Viscose Specialty Fibers From Kelheim – An Answer To A Global Problem?

KELHEIM, Germany — August 24, 2017 — Marine litter is a global problem that is attracting more and more public attention: Plastic waste is not only ugly and a danger to flora and fauna — vast amounts of small plastic particles are floating in our oceans and are able to enter our food chain without being detected.
Kelheim Fibres presents a new concept that can help to prevent at least a part of this pollution in the first place by substituting conventional wet wipes, which usually contain a significant share of synthetic fibers, by wet wipes made with Kelheim’s viscose speciality short cut fiber Viloft® and cellulose.

Both raw materials are plant-based and therefore completely bio-degradable.
 With moist toilet tissue in particular, disposal via the toilet is clearly the obvious solution — but in contrast to conventional wipes containing polyester, wipes made of Viloft® short cut fibers can be flushed without concern, as the fibers have two plus points: there is neither a reason to fear an entry of plastic particles into the oceans nor the blockage of private or municipal sewage systems. Wipes made of Viloft® short cut fibers disintegrate in the sewage systems to small particles that do not harm this infrastructure.
 At the 56th International Man-made Fibers Congress at Dornbirn, Austria, Business Manager Horst Wörner will speak about Kelheim’s contribution to the reduction of marine litter.
His colleagues Dr. Nina Köhne and Dr. Roland Scholz will present further innovations of the Bavarian fiber specialist.
 Dr. Köhne will present the result of a joint research project with Resorba: based on the bio-polymers cellulose and collagen, the scientists created a multifunctional wound dressing, that is significantly superior to reference products as a result of its pH-indication and its gel-forming and wound healing properties.

Dr. Scholz will speak about carbon fibers that also can be manufactured sustainably, that is to say of the renewable raw material cellulose, by using viscose fibers as precursors,
The benefit: by modifying the viscose fiber during its production, the course of the subsequent carbonization can be changed in specific ways. For instance, a significant increase in the yield of carbon as well as a reduction of undesirable pyrolysis by-products was achieved.
In addition to their presentations, the R&D team of the Bavarian viscose fiber manufacturer looks forward to interesting conversations at their company’s booth.

Posted August 24, 2017 

Source: Kelheim Fibres

Robert H. Chapman, III, 1951-2017; Immediate Past NCTO Chairman, Was Chairman & CEO Of Inman Mills

WASHINGTON — August 24, 2017 — The immediate past chairman of the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), Robert “Rob” H. Chapman, III, died August 23.  He was 66. Chapman was the Chairman & CEO of Inman Mills, a yarn spinning and fabric weaving company headquartered in Inman, S.C.

“On behalf of the U.S. textile industry, NCTO extends its deepest sympathies to the Chapman family and everyone at Inman Mills,” said NCTO President & CEO Auggie Tantillo.

“Rob’s legacy is immense. In the last two decades, globalization, particularly the entry of China into the World Trade Organization, triggered the most disruptive change ever experienced by the U.S. textile industry. When other companies were going out of business, Inman Mills responded with a strategy of innovation, reinvestment and a willingness to adapt. Today, thanks to Rob’s dedication and foresight, Inman Mills is one of the shining lights in the renaissance of the U.S. textile industry,” Tantillo continued.

“Rob was also leader in crafting the U.S. textile industry’s Washington, D.C.-based policy response to globalization.  It speaks volumes that Rob’s peers chose him to lead NCTO in 2016-2017 when debate on the now failed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the biggest challenge to the U.S. textile industry since China’s 2001 entry into the WTO, was coming to a climax,” Tantillo added.

“Finally, on a personal note, Rob was a close friend. He was a true gentleman, unfailingly courteous, loyal and generous. Soft spoken and quick to deflect credit to others, Rob was a fierce competitor, driven by the desire to help his community and industry. Most of all, Rob loved his family and his many associates at Inman Mills. He dedicated his life to their well-being. If there ever was any doubt that builders can build faster than destroyers can destroy, Rob was living proof. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will long endure,” Tantillo finished.

Posted August 24, 2017

Source: National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)

Klüber Lubrication Offers Highly Refined Mineral Oil And Heat Transfer Fluid For The Textile Industry

LONDONDERRY, N.H. — August 24, 2017 — Klϋber Lubrication, a worldwide manufacturer of specialty lubricants, has introduced Klüberfluid HT 1 US Series, a highly refined mineral oil and heat transfer fluid for the textile industry that is highly resistant to thermal degradation and cracking.

Klüberfluid HT 1 US Series is formulated for use in indirect closed heating units. It can be used in both closed or open heating and cooling systems, and is easily pumpable at operating and starting temperatures.

The thermal stability of these oils offers a long service life without viscosity changes or formation of deposits. Additionally, Klüberfluid HT 1 US Series have good oxidation stability and low temperature viscosity, making it an excellent choice for a heat transfer fluid in the textile industry.

