Genkinger, Hubtex Merge, Team Up With Neuenhauser

Genkinger Maschinenbau GmbH and
Hubtex Maschinenbau GmbH, both based in Germany, recently combined their machine handling equipment
manufacturing operations. The new company, Genkinger-Hubtex GmbH, is headed by Managing Director
Harald Schlosser.

Neuenhauser Maschinenbau GmbH & Co., also based in Germany, is a co-partner in the new
company. Neuenhauser Inc., the company’s North American distributor, has consolidated Hubtex of
North America, the Hubtex distributor for the region, into its operation in Greer, S.C.

Markus Heinis, former president of Hubtex of North America, now serves as president of
Neuenhauser Inc. — Textile Division. Ken Carrick and Chuck Holmes are responsible for daily sales
and customer contact efforts. Tommy Loftin and Calvin McDowell continue to provide spare parts and
service coordination for Genkinger-Hubtex equipment.

“We are pleased to provide this consolidated offering of material handling equipment,
service and spare parts to the [textile] industry,” said Philip J. Riddle, president and CEO,
Neuenhauser Inc. “With bringing the talents of the associates of Hubtex of North America into
Neuenhauser Inc., our combined customers will have the benefits of a centralized provider of sales,
service and spare parts for their material handling requirements.”


March 2005

Avery Dennison Launches New Line Of Fasteners

Avery Dennison System 1000 Brand Identification Fasteners, recently launched by the Fastener
Division of Avery Dennison Retail Information Services, Framingham, Mass., feature an expanded
paddle area for imprinting with brand and product information. The fasteners’ unique appearance and
molding process aid in verifying product authenticity, identifying fakes and deterring
counterfeiting, according to the company.

March 2005

Rieter Revitalizes The Market

 

I
n order to remain a strong player in the global textile game, Rieter Machine Works Ltd.,
Switzerland, has developed new training systems for its draw frames and has introduced two new
combers.


Computer-Aided Training System

The proper setting and maintenance of spinning machinery are essential for achieving optimum
yarn quality, and require plant personnel with the appropriate know-how. When personnel change,
this knowledge must be reestablished through training.

As an alternative to external training, and in an effort to keep up with rapid technical
changes that make increasingly heavy demands on today’s textile industry, Rieter has developed the
Computer Aided Training System (CATS) for the RSB-D 35 and SB-D 15 draw frames. CATS also will be
available soon for the RSB-D 30 and SB-D 10 draw frames.


The Draw Frame: A Quality-Defining Machine

Rieter draw frames have set global standards for sliver quality. More than 20,000 RSB and SB
draw frames sold in 98 countries bear witness to the exceptional success of these machines.
According to Rieter, draw frames demonstrably ensure yarn quality and running properties with
minimal capital expenditure, and are reliable and operator-friendly. Rieter reports the machines
operate without requiring any special attention, which means that maintenance may sometimes be
overlooked.


Customer Training

External training on Rieter’s premises has unquestionable advantages. Explanations can be
given and handling practiced with no time constraints while the machine is at a standstill, and
questions can be dealt with individually. The disadvantages of conventional training courses are
familiar, for example, a large amount of information is communicated in a short time. What has been
learned can be practiced, but not always in-depth. Back home, the course file ends up in the filing
cabinet, since there is work to be done. If problems arise, personnel must meet deadlines, and the
file is not referred to. What is more, during day-to-day operations, the barriers to optimizing
machine settings are fairly high. If one ascribes to the motto ‘If it ain’t broke, dont fix it,’
the machine’s potential may not be fully realized in favor of uninterrupted production. New media
technologies enable information and learning processes to be designed with increasing flexibility
for individual needs.

CATS enables complex facts and sequences of motion to be presented and discussed using a
multimedia approach. Explanations using a combination of text, illustration, sound, video and
animation are easy to understand. System users soon find their way around the program and thus
achieve productive learning results.

The student’s knowledge after working through a CATS lesson is often better, more balanced
and firmer than after conventional instruction. Tests have shown that what has been learned with
the help of CATS is memorized better because the student is actively involved in the learning
process. Learning targets are achieved in a shorter time, which reduces the training period by 20
percent or more. Students may also organize their own time at the computer with CATS.


Easy Access To Information

The CATS RSB-D 35 runs on any customary office personal computer. Navigation is easy and
self-explanatory. After entering a personal password, the student may commence individual training.

CATS is organized into three main sections:

Introduction: This provides a comprehensive overview of the purpose and function of the RSB
draw frames.

Training: This includes topics related to the machine as a whole with all relevant
mechanical, electrical, electronic and technological settings, including laboratory testing.

Self-Test Certification: This allows the student to check his knowledge by means of
multiple-choice questions. When he leaves the system, the questions answered to date are
automatically assessed and statistics displayed.

A glossary with all terms relevant to the draw frame may be accessed from any position. The
CATS study package comprises explanations totaling more than 22,000 words, more than five hours of
video and animation, more than 80 glossary entries, and more than 1,000 photographs.The training
program is available in English, Turkish and Chinese and soon will be available in Urdu.


Higher Efficiency Through Good Training

The current training trend is toward modern learning media, which are readily accepted by
students. With well-trained personnel, it is possible to realize the full potential of the RSB-D 35
and SB-D 15 draw frames, as well as the D 30 and D 10 predecessor models. CATS aids in this process
through its easily understandable form.

However, CATS RSB-D 35 not only is a training medium; it is a comprehensive reference work
about the draw frame as well. It also is possible to print out individual subjects with a click of
the mouse.Together with Rieter’s Sliver Professional expert system, CATS ideally complements the
performance package of the machine, and ensures the efficient production of high-quality yarns,
according to the company.


