Phoseon Technology: Manufacturers Increasingly Turn To UV LED Technology For Filament Coating

HILLSBORO, Ore. — August 21, 2017 — High demand for coated filaments across a wide and growing spectrum of applications ranging from cell phones to fabrics, is causing manufacturers to increasingly turn to Phoseon Technology’s revolutionary UV LED curing because of the advantages it offers compared with traditional UV or arc light curing methods.

There are many types of coated filaments, ranging from copper wire covered with a thin layer of insulation used in everyday appliances, to coated threads used in specialized clothing materials that improve athletic performance, personal comfort and protection from the elements.

Until recently, manufacturers cured the coating on filaments using UV or arc lights. Now an increasing number of manufacturers utilize Phoseon Technology’s UV LED curing for filament coating because it produces faster and more consistent results than traditional curing methods.

“UV LED curing uses a fine-tuned light source that enables better process control, resulting in a superior and more consistent overall product,” said Ed Kiyoi, technical marketing engineer at Phoseon Technology. “That process control leads to higher yields and reduces scrap for manufacturers.”

The communications industry is fueling increasing demand for coated filaments, with needs ranging from fiber optic cable to copper wire.

“Fiber optic cable is used for most of the world’s data networking and telecommunications, including internet, cable television and telephone systems, because it can transmit data over long distances,” said Kiyoi. “Other technologies, such as cell phones, also are driving up demand for coated filaments. Most people aren’t aware how much fine copper wire is used in a single cell phone speaker, and most cellphones contain three or more small speakers.”

Rapid curing and improved process consistency are important benefits, but UV LED curing also can reduce operation costs and energy usage up to 70 percent. In addition, because UV LED curing does not contain mercury, which is used in arc lights, it is safer for the environment and workplace.

Furthermore, UV LED curing enables manufacturers to produce filament coatings that are not possible with conventional methods. For example, because UV LED curing creates less heat than traditional arc or microwave lamps, it allows manufacturers to coat fine thread with specialized chemicals to produce “smart textiles” for applications such as protective clothing.

“There have been tremendous advancements in coating materials in recent years,” said Kiyoi. “We’re working closely with companies that develop coating materials so we can continue to improve the curing process and adapt our technology to keep pace with coatings advancements.

“In some cases, UV LED curing allows manufacturers the ability to do coatings they otherwise couldn’t,” he added “In all cases, UV LED technology enables the curing process to be done faster and more efficiently with less waste.”

In addition to “smart textiles”- fabrics used in clothing that can do everything from heat or cool the wearer to biometric clothing that monitors the wearer’s energy usage, heart rate and sweat level — another coating advancement is for medical applications in which the threads of bandages are coated with medications that are released in select doses at specified intervals.

“While there is an investment in the UV LED curing equipment, and the company may have to change its process to adapt to the new curing equipment, many companies see a return on their investment very quickly,” Kiyoi said. “The adoption rate of UV LED curing is accelerating, and the more companies that change over, the more it influences others to make the change.”

In addition to curing filament coatings, Phoseon Technology’s UV LED technology also is used in a wide range of other applications, such as printing on paper, film, plastic and glass, as well as in manufacturing and wood coating.

Posted August 21, 2017

Source: Phoseon Technology

Standard Textile And Vestagen Establish Strategic Partnership For VESTEX® Apparel For Healthcare Workers

Cincinnati/Orlando, Fla. — August 18, 2017 — Standard Textile Co. Inc. and Vestagen Protective Technologies Inc. announced this week a strategic partnership to market VESTEX® Active Barrier1 garments that are designed to minimize the risks to healthcare workers associated with unexpected exposures to body fluids during everyday use. The co-exclusive sales and marketing agreement covers acute and post-acute healthcare facilities in the U.S. and Canada. Standard Textile healthcare sales representatives will be supported by Vestagen personnel, who will also take the lead on working with institutional customers during the implementation process.

“For over 70 years, Standard Textile has been synonymous with innovation in the hospitality, healthcare, workwear and consumer sectors,” said Norman Frankel, Executive Vice President/Sales at Standard Textile. “With VESTEX, we are offering breakthrough technology for healthcare workers that complements our existing specialty product lines designed to address the unique needs of healthcare institutions. The growing environmental risks to workers and patients in the healthcare setting are well-documented. Vestagen is a pioneer in the development of “active barrier” fabric that incorporates multiple technologies to help minimize these risks while being comfortable and durable for everyday use. We are delighted to partner with Vestagen to bring garments made with this outstanding product to our American and Canadian customers.”

