Top Value Fabrics Introduces Eight New Textiles For Brilliant Printing

CARMEL, Ind. — September 23, 2015 — Top Value Fabrics introduces eight new textiles that provide an advanced platform for printing brilliant banners, flags, exhibit graphics, backdrops and retail displays.

“The growth in the textile market has our customers requesting fabrics that are versatile to meet the various demands of their customers, and at an increasingly competitive pricepoint while maintaining our quality standards,” explains Jeff Nonte, Print Media Program Manager for Top Value Fabrics. Nonte adds, “We’re proud to deliver an expanded set of options with the introduction of these eight new fabrics.”  

Available in widths to 126”, the fabrics are designed to provide outstanding color consistency, excellent image sharpness and a wide color range.

The newly launched textiles meet NFPA 701 FR specifications and provide options in ink compatibility including Dye Sub Direct, Dye Sub Transfer, Latex, UV, Eco-Solvent and Solvent. Top Value Fabrics’ new textiles are Samba Fabric Elite, part of our Premium Print Textiles line, and the following seven media selections that are new to our Direct Print Textiles line:

  • Flag Elite
  • Soft Knit Fabric
  • Triple White
  • Lightbox Fabric Elite
  • Power Stretch Fabric Elite
  • Ultra White Blockout
  • Soft Heavy Knit Fabric

Posted September 29, 2015

Source: Top Value Fabrics
 

Yorkshire Mill Completes Clean Energy Project

OLDHAM, United Kingdom — September 24, 2015 — Green energy consultancy Think Renewable Energy has completed a 200kW biomass project at one of West Yorkshire’s oldest textile mills.
 
Pingle Mill near Huddersfield has been manufacturing cloth and yarn since the 1700s. The factory has been extended and improved by woollen yarn maker R Gledhill Ltd which first started manufacturing at the mill in 1936.
 
The new biomass system is expected to generate 528,380kWh a year, cutting overheads and allowing for further investment in innovation and product development.
 
A spokesman for R Gledhill said increased capacity in recent years had broadened the company’s range of manufactured products, opening up new markets with major UK retailers.
 
“Switching to biomass will ensure we remain competitive and will help us to adhere to the environmental standards that our customers demand from their supply chain,” he said.
 
The project included the design of a new plant room and fuel store in keeping with the historic mill premises.
 
Chris Paddey, managing director of Think Renewable Energy, said the textile industry was a key growth area for commercial renewable energy,  with mill premises often presenting a strong business case for biomass.
 
“Given the scale of production at Pingle Mill, the age of the buildings and its off grid location, Pingle Mill saw the project as a way of reducing its energy bills, which are significant,” he explained.
 
“The new biomass system will provide energy for heating and processing across two mill buildings and an office block, cutting costs and helping the business achieve its carbon reduction targets.”
 
Posted September 29, 2015

Source: R Gledhill
 

Textile Chemistry Developments

There have been many developments in the dyeing, printing and finishing arena, and many of those developments are highlighted in published studies.

Much of the published research centers on three areas: natural dyes as alternatives to man-made dyes; environmental issues, including wastewater color removal and source reduction; and dye application studies, such as waterless dyeing, new dyeing auxiliaries and digital printing. A majority of such developments are published in journals such as the AATCC Review, Coloration Technology, Colourage, Fibers and Polymers, Textile Research Journal, The Journal of the Textile Institute, and the recently launched AATCC Journal of Research. These journals cover results from fundamental and applied research, as well as brief perspectives on topics of general interest to the readers.

Natural Dyes
Research on natural dyes is inspired by the belief that such dyes are environmentally friendly alternatives to man-made dyes because they are biodegradable, renewable, and perceived as non-toxic, especially since some can be used in food, drug and cosmetic products where they are subject to stringent safety and toxicological standards. The majority of these dyes are obtained from plant rather than animal sources (See Figure 1).

Weld (a)
indigo (b)
madder (c)
Figure 1: Plants from which weld (a), indigo (b) and madder (c) can be harvested, along with their associated molecular structures.

Today, the application of natural dyes to textiles involves cotton as the principal substrate, although silk is a frequent target. This process involves four key steps: plant extraction; mordanting; rinsing; and dyeing. The second step is especially important because nature did not develop its colors with textiles in mind. Consequently, they have no inherent substantivity for textile fibers and must be bonded through the use of an intermediary as illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Illustration of a natural dye bonded to cotton cellulose using a mordant (Met; a metal ion such as Al3+, Fe2+)

Recent developments in this area include ink-jet printing on cotton using natural dyes such as annatto, cutch, and golden dock (See Figure 3). Assessment of fastness properties indicated washfastness and crockfastness levels typical of Class A direct dyes and low lightfastness1. Annatto also has been used to dye jute fabric, using bio-mordants such as myrobolan and pomegranate, in addition to traditional mordants including alum and FeSO4. Best washfastness was obtained using alum, with post-mordanting with the inorganic mordants affording the best combination of color yield and fastness properties2. Similarly, research involving the use of a bentonite-type clay mordant ([Na0.4Ca0.03K0.01] [Al1.6Mg0.3Fe0.1]Si4O10(OH)2) in place of a traditional mordant has been reported for applying Alizarin to wool3. Pre and post-treatments at 3- to 10-percent levels were conducted, with pretreatment giving slightly better washfastness and post-treatments giving slightly better lightfastness.

