International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF): Results Of The 27th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — August 20, 2024 — ITMF’s Global Textile Industry Survey (GTIS) in July 2024 reveals that the global textile value chain remains in a very challenging business environment. Even though on average the business situation is dire which reflects a low order intake, business expectations in six months’ time stay positive. This very mixed picture shows that companies are expecting that this unprecedented long duration of a weak business cycle must come to an end eventually.

Order intake has improved slightly in July (-20pp) compared to May (-24pp) and is certainly significantly better than the -50pp in November 2023. Nevertheless, the capacity utilization rate fell slightly from 71% to 68%, the lowest level reached already at the end of 2023. The outlook for both order intake and capacity utilization rate are not indicating a strong improvement.

The major concern in the entire textile value chain was and is weak demand. 66% of participants expressed that they are seeing weak demand as a major concern. That geopolitics is now the second major concern (40%) shows that investors’ and consumers’ sentiments are suffering from wars and geopolitical tensions. High costs remain a challenge too, especially higher logistical costs (24%) due the problems related with the access to both the Suez and Panama Canals but also energy costs (22%) and raw material costs (27%).

Order cancellations are not a major issue as was the case in the immediate aftermath of the Corona-pandemic. Inventory levels are also average and do not pose a major concern for companies along the textile value chain. This was different with retailers and brands that struggled since the end of 2022 with unprecedented inventory levels. In the meantime, they have fallen to a level where it can be expected that they will place more orders again in the coming months.

Posted: August 20, 2024

Source: International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

Softness Can Be Measured Objectively And Quickly: emtec Electronic Presents The TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer At Dornbirn GFC 2024

LEIPZIG, Germany — August 20, 2024 — emtec Electronic GmbH, an innovator in specialized testing and measurement solutions, will showcase its latest device for objectively evaluating the hand-feel and comfort of textiles at the Dornbirn GFC Global Fiber Congress in Dornbirn, Austria, from September 11 to 13.

Traditionally, assessing the haptic quality of textiles involves subjective hand testing, which is prone to variability, inaccuracies and different expectations. This often necessitates extensive testing and repeated sample shipments between stakeholders in different geographical locations, notably between brands and apparel companies in the US and Europe and producers in Asia.

TSA2

The emtec TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer addresses this challenge by providing objective, digital data on the intricate nuances of touch. In just two minutes, the device evaluates surface softness, smoothness, as well as stretch and recovery behavior. With its latest upgrades, the analyzer now also assesses thermohaptic and friction parameters, offering a comprehensive analysis of textile properties. Additionally, it features an enhanced measurement method for springback behavior and an integrated camera for capturing detailed sample images.

A further highlight is the seamless integration of the digital TSA data in the cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library, a collaborative effort with Black Swan Textiles. This online database categorizes the data, enabling authorized personnel worldwide to access it in real time, thus facilitating efficient quality assurance and control regardless of location.

The TSA offers solutions that improve logistics, supply chain management, and sustainability in textile production. By providing objective digital test data to assess haptic quality, the TSA minimizes the need for physical sample shipments and enhances production control, leading to a more efficient and eco-friendly textile chain.

“This innovation represents a significant step towards sustainable practices in our industry,” explains Eric Haagen, Global Business Development at emtec. “Our upgraded TSA transforms how manufacturers evaluate haptic qualities, boosting supply chain transparency and efficiency, and supporting environmental goals by cutting down on rejects and reducing carbon emissions.”

Dornbirn attendees are encouraged to stop by the emtec stand to speak with Eric Haagen, who will be on site to answer all questions, demonstrate the functions of the innovative device, and explain the advantages in combination with the virtual database.

Posted: August 20, 2024

Source: emtec Electronic GmbH

Borealis And E-Fuels Leader Infinium To Turn Carbon Emissions Into Plastics 

VIENNA, Austria And SACRAMENTO, CA — August 20, 2024 — Electrofuels (eFuels) supplier Infinium and Borealis, a supplier of advanced and sustainable plastic solutions, have entered into an agreement to enable the production of low-carbon-footprint plastics generated from waste carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. These plastics, known as polyolefins, are commonly used in manufacturing consumer goods including packaging, appliances, apparel and medical devices.

“Many people aren’t aware that countless plastics products we use every day come from fossil-based components,” said Infinium CEO Robert Schuetzle. “With Infinium eNaphtha, Borealis will create plastics with an ultra-low carbon footprint for customers and end consumers seeking more sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives.”

Aerial view of the Borealis production location in Porvoo, Finland.