New Comber Models

The new E 65 and E 75 (ROBOlap) comber models are the world’s first combers to achieve a nip
rate of 450 per minute in mill operation, and thus a daily output of more than 1,500 kilograms (kg)
of combed sliver per machine.

Several thousand E 62 and E 72 combers currently are in operation, mostly with nip rates of
between 370 and 400 per minute. Rieter reports it has demonstrated that its combers can be operated
continuously at nip rates of up to 400 per minute while maintaining superior technological values.
This experience, together with Computer Aided Process Development (CAPD) – computer simulations of
the combing process specially developed by Rieter – formed the basis for further production and
quality improvements. By utilizing proven elements of the predecessor models and incorporating
further optimizations of various combing process parameters, the new CAPD+ process has boosted the
nip rate to 450 per minute and output to up to 68 kg per hour.

Despite the significant increase in production of some 13 percent, no compromise has been
made with regard to raw material utilization and running properties, according to Rieter. As with
the predecessor models, these latest-generation machines also feature improved fiber selection and
thus up to 3 percent higher raw material utilization.

The stress on the mechanical elements has been further reduced by CAPD+. This means reduced
stress on the fiber, optimum web formation, constant combing quality, lower power consumption,
reduced wear of the combing elements and longer service life of the installation.

The running properties of the E 65 and E 75 allow these machines to achieve efficiencies of
up to 96 percent, according to Rieter.


Combing Technology Components

The combing elements also have been adapted to the new combing process. The Ri-Q-Top top
comb developed by Rieter and the new Primacomb 8014 and 8015 circular combs guarantee maximum
combing efficiency at any production level, according to the company. The self-cleaning effect
means soiling of the top combs, and therefore maintenance, is reduced by up to 75 percent. This
improvement in cleanliness has a positive impact on the machine’s running properties and quality
consistency.


Drafting Technology

Various elements of the technology featured in Rieter draw frames are utilized in the E 65
and E 75 combers. Variable break draft and main draft gaps facilitate ideal fiber guidance in the
drafting zones.These improvements enable optimum combing results to be achieved with 1-inch cotton
fibers. A newly developed web consolidation feature guarantees faultless sliver formation, and
precisely positioned suction elements ensure maximum cleanliness of the drafting system, according
to Rieter. These innovations improve the spectrograms and reduce the coefficient of variation value
by an average of 0.5 percent.

The drafting zone of the E 65 and E 75 (ROBOlap) combers features adjustable break draft
and main draft gaps.


Unique Combing Automation

Rieter still is the only supplier of a fully automated combing set with proven qualities in
a large number of installations. Almost 1,000 combers with automatic lap change and batt piecing
system (ROBOlap) and automatic lap transport system (SERVOlap) currently are in operation
worldwide. Growing numbers of spinning mills, even in low-wage countries, now are opting for
automation in the combing room. The deciding factors are an increase in efficiency of up to 3
percent, more consistent quality and reduced space requirements.


Higher Output, Lower Costs

The new E 65 and E 75 combers offer various advantages that have an immediate impact on
production costs. For a correct comparison of production costs, lower energy consumption and
savings on raw materials and ancillary costs must also be included in the calculation alongside
capital and labor costs. Only then does it become apparent that, compared with other manufacturers,
combers costs per kilogram of combed sliver produced using the E 65 and E 75 combers are lower
thanks to the higher performance of these machines.

In order to ensure Rieter’s product quality, a large number of machines were tested in the
field in continuous operation under a wide range of conditions for several months before the
companys market launch of the new combers commenced. The tests confirmed the significant increase
in productivity and the quality improvements achieved with the new combers.

March 2005

Hills, Changyuan Team Up To Build Extrusion Equipment

Hills Inc. – a West Melbourne, Fla.-based developer of multicomponent fiber extrusion technology
– and Changyuan Elastan Machine Manufacturing Co. Ltd. – a China-based manufacturer of elastic
filament equipment – have entered into a joint development agreement to design, develop and produce
melt-spun spandex fiber extrusion machinery for the man-made fiber industry. Hills will sell the
machinery outside China under the Hills/CY brand name. A machine will be available for
demonstration at Changyuan later this year.

March 2005

Commerce Department To Expedite Publishing Import Data

In a move designed to improve its tracking of textile and apparel imports, the Commerce
Department is establishing a new system for monitoring textile trade. The system will allow the
deparment and the public timely access to preliminary textile and apparel trade data from the US
Customs and Border Protection Agency, and allow policy makers to more quickly analyze the impact of
imports on the US market.

US Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez said the action “demonstrates the commitment of this
administration to put in place the tools necessary to enforce our trade agreements and level the
playing field to support our domestic textile and apparel industry.”

The move was hailed by the American Manufacturing Trade Action Coalition (AMTAC), which had long
sought such a program in order to enhance the textile industry’s claims of market disruption by
Chinese imports. In welcoming the news, AMTAC’s executive director, Auggie Tantillo, said: “We are
confident that the data the US government will be releasing will show dramatic increases in US
imports of textile and apparel products from China, and the data will help to prove the industry’s
claim that China is disrupting the US market.”

The Commerce Department said it expects the new system to be in place by the first week in
April. In order to provide public access to the information the department will post the data
biweekly on its website,
http://otexa.ita.doc.gov.



March 1, 2005

Process Control Unveils CA Series Vacuum Loader

Atlanta-based Process Control Corp. now offers its CA Series vacuum loader, suitable for
applications that require raw material delivery. The company reports the self-contained,
economically priced, compressed-air-powered unit is available in three sizes and delivers pellets,
regrinds or granular-type materials at rates ranging from 100 to 800 parts per hour. The loaders
feature direct-mount design, are equipped with all necessary components for quick loading of
materials into any processing machine or storage bin, and are easy to maintain and