Figure 3: Molecular structure of natural dyes evaluated for ink-jet printing on cotton.

Dye Application Studies
In view of broad interest in approaches to minimizing salt and color levels in dye wastewater following cotton dyeing, especially with reactive dyes, cationization of cotton cellulose has been undertaken. The results of these efforts were summarized in a recent review4. The heart of this work is summarized in Figure 4, where reactive intermediate (3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride (CHPTAC), which is used to produce cationic groups in cotton that are attracted to anionic dyes in the absence of salt. Use of reactive dyes leads to significant reductions in wastewater color and higher dye-fiber fixation. Commercial consideration of this technology is underway. Further, the presence of cationic groups on cotton opens the door to using acid dyes affording brighter shades. In related studies, polymeric and chlorotriazine-based reactive species (see examples in Figure 5) have been developed to produce cationic cotton.

Figure 4: Formation of cationic cotton and attraction to anionic dyes in the absence of salt.
Figure 5: Examples of other compounds used for cationization of cotton.

The use of super-critical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) as a medium for waterless dyeing of polyester is receiving renewed attention, owing to the design and commercialization of new machinery. Developments in this area were reported at the 2013 AATCC Conference on Dyeing Technology5. Present-day developments have opened up a sustainable way of polyester (PET) dyeing that will soon be followed by dyeing of natural fibers such as wool and cotton on a commercial scale. In other SC-CO2 studies6, a lab-scale machine was built and used to develop a method for fabric rope dyeing with Disperse Red 74 (See Figure 6). In comparison with conventional dyeing processes, running costs were lowered by employing this dyeing process in a rope dyeing machine. Also, CO2 recycling efficiency ranging from 92-95 percent was reported.

Figure 6: Molecular structure of azo dye used in SC-CO2 rope dyeing of PET.

In other dye application research, an approach to dyeing man-made fibers using disperse dyes having a built-in dispersing agent was reported. In this work, Disperse Red 60 containing a poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(propylene oxide) appendage (see Figure 7) was synthesized and demonstrated to give dyeing behavior and fastness properties comparable to a physical mixture of disperse dye and dispersing agent7.

Figure 7: Structures of Disperse Red 60 before (left) and after modification (right).

Digital Printing
Transferring a design from the creative mind of a designer to a substrate without the need for screens or pressure now is possible using digital printing technologies8. Its use on signage, flags, technical textiles, home furnishings, and basic apparel is well known. Digital printing inks contain acid, disperse, or reactive dyes; or pigments. The technology can be used for proofing, samples, and short runs more cost effectively than conventional methods. Digital printing processes offer a range of color processes including 3 color (CYM), 4 color (CYMK), 5, 6, 7 and 8 extended gamut color options, matching the growing market demand for full color. This technology is believed by many to be the way forward for textile printing because it affords possibilities not available with conventional methods, including unlimited colors, tonal graphics, unlimited repeat sizes, fast and frequent design changes, fine line patterns with great precision, economical shorts runs, mass customization, high definition, and photographic quality. Figure 8 shows examples of some interesting digital prints. The development of print heads that permit printing with both pigment and dye-based inks and that allow speeds approaching rotary screen technology, makes reshoring textile printing possible.


Figure 8: Examples of digitally printed textiles.

Environmental And Regulatory Issues
Bearing in mind the strong influence of environmental regulations on dye manufacturing and application practices, it seemed appropriate to end the article by discussing regulatory matters impacting color chemistry operations. Much of the activity in this area can be traced back to the discovery of bladder tumors in various plant workers who were exposed to aromatic amines such as benzidine and beta-naphthylamine during azo dye manufacturing. This recognition led to termination of the use of such precursors in much of the western world. Once it was later shown that azo dyes such as Direct Black 38 can undergo metabolism in mammalian systems to produce the benzidine precursor used in its manufacture (see Figure 9), regulations such as EU Directive 2002/ 61/EC were instituted9. This was an important development because it prevented the sale of products containing dyes that were manufactured from any of a group of 20 (now 22)10 aromatic amines. The metabolism of these aromatic amines following their release from azo dyes is of concern, because of their potential to produce nitrenium ions that can react with DNA to produce mutations — an initial step in malignant tumor formation.