Posted August 24, 2017

Source: Klϋber Lubrication

With New Hires, Aurora Continues Building Dedicated In-House Sales Staff To Meet Growing Market Demand For Printable Textiles

YORKVILLE, Ill. — August 24, 2017 — In response to the growing demand for custom-coated printable textiles engineered to work optimally on today’s latest digital print equipment, Aurora Specialty Textiles Group Inc. (Aurora) today announced the addition of two new full time employees to the company’s Printable Textiles sales organization.

The newly created jobs represent the building of a dedicated in-house sales force to meet the growing global demand for printable textiles.

In July, Aurora welcomed Eric Hanson as the company’s newest hire. Hanson — who brings a solid 20 years’ experience within the adhesive tape, wide format printing, signage and wall covering sectors — is now the North-East Region Sales Manager. Hanson is the former Vice President, Graphics Division, for Presto Tape and is also the former District Sales Manager for MACtac (a Bemis Company.) His region covers Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Tennessee as well as the Quebec and Ontario Provinces of Canada.

Adam Wood joined Aurora in June as the West Coast Sales Manager for Printable Textiles. He brings 15 years’ experience in the inkjet and digital printing technology sectors. He is a former technical sales manager for Fujifilm Graphics Systems North America and the Direct Sales Manager for Flag Crafters, Inc. His region covers California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming and Montana.

“Both Adam and Eric bring great industry experience and unique skill sets to enhance Aurora’s expertise in offering cutting edge printable textiles to best meet the demands of this growing and evolving market segment,” said Mark Shaneyfelt, Director of Sales and Marketing for Printable Textiles at Aurora.

“Within the past year we made the capital investment in equipment and our new manufacturing plant to meet the growing demands of this market. We are now continuing that investment by building a dedicated in-house sales organization,” said Shaneyfelt.

Both Wood and Hanson report to Mark Shaneyfelt.

This announcement coincides with the recent expansion of Aurora’s Expressions Canvas product line, which is now complete and fully commercialized. Treated with a new proprietary coating developed by Aurora, Expressions has been engineered to maximize print output and throughput with today’s newest digital printing equipment. The entire line is cross compatible with the latest generation of latex, solvent/eco-solvent and UV printers without sacrificing quality or productivity.  In addition, independent testing confirms that Expressions has the industry’s leading print output with regard to outstanding color reproduction and broadest color gamut. Expressions includes the full range of gloss levels.

Posted August 24,

Source: Aurora Specialty Textiles Group

Synalloy Chemicals Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Certification

RICHMOND, Va. — August 23, 2017 — Synalloy Chemicals has received Certificate of Registration from Quality Systems Registrars Inc. stating that it has been assessed and certified as meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.  This includes the Cleveland, Tenn., site and CRI Tolling in Fountain Inn, S.C.

In making this announcement, Greg Gibson, Division President, offered these comments; “We believe quality will separate the successful from the surviving in our business.  Our ongoing commitment to quality is exemplified by our adoption of the ISO 9001:2015 standard. Because of the number of products, processes, types of activities, and multiple locations, this was a long and detailed process.  I congratulate our team on a job well done in relentlessly working to move us to this new standard.”

Synalloy Chemicals is a specialty chemical manufacturer of: surfactants, defoamers, lubricants and other chemical intermediates, selling primarily to chemical manufacturers and formulators.  Synalloy Chemicals is a division of Synalloy Corp. headquartered in Richmond, Va.

Posted August 23, 2017

Source: Synalloy Chemicals

North Carolina Zoo Awards Unifi 2017 Paw Of Approval For Earth-Friendly Commitment

GREENSBORO, N.C. — August 22, 2017 — The North Carolina Zoo has awarded Unifi Inc. its 2017 Paw of Approval, which highlights the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing. Unifi is the manufacturer of a family of fibers called REPREVE®, which are made from recycled materials including plastic bottles.

“We are honored to be recognized as good stewards of the environment throughout the Triad and beyond,” said Tom Caudle, president of Unifi. “At Unifi, environmental responsibility is more than just something we do. It is a major part of our culture, and we continually seek out ways to enhance our earth-friendly efforts.”

Inspired by the Polar Bears International organization, polar bear keepers at the North Carolina Zoo launched the Paw of Approval award in 2011 as a way to highlight and reward the Triad’s most earth-friendly businesses. Companies are nominated by zookeepers and then voted on by Zoo guests in order to select the winner.

North Carolina Zoo polar bear keeper, Nicole Pepo, remarked, “as an Arctic Ambassador Center, it’s our great pleasure to celebrate local businesses for their leadership and for their commitment to helping us tackle climate change at a community level.”

