IBS Filtran Selects DuPont™ Zytel® To Replace Metal With Plastic In The New Daimler NAG3 Automatic Transmission

GENEVA — October 18, 2016 — At K show 2016, DuPont Performance Materials (DPM) and IBS Filtran demonstrate a new production-ready oil pan made of a high grade glass-fiber-reinforced material which is being used in Daimler’s state of the art nine-speed automatic transmission.

DuPont collaborated with IBS Filtran, a leading supplier of oil filter systems for transmission in the automotive industry, to optimize production and processing of Daimler car oil pans in nine speed automatic transmission. The NAG3 (new automatic transmission) uses a thermoplastic polymer from DuPont’s Zytel® nylon resin portfolio(Zytel 70G35 HSLRA4) for the multifunctional lower shell. Replacing metal with Zytel reduces cost by saving on weight (1,3kg versus a metal oil pan), providing design freedom without compromising on performance.

“We have had a strong relationship with DuPont for many years which invites the type of collaboration necessary to create revolutionary transmission systems addressing regulatory and consumer trends. This oil pan is an example of how working with the supply chain can produce cost-effective solutions that our consumers desire. With DuPont’s help, we developed an oil pan which links the need for core design and reduced manufacturing and assembly costs with energy efficiency”. – Wolfgang Stausberg (CTO, IBS Filtran)

Drawing on the significant expertise of IBS Filtran in filtration and plastic module design, the two plastic oil filters are fully integrated into the oil pan housing to meet the highly demanding specifications given the restricted installation space. “Replacing sheet metal is only possible via a full integration of anything which can be integrated,” said Franz Spitznagel, senior development programs manager, DuPont Performance Materials. “Working closely with IBS Filtran enabled us to use Zytel for this project and produce this unique highly integrated oil pan.”

The use of these types of thermoplastic polymers creates a significant opportunity for further functional integration of the oil pan with the rest of the transmission. This grade of Zytel combines low warpage, easy processing and laser weldability. It has an excellent balance of stiffness and toughness over a wide range of temperature, and in combination with a special rib design it withstands stone impacts of up to 200 km/h. For all this, its transmission oil resistance and creep resistance at 150 degrees, this grade of Zytel is the perfect fit for this kind of application.

Besides, the integrated filter system uses the SmartMedia® technology from IBS Filtran, where different filter media types are combined to significantly improve the filter performance on the suction side of the pump. Whereby an additional pressure filter could be avoided.

DuPont™ Zytel 70G35 offers the right blend of strength, stiffness and fatigue resistance to stand up to the load and stress such a demanding use calls for. It is the ideal material to use in this new transmission, which sets the trend for the future.

Posted October 18, 2016

Source: DuPont Performance Materials

Hexcel Showcases Portfolio Of Multiaxial Reinforcements At Composites Engineering 2016

LEICESTER, England — September 2016 — Hexcel will showcase its HiMax™ range of multiaxial reinforcements at Composites Engineering 2016 in Birmingham, November 2-3. HiMax fabrics are widely used in the automotive, wind energy, marine, sports and industrial markets and can be specifically tailored for each customer’s individual application.

HiMax multiaxial reinforcements, or non-crimp fabrics (NCF), are made up of multiple plies of parallel fibrer, each laying in a different orientation. These layers are typically stitchbonded to form a fabric. HiMax reinforcements allow composites manufacturers to process multiple layers of unidirectional fibers in a single fabric and offer several advantages over traditional forms of reinforcement. A selection of products will be on display at Composites Engineering, including carbon, glass and aramid multiaxials, hybrid fabrics, fabrics optimized for infusion, and recycled materials.

HiMax carbon multiaxials are available in a wide range of fiber types from 3k through to 50k, including both PAN and pitch fibers. Fabrics with weights from 50 g/m2 up to 1600 g/m2 can be produced, in widths of 25 mm through to 1600 mm. The range includes unidirectionals (UDs), +/- 20 biaxials, +/- 60 multiaxials of 75 g/m2, 0/90 biaxials, triaxials and quadaxials.

Hexcel’s glass fibre range includes UDs, +/-45 biaxials, 0/90 biaxials, triaxials and quadaxials. Fabrics are available in weights of 250 g/m2 up to 6000 g/m2 and widths of 25 mm through to 2540 mm. Chopped fibre mats and other substrates can be employed to create materials optimized for customers’ projects.

Hexcel has developed a full range of fabrics specifically for customers which use infusion. In addition to modifying the construction of standard fabrics to enable, higher and more consistent infusion rates, the range encompasses fabrics that include different infusion cores within the structure including polypropylene, polyester, natural fibre and glass fabrics. Hexcel has also developed a number of ‘multi-stack’ fabrics that are ideal for infusing large monolithic structures in fewer layers. To aid the development of the ideal fabric architecture for each application, Hexcel offers a series of comparative test methods for determining the relative infusibility of fabrics as well as the quality of the laminates produced.