Figure 9: Illustration of the metabolic pathway associated with a benzidine-based azo dye.

This knowledge contributed to other international studies, regulations and policies such as the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999), International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monograph99, and Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). CEPA covers chemical substances made or imported into Canada, and gives attention to azo acid, basic, direct, disperse, metal complex, and reactive dyes11. IARC Monographs cover evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans12. REACH covers chemical substances made or imported into the European Union, with emphasis on the use of the 151 chemical substances of very high concern, and is due to be fully implemented in 2015.

A key outcome of the 2010 IARC report was the designation of dyes metabolized to benzidine as themselves belonging to classification Group 1 — carcinogenic to humans. This was an important development because it equated benzidine-based dyes with benzidine itself.

A key component of the 2015 CEPA report pertained to a screening assessment on 61 azo direct dyes and eight azo reactive dyes. These 69 substances constituted two subgroups of the aromatic azo and benzidine-based substance grouping assessed as part of the Substance Groupings Initiative of the Government of Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan based on structural similarity and applications. Dyes in this grouping were identified as priorities for assessment because they met categorization criteria under subsection 73(1) of CEPA 1999 and/or were considered as a priority based on other human health concerns. Only seven dyes — six azo direct dyes and one azo reactive dye — were reported imported in quantities above the 100 kilogram per year survey reporting threshold. Ultimately, it was concluded that the 69 dyes did not meet any of the criteria set out in section 64 of CEPA 1999.

REACH legislation is the most recent and extensive of its type13. This E.U. regulation is designed to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemical substances including dyes, while simultaneously enhancing the competitiveness of the E.U. chemicals industry. It also is designed to promote alternative methods for the hazard assessment of substances, in order to reduce the number of tests on animals. Companies are responsible for collecting information on the properties and the uses of substances they manufacture or import at or above 1 ton per year. They also have to make an assessment of the hazards and potential risks presented by each substance. This information is communicated to the European Chemicals Agency through a registration dossier containing the hazard information and, where relevant, an assessment of the risks that the use of the substance may pose and how these risks should be controlled. Thus, a type of Chemical Management Plan is associated with each registered substance.

The Road Ahead
It is clear that the use of both natural and man-made dyes for textile coloration is here to stay because each serves a unique purpose. Equally clear is that the former will not displace the latter to any significant degree, owing to the superior fastness, ease of production and application, ready availability, and product consistency of man-made dyes. Similarly, digital printing and CO2 dyeing have great potential as key coloration methods for the decade ahead, because of the print speeds and amazing image reproducibility now associated with digital printing and the strong interest in waterless dyeing associated with CO2 dyeing. If indeed natural fibers can be effectively dyed using SC-CO2 media, this would be a remarkable development.

Environmental regulations surrounding colorants and coloration are here to stay. They can appear to be a pain point for doing business, but with a bit of ingenuity, they also can provide an opportunity for new business.

References:

  1. Coloration Technology, 130 (3), 2014, 200-04.
  2. AATCC Journal of Research, 1(3), 2014, 20-26.
  3. Coloration Technology, 130 (1), 2014, 54-61.
  4. AATCC Journal of Research, 1(3), 2014, 11-19.
  5. Proceedings of the AATCC International Conference & Exhibition, pp. 109-116.
  6. Coloration Technology, 130 (2), 2014, 102-111
  7. Coloration Technology, 129 (5), 2013, 377-384.
  8. Colourage, LXI (7), 2014, 30-32.
  9. Anon, “ETAD Information Notice No. 6”, Textile Chemist and Colorists, Vol. 28, 1996, pp11-13.
  10. http://www.tfl.com/web/files/eubanazodyes.pdf
  11. http://ec.gc.ca/ese-ees/default.asp?lang=En&n=899CF15C-1
  12. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Vol. 99 (2010), Some Aromatic Amines, Organic Dyes, and Related Exposures.
  13. http://echa.europa.eu/regulations/reach

    Editor’s Note: Dr. Harold S. Freeman is the associate dean for research and Ciba-Geigy professor of Dyestuff Chemistry at North Carolina State University’s College of Textiles, Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science, Raleigh, N.C. This article is based on Freeman’s presentation given at the 2014 TW Innovation Forum.

    Fall 2015

Aman Graphics Selects ThreadSol’s intelloCut

Bangladesh-based apparel manufacturer Aman Graphics and Designs recently implemented the intelloCut material planning solution developed by ThreadSol Softwares Pvt. Ltd., India.

The companies report Aman has realized 10-percent fabric savings since taking the software live.