Since the introduction of Repreve, Unifi has transformed more than five billion recycled plastic bottles into fiber for Repreve-based products. Production of REPREVE conserves resources by offsetting the need to use newly refined crude oil, which is required in the production of virgin synthetic fibers. Repreve production also uses less energy and water, and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions, compared to making virgin fibers. In addition to producing Repreve fibers, Unifi also bolsters its commitment to sustainability through several other initiatives.

  • Last year, Unifi opened its Repreve Bottle Processing Center in Reidsville, North Carolina, where Unifi cleans and chops recycled plastic bottles into small pieces called flake, which can then be transformed into Repreve fiber or chip for other products that can be made from recycled plastic, such as food-grade packaging, high-performance clothing, shoes and more.
  • Unifi drives change through a multi-stop, national mobile tour that travels the country educating individuals on the importance of recycling and what can be made from plastic bottles.
  • Unifi installed a one MegaWatt solar farm in Yadkinville, N.C., which allows Unifi to harness natural power to generate energy.

Posted August 22, 2017

Source: Unifi

RSB-D 50 Draw Frame – A New Dimension In Productivity, Quality And Operation

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland — August 22, 2017 — In the fall of 2016, Rieter introduced the new RSB-D 50 single-head draw frame for the first time to a global audience at the exhibitions ITMA Asia in China and ITME in India. The new draw frame generation excels with a multitude of innovative solutions. These reduce costs, increase the quality and simplify operation and maintenance.

Energy saving drive concept ECOrized with 25-percent fewer belts

With the patented drive concept ECOrized, 25 % of the belts and drive elements as well as the differential gear are saved compared to the previous model. Two servo-motors drive the drafting system. Unique features are the frequency-­controlled drive for the suction and the individual drive for the coiler. The new drive solution for the coiler leads to straight belt tracking and a far longer lifetime . The quiet machine is evidence of the low abrasion.

Lower electricity costs per year

The new drive solution generates yearly savings of approximately Euro 1 000 for each RSB-D 50. If the saving over the lifetime of the machine is compared with the investment, a very attractive ratio results.

As a standard feature, the draw frames are now equipped with integrated energy measuring. Should a significantly increased power consumption occur, preventive maintenance can be carried out and a breakdown of the machine thus avoided.

Even tougher with power fluctuations

With a short power fluctuation, the control voltage is supplied from the drive converter. This energy store can compensate short-term voltage interruptions and reductions. The draw frame keeps running. With longer interruptions, the draw frame with active autoleveling shuts down in a controlled manner. The web remains in the threaded condition and allows a rapid restart.

Further optimized drafting system engineering

Conventional sliver guides in front of the drafting unit are often wrongly adjusted. The most frequent fault is noncentral guidance of the sliver. The new, patented sliver guide guarantees central guidance of the sliver at all times and therefore consistent sliver quality. The web width is reproducible and is set by simple swiveling of the guide elements. Additional fiber guides in the main drafting field prevent lateral slipping of the edge fibers. Fewer disturbing faults in the yarn are the result. Furthermore, the top roller bearings are permanently lubricated and run at a lower temperature.

When processing fibers with high fiber-fiber friction, as is the case with man-made fibers, active sliver separation is necessary for a trouble-free can change. To achieve this, the motors of the autoleveler drafting system create a thin place, which is transported below the coiler and deliberately breaks at can change.

CLEANcoil and CLEANcoil-PES coilers for precise sliver coiling

CLEANcoil is the standard coiler for all fiber materials and therefore offers maximal flexibility. The spiral coiling tube ensures coiling which is free of drafting faults, even at high delivery speeds. A honeycomb structure on the coiler underside reliably prevents deposits.

For the processing of 100-percent polyester, the latest development CLEANcoil-PES with a new type of coating offers unique advantages in coiling. Even with critical polyester fibers, the cleaning cycle can be extended by at least 100 percent. This also leads to more consistent sliver and yarn quality.

Up to 33 percent higher productivity at equal or better yarn quality

The SB-D 50 draw frame without leveling and the RSB-D 50 autoleveler draw frame produce, in practice, at a delivery speed of up to 1 200 m/min. Depending on the fiber material, up to 33 percent higher speeds in comparison to the previous model are possible.

The following is an example of a customer who processes combed cotton. The RSB-D 50 is operating at 650 m/min, the previous model RSB-D 45 at 480 m/min. Despite far higher delivery speed, the sliver quality values of the RSB-D 50 achieve an equally good level. The yarn count Ne 30 shows equal or even slightly better quality. In the nine-week long-term test, the mean values of the disturbing faults on the RSB-D 50 are also remarkable. Compared to the RSB-D 45, that already achieves very good quality values, the Classimat values could be improved by 13 percent and the winder cuts by 8 percent.