Hexcel acquired the Formax multiaxials business in January 2016 to advance dry reinforcements technology for future aerospace applications and provide scale for growing industrial markets.

Posted October 18, 2016

Source: Hexcel 

AmeriPride Services Adds 20 CNG Vehicles To Its Fleet In Vancouver

MINNEAPOLIS — October 18, 2016 — AmeriPride Services has announced the receipt of the first of 20 compressed natural gas (CNG) step vans at its Vancouver branch. The company will incorporate the additional CNG delivery trucks into its fleet over the upcoming weeks and months as a part of its ongoing effort to reduce its carbon footprint and lead the industry in environmental sustainability.

“AmeriPride is absolutely committed to the environment and expanding our alternative fuels program across the company,” said Bill Evans, President and CEO of AmeriPride. “The company has a strong track record of piloting and incorporating new technology into our delivery operations. We are setting a new standard for clean operations in our industry and continue to invest resources to leverage and help advance green technologies.”

Compressed natural gas is a cleaner burning fuel that is produced almost completely in North America. It produces less carbon emissions and lowers exposure to fuel price rate increases. The CNG vehicles are expected to result in 24 percent less carbon emissions as compared to comparable diesel vehicles.

The company’s new CNG vehicles are manufactured by Freightliner Custom Chassis and Morgan Olson with the conversion completed by Green Alternative Systems. The vehicles are powered by a General Motors 6L engine and the tanks have 52 usable gallons of capacity.

AmeriPride chose the Vancouver market for this initiative based on incentive funding provided by FortisBC that assisted with the costs of CNG conversion for the vehicles. In addition, FortisBC made upgrades to their local CNG fueling infrastructure.

“We are extremely excited to be adding these CNG trucks at our facility,” said Kris Groom, General Manager of the Vancouver branch. “I look forward to incorporating the vehicles into our delivery operations and taking advantage of the many financial and environmental benefits of this new technology.”

Once the new CNG trucks are incorporated into its fleet operations, AmeriPride will have a total of 36 CNG trucks, 16 propane trucks and 2 electric vehicles in operation across the company, with more to come in the upcoming year. AmeriPride has received recognition for its efforts including TRSA’s ‘Clean Green’ Award, Heavy Duty Trucking’s ‘Top 50 Green Fleets’ Award and Fleet Technology Expo’s ‘Top Tier Light and Medium Duty Efficient Fleet’ Award.

The alternative fuel vehicles program is a part of a larger companywide effort to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Other fleet initiatives the company has implemented include trailer skirting and double-decker semi trailers; fuel efficient sedans for the service team and the installation of telematics technology and route optimization software to reduce mileage and increase efficiency. The company is also piloting solar power and installing heat reclamation systems in its plants. More details on AmeriPride’s efforts can be found in the company’s Corporate Responsibility Report that outlines key initiatives across the company.

Posted October 18, 2016

Source: AmeriPride Services

Lectra Continues To Conquer Fast-Growing Airbag Market In East Asia

PARIS — October 18, 2016 — Lectra is pleased to announce that South Korean automotive component supplier Dual has purchased a FocusQuantum® laser airbag cutting project for its multi-ply airbag manufacturing plant in Jiangyin, China.

With a proud tradition of world-class research and development, Dual strives to meet evolving customer needs by offering innovative new auto interior materials and manufacturing technology. The supplier’s airbag cutting business serves the needs of Hyundai Motor Group, which is currently undergoing growth in the strategically important automotive manufacturing region of mainland China.

Due to its OEM customer’s anticipated rise in production volume requirements as of 2017, Dual began looking into significantly increasing capacity. When the company first approached Lectra, it was equipped with Lectra Focus® laser airbag cutters. Impressed by the high level of cutting quality and productivity demonstrated by the next-generation FocusQuantum—following testing at Lectra’s R&D campus in Bordeaux-Cestas, France—Dual signed to purchase a brand-new FocusQuantum for its facilities in China.

The complete airbag manufacturing project includes the support of Lectra Professional Services to accelerate ramp-up, guarantee smooth integration into the manufacturer’s processes and ensure optimal performance of the cutting process.

The quality and breadth of Lectra’s customer support services were a major reason behind Dual’s final decision to acquire a FocusQuantum integrated solution. FocusQuantum Support coverage includes automatic real-time alerts and detailed reports compiling updated maintenance records and system status, including that of the laser source.