“This strategic partnership with Standard Textile, one of the best established and most respected innovators in healthcare and hospitality textiles, is potentially transformational for Vestagen,” said Bill Bold, Chief Executive Officer of Vestagen Protective Technologies. “Healthcare uniforms made with our unique VESTEX Active Barrier fabric are increasingly being adopted by healthcare leaders such as New York’s Northwell Health. This partnership with Standard Textile now gives us the reach to bring VESTEX garments to healthcare workers throughout the U.S. and Canada.”

VESTEX fabric is a unique combination of technologies that addresses the need for continuous-wear, comfortable healthcare worker and patient garments intended to minimize the risks associated with unanticipated exposure to body fluids during routine use, by repelling fluid splatter and spills from the fabric. VESTEX fabric is breathable and it contains an EPA-registered antimicrobial agent2 shown in controlled conditions in laboratory and hospital settings to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria on the fabric3,4 A peer-reviewed hospital-based study published in a leading medical journal showed reduced acquisition and retention of certain microorganisms on VESTEX scrubs under the study conditions compared to conventional healthcare uniforms.

VESTEX Active Barrier apparel has earned the exclusive endorsement of the American Hospital Association.

1 Neither liquid repellency nor antimicrobial tests are intended to assess the VESTEX active barrier apparel’s ability to meet personal protective equipment requirements. The ability of the fabric to reduce exposure to microorganisms or infections has not been studied.

2 VESTEX garments do not protect users or others against disease-causing bacteria. Always clean the garment thoroughly after each use.

3 Bearman, G., Rosato, A., Elam, K., Sanogo, K., Stevens, M., Sessler, C., and Wenzel, R. P., “A Cross-over Trial of Antimicrobial Scrubs to Reduce MRSA Burden on Healthcare Worker Apparel,” Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol., Vol. 33, No. 3, 2012, pp. 268–275.

4 Hardwick, Matthew, Walsh, Thomas, and Cotton, Margaret, “Fabric Challenge Assays: New Standards for the Evaluation of the Performance of Textiles Treated with Antimicrobial Agents,” Pesticide Formulation and Delivery Systems: Innovating Legacy Products for New Uses on November 1–3, 2011 in Tampa FL; STP 1558, M. Bernards, Editor, pp. 1–14, doi: 101520/STP155820120184, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA 2013.

Posted August 17, 2017

Source: Standard Textile Co., Inc.

Governor Cooper Announces 145 New Jobs In Randolph County With Fibertex Personal Care’s First U.S. Manufacturing Facility

RALEIGH, N.C. — Aug 14, 2017 — Governor Cooper announced today that Fibertex Personal Care, a Denmark-based textile company, will add 145 jobs in Asheboro, N.C., with its first U.S. manufacturing facility. The company plans to invest $60 million by December 31, 2021, with a project facilitated in part by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG).

“Fibertex Personal Care could go anywhere in the world, but they chose North Carolina,” said Governor Cooper. “Our state’s workforce and leadership in manufacturing and textiles brought this company here.”

Fibertex Personal Care manufactures nonwoven materials for different applications in the personal care industry, including diapers, feminine hygiene and incontinence care products. In addition to nonwovens production, the company also delivers print on nonwovens — the Innowo Print brand — from its printing facilities in Germany and Malaysia. Fibertex Personal Care is headquartered in Denmark and has 600 global employees at facilities in Denmark, Malaysia and Germany. This project will be its first U.S.-based manufacturing operation and will include a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility with a focus on printing on nonwovens.

“Fibertex Personal Care joins the growing number of global manufacturing companies selecting our state,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Anthony M. Copeland. “Randolph County and Asheboro, with choice sites, strong business and education environments and stellar quality of life made a winning combination for the company.”

The North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C. (EDPNC) led the state’s support for the company’s expansion.

Fibertex Personal Care will add a variety of job functions in Randolph County with this project, including administrative personnel and technical workers.  Salaries for the new positions will vary with an average salary projected to exceed $40,000 once all positions are filled. The average salary in Randolph County is $33,974.

“The coming factory in Asheboro will cover the markets of North and South America, which are very important for our expansion,” said Mikael Staal Axelsen, Group CEO of Fibertex Personal Care. “We expect fine growth rates within our niche, and therefore, the factory will need to be operational by the end of 2018. We are very pleased with the cooperation with North Carolina and Randolph County about this project, and look forward to being a part the community in Asheboro.”