“After implementation of intelloCut, we experienced profound improvement in stores and cutting systems, processes and efficiency,” said Ronnie Serasingha, CEO, Aman Graphics. “The system has put our processes on auto pilot.

At the same time, the live data in the form of reports has helped management gain transparency. The intelloCut team is the most efficient and best support team during and after implementation. I am sure we will get benefit of what we have invested in intelloCut in a short lead time.”
 

ThreadSol consultants setting up the intelloCut solution at Aman Graphics.

Fall 2015

Shanghaitex: Transformation & Upgrade

The recent 17th Shanghaitex was organized by Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd., Shanghai Textile Technology Service & Exhibition Center and Shanghai International Exhibition Co. Ltd. The show, held at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, is sponsored by ShangTex Holding Co. Ltd., China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Shanghai Sub-council and China Chamber of International Commerce Shanghai Chamber of Commerce.

For years, China’s economy has soared with double-digit growth. However, over the past two years, the Chinese economy showed a very slight drop. So-called experts from the West predicted a crisis for China, although this didn’t bother the government very much.

Some governments recorded the growth of the Chinese economy in the first quarter of 2015 to be “only” 7 percent; indeed proof of a solid economy, if one compares this growth with the rest of the world and its approximate 1-percent growth rate.
 

Shanghaitex 2015 was supported by professional buyers from the textile industry.
 

Transformation
Slowly, upon the request of the government to have more stable and sustainable growth, Chinese products are coming closer to meeting international standards. Additionally, it was the plan of the Chinese leaders to support the domestic industry to a larger extent. And that happened too. Therefore, it was going to be very interesting to see how Shanghaitex would turn out given this somewhat unusual economic climate.

 Even the organizers of the show said: “China’s textile and garment industry has entered the phase of transformation and upgrade. Rising labor costs is becoming a tremendous challenge for the industry, which is intensive in labor. Applying new technology to improve the industry’s productivity, improving product quality and exploring new markets will be the key factors affecting companies’ long-term development.”

The Event
Unfortunately, the weather in Shanghai was not very favorable during Shanghaitex. Pouring rain for almost the whole show bothered visitors, including foreign visitors. Shanghai’s airport had to cancel more than 200 flights on Wednesday because of heavy rain.

To answer the question, “How was the show,” Textile World interviewed some 10 exhibitors about their impressions of the 4-day event. Unanimously, all executives interviewed were positive about the show.

As might be expected, more than 90 percent of the visitors came from mainland China. “Why should foreign visitors come to Shanghaitex, if they can see the whole world in November at ITMA in Milan?” said Dr. Dirk Burger, CEO, Germany-based Trützschler Nonwovens.“

However, some foreign visitors, mainly from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh were also welcomed. Overall visitor numbers weren’t huge, but the quality of the visitors was much better said many interviewed executives. “No tourists or brochure collectors,” reported many exhibitors.
 

Exhibitors conducted meetings with international buyers at Shanghaitex 2015.

New Exhibits
As always, it is expected that machinery will be the center of attention at any exhibition. Some of the Shanghaitex exhibitors showed new products and provided TW with information on the new equipment.

Cem Yalcin, head of sales, Switzerland-based Saurer Ltd., mentioned that Saurer showed the Schlafhorst Autoconer 6 for the first time at an exhibition, and the interest was great. “We welcomed more than 80 potential customers, and they were very pleased with the new machine,” Yalcin said.

Tiziano Sandonini, marketing director, Italy-based Santoni Ltd., mentioned that high speed as well as some deknit products were of the most interest to show visitors. “We can run cellulosic fibers at a very high speeds, and cellulosic fibers are very much demanded at the moment for all kind of knitted products,” Sandonini said.

Reto Thom, director, Switzerland-based Rieter Ltd., mentioned the further development of the Rieter RSB D 24 Draw Frame double-head autoleveler, which drew great interest from Shanghaitex visitors. Thom also reported to TW that the activities from the new business group Rieter After Sales will be reorganized and concentrated.

Some time ago, Uster acquired Switzerland-based Jossi, a producer of equipment designed to detect foreign material in raw cotton at the beginning of the opening section. “Many visitors are interested in this equipment, of course, due to the increasing quality requirements,” said Gabriela Peters, product manager, yarn, for Switzerland-based Uster Technology Ltd.

“Fong’s new atmospheric dyeing machine showed with great interest among our visitors,” said Francis T.M. Wong. Also machines from Fong’s Goller brand were in the spotlight.

“The segments are shifting because the technical, as in quality requirements, are rising,” remarked Saurer’s Yalcin. “However, high-end won’t be high-end anymore. It’s moving closer to the middle range and the future high-end products will be a niche market. The markets are getting more aggressive and the mid-range will grow.”