As a mature organization with a full customer support structure in place, including a call center, an extensive field service engineering team, senior airbag business consultants and spare parts inventories, Lectra helps airbag manufacturers achieve maximum machine availability and productivity through quick intervention.

“Dual maintains its leadership position through continuous technology development and quality improvement, with consumer safety and comfort as high priorities,” notes Yong Woo Park, CEO, Airbag Business Unit, Dual (IHC). “Acquiring a state-of-the-art FocusQuantum will enable us to not only increase our production capacity, but also achieve the very highest level of quality.”

“We are pleased that Dual has decided to gain a competitive edge with our game-changing FocusQuantum laser airbag cutting solution,” states Céline Choussy Bedouet, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Lectra. “In addition to benefiting from the highest level of airbag quality at the lowest possible cost per unit, Dual can operate with confidence knowing that Lectra maintains a strong local presence in China, with Professional Services teams based in in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing.”

Posted October 18, 2016

Source: Lectra

TRESU Group Introduces Printing Unit For Branding Non-Woven Sanitary Napkins Inline During Manufacturing Process

KOLDING, Denmark — October 13, 2016 — Danish flexo technology provider TRESU Group has developed a multi-color flexo printing unit for applying patterns to nonwoven disposable sanitary napkins. Developed following a collaboration with leading global personal care brand owners, the printing unit applies patterns on the inside of the product, and performs seamlessly alongside other converting processes on the napkin production line.

Customized to the specifications of the production line, the printing unit comprises up to four water-based colors, a hot air dryer and, at the embossing point, a register guidance camera. It is capable of printing on non-woven materials between 15 and 22 grams per square meter, especially pre-perforated PE polymers. The unit also offers a compact footprint and an operator-friendly design.

Located at point of embossing, the register guidance system ensures synchronization of the printed pattern with the crease in the centre of the napkin, at speeds of up to 400 meters per minute (approximately 2,000 pieces per minute). Using the converting machine interface signals as point of reference, the control module influences the servo motors to ensure accuracy is maintained on-the-fly throughout the production run. Servo drives ensure automatically controlled, precise print speed and ink flow, so that operation without in-house flexo experience or handling is possible.

Allan Sander, vice-president, TRESU Solutions, said: “Consumers are increasingly seeking assurance about the quality of their products, and research has shown that there is stronger loyalty to napkin brands with recognisable printed designs such as icons or logos  printed on the fabric. TRESU’s customised printing integration system enables the personal hygiene industry to achieve this, while maintaining a cost-controlled, flexible, single-pass operation.”

The integration unit includes TRESU’s F10 iCon ink supply system with automatic cleaning, to constantly feed the printing units and maintain optimum viscosity, temperature and pressure. Sealed, pressure-controlled chambered doctor blade systems enable direct, foam-free transfer of ink or coating to the anilox rollers, ensuring a consistently clean printed image.

The system is optimized for fast job changes. A control system stores and, in the case of repeat jobs, instantly recalls job recipes, so no re-entry of ink and calibration data is needed.  At the installation stage, the TRESU technical team works with the customer to build a unique database of recipe settings for each job, including, among others, impression settings, print levels, flow rate, air velocity, temperature and register coordinates.

The ability to seamlessly integrate the printing operation into the existing converting and assembly line means that customers can avoid the costs and lengthy lead times associated with outsourcing.

“TRESU collaborated closely with the customer’s research and development division at every step from the concept stage, to customize the machine to suit production requirements and skills levels,” stated Mr. Sander.

“The projects have been a large success for the customers, with integrations of our high level printing technology into a large number of hygiene converting lines at locations in Europe, USA and Mexico. From TRESU’s perspective, we are proud to have developed the requested solution on time despite demands on safety, process technology and a tight time frame.”

Posted October 14, 2016

Source: TRESU Group

ITMA Asia + CITME 2016 Exhibitor Preview: SPGPrints

BOXMEER, the Netherlands — October 14, 2016 — In addition to its inkjet machine and ink innovations at ITMA Asia + CITME 2016, SPGPrints will also highlight rotary screen printing and imaging technologies that enable textile printers to optimize uptime, drive quality, and print on the widest range of fabrics (booth H5D01, National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai, October 21-25).

smartLEX laser exposing system: top-quality screen imaging

SPGPrints’ laser exposing systems are a productive, cost-efficient way of imaging nickel rotary screens to outstanding levels of quality.

The company’s smartLEX 7043 laser exposing system contains the company’s unique multi-beam diode technology, that combines long life, high productivity and resolutions of up to 2540dpi. Using an intuitive Smart-GUI, smartLEX 7043 exposes screens between 300mm and 3500mm length, in exposing cycles as short as 12 minutes.

smartLEX has proven to be the market standard in the competitive textile market, with dozens of new installations in this year only. The machine not only sets the quality standard in the market, but also provides the customers the best value for money.