As the world’s first supplier of commercial volumes of eNaphtha, a sustainable drop-in alternative to traditional fossil-based naphtha, Infinium is helping to decarbonize plastics production and reduce harmful CO2 emissions globally. Infinium eNaphtha is manufactured at the company’s Project Pathfinder facility in Corpus Christi, Texas, USA, and commercial eNaphtha volumes are being shipped to Borealis’ Porvoo facility in Finland, which provides advanced and sustainable polyolefin solutions to its manufacturing customers. The world’s first commercial eNaphtha shipment left the United States in May.

Plastics made from Infinium eNaphtha can be produced using the same facilities and manufacturing equipment and recycled in the same way as with a conventional naphtha-based product. eNaphtha produced at the Infinium Pathfinder facility has received ISCC PLUS certification from the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) body. This certification system ensures the traceability of the sustainably produced feedstock from its point of origin throughout the entire chain of custody.

“We are excited to be using Infinium eNaphtha to expand our portfolio of sustainable products,” said Mirjam Mayer, VP Circular Economy Solutions at Borealis. “Atmospheric carbon is a strategic element of the Borealis Circular Cascade approach to foster the transition toward greater circularity in plastics and carbon. It allows us to serve the needs of our customers while reducing their carbon footprints. Through this collaboration with Infinium, we show that atmospheric carbon, obtained by effectively capturing and storing carbon emissions in products during their lifetime, can constitute a circular building block for the future. This is one of the ways that Borealis is  reinventing essentials for sustainable living.”

The unique partnership and supply chain development between Infinium and Borealis is an example of how innovators can collaborate toward novel solutions to meet growing consumer demand for circularity and defossilization.

Posted: August 20, 2024

Source: Borealis / Infinium

ABB Pioneers Workforce Development Program In Collaboration With Arkansas Tech University

OZARK, Ark. — August 19, 2024 — ABB is equipping the next generation of professionals for advanced technology manufacturing by partnering with Arkansas Tech University’s Ozark campus to launch a career-readiness program. This collaborative workforce development initiative will offer a curriculum focused on automation technology, air conditioning and refrigeration.

ABB’s Ozark motor manufacturing facility, the region’s third-largest employer with over 250 employees, is a leading economic driver in the community. Each week, the facility produces 3,000 Baldor-Reliance industrial electric motors. These motors power fans, pumps, blowers and other systems ensure the safe and efficient flow of air, liquid and data.

“This program is an effective workforce development initiative that has the potential to support the entire region,” said Greg Dawson, Human Resources Business Partner at ABB’s Ozark plant. “Instead of bringing in a temp and starting him or her from scratch, we are pre-training our candidates to succeed in our manufacturing operations.”

According to the 2023 World Manufacturing Report, 68% of the world’s largest manufacturing companies are increasing their investments in digital technology to drive business model innovations. Reflecting this trend, the course teaches essential operations competencies, including smart manufacturing, setup and operation of smart machines, precision measurement, robotics operation and production monitoring technologies. The five-week program provides training in ABB’s production systems with specialized instruction in motor assembly, brazing and line load. Upon completion, students will receive a certification from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) and three hours of college credit.

ABB intends to replicate this model in other universities near its manufacturing facilities. This program exemplifies ABB’s ongoing commitment to nurturing future professionals in its communities. ABB has a long-standing partnership with the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith (UAFS). In 2023, ABB invested $1 million to create a workforce training program at the university. This initiative focuses on roles in advanced manufacturing, engineering, automation, design processes and technology for the industry.

Additionally, ABB supports the Peak Innovation Center, a regional partnership program between Fort Smith Public Schools and UAFS. ABB invested $1 million to acquire state-of-the-art equipment for the Advanced Manufacturing program, including pathways in automation/robotics, electronics technology, and computer-integrated machining.

Posted: August 19, 2024

Source: ABB

Hamilton International Hires Jay Hertwig As Vice President Of Sales And Marketing

ATLANTA, GA— August 19, 2024 — Hamilton International, a diversified industrial yarn and fabric solution provider to manufacturers across North America, has hired Jay Hertwig as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In this role, he will be responsible for managing the sales and marketing activities for the entire company. Jay comes to Hamilton with more than 30 years of experience in the global textile industry.

Founded in 2007, Hamilton International is a customer-focused company that leverages its extensive international resources and supply chain expertise to provide solutions for customers. Hamilton provides warehousing, inventory management, and consignment solutions along with other tools for process enhancements to support the growth of our customers’ business. With global headquarters in Atlanta and representatives located in strategic locations around the world, we provide our customers with access to a vast global network of suppliers.

