleepers. Consequently, extensive efforts are being exerted to localize the manufacturing of the FRP rebar to meet the increasing demand. As a result, many international manufacturers have submitted plans to build manufacturing facilities in Kingdom.

What is FRP rebar?

FRP rebar simply consists of fibers (glass or carbon) embedded into a matrix (polymer). These rebars are manufactured by a process called pultrusion — a process that involves the pulling of the fibers through a liquid resin and then passing them through a heated steel die.

The resin, an oil-based product, acts as a “binder” to hold the fibers together and transfer the load to the fibers. The fibers provide the strength and other mechanical properties.

The final product is tested and qualified to verify mechanical properties, bonding with concrete, and durability.

Organizations such as the American Concrete Institute and the American Society of Testing Materials have developed design and construction criteria, as well as materials specifications for the manufacturing of FRP rebar. Saudi Aramco has adapted these standards to regulate FRP rebar qualities.

Posted July 12, 2018

Source: Saudi Aramco

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