Comprehensive Rotary Screen Textile Printing Solutions

SPGPrints maintains its position as the world’s leading rotary screen provider, with more than 50 years of research and innovation. The company offers tailored, high-performance solutions for every stage in the workflow, including complete printing lines, equipment upgrades and electroformed nickel rotary screens, in addition to direct laser engraving and exposing systems.

SPGPrints’ electroformed seamless nickel screens are renowned for their strength, durability, stability at high print speeds, and the potential for high mesh-counts.  The company’s screen programme is suitable for numerous effects and fabrics.

NovaScreen® screens offer the optimum in print quality and productivity for printing all kinds of fabrics, ranging from cotton, polyester and viscose, to silk, rayon and heavy materials like car upholstery. The high mesh count with streamlined bridges between specially shaped holes maximises paste transfer.

Additionally, the 155XT screen offers excellent printing and handling stability, and is easy to fit and strip. The high mesh count offers smooth tonal gradations. Its 13 per cent open area is almost 10 per cent larger than that of the standard 155 mesh screen. Also exhibited, RandomScreen®, with stochastic hole arrangement, suppresses moiré effects in halftones.

Inkjet highlights on the SPGPrints stand, as announced in early October, will include the first demonstration in China of the JAVELIN® digital inkjet printer for medium and large capacity requirements, plus the complete new range of NEBULA® inkjet inks that offer superior runnability, sustainability and an increased colour gamut.

Posted October 14, 2016

Source: SPGPrints

EconCore And Fynotej Enter Into A License Agreement For Production Of Honeycomb Sandwich Panels

LEUVEN, Belgium — October 13, 2016 — After preliminary development work, EconCore and Fynotej have entered into a license agreement for ThermHex honeycomb technology. The license focuses initially on honeycomb sandwich panels made of polypropylene thermoplastic material and the application field of automotive interiors.

EconCore’s licensees in Europe and Japan have already entered the automotive market with the honeycomb technology. Fynotej, a well-established nonwovens and industrial carpets manufacturer and a supplier to the automotive industry, based in Mexico, is the first North American licensee of EconCore focusing on automotive applications. By acquisition of the know-how and rights to the technology for continuous production of thermoplastic honeycomb panels, the company puts itself in a market leading position — the production of rigid panels integrated with in-line lamination of decorative and functional carpets allows for a unique efficiency of production of finished automotive interior elements.

“This license agreement is very much in-line with the market’s trends” – says Tomasz Czarnecki, COO of EconCore – “We have observed the shift of the European automotive and transportation industries from heavier and often moisture sensitive material solutions to much lighter polypropylene honeycomb panels and parts. With the new fuel economy and carbon-emission regulations of the American market, calling for weight savings and environmental care, we are confident that a similar change, which has already been started in America, will continue with high momentum. The cost efficiency of EconCore’s process and the high performance of the honeycomb product should be the key ingredients ensuring dynamic developments.”

Posted October 14, 2016

Source: EconCore

Fashion SVP Collaborates With Partners On New Show Feature

LONDON — October 14, 2016 — Fashion SVP organizer IDEX has teamed up with Fashion Enter and the Ethical Fashion Forum to present an innovative new feature at the show to be held at Olympia London, November 15-16, 2016, “Fashion Made Better”, demonstrating the life cycle of fashion production, from design to the finished garment, and offering up to the minute advice on best practice in ethical and sustainable fashion sourcing.

Fashion Enter, the social enterprise organization which encompasses a state of the art production facility in North London, making for leading fashion brands, and an acclaimed academy offering design, sourcing and production training, will be collaborating in presenting the multi-dimensional feature. This will comprise high-end designers and designs, production machinery with operatives demonstrating fabrication and stitching, pattern cutting and fabric selection, and an advice clinic on training and development paths available.

The Ethical Fashion Forum, the global industry body for sustainable fashion, will also be providing the very latest information, advice and tips on sourcing ethically and sustainably through drop-in consultancy on-site.

Buzz Carter, Event Director of Fashion SVP, said: “As the UK’s unique fashion sourcing and production event, at Fashion SVP we’re delighted to be working with the enthusiastic and innovative teams from Fashion Enter and Ethical Fashion Forum. Show visitors will benefit from learning and seeing fashion ideas and designs brought to life in the live environment of the show, and can also find out how how they can develop and maintain high ethical sourcing standards.”