The North Carolina project will be facilitated in part by a JDIG, approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today. Over the five-year term of this grant, the project will grow the state’s economy by an estimated $327 million. Using a formula that considers the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $1,966,500, spread over 12 years. State reimbursements only occur following performance verification by N.C. Commerce and N.C. Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments.

Because Fibertex Personal Care chose to locate in Randolph County, the company’s JDIG agreement also calls for moving as much as $218,500 into the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. The Utility Account helps rural communities finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business. Even when new jobs are created in a Tier 2 county such as Randolph, the new tax revenue generated through JDIG grants helps communities across the state.  More information on the state’s economic tier designations is available here.

“Fibertex Personal Care chose the right location in Asheboro for its first facility on U.S. soil,” said Senator Jerry W. Tillman. “I’m proud to welcome the company to our community.”

“The people of Randolph County are ready to welcome the Fibertex Personal Care people and get to work,” said Representative Pat B. Hurley. “Fibertex chose to locate here in Asheboro over any place in America, and we couldn’t be more excited.”

Partnering with N.C. Commerce and the EDPNC on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, the North Carolina Railroad Company, the City of Asheboro, Randolph County, the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation, Duke Energy and Norfolk Southern.

Posted August 17, 2017

Source: The Office Of N.C. Governor Roy Cooper

Association For Advancing Automation Reports Record Setting Growth For North American Robotics Market

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — August 17, 2017 — The Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the leading global advocate for the benefits of automating, announced today the results of its research on robotics and automation trends, sales, and growth. A3 provides quarterly statistical reports to its members for benchmarking and business intelligence purposes. As expected, many records were set in the areas of robotics, machine vision, motion control and motor technology for the first half of 2017.

A snapshot of some of A3’s research findings includes:

Robotics

The North American robotics market had its best opening half ever to begin 2017, setting new records in all four statistical categories (order units, order revenue, shipment units, and shipment revenue). In total, 19,331 robots valued at approximately $1.031 billion were sold in North America during the first half of 2017, which is the highest level ever recorded to begin a year. These figures represent growth of 33 percent in units and 26 percent in dollars over 2016. Automotive related orders grew substantially in that time, increasing 39 percent in units and 37 percent in dollars, while non-automotive orders also grew 21 percent in units and 10% in dollars over the first half of 2016.

Motion Control & Motors

For the first half of 2017, orders for motion control and motor products amounted to $1.622 billion, up 14 percent over the first six months of 2016. Shipments totaled $1.757 billion, up 10 percent over the first half of 2016, and the fastest growing categories in that timeframe, in terms of shipments, were Motion Controllers (21 percent to $97 million), Sensors & Feedback Devices (20 percent to $76 million), Actuators & Mechanical Systems (17 percent to $318 million), and AC Drives (17 percent to $199 million).

Vision & Imaging

In 2017, the machine vision market in North America also posted its best first half performance compared to any other year. A total of $1.241 billion was sold in the first six months of the year, with an increase of 11 percent over the same period in 2016. Machine vision component markets were up 11 percent in total to $177 million and systems increased 10 percent to $1.058 billion. Some notable growth rates were: Lighting (20 percent to $35 million), Smart Cameras (16 percent to $183 million), and Optics (16 percent to $20 million).

Experts expect software to trend up, cameras, lighting, and imaging boards to be flat, and optics to trend down over the next six months. Additionally, expectations are for Application Specific Machine Vision (ASMV) systems to increase and smart cameras to remain flat in the next two quarters.

A3 Expertise

A longtime advocate for and supporter of the robotics, machine vision, motion control and motor markets, A3 is comprised of three sister associations: the Robotic Industries Association (RIA); the Advancing Vision + Imaging Association (AIA); and the Motion Control & Motor Association (MCMA). A3 is currently at a record combined membership of 1,064 as of July 31, 2017.

“Year over year, our membership has been on a steady growth trajectory, the result of more companies understanding, and embracing, the direct impact automation can have on their bottom line,” said Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. “We look forward to the continued advancement of our industry and helping companies of all sizes access the connections, information, and training they need to succeed with automation.”

A3 On the Road

A3 will host several events in the fall of 2017 that support the organizations and industries noted in its research findings. They include:

  • The National Robot Safety Conference, taking place in Pittsburgh, PA, Oct. 10-12;
  • The MCMA Technical Conference, taking place in Minneapolis, MN, Oct. 16-18; and
  • The Collaborative Robots & Advanced Vision Conference, taking place in San Jose, CA, Nov. 15-16.