Jay Hertwig

Jay Hertwig

With 30 years of experience in the global textile industry, Jay Hertwig is an accomplished executive with a unique combination of product development, sales and marketing skills. He is known for developing and commercializing new products through effective branding and marketing.

Hertwig has actively brought innovation and sustainability to leading brands and retailers in the apparel, automotive, furnishings, footwear, medical and industrial markets. He has worked directly with well-known brands such as Adidas, Cintas, Ford, Haggar, HON, Levi/Dockers, Nike, Patagonia, The North Face, Under Armour and Walmart.

Hertwig is a graduate of the University of Georgia and holds a bachelor of arts in communication studies.

Posted: August 19, 2024

Source: Hamilton International

Hyosung Presents New Eco-Friendly Yarns And SS 26 Textile Trends At  China International Textile Fabrics And Accessories Expo

SEOUL, South Korea— August 19, 2024 — With the aim of introducing new sustainable textile solutions and fresh new looks to its entire value chain, Hyosung will exhibit at the China International Textile Fabrics and Accessories (Autumn/Winter) Expo – the world’s largest professional fabric and accessories exhibition – taking place in Shanghai this August 27-29. The Expo comprehensively showcases new products, technologies, trends, and concepts in the textile field, promoting healthy and sustainable industry development through collaboration.

“This year, we look forward to leading 27 domestic and international partners in participating in the exhibition, forming the Hyosung exhibition group, occupying a large 828 sqm booth to provide the best experience for every visitor,” said Scott Park, Hyosung Marketing Director, China. “Hyosung combines environmental sustainability with technology and market demand, highlighting new yarn technologies to provide a new visual feast.”

At the Expo, Hyosung will focus on presenting its multi-functional and eco-friendly yarns, including its regen Spandex and regen BIO spandex. Hyosung’s RCS-certified, 100% recycled regen Spandex is made from the reclaimed waste that occurs from Hyosung’s manufacturing process. regen BIO Spandex is made with renewable resources instead of petroleum-based materials, reducing carbon footprint and dependence on non-renewable resources. Hyosung three of bio-based Spandex yarns made with varying amounts of content made from renewable resources: regen BIO, regen BIO+, and regen BIO Max.

Additionally, Hyosung will highlight its popular CREORA® Fresh Spandex, which will now be produced domestically in China. CREORA Fresh Spandex features odor-neutralizing functionality with high elasticity. Using a chemical neutralization method, CREORA® Fresh can efficiently and permanently neutralize odor components like ammonia, acetic acid, and isovaleric acid, maintaining freshness and comfort.

Hyosung’s Fashion Design Center (FDC) team will present the latest trends for the SS 26 season, incorporating consumer needs into product design and development. The three major textile trends will showcase three types of apparel: sports/outdoor, lingerie, and home leisure.

Hyosung welcomes all attendees to visit its CREORA® booth located in Hall 4.1, E103, where it will showcase its full range of products, globally developed fabrics, and FDC-designed sample garments.

Posted: August 19, 2024

Source: Hyosung

Independent Swiss Testing And Certification Institute TESTEX Joins ITMF As A Corporate Member

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — August 19, 2024 — TESTEX, an official representative and founding member of OEKO-TEX®, is a globally operating and independent Swiss testing and certification institute. Founded in 1846 and originally known as the “Seidentrocknungsanstalt Zurich” (Silk Conditioning Institute), its expertise lies in testing, analyzing, and certifying textiles and leather. In addition to the headquarters in Switzerland, the TESTEX Group, including its subsidiary OETI, now operates with 40 branches and around 400 employees worldwide.

Left: Mr. Christian Schindler, Director General at ITMF. Right: Mr. Marc Sidler, Chief Marketing Officer at TESTEX

Mr. Christian Schindler, Director General of ITMF: “ITMF is delighted to welcome TESTEX as its latest member. Testing and certifying is an integral part of the textile value chain. It is important for ITMF to have TESTEX actively participate in ITMF. This step does not only strengthen ITMF’s position as a unique international platform for the global textile value chain, it also helps ITMF and its members to discuss topics related to testing and certification in close partnership with the leading testing and certifying organization”.

Mr. Marc Sidler, Group CMO of TESTEX: “By becoming a member of ITMF, TESTEX is joining an organisation that brings together the entire textile value chain from fibre producers to manufacturers of garments and home textiles. Having access to the ITMF’s publications, statistics, and surveys as well as events like workshops, conferences, and webinars enables us to better understand the global dynamics of the textile value chain as well as to strengthen the network with associations and companies around the world.”