Jenny Holloway, CEO of Fashion Enter, said, “Credit to Fashion SVP for taking yet another innovative approach to sourcing.  We shall be setting up a live stand where we can showcase the highly skilled talents of our machinists and host interactive workshops where you can ask those burning questions regarding what exactly is quality of make and ethical production. With the advent of Article 50 being triggered in March 2017 every brand should now be forging closer links with UK manufacturers now; for quality fast track and transparent production the only way forward is Made in the UK.”

Tamsin Lejeune, Managing Director and founder of Ethical Fashion Forum, added: “Ethical and sustainable production is becoming a license to operate, and the key to success, in today’s fashion industry. We’ve seen a burgeoning interest from fashion professionals across the supply chain in how to build businesses that are sustainable across three dimensions – commercial, social, and environmental. It’s the future.”

Posted October 14, 2016

Source: Fashion SVP

VDMA: Technology — Basis For Resource And Energy Savings

FRANKFURT, Germany/SHANGHAI — October 14, 2016 — On the occasion of ITMA ASIA + CITME 2016, taking place end of October in Shanghai, VDMA member companies spoke about their technologies and concepts in order to add content to the sometimes loosely used watchword sustainability. Their best practice examples deal with technologies that help to save resources and energy.

Nicolai Strauch, press officer, VDMA Textile Machinery, interviewed André Wissenberg, Vice President, Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Segment; Jan Siebert, Head of Rieter Business Group Machines & Systems; André Imhof, CEO Autefa Solutions; Eric Schöller, Managing Director, Groz-Beckert; Thomas Laissle, Product Manager, Weko; and Axel Pieper, CEO, Brückner Trockentechnik.

Strauch: Gentlemen, in this panel of industry experts we want to focus on the topic resource and energy efficiency as a cornerstone of sustainability. Mr. Wissenberg, Oerlikon Manmade Fibers with the product brands Oerlikon Barmag and Oerlikon Neumag is well known in the textile world for its filament spinning solutions, texturing machines and BCF carpet yarn, staple fibre spinning as well as nonwovens solutions. Are your customers happy to pay for sustainable technologies and improved energy efficiency?

Wissenberg: Yes, because our solutions increase our customer’s competitiveness and enable a faster return on investment than with other solutions, some of which are supposedly less expensive at first glance. Therefore, customers who use our technology solutions are substantially more successful, with regard to both profitability and quality.

Strauch: Is it possible to quantify the magnitude of the energy savings that are realised in textile production by using the latest machines from your segment?

Wissenberg: The contribution of our product solutions to sustainable, economical production is substantial, particularly for chemical fibre spinning. Here are two examples for you: Our latest WINGS technology (Winder Integrated Godet Solution) reduced average energy consumption by 40 percent per ton of the POY yarn type (Pre-oriented Yarn). For the FDY yarn type (Fully-drawn Yarn), this reduction is as high as 55 percent compared with our systems produced in the mid-90s. As you can see, our most recent solutions are exceptionally energy efficient.

Strauch: How are you able to minimize negative influences of industrial production?

Wissenberg: The manufacture of textile products and components, machines and systems used for this are traditionally associated with many unfortunate environmental consequences. By applying the latest in scientific and technical expertise, we help to reduce these negative effects to a minimum. Some of the ways our products do this include using all raw materials involved in the production process as efficiently and effectively as possible, significantly reducing emissions, optimizing energy footprints, and in some cases considerably reducing space requirements. A good example again is our WINGS product family. With this development, Oerlikon Barmag was able to reduce the space requirements compared to conventional spinning plants by more than 35 percent.

Strauch: What persuaded the Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Segment to join the VDMA’s BLUECOMPETENCE sustainability initiative?

Wissenberg: As a pioneer in matters of sustainability in our industry, it seemed quite logical to combine the message of our “e-save” program with the wider BLUECOMPETENCE campaign launched by the VDMA in 2011. This yields synergies for both sides, and we are able to market the VDMA initiative globally at the same time and thus also provide strength to our German location. Industrial production inevitably affects the environment.

Strauch: Mr. Siebert, Rieter is a leading supplier of systems for short-staple fibre spinning. Recently you announced the presentation of a new single-head drawframe generation at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2016. China is a significant market in the production of synthetic fibres and their blends. Furthermore, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important in this market. To what extent does the new drawframe generation from Rieter fulfil this brief?

Siebert: The new RSB-D 50 single-head drawframe generation offers a hitherto unattained level of productivity of the highest quality, compared to its predecessor. The new coiler CLEANcoil-PES extends the cleaning cycle for critical polyester fibers by at least 100 percent. The patented drive concept ECOrized uses 25 percent fewer belts, saves up to 1,000 euros in energy costs annually and allows higher output speeds for polyester and combed wool, for example. The new single-head drawframe is already fitted and supplied with energy-saving ECOrized solutions. For older machine generations, Rieter After Sales offers custom-made, energy-saving packages.