For more details or to sign up, visit: www.a3automate.org.

Posted August 17, 2017

Source: The Association for Advancing Automation (A3)

Top Value Fabrics Introduces New Latex Performance Textiles

CARMEL, Ind. — August 16, 2017 — Top Value Fabrics has expanded its textiles for latex printing with a new line of Latex Performance Textiles, specifically engineered to create durable, high-quality production graphics utilizing HP Latex Technology.

“Working closely in our partnership with HP, Top Value Fabrics has developed a proprietary coating for our top-selling digitally printable textile products to enhance the durability of HP Latex inks,” said Mike Compton, product marketing manager, Top Value Fabrics. “Printing on our coated textiles with HP Latex print systems and inks provides finished graphic products with rich, brilliant colors with exceptional durability and fastness properties. Our new line of Latex coated products cover a broad spectrum of end use needs including: backlit, frontlit, stretch, banner and sheer fabric applications. These fabrics can be utilized for SEG frame systems, high-end retail, POP, banner stands, backdrops, roll-up displays, tradeshow exhibits and interior decor,” Compton said.

The media in this high-performance line is constructed with a superior print receptive treatment for maximizing the beauty of printing with latex ink technology. After imaging, these fabrics are designed to provide outstanding color consistency, excellent image sharpness and a wide color range. Several of the fabrics are built on similar constructions of best-selling fabrics in our Direct Print Textile line. The new fabrics are called Latex Performance as they feature a proprietary coating for HP Latex Inks.

Posted August 16, 2017

Source: Top Value Fabrics

SGIA Announces Product of the Year Winners To Be On Display At 2017 SGIA Expo

FAIRFAX, Va. — August 14, 2017 — SGIA has announced the winners of the 2017 Product of the Year Awards, and 49 products rose to the top of the 222 entries. A list of category winners is below.

“Wherever we could, we used objective criteria,” said Ray Weiss, Digital Imaging specialist, SGIA. “That means categories like Roll-to-Roll Dye Sublimation on Textile were objectively evaluated to include industry specifications.”

This year’s competition saw several new categories, including die-cutters, automation equipment, RIP and workflow software, and finished garment blanks.

“The uptick in the number of fabrics entered underlines the surge in printing to fabric. In fact, this year we saw the most entries ever in dye sublimation and direct-to-fabric printing,” Weiss added.

Entries will be on display in the Golden Image Gallery at the 2017 SGIA Expo (New Orleans, October 10–12), and the awards will be presented in a special ceremony the night before the SGIA Expo opens.

“Each of the entries is something special,” Weiss said. “I encourage everyone to visit the display in the Golden Image Gallery.”

To register or learn more about the 2017 SGIA Expo, visit SGIAExpo.org.