Most Important Markets
Despite rumors of shrinking Chinese economy, Asia in general, and China in particular, are still the most important markets for the global textile machinery industry. The interviewed manufacturers judged the importance of Asia at 70 to 75 percent, and some 10 to 15 percent of machinery is going to Europe, if Turkey is included in this market region and the balance is the rest of the world. However, some other Asian countries including India, Indonesia, and particularly Vietnam as one of the most promising markets, and also Korea and Thailand were mentioned.

“Asia is still the most important market area, however, the focal points are shifting and moving from cotton to more man-made fibers consumption, particularly in India, but also in China,” said André Wissenberg, vice president of corporate communications, Switzerland-based Oerlikon Textile GmbH & Co. KG.
One thing should not be forgotten, said some machinery producers, is that the Chinese market is guided by semi state-owned companies, while Indian textile manufacturers are usually private companies.

Changing Market Environment For China
The changing market environment for China with regards to labor and energy costs heavily influences the Chinese market. Uster’s Peters is convinced that the Chinese market will still grow further. “However, not at the same speed like before,” she said. “Though, thanks to its sheer size, China is still the most important market.” On a scale of 1 to 10, all interviewed exhibitors said China is on top with a rank of between 8 and 10. Though, said many Europeans, because of the still positive economy, for some regional service centers of the European suppliers, it is no easy feat to find qualified employees on the Chinese job market.

That some Chinese manufacturers already have reacted to the new conditions, was mentioned more than one time by the interviewed executives. China now invests now heavily in foreign countries to get cheaper labor and stay competitive on the global market. Also, the main focus is changing. China is by far the largest man-made fiber producer in the world and much more capacity installations are underway. On the other hand, there are still millions of tons of cotton in stock in China. Most of the interviewed people were convinced that in the near future, man-made fibers will play a more important role for the Chinese textile industry than the more expensive cotton fiber.

The Future
All interviewed companies are expecting a good year in 2015. Despite the fact that India is gaining ground and some other neighbor countries too, everybody was convinced that the strength, and purchasing and producing power of China will stay for many years to come. Rieter’s Thom mentioned that the first six months for Rieter were fine. “China is still number one, Bangladesh was surprisingly good,” Thom said. “On the other side, China is investing heavily in new capacities, but with high quality. In Xin Jang, there is a project for 20 million spindles — 7 million are already installed. Despite all talk of overcapacities this is an astonishing project, isn’t it?”

Fall 2015

The Rupp Report: Dilo ITMA 2015 Preview

The Germany-based DiloGroup reports: “During the year, there has been a great demand for Dilo lines for the production of needle felts. An above-average order intake from the important markets has been registered.”
 
DiloGroup presents its machines and production lines in the field of complete staple fiber nonwoven production lines. This includes fiber preparation — opening and blending — from DiloTemafa, card and card feeding from DiloSpinnbau, and crosslapper and needle looms from DiloMachines.
 
At ITMA, DiloGroup will exhibit two complete lines to show the full extent of its product range.
 
The first is a wide-width staple fiber needling line for technical textiles production, which is especially suitable for producing geotextiles according to Dilo. Fiber preparation begins with the latest-generation BTDL bale opener from DiloTemafa for processing longer fibers. The subsequent carding willow KW combines in the preopening stage “good pre-blending and preopening with highest throughput,” reports Dilo. According to the company, new design elements allow longer cleaning intervals with reduced cleaning times. Dilo’s DON dosing opener feeds the fibers viaits fine opening stage to the newly developed card feeder type VRS-P.
 
New Card Feeder
The new UniFeed VRS-P card feeder “combines the principle of volumetric precisely charged feeding, with the characteristics of a vibration chute feeder and eliminates a conventional large trunk (on the top),” reports Dilo.  This results in a better and more homogeneous distribution of the fiber flocks, according to the company. The lower profile results in reduced costs for the construction of the factory and its operating expenses because the ceiling height can be lowered. The fiber flock matt is condensed by a vacuum delivery apron for a better uniformity of the fiber mass distribution. Additional flaps control the fiber distribution over the working width. VRS series card feeders are used for medium-fine to coarse, and medium to long staple fibers.
 
New Card Series
Dilo reports its new VectorQuadroCard “incorporates a completely new modular transfer group between breast and main section. The flexible and quick change of this transfer group makes possible three different card types:
 
Type VQ-Q with a Quattro group to improve web evenness and fiber blending, arranged as a double transfer between preopener and main cylinder with two doffers and two transfer rollers to the main cylinder. 
Type VQ-V with a top doffer together with a transfer roller and a lower transfer roller to increase the throughput by using the doubling effect between preopener and main cylinder. 
Type VQ-T with only one transfer roller between preopener and main cylinder. 
The model series VQC uses 4 worker/stripper pairs of rollers on the preopener and five worker/stripper pairs on the main cylinder.”
 