Strauch: Mr. Imhof, Autefa solutions covers automation, bale packing, carding as well as nonwoven technologies. What are the key drivers for your customers to invest into an energy saving technology?

Imhof: Two reasons drive our customer’s decision for such an investment: Number one are the rules and regulations and number two is the economy. Especially in China, the entrepreneur’s decisions are influenced by the 5-year plan which aims at increasing the renewable energy mix by 28 percent and, at the same time, reducing the coal energy by 10 percent. Gas will be doubled. Within the next 10 years China wants to reduce CO2 exhaust by 40 percent. This worldwide trend will drive nonwovens and textile manufacturers to invest. Reducing the drying energy with our new SquareDrum Spunlace Dryer or the V-Jet Hydroentangeling technology has proven that with an average line capacity more than 250,000 EUR/year energy cost can be saved.

Strauch: What are you doing differently than others, what customer benefits do you offer?

Imhof: The EnRec, Energy Recovery technology for ovens has being continuously improved over the last years. Among the first we equipped complete factory roofs with thermal solar panels to pre-heat the air to 100°C. Since the sun does not send you a bill, it is almost free of charge. We installed block heating power plants to use electrical energy produced by a gas generator and get heat for the ovens free of charge. This year, we will modify a 50,000-ton fibre production financed by Autefa Solutions. The customer has no risks, no initial investment. Benefiting from the first day using 0.5 Mio EUR less energy p.a., Autefa Solutions gets paid by a profit sharing over the next years.

Strauch: For sure a challenging business model. However, energy saving is one aspect to protect the environment, do you think of other technologies coming up in the near future supporting the sustainability thought?

Imhof: The wipe market is one of the fastest growing. Using flushable wipes which are biodegradable reduces big problems we have with the sewage water treatment. This is why certain standards have already become law in the US, so here we’re back to the driver number one again. Together with Varo Campen, Autefa Solutions has entered the airlaids market for flushable wipes.

Strauch: Mr. Schöller, Groz-Beckert is one of the largest textile machinery equipment suppliers in the world. “Sustainability meets profit,” how do you support this concept?

Schöller: At Groz-Beckert, the guiding principle of sustainability is formed by acceptance of our ecological, economic and social accountability as well as profitable growth. Accordingly, topics like process capacity utilisation, resource conservation and energy reduction determine our products and innovations.

Strauch: Could you give a few examples?

Schöller: For example, the new modules in our expanded warp knitting range. When they are used together with a Groz-Beckert knitting machine needle, perfectly coordinated tools are guaranteed. This, in turn, means that processes run smoothly in every sense, and are not interrupted by errors, thus ensuring maximum productivity while conserving resources. Another example is the EcoStar needle used to make nonwovens. When used, it reduces energy consumption by as much as 7 percent compared to a standard needle, and it has a considerably longer service life.

Strauch: Sustainability as sales argument. What orders of magnitude are we talking about?

Schöller: When “Litespeed Plus” needles are used, it has proven possible to lower the machine temperature and energy consumption by up to 20 percent compared to a standard knitting machine needle. With a single needle set consisting of 3,000 needles, knitting mills in China have recorded a CO2 reduction of 1.4 tons per year; in India this figure was found to be over 2.4 tons. For the sake of comparison: In order to create an equivalent quantity of nitrogen emissions, you would have to fly 3,800 or 6,400 kilometres respectively.

Strauch: Let’s go a step forward in the textile chain and focus on textile finishing. Mr. Laissle, Weitmann & Konrad (Weko) is the inventor of a non-contact rotor system for precise, metered application of liquids and chemicals to fabrics. The non-contact rotor system for coating surfaces can be integrated in existing systems. How does that work?

Laissle: Surface coating is part of the standard procedure in the paper, textile, printing or foil industries, for example. It is a way to endow the base material, produced in webs, with certain functional properties that are not intrinsic to the base material alone, such as flame retardant properties, softness, antimicrobial/antibacterial, hydrophilic/hydrophobic or oleophilic/oleophobic additives. With our rotor, which works like a rapidly rotating disc, the corresponding liquids can be applied without contact and continuously according to a precise quantity specification. Unlike the conventional technology, the contactless application means that the surface to be coated is not subjected to any mechanical load. In addition, the distribution of the liquid is improved considerably, because it is applied as a homogeneous stream of fine micro droplets.