Posted: August 19, 2024

Source: International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

Oerlikon Neumag Commissions BCF Plant In China: Automotive Supplier Sailuda Integrates BCF Yarn Production 

NEUMÜNSTER  Germany — August 15, 2024 — Chinese automotive supplier Sailuda is expanding its process chain with the commissioning of a Oerlikon Neumag BCF plant. In future, the specialist for automotive interiors will produce its own BCF yarns. The company is thus integrating the entire process from the yarn to the finished carpet and can therefore better influence production and quality of its car carpets.

The three-end BCF S+ system impresses with its cost-effectiveness: high production speed and capacity and reliable components combined with the highest yarn quality make this model particularly attractive for carpet yarn manufacturers.

Sailuda is one of the major suppliers for international car brands such as BMW, Volvo, VW and Ford, but also for well-known Chinese e-car manufacturers such as NIO, Lixiang and SERES. “The quality of our products is our recipe for success,” says CEO John Zhu, explaining the strategy. The company has been reporting a constant increase in turnover for years. With its own in-house carpet yarn production, Sailuda wants to diversify its product range and create outstanding and exceptional end products. In this way, the visionary trendsetter is creating a competitive advantage in the highly competitive automotive sector.

Capacity expansion already being planned

John Zhu is certain that this will not be the only investment in yarn production. “The delivery and commissioning of the 2 positions BCF S+ plant for the production of PA6 and PET monocolor BCF yarns went so smoothly and quickly; this has encouraged us to invest in another system at the end of the year.” John Zhu explains his decision for the proven S+ technology of the market leader for BCF yarn systems with the expected excellent quality of yarns produced on Oerlikon Neumag systems. “The yarns have a very uniform crimp with a high degree of coverage in the carpet.” Sailuda is thereby securing its competitiveness in the demanding market for automotive carpets.

Automotive sector boosts Asian BCF market

While the focus of carpet yarn production has so far been in the USA and Turkey, the up-and-coming automotive industry in China is giving the Asian carpet market a significant boost, among other effects. “We are registering increased demand for our BCF technologies,” agree the responsible Sales Directors in China and Neumünster, Sun Peng and Arnd Luppold. “We attribute this to the rising production figures in the Chinese automotive industry; China is ahead in terms of figures, especially in the electric car sector. This is boosting demand for automotive carpets.”

Posted: August 17, 2024

Source: Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division

AATCC Seeks New Executive Director

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — August 16, 2024 — AATCC’s Executive Search Committee Will Seek a New AATCC Executive Director. AATCC’s Board of Directors has authorized an Executive Search Committee to seek out a new Executive Director for the 100-year-old Association.

Suitable candidates should have demonstrated leadership and motivational skills, and prior experience in managing a business with bottom-line accountability. Candidates should also be experienced in problem solving, strategic planning, and have technical understanding and attention to detail, as well as being organized, and professional.

Prior textile processing experience is desirable. Prior Association experience is desirable. Some experience in marketing would be advantageous. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively (both orally and in writing), possess a positive work ethic, have an aptitude for planning and implementing directives, and be self-motivated. Suitable candidates must have a working knowledge of accounting systems, and a working knowledge of Windows software, and be familiar with social media.

Minimum Educational Requirement: A BS in Textile Chemistry, Chemistry, Textile Science, or Engineering is preferred. In addition to formal training in the physical sciences, an MBA with experience in managing a business is preferred. The search committee also prefers a person who is (or has been) a member of AATCC, and who has prior experience in serving as a member or chairing test methods, publications, or administrative committees of the Association.

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

The position requires in-person work from the office, located at the AATCC Technical Center, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Posted: August 16, 2024

Source: AATCC

Results Of The 46th ITMF International Textile Machinery Shipment Statistics: Textile Machinery Shipments Rise In Several Sectors

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — August 16, 2024 — In 2023, global shipments of new short-staple and long-staple spindles rose by +2% and +5%, respectively, and dropped by -17% for open-end rotors (year-on-year). Deliveries of draw-texturing spindles decreased by -28% while the number of shipped shuttle-less looms rose by +52%. Shipments of large circular knitting machines grew by +17% and shipped flat knitting machines registered a 60%-increase. The sum of all deliveries in the finishing segment remained stable on average.