Touch display and LED displays for intuitive operation

The SB-D 50 and RSB-D 50 use the latest control generation as well as a colored touch display with a high resolution. This allows intuitive and easy operator guidance.

Clear indications are of decisive importance for the operator when it concerns efficient working. Here, LEDs, that are visible from afar and provide information on the condition of the draw frame, help. They simplify the operator’s work immensely. By means of the USB interface, the data is quickly and easily transferred to other machines. Connection to the Rieter mill control system SPIDERweb is possible as a standard feature.

Technological know-how in the machine display

Frequent personnel changes or shortage of specialists are increasing problems for spinning mills. Rieter offers the remedy with setting recommendations that appear directly on the machine display. The basis is the well-known SLIVERprofessional expert system which is now integrated in the machine display. It provides valuable technological support. This unique tool offers setting recommendations for the entire machine, after the raw material data has been entered. These can be transmitted as a data record onto other machines. In addition, SLIVERprofessional assists with the analysis of spectrogram faults such as periods and draft waves. In this way, faults are rapidly corrected and the availability of the machine is increased.

Assembly on or recessed into the floor

The SB- and RSB-D 50 allow, as previously, assembly on the floor. This makes very flexible positioning possible. A new option is to install the machine recessed into the floor. This means, the transfer height of the can on the empty can magazine is lower and thus more convenient. The full cans are pushed out directly onto the spinning mill floor.

Proven advantages of the RSB-D 45 are retained

The RSB-D 50 keeps unique features of the previous model which are all patented. Here is a selection:

  • Effective suction by automatically lifting clearer lips on the top rollers
  • CLEANtube for sliver coiling without trash accumulations – for cotton applications
  • Sensor for exact first sliver coils, even with can plates that are too low.

With the RSB-D 50 and SB-D 50, Rieter sets another milestone in draw frame engineering for the benefit of our customers. Once more, the saying prevalent amongst mill managers “Buy an RSB and you can sleep peacefully,” applies.

Posted August 22, 2017

Source: Rieter

NA-KD Selects YuniquePLM Cloud To Manage Product Line, Enabling Trend-Setting Innovation

TOLLAND, Conn. —  August 22, 2017 — With the advent of social media, new fashion companies are employing technology platforms to promote new trends and show how their styles are ahead of trend and are the next ‘big thing’. “Gerber Technology’s, YuniquePLM® Cloud will be the technology platform providing us with the tools to manage style data and the peace of mind the data is correct, allowing us more time to be creative and set trends,” said Maria Svanehed, purchasing and supply chain director.

NA-KD.com is the hottest online global marketplace bringing the best in fashion, accessories and beauty from around the world. It offers customers new arrivals every day and free worldwide shipping. Stocking more than 100 international brands including Aeryne Paris, Amuse Society, Calvin Klein, Ray-Ban, Dagmar, Delacy, Just Female, Motel Rocks, Naanaa, Nookie, Quay Australia, Samsoe and Samsoe, Saylor and their own NA-KD brand of accessories, basics, boho, lingerie, shoes, swimwear and much more.

YuniquePLM Cloud will manage NA-KD’s data allowing their team to focus on setting trends and innovating their product portfolio and private brands. NA-KD was using Excel® to manage their startup business and recognized the importance of having a stable foundation to manage their business and collaborate across teams.

“With the YuniquePLM Cloud implementation, NA-KD will easily synchronize their data across the company,” said Bill Brewster, vice president and general manager, enterprise software solutions, Gerber Technology. “They are going from using Excel to implementing an industry-proven, cloud-based PLM system allowing them to scale quickly as their business grows.”

Posted August 22, 2017

Source: Gerber Technology

DSM Names Olivier Janin To Head Sales & Marketing DSM Dyneema

HEERLEN, The Netherlands — August 22, 2017 — DSM is pleased to announce that Olivier Janin is joining the company as its vice president of marketing and sales DSM Dyneema as of September 1, 2017. He will become a member of the Strategic Leadership Team of DSM Dyneema and will report directly to Golnar Motahari Pour, president, DSM Dyneema.  Janin has broad global experience in sales and marketing and P&L positions in the material science sector. Most recently he served as executive director of chemical sales in Europe for Saudi Arabia Basic Industries Corp. Prior to joining SABIC in 2007 he worked for GE Plastics and Imperial Chemical Industries plc in international positions with increasing levels of responsibility. 

Janin has more than 20 years’ experience managing innovation strategies and product portfolio lifecycles. He graduated with degrees in business administration and industrial marketing from the University of Exeter in the U.K. and from Paris-Sud University in France. 

“We are delighted to bring on board someone with Olivier’s experience and proven record of performance,” said Golnar Motahari Pour. “Adding him to the executive leadership team will further strengthen DSM Dyneema’s already impressive sales and marketing organization.”

Posted August 22, 2017

Source: DSM Dyneema

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

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