  • Digital Inks — Textile: Sawgrass (Booth 2975), SubliJet-HD FLEX Sublimation Inks
  • Digital Inks — UV: Marabu North America LP (Booth 2119), UltraJet DUV-GR
  • Finishing — Display/Exhibit Hardware: Windigo Signs (Booth 617), Windigo Portable Sidewalk Sign
  • Finishing — Equipment — Routers/Cutters: Gravograph (Booth 4107), LS900 Energy Laser Engraver
  • Finishing — Equipment — Die Cutters: Rollem International (Booth 1944), Insignia Die Cutters
  • Finishing — Equipment — All Others: Leister (Booth 3356), HEMTEK ST Banner Welder
  • Finishing — Laminates, Adhesives, Films, Coatings: BannerUps E.L. Hatton Sales Co. (Booth 3504), Banner Ups KederTape Adhesive No-Sew Keder for SEG Signs
  • Automation Equipment (Print/Post): Esko (Booth 1321), Kongsberg Automatic Robotics System
  • Software — Workflow/RIP or Web-Based Design, Personalization, or Product Bldg:Onyx Graphics, Inc. (Booth 2435), ONYX Hub
  • Media — Films: Newlife Magnetics LLC (Booth 3049), MIRACLE MAG
  • Media — Non-PVC: Flexmag Industries Inc. (Booth 2401), Flexcoat-EZ 40 in.
  • Media — Adhesive Back (Not Vinyl): Floor Signage LLC/AlumiGraphics (Booth 3168), EZGrip Graphics
  • Media — Rigid/Corrugated: United Visual Products Inc. (Booth 3727), Blank LED Embedded Corrugated Sign
  • Media — Banner (Non-Textile): Vescom America (Booth 3953), VESCOM Metallic Sand
  • Media — Heat Transfer Vinyl/PU/Specialty: Chemica US Corp (Booth 3145), HotMark Revolution
  • Media — Textile — Apparel: Fisher Textiles (Booth 2201), ETP 4310 Uni
  • Media — Textile — Banner: Pacific Coast Fabrics part of TVF (Booth 2445), Heavy Deko-Stretch 8488GFS
  • Media — Textile — Framing Systems: SENFA-DECOPRINT (Booth 4141), ALTERRA
  • Media — Textile — Canvas: Pacific Coast Fabrics part of TVF (Booth 2445), Basketweave Canvas S/565
  • Media — Textile — Wall Covering: Dreamscape (Booth 3151), DreamScape WallWrap Silver Fusion
  • Media — Textile — Home Furnishings: PremEx Solutions (Booth 523), DuraVibe Latex Fabric / Leenane
  • Media — Adhesive Back Vinyl: Mactac — REBEL X-treme, (Booth 3249)
  • Textile — Finished Garment — Synthetic: Vapor Apparel (Booth 2745), Vapor Apparel — Solar Performance Long Sleeve T
  • Textile — Finished Garment — Natural Fiber: Image Armor/i-Group Technologies (Booth 1006), RTP Apparel
  • Textile — Finished Garment — Blends: Terry Town (Booth1652), DP2315 Water Repellent Microfiber Picnic Basket
  • Screen Printing — Pre-Press (Exposure/Imaging): M&R Companies (Booth 531,621), I-Image S Computer-to-Screen Imaging System
  • Screen Printing — Manual Garment Press: Lawson Screen & Digital Products (Booth 413, 901), Lawson Proton
  • Screen Printing — Automatic Garment Press: M&R Companies (Booth 531,621), CHALLENGER III Automatic Screen Printing Press
  • Screen Printing — Curing & Drying Equipment: Brown Manufacturing Group (Booth 1845, 3301), FireFly and Vega Combined Curing System
  • Screen Printing — Post-Press (Clean/Reclaim): Lawson Screen & Digital Products (Booth 413, 901), Lawson Ajax In-Line Reclaimer
  • Direct-to-Garment Printers (White Shirt): OmniPrint International (Booth 2427), 330 TX Plus
  • Direct-to-Garment Printers (Color Shirt — Not White): Kornit Digital (Booth 1617) Kornit Vulcan
  • Flatbed/Hybrid (under $100K): Mutoh America Inc (Booth 2545), ValueJet 1638UH
  • UV Hybrid ($100–$500K): EFI (Booth 1501), EFI Pro 16h
  • UV Flatbed (Under $100K): Canon Solutions America — Océ Display Graphics Systems (Booth 2525), Arizona 365GT
  • UV Flatbed ($100K–$200K): Vanguard Digital Printing Systems (Booth 1967), VK300D
  • UV Flatbed ($200K–$500K): Canon Solutions America — Océ Display Graphics Systems (Booth 2525), Arizona 6160 XTS with High Flow Vacuum
  • UV Flatbed + White ($100K–$200K): Mimaki USA Inc. (Booth 1231, 1345, 1445), JFX200 2531
  • UV Flatbed + White ($200K–$500K): Canon Solutions America — Océ Display Graphics Systems (Booth 2525), Arizona 6170 XTS with High Flow Vacuum
  • Small Flatbed (Industrial/Small Item Decoration): Mutoh America Inc (Booth 2545), ValueJet 626UF
  • Roll-to-Roll Solvent/Latex (Under 80 in.): Mutoh America Inc (Booth 2545), ValueJet 1638X
  • Roll-to-Roll Solvent/Latex (Over 80 in.): HP Inc. (Booth 1029,1045), HP Latex 3600
  • Roll-to-Roll UV (Under 80 in.): Mutoh America Inc. (Booth 2545), ValueJet 1638UH
  • Roll-to-Roll UV (Over 80 in.): Durst Image Technology US, LLC (Booth 1945), Rho 312R Plus
  • RTR/Hybrid/Flatbed New Technology or Inkset: Canon Solutions America — Océ Display Graphics Systems (Booth 2525), Colorado 1640
  • Roll-to-Roll Direct Disperse Ink on Textile: Durst Image Technology US, LLC (Booth 1945), Rhotex 325
  • Roll-to-Roll Dye Sublimation on Textile: EPSON (Booth 1301), Printer Model TBAEditor’s Note: This is a new product that will not be released until September 2017. EPSON has embargoed the product name until that time.
  • Roll-to-Roll Dye Sublimation on Metal: EPSON (Booth 1301), SureColor F6200
  • UV Hybrid/Flatbed High Volume Production Class: Durst Image Technology US, LLC (Booth 1945), Rho P10 250 HS Plus

Posted August 15, 2017

Source: SGIA

Machine Operation Gets Close To Child’s Play With The Monforts Qualitex 800

MONCHENGLADBACH, Germany — August 14, 2017 — The latest Qualitex 800 control system from Monforts is available on line to make operation of the company’s finishing machines ‘childs play’

Access to the internet is turning everyone into an instant handyman and when a job around the house needs doing, YouTube is the place to go to for demonstrations and instructions from experts, just as Wikipedia has become the default source for information.

Previous obstacles to knowledge such as language and access to specialist manuals are fast disappearing as a result.

The same instant connectivity and easy distribution of know-how is changing the face of industrial manufacturing, making the operation of complex machinery much simpler and cutting down the required training periods, while at the same time, reducing the chance of human error.

This is certainly the case with the latest Qualitex 800 control system which has been introduced by Monforts to make operation of its finishing machines as close to ‘child’s play’ as is possible.

This highly advanced system is available for the automatic and continuous operation of the company’s Montex stenters, Thermex and E-Control continuous dyeing ranges, Monfortex and Toptex shrinking systems and Eco Applicator and texCoat coating units.

Familiar Features

The Qualitex 800 has all the intuitive features operators will be familiar with from touchscreen smart phones and tablets to make navigation extremely easy and cut down the time required for becoming familiar with the system.

Operation is via touchscreen and wheel effect selection and the dashboard can be individually configured to meet the exact needs of an operator’s tasks.

All parameters for setting up a machine — the working width, the chamber temperatures, drive selections and energy settings — can be pre-selected to a comprehensive range of stored and well-proven recipes specific to the weight, construction and fibre content of the individual fabric being processed.

The machine can then be set to ‘Monformatic Mode’ to allow it to operate automatically, based on maximized pre-set values in respect of parameters such as machine speed, fabric dwell time and the fixation temperature for specific finishing operations.

A series of checks and balances has been built in for both the machine and the operator, with actual performance constantly compared to the pre-set values and compensatory measures introduced either automatically or by simple manual intervention.

All machine parameters are stored for further evaluation and the creation of historic trend charts and any potential problems are flagged up by instant alarms for later performance analysis.

If a problem occurs that is serious enough to lead to a potential downtime in production, more help is at hand via the Monforts Teleservice portal. With this service, companies can enter into internet conferences with Monforts specialists in Germany, with video, audio, chat or whiteboard problem solving available, and all documentation in respect of operation, maintenance and wiring diagrams can be accessed.

If necessary, the E-CAD drawings and the spare parts catalogue can also be remotely consulted and a camera can be called up at any time for remote visualization of the individual machine and its parts.

Cost Comparisons

The Monforts Teleservice also allows operating data to be acquired for historic analysis and production batch comparisons, with a nine-parameter cost breakdown allowing mills to carry out highly accurate financial forecasting and keep a tight rein on costs.

With the Qualitex 800 and Monforts Teleservice all data and communication can also be accessed away from the mill too, via common mobile devices, as components in an overall service intended to very rapidly and efficiently turn machine operators into experts and allow for uninterrupted, trouble-free production.

Posted August 15, 2017

Source: Monforts

Atkins & Pearce Marks Its Bicentennial Of Manufacturing In America

COVINGTON, Ky. — August 14, 2017 — Atkins & Pearce is about to weave its ways into its third century of U.S. manufacturing.

Atkins & Pearce’s commercial achievements span across the Machine Age, the Industrial Age, the Atomic Age, and the Space Age, meaningful advances in many industries would not have been made over the past 200 years without Atkins & Pearce providing some critical textile component. From the Model A to today’s most advanced automobiles, from the earliest long-distance telegraph to today’s technically complex satellites, Atkins & Pearce’s textile embodiments are as near as your favorite armchair and as far forward as the latest advancements in medicine and aerospace.

Today, Atkins & Pearce’s advanced, high-capacity footprint generates an annual output of just over 10 billion feet or enough narrow technical textiles to wrap the earth 76 times.