Strauch: Please explain the advantages of this economising approach with an example …

Laissle: … woven fabrics. For these products, padding is the traditional method for the finishing. In padding, the textile to be treated is transported through a liquid or auxiliary bath as a web. As a result, it is much more than just the essential quantity of liquid applied, but it also penetrates practically the entire textile, so it has to be squeezed out afterwards using nip rollers and then dried to remove the excess liquid. As an illustration: Before coating, the absolute moisture content of a conventional textile is in the order of 8-10 percent; this means that 1 kg of material contains 80-100 grams of water. After padding, the moisture content in the material is about 60-70 percent. Drying processes that consume a great deal of energy have to be applied to lower the moisture content to a normal level again. On the other hand, with the Weko liquid application system the woven fabrics only have an absolute moisture content of about 20-30 percent after coating, and much less energy is needed to reduce this to the required 8-10 percent – this corresponds to about 40 percent less drying power than is needed in the padding process. With our approach, only the quantity of liquid that is actually needed is applied onto the surface. This reduces the consumption not only of electricity, oil or gas – depending on the method used – because the drying process is less extensive, but also of chemicals and water, depending on the coating requirement. Incidentally, with metered, non-contact application, hardly any chemical residue is left over.

Strauch: Mr. Pieper, the Brückner Group has developed, manufactured and sold machine systems for coating and finishing textiles for more than 65 years. How is your company addressing the issue of sustainability?

Pieper: We offer for our customers solutions saving resources and energy and helping thus to minimise the ecological footprint. For the finishing of elastic fabrics, we developed an indirect gas heating system with a unique heat-recovery. This system saves energy and prevents the yellowing of elastic fabric despite using a gas heating. If the producer does not want to invest in a completely new line, we offer a modification of the heating system, for example, from oil to indirect gas heating.

Strauch: Energy is a big topic for textile finishing companies. What else does your company offer to minimise energy consumption in the textile finishing process? And besides energy, which other resources and materials can be saved?

Pieper: For textile finishing we have developed a new application unit for chemicals in liquid state. It features the following advantages:
a) very low system filling of < 5l and thus minimum residual waste
b) minimum application of liquor – less water to be evaporated in dryer – significant energy savings
c) versatility in use: both impregnation as well as single sides application possible

Strauch: Is it always necessary to invest in a completely new line in order to increase a finishing plant’s efficiency or are there other possibilities, too?

Pieper: Many energy saving systems can be retrofitted on existing BRÜCKNER–lines.We can upgrade existing machines with heat-recovery systems, new heating systems (e.g. indirect gas-heating) or new application units. In order to meet strict environmental regulations, we can also retrofit air-purification systems. It is also possible to modify the entire drive and control system of a machine to enable our customers to run more sensitive fabrics on the machines. Another innovation is a co-generation plant, which we have integrated into our dryers / stenters. The core is a micro gas turbine, which generates both heat for the drying process as well electricity at the same time. The micro gas turbine is powered with natural gas or LPG. The electrical output of the micro gas turbine is sufficient to power the entire stenter. The great advantage is that the stenter needs no external electrical power supply – all we need is gas! This system is not only interesting in terms of energy savings, but also for those countries, which suffer from frequent power failures. With our heat-recovery systems, the producers can save additionally energy depending on the process and fabric type by recirculating exhaust air to the drying process or generating warm water for wet finishing. Such systems are generally available as upgrade even for textile machines which are not made by Brückner. To comply reliably with environmental regulations, we offer different exhaust air cleaning systems which can be used in most cases combined with heat-recovery units.

Strauch: Gentlemen, thank you very much for this well-founded overview of resource and energy efficiency that can be realized with the technology of VDMA member companies. I think with these solutions on hand you are well prepared for ITMA ASIA + CITME in Shanghai, since the Chinese five-year plan is paying highest attention to ecological production — a topic that is on the agenda of many other countries, too.

World champion technology at ITMA ASIA + CITME – VDMA booth in hall 1

Almost 100 German exhibitors will be present at ITMA ASIA + CITME in Shanghai. They cover nearly all different machinery chapters with a focus on spinning, nonwoven, weaving, knitting, warp knitting and finishing. The VDMA booth (H1F81) is the first contact point for visitors interested in German Technology. Visitors get a compact overview of German manufacturers and their products:

  • The useful pocket guide lists all exhibiting VDMA members by halls and shows their stand location in the hall plans.

Another little helper for the fair visit:

  • Buyers guides textile machinery and nonwoven machinery.

Know-how to take home:

  • An updated edition of our publication, describing energy saving potentials of complete chains for the production of t-shirts, textile billboard, architectural fabrics and hygienic nonwovens thanks to German Technologies: “World Champion Technology: Higher Energy Efficiency – Higher Profits”
  • Energy efficiency guide textile machinery (available on a USB stick)

Posted October 14, 2016

Source: VDMA 

ITMA Asia + CITME 2016: Shima Seiki

WAKAYAMA, Japan — October 13, 2016 — Flat knitting innovator Shima Seiki will show its latest technology in Shanghai this October at the international textile machinery exhibition, ITMA Asia + CITME 2016.