According to Dilo, the delivery system is flexible and may be combined in multiple variations including: two doffer rollers and respective parallel delivery system; featuring pairs of doffer rollers and condenser rolls top and bottom; or as random card with random rollers, doffers, condenser rolls and take-off rollers.
 
At ITMA, a VQC with a working width of 3.2 meters designed for the geotextile sector will be on display.
 
New Crosslapper
According to Dilo, the new Super-DLSC 200 crosslapper operates at electro-mechanical speeds of up to 200 meters per minute for web infeed speeds, depending on the fiber used. The machine was developed with the aim of reducing a possible bottleneck for the total throughput of the complete installation. At the crosslapper infeed, Dilo has incorporated the CV1A web regulation system for improved needlefelt evenness with a great potential for fiber savings. “This high web infeed speed has been made possible by a further increase of the drive power within the 3-apron-layering technology,” reports Dilo. “All drives for the aprons and the layering carriages are direct water-cooled torque motors to improve the acceleration with reduced gear wear. In addition, special measures were taken to eliminate and reduce apron vibrations in order to achieve an exact web overlapping (lap joints).” The FLS web guiding system also was installed to help eliminate wrinkles at the speed change of the upper carriage. The reported web infeed width is 320 centimeters (cm) and the layering width is 700 centimeters.
 
DI-LOOM AB
Dilo will exhibit the DI-LOOM OD-II AB with CBF feeding system. Special emphasis was paid to cost effectiveness in this preneedling machine, and Dilo reports DI-LOOM AB has a very favorable price-performance ratio.
 
DCL Dilo-Compact Line
Dilo will exhibit a compact line designed to produce of small amounts of high quality felts suitable for use in the medical sector, and for specialty felts made from fibers such as carbon. The working width of the compact carding machine is 110 cm, the layering width is 220 cm.
 
X22 Needle Module Technology
The compact line needleloom is the first Dilo needleloom to use needle modules. The technology was designed for the intense needling of the Hyperpunch and Cyclopunch models in order to allow an economic needle insertion of these boards with more than 20,000 needles/m/board. The compact needle loom shows the module technology in a classical fishbone arrangement, each module comprising 22 needles.  Development work on the needle modules will be completed over the coming months, according to Dilo.
 
Dilo-Variopunch VPX 2020
New Variopunch technology is based on a modified needle module technology that can erase bad spots in the felt using a variable needle arrangement. Dilo will utilize graphic simulations to illustrate the basics of VPX200 needling technology at ITMA. The company reports Variopunch allows homogeneous distribution of stitches for better surface quality for automotive applications. Numerous needlefelt samples for many different applications will be presented at ITMA.
 
The DiloGroup is in Hall 3, Booth C104

September 23, 2015

EDANA, INDA Release 2015 Nonwovens Standard Procedures

CARY, N.C. — September 17, 2015 — EDANA and INDA jointly announced the launch of the 2015 edition of standard procedures for the nonwovens and related industries.

These Nonwovens Standard Procedures help technically define the nonwovens industry, with specifiers for the properties, composition, and specifications of its products. Offering harmonized language for the industry across the USA and Europe, and recognized by many other individual markets, the procedures offer a way for the nonwovens industry to communicate both across the globe, and within the supply chain to ensure that product properties can be consistently described, produced, and tested.
 
The harmonized methods contained in the Nonwovens Standard Procedures (NWSP) edition include 95 individual test procedures and guidance documents to support applications across the nonwovens and related industries, and are available on both www.inda.org and www.edana.org.
 
“Nonwovens Standard Procedures is designed to provide a standard series of test methods of the various properties desired in nonwovens and engineered fabrics. It is an indispensable resource for innovators and product developers to communicate with buying influences and ensure their products meet the exact specifications demanded by markets and customers. Additionally, laboratory personnel will benefit with enhanced accessibility to the most comprehensive body of nonwovens test methods available in the industry,” said Dave Rousse, INDA President.
 
“I am delighted with the complete revision and update to the Nonwovens Standard Procedures,” said Pierre Wiertz, General Manager of EDANA. “They undoubtedly constitute the best ever set of globally applicable test methods for the nonwovens and related industries. With this unique tool, together INDA and EDANA again provide our members and the larger nonwovens community with an enriched common language intended to facilitate their business, and ultimately, to help them develop solutions to best fit users’ requirements.”
 
The 2015 edition includes updated or modified procedures with a new numbering structure to make the document more intuitive to search and use. Additionally, each method now also includes a page to summarize and track relevant changes made to the document. In an effort to make all methods more consistent, each one is now presented in a format building on the International Standards Organisation (ISO) template, facilitating any future possible submission to ISO in an effort to become a recognized international standard or technical specification.
 