Atkins & Pearce is most known for its long history of delivering dependable high quality textile components. It is viewed as a technology enabler across a wide range of technical textile platforms and are counted on for its vast textile know-how wherever industry intersects with high-performance fibers.

“We strive to be viewed not as a supplier of parts, but as a highly reliable long-term partner willing to commit capital, expertise and excellence in execution,” Jeb Head, owner and president, Atkins & Pearce. “By doing this we materially enhance our customer’s ability to achieve their growth strategy faster and with less risk.

Atkins & Pearce’s limits in converting fibers is hard to define; however, the primary markets its supports are:

  • Electrical Motor and Generator Manufacturing;
  • Automotive Manufacturing;
  • Aerospace Design & Production;
  • Sports & Recreation;
  • Industrial Motive Power;
  • Protective Sleeving Solutions;
  • Custom Wicking Systems;
  • Precision Yarn Packaging; and
  • High Strength / Lightweight Textile Systems.

Posted August 15, 2017

Source: Atkins & Pearce

VF Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co.; Raises 2017 Outlook and 2021 Financial Targets

GREENSBORO, N.C. — August 14, 2017 — VF Corp. and Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co. today jointly announced that they have signed a definitive merger agreement.

The transaction is expected to be completed early in the fourth quarter of this year and VF will pay Williamson-Dickie shareholders approximately $820 million in cash. On a trailing 12-month basis, Williamson-Dickie generated approximately $875 million of revenue. Additional details regarding the transaction and the strategic rationale supporting it will be reviewed during a VF conference call held at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. The conference call will be broadcast live via the internet, accessible at ir.vfc.com. An investor presentation is also available for download at the same location.

Well-known Williamson-Dickie brands include: Dickies®, Workrite®, Kodiak®, Terra®, and Walls®. These brands will join VF’s current workwear offerings including: Wrangler® RIGGS Workwear®, Timberland PRO®, Red Kap®, Bulwark®, and Horace Small®. Upon closing, Williamson-Dickie will become part of VF’s Imagewear coalition. Philip Williamson, Chief Executive Officer of Williamson-Dickie will remain with the company, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.

“When we introduced our 2021 global business strategy earlier this year, reshaping our portfolio to accelerate growth was our highest priority,” said Steve Rendle, president and CEO, VF. “The acquisition of Williamson-Dickie is another meaningful step that delivers on that commitment and further demonstrates our focus on being an active portfolio manager to drive transformative growth for VF and value creation for our shareholders.”

“For nearly a century we’ve worked hard to judiciously grow our company and portfolio of strong brands to maintain our leadership in the global workwear marketplace,” said Philip Williamson. “Today’s announcement is an authentic and natural next step as we look to combine the strengths of our two companies to create significant opportunities for our employees, vendors, retail partners and ultimately our customers. We expect that under VF’s leadership, we’ll be able to experience the next wave of growth and better meet the needs of workers everywhere.”

“This acquisition combines two great companies and a group of iconic brands to create a global leader in workwear with approximately $1.7 billion in annual revenue,” Rendle continued. “Williamson-Dickie has a proud history and heritage, and has served a loyal consumer base for nearly 100 years. VF is the ideal steward to honor that heritage while providing a platform for growth that ensures continued success for another century. We look forward to welcoming Williamson-Dickie and its 7,000 dedicated employees to the VF family.”

2017 Outlook Raised

The following outlook for 2017 has been updated to include the impact of the Williamson-Dickie acquisition, excluding transaction and other deal-related expenses, and now includes the following:

  • Revenue is now expected to reach $11.85 billion, up 3.5 percent on a reported basis (up 4.5 percent currency neutral), and includes about a $200 million contribution from Williamson-Dickie. This compares to the previous expectation of $11.65 billion, a 2 percent increase on a reported basis (up 3 percent currency neutral).
  • Gross margin is now expected to reach 49.5 percent, versus the previous expectation of 49.8 percent, and includes the impact of Williamson-Dickie. Excluding the impact of Williamson-Dickie, gross margin is still expected to be 49.8 percent and includes about a 70 basis point negative impact from changes in foreign currency.
  • Operating margin is now expected to approximate 13.7 percent, versus the previous expectation of about 14 percent, and includes the impact of Williamson-Dickie. Excluding the impact of Williamson-Dickie, operating margin is still expected to be about 14 percent and includes about a 60 basis point negative impact from changes in foreign currency.
  • Earnings per share is now expected to be $2.96, versus the previous expectation of $2.94, and includes about a $0.02 contribution from Williamson-Dickie. Accordingly, EPS is expected to decline approximately 1 percent on a reported basis (up at a mid-single-digit percentage rate currency neutral) compared to 2016 adjusted EPS of $2.98. A reconciliation of 2016 GAAP earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share is presented in the supplemental financial information included with the press release dated February 17, 2017.
  • Transaction and deal-related expenses are estimated to approximate $0.04 per share.
    2021 Financial Targets Increased