These are the main results of the 46th annual International Textile Machinery Shipment Statistics (ITMSS) just released by the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF). The report covers six segments of textile machinery, namely spinning, draw-texturing, weaving, large circular knitting, flat knitting, and finishing. A summary of the findings for each category is presented below. The 2023 survey has been compiled in cooperation with more than 200 textile machinery manufacturers representing a comprehensive measure of world production.

Spinning Machinery

The total number of shipped short-staple spindles increased by 155 thousand units in 2023 to a level of 9.78 million. Most of the new shipments went to Asia & Oceania (85%) where deliveries have been stable compared to 2022 (+0.1%). Shipment to Europe (incl. Türkiye) and North and Central America decreased by -13% and -27%, respectively, and increased in Africa (+120% to 475 thousand) and South America (+140% to 81 thousand). 85% of shipments to Africa went to Egypt. The six largest investors in the short-staple segment were China, India, Türkiye, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Egypt.

1 million open-end rotors were shipped worldwide in 2023. This represents about 200 thousand units less than recorded in 2022. 85% of global shipments went to Asia & Oceania where deliveries decreased by -19% to 860 thousand. China, India, and Türkiye were the world’s 3 largest investors in rotors and saw investments drop by -4%, -24% and -20%, respectively. Deliveries decreased in all major destination countries except for Brazil and Mexico, the 5th and 7th largest destinations in 2023, where shipment rose by +20% and +46% compared to 2022.

Global shipments of long-staple (wool) spindles increased to 98 thousand unit in 2023 (+5%). This positive effect was driven by a rise in deliveries to Europe (incl. Türkiye) and South America where 25 and 1.6 thousand units were shipped, respectively. 31% of total deliveries were shipped to China, 29% to Türkiye, and 19% to Iran.

Texturing Machinery

Global shipments of single heater draw-texturing spindles (mainly used for polyamide filaments) decreased by -33% from nearly 65 thousand units in 2022 to 43 thousand units in 2023. With a share of 97%, Asia & Oceania remained the strongest destination for single heater draw-texturing spindles in 2023. China, Türkiye, and India were the 3 main investors in this segment with shares of global deliveries of 90%, 2,6%, and 2,3%, respectively.

In the category of double heater draw-texturing spindles (mainly used for polyester filaments), global shipments decreased by -27% to a level of 550 thousand spindles. Asia’s share of worldwide shipments increased to 97% and China continued to be the world’s largest investor, accounting for 91% of global shipments.

Weaving Machinery

In 2023, global shipments of shuttle-less looms increased by +52% to 171 thousand units. Deliveries in the categories “air-jet” and “water-jet” grew by 34% and +96% to 53 and 92 thousand looms, respectively. The number of “rapier and projectile” looms rose by +0.1% to 27 thousand units. The main destination for shuttle-less looms was Asia & Oceania with 96% of worldwide deliveries. 97%, 85%, and 99% of global air-jet, rapier/projectile, and water-jet looms were shipped to the region, respectively. The main investor for air-jet and water-jet looms was China. The main investor for rapier-and-projectile looms was India with 10 thousand units (despite a -8% decrease compared to 2022).

Circular & Flat Knitting Machinery

Global shipments of large circular knitting machines grew by +17% to 33 thousand units in 2023. The region Asia & Oceania was the world’s leading investor in this category with 86% of global shipments. China was the favored destination with 63% of all deliveries (18’476 units), an increase of +86% compared to 2022. India and Türkiye ranked second and third destinations with 4’195 and 1’367 shipped units, respectively.

The number of shipped electronic flat knitting machines increased by +61% to 177 thousand machines in 2023. The growth was driven by Asia & Oceania which received 92% of world shipments. Shipments to other regions decreased except for Europe (incl. Türkiye), where 650 units were delivered. China remained the world’s largest investor with a +82%-share of total shipments.

Finishing Machinery

In the “fabrics continuous” segment, the number of shipped stenters increased by +3% from 1’780 units in 2022 to 1’833 units in 2023. This number includes an estimate for the total number of stenters shipped by companies which have not participated to the ITMF survey. Participating companies reported mixed results for all other machines in this category (between a decrease of -42% for relax dryers/tumblers and an increase of +103% for bleaching-line). In the “fabrics discontinuous” segment, the number of “jigger dyeing / beam dyeing” and “air jet dyeing” shipped in 2023 dropped by -8% and -0.3% to 715 and 772 units, respectively. Deliveries in the categories “overflow dyeing” rose by +4.2% to 2’122 units.

Posted: August 16, 2024

Source: International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

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