As in previous editions, the table of contents for the NWSP documents includes references to existing related ISO standards, which makes it easier for technicians to choose the most relevant procedure or methods to apply to their product.
 
Posted September 23, 2015

Source: INDA
 

Americhem Unveils Its 2016-2017 Color Trends

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — Sept. 17, 2015 — Americhem Inc. — a producer of color and additive solutions for polymeric products — has released its 2016–2017 Color Trends comprised of six color palettes including: Rush Hour, Office Diligence, Casual Friday, Night Life, Welcome Distraction and Sunday Brunch. The color families were announced on September 10, at Americhem’s annual color trends course as part of Americhem U, an ongoing educational series for professionals in the synthetic fibers and plastics industries. This is the company’s seventh annual color trends forecast.

The color families, developed by a committee of color trend specialists, are forecasted to be popular in the coming years based on global influences, pop culture, design trends, technology and fashion-forward color predictions. In conjunction with a fashion design house in Milan, Italy, the groups of colors, in addition to textures, finishes and effects, are translated into seasonal design concepts, moods and lifestyles, each with a unique story to convey the emotions and context of the colors.

This year’s color families revolve around a common theme—a week in our everyday life.

  • Rush Hour — a bold palette highlighting abrupt chaotic reds with deep dark browns representing the hustle and bustle of a city going to work.
  • Office Diligence — neutral and dark, warm and traditional tones mixed with teals and bursts of color to represent an office environment that is making its way into the world around us.
  • Casual Friday — bright colors and achromatic hues remind us of the relaxed atmosphere that comes with the end of the work week.
  • Night Life — the dark, romantic accents of a candlelight dinner are blended with brushes of the night sky to symbolize the excitement of the week’s end.
  • Welcome Distraction — the freedom of the weekend is represented with bright colors that can be seen in street fairs, carnivals or a soothing afternoon in your garden.
  • Sunday Brunch — calming pastels represent the beginning of a relaxing day featuring softening “under the radar” colors that conclude the weekend.

“These colors will be at the forefront of product design and, therefore, at the leading edge of consumer preferences in the years to come,” stated Aubrey Barto, lead color trends specialist for Americhem. “They are appropriate for any industry interested in accenting their products with innovative and modern colors.”

Posted September 23, 2015

Source: Americhem
 

Global Textile Industry Gearing Up For ITMA

Will Chinese currency devaluation influence the success of the upcoming ITMA 2015?

By Jurg Rupp, Executive Editor

ITMA 2015 will be held November 12-19 at the Fiera Milano Rho fairgrounds in Milan, Italy. Milan hosts ITMA for the fifth time since its inception at the now 17th edition of the show. ITMA is owned by CEMATEX, and is organized in 2015 by Singapore-based MP Expositions Pte. Ltd.

For the first time in its history, ITMA will take place in November, because from May 1-October 31, 2015, the 2015 Milan Universal Exposition, or World’s Fair, takes place at the same newly built fairground.

Fiera Milano Rho is one of the largest fairgrounds in the world, spanning 345,000 square meters (m2) of covered gross exhibition space. The venue is well equipped with 10 conference rooms and a host of restaurants, bars and coffee houses. Fiera Milano Rho is located in the west of Milan and connected to the city centre via a metro station, Rho Fiera. It is also served by railway and there are 14,000 parking spaces for visitors.

Show organizers announced back in 2014 that more than 95 percent of the 200,000 m2 of floor space already was booked by exhibitors. “Global textile and garment technology suppliers have snapped up space at next year’s ITMA exhibition in Milan,” reported CEMATEX. “ITMA 2015 … has attracted over 1,300 applicants from 43 countries by the application deadline of July 4.” Since then, the remaining exhibit space has been booked, and ITMA 2015 is presumed to be sold out despite rumblings from the industry that an ITMA in Europe doesn’t make sense anymore. This viewpoint springs from growing importance of the Asian textile market. But things are changing.

Economic Uncertainties
As of Textile World’s press time, bad news about the economy in China and the growth rate of its gross domestic product is a hot topic of conversation around the world. Will China’s economic woes influence the show in Milan? Of course, nobody knows yet.

Some governments estimated the growth of the Chinese economy in the first quarter of 2015 to be “only” 7 percent; indeed proof of a solid economy. In this figure, the growth of energy intensive and polluting products decreased, while services increased and are today the driving force of the Chinese economy. Also, the domestic market is growing. Domestic retail trade grew over the past year by 10.8 percent, not forgetting Internet sales — this sector increased by more than 40 percent in China.