The following outlook for 2021 has been updated to include the impact of the Williamson-Dickie acquisition, excluding transaction and other deal-related expenses, and includes the following:

  • Revenue through 2021 is now expected to grow at a five-year compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) between 5 percent and 7 percent to more than $15 billion, versus the previous expectation of a 4 percent to 6 percent five-year CAGR. Williamson-Dickie is expected to contribute more than $1 billion of revenue by 2021.
  • Earnings per share is now expected to grow at a five-year CAGR between 11 percent and 13 percent to more than $5.00, versus the previous expectation of a five-year CAGR between 10 percent and 12 percent. Williamson-Dickie is expected to contribute more than $0.25 by 2021.

Barclays is acting as financial advisor to VF Corporation and Davis Polk and Wardwell LLP is acting as legal advisor.

Currency Neutral – Excluding the Impact of Foreign Currency

This release refers to “reported” amounts in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), which include translation and transactional impacts from foreign currency exchange rates. This release also refers to “currency neutral” amounts, which exclude both the impact of translating foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and the impact of currency rate changes on foreign currency denominated transactions.

Posted August 15, 2017

Source: VF Corp.

Indorama Ventures Acquires DuraFiber Technologies

BANGKOK, Thailand — August 15, 2017 — Indorama Ventures Public Co Ltd. (IVL), a global chemical producer, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire DuraFiber Technologies México Operations, S. A. DE C. V. (DFT), a Mexican producer of durable technical textiles for industrial, tire reinforcement, and specialty applications globally. DFT’s Queretaro plant in Mexico (co-sited with IVL Mexico) has a capacity to produce a total of 37,500 tonnes/annum of PET High Modulus Low Shrinkage (PET HMLS), PET Heavy Denier Industrial (PET HDI) and nylon 6 fully-integrated into tire cord fabrics and industrial and industrial textiles. Its products are used in a wide range of applications including reinforcement for conveyor belts, hoses, single-ply roofing, tents, automotive airbags, seat belts, safety harnesses and ropes. The transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2017, subject to the usual regulatory approvals (including the approval by the Mexican Antitrust Commission). Concurrently with this planned acquisition in Mexico, IVL has agreed to also acquire DuraFiber Longlaville, France, having a capacity of 35,000 tonnes/annum, again subject to a definitive agreement, the relevant regulatory approvals and employee approval.

Commenting on the acquisition, Aloke Lohia, Indorama Ventures group CEO, said: “The acquisition of DuraFiber is strongly aligned with our strategy of pursuing accretive growth opportunities in the high value-added automotive segment. DuraFiber’s portfolio is a complementary fit with our current HVA tire cord fabric products in Europe and a strong fit with our existing PET site in Mexico. DuraFiber is a strong brand with recognized products with deep insights into the market combined with IVL’s global scale will enable us to better meet customers’ evolving needs.”

The market is projected to have a growth rate around 6 percent CAGR in 2017-2021. DuraFiber is the sole domestic tire cord fabric producer in Mexico with products approved by major global tire companies.

“The automotive segment is a key growth driver in IVL’s HVA portfolio that will bring exciting developments to the company,” Lohia added. “While PET is still an important backbone for the company, HVA is now accounting for 50 percent of IVL’s core EBITDA. Our focus remains on delivering best-in-class propositions, while driving our global innovation agenda to strengthen the company’s capabilities in the value chain where we are present. I am confident that with the transformational strategy to consolidate our leadership position in key businesses and markets, IVL delivers significant value to our shareholders.”

Key points:

  • Complementary addition to IVL’s Automotive Segment, further strengthening its leading position in US$ 10 billion+ automotive fiber market.
  • A complete portfolio of tire cord fabric products makes IVL the leading fiber partner for the automotive industry.
  • Gains significant presence in Mexico (Americas) and European markets.
  • Synergies across product lines and markets in IVL core business and site integration with IVL Mexico.
  • Delivers immediate value accretion.

Posted August 14, 2017

Source: IVL

1...1,6061,6071,608...2,620Page 1,607 of 2,620

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue Number I

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.