With “Open Your Future” as its exhibition concept, emphasis is placed on bringing the future closer to within reach of the present, with help from the right partner and the right technology. Shima Seiki offers its partnership and technological expertise for the benefit of knitting industries in China, Asia and beyond by anticipating upcoming needs in each of those markets.

WHOLEGARMENT Revolution

Because of the capability to produce an entire garment without the need for sewing or linking, WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machines realize quick response production with on-demand capability thanks to reduced lead times, and offer reduced dependence on labor as well as associated cost reductions, not to mention sustainable production using the minimum amount of yarn required to knit a single garment. Introduced over 20 years ago for such markets as the U.S., Europe and Japan as a countermeasure against the wave of inexpensive imports from China at the time, Wholegarment knitting has been the source of many a small revolution within individual markets and factories that were determined to survive some trying times in the history of modern textiles. Ironically enough, Wholegarment knitting is now considered an immediate answer to the current needs of a highly evolved Chinese knitting industry that must now cater to a domestic market with increasing demand for more fashionable items, while dealing with high wages and a diminished workforce. The time is right for China to undergo its own Wholegarment revolution.

At ITMA Asia Wholegarment knitting is represented by the flagship MACH2XS machine featuring Shima Seiki’s original SlideNeedle™ on four needle beds and spring-loaded full-time sinker system, introduced to much acclaim at ITMA 2015. MACH2XS is shown in ultrafine 15L and mid-to-coarse 8L gauges. In addition, the compact SWG061N2 demonstrates its flexibility for knitting a wide range of fashion items and accessories, as well as technical textile applications.

Equally important in taking advantage of Wholegarment knitting, the SDS-ONE APEX3 3D design system that proposes revolutionary changes to the knit supply chain. At the core of Shima Seiki’s “Total Fashion System” concept, APEX3 offers comprehensive support of the entire process of knitwear production from planning and design to production and sales promotion, as well as capability for Virtual Sampling. Ultra-realistic simulation capability allows Virtual Sampling to minimize the costly time- and resource-consuming sample-making process while enhancing presentation quality. Ultimately, APEX3 functionality combines with on-demand production capability of Wholegarment knitting to form a synergy that provides game-changing flexibility in knitting and distribution. To further enhance the planning and design capability of APEX3, Shima Seiki’s recently launched fashion web service “staf®” (Shima Trend Archive and Forecast) will also be demonstrated.

In order to manage the knit supply chain even further, Shima KnitPLM® offers comprehensive management from material sourcing, production planning and monitoring, factory and machine allocation, inventory control, and shipping, cus- tomized especially for the knitting sector. Along with SDS-ONE APEX3, demonstrations will be held at ITMA Asia to show how KnitPLM® can provide smooth and efficient workflow through each stage of the knit supply chain.

Shaping Evolution

The means for steady evolution is available to customers who are ready to take the next step in conventional flat knitting with the latest offerings in shaped knitting technology. Especially of note are two machines with differing needle bed architecture; each with varying degrees of capability; and both with great potential for assisting growth in Asia with its diversified market needs.

The first is a machine that borrows heavily on Shima Seiki’s unique experience with four-bed knitting, featuring a pair of loop presser beds mounted above a conventional V-shaped needle bed. The SRY machine offers full control over press-down of individual loops for unprecedented capability in flechage and inlay patterns, opening doors to new possibilities in knit fashion with unique patterning potential. At ITMA Asia SRY183LP will be shown with a 72-inch/180cm-wide needle bed for supporting garment-length production and an available maximum of 30 intarsia carriers for full intarsia patterning capability, in ultrafine 16 gauge.

The second machine is the brand new SVR123SP featuring a single loop presser bed located above the rear needle bed. Making its debut at ITMA Asia in fine 14 gauge, SVR123SP is capable of a wide range of knitting from fashion to technical textiles. Based on the industry-benchmark SVR-series, its triple knitting system is capable of highly productive knitting of complex structures such as inlay.

Next Stop, Shima Seiki

Whatever the level of technology of individual factories, whether they be in China, Asia or any other region, one thing is clear. Almost everyone in the industry is looking for something new to help distinguish their products and services from others and to help take them to a new level of business. Whether they are looking for an evolutionary extension along a familiar course, or an outright revolution, Shima Seiki is their one-stop source. The next stop is at ITMA Asia, in Hall 4, Stand C33.

1...1,7661,7671,768...2,675Page 1,767 of 2,675

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue III

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.