Labor and energy costs influence the Chinese market heavily. However, thanks to its sheer size, China is still the most important global market. Some Chinese manufacturers already have reacted to changing conditions, and now invest heavily in foreign countries to get cheaper labor costs and stay competitive on the global markets. It is well known that China is by far the largest man-made fiber producer in the world, and there are plans to add capacity. Also, there are still many million tons of cotton in stock.

Italy The Biggest Exhibitor Country
Some 30 percent of the total exhibition space at this year’s ITMA has been reserved by machinery manufacturers from Italy. In numbers, 430 companies will occupy 31,000 m2 of space. According to the Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT), textile machinery sales in 2014 were totalled 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion), with exports accounting for around 1.94 million euros ($2.1 million). Exports to Asia amounted to 41 percent in 2014 and those to Europe totaled 40 percent, with a further 16 percent sold within Italy itself. In the first three months of 2015, sales of Italian machinery within Europe increased by 9 percent, with those to France up 29 percent, those to Germany up 23 percent and those to Portugal up by 100 percent.

Exports of textile machinery represent 84 percent, going to some 130 countries. In the first quarter of 2015, Italian exports of textile machines was divided as follows: Asia, with 42 percent; Europe, with 41 percent; Latin America, with 7 percent; North America, with 5 percent; and Africa, with 5 percent. During the same period, the biggest contribution to Italian exports of textile machinery came from China, valued at 58 million euros ($65 million). China is followed by Turkey with 47 million euros ($53 million), Bangladesh with 31 million euros ($35 million) and India with 25 million euros ($28 million).

While China remains the biggest destination for Italian machines, exports to the country fell by 25 percent in 2014, and dropped by a further 14 percent in the first three months of 2015. A full recovery in exports to China, however, is anticipated for the remainder of 2015.

Associated, Collocated Events
In more recent editions, ITMA has hosted collocated events including seminars and conferences. The list of events includes the Textile Colourant & Chemical Leaders Forum and the Nonwovens Forum at ITMA (See Table 1).


Table 1

According to the organizers, the Textile Colourant & Chemical Leaders Forum will help attendees “learn about sustainability in dyeing and finishing processes from international experts.” A wide range of topics and issues will be covered in three sessions:

  • The Issues: Chemical pollution and environmental concerns and the impact on the marketplace.
  • The Solutions: How does the supply chain respond?
  • The Future: What are the trends and game changers?

Specific presentations will cover the chemical and colorant suppliers’ response to current environmental issues, updates on REACH regulation, and new dyeing and printing technologies and their impact on a more sustainable supply chain. The event will be held on November 14 at the Stella Polare Convention Centre, Fiera Milano Rho in the Sagittarius Room.

Nonwovens more and more form an important part of global textile production. Recognizing that, ITMA organizers have added a Nonwovens Forum to the ITMA conference schedule. The event will be co-organized by The International Association for the Nonwovens and Related Industries, Belgium, and MP Expositions. The forum will be held all day November 16 at the Stella Polare Convention Centre, Fiera Milano Rho, Sagittarius Room.

The program will benefit ITMA visitors who are involved in, or have the intention to move into nonwovens manufacturing. The theme for the forum is, “Nonwovens: A World of Growth and Opportunities.” Interested parties can find out directly from industry leaders in nonwoven manufacturing how one can grab opportunities in the rapidly evolving world of nonwovens. The forum will be broken into two main sessions.

  • Session 1: Applications and Technologies for Nonwovens — Lecturers include speakers from Andritz Nonwoven, DiloGroup and Oerlikon Neumag.
  • Session 2: Added Value Ingredients and Finishing for Nonwovens — Lecturers include speakers from CHT R. Beitlich and Pulcra Chemicals.

In addition, Jacques Prigneaux, market analysis and economic affairs director, EDANA, will give a lecture entitled, “The Nonwovens Industry and Markets in Numbers.”

It will be interesting to see if the blend of Italianità, approximately 1,400 exhibitors, news from the Chinese economy and the collection of events will be a successful mix for the global textile machinery industry.
Textile Industries Media Group will be at the show and is more than happy to welcome readers of Textile World, Textiles Panamericanos and Textile World Asia to its booth in Hall 7, Booth F-109. Ci vediamo in Milano!

September/October 2015

Alexium Reports Sales

Australia-based Alexium International Group Ltd. reports Greenwood Mills Inc., Greenwood, S.C. — a manufacturer of woven goods including flame retardant (FR) finished fabrics — has selected its Alexiflam™ halogen-free FR treatment. Alexium anticipates an initial delivery in the third quarter of 2015 will be followed by ongoing deliveries of the FR treatment.

Alexium also will provide FR chemistry to Central Falls, R.I.-based Murdock Webbing Co., which will initially use the formulations for its FR stretch-webbing products. Alexium hopes Murdock also will extend use of the treatment into its rigid webbing products line.

September/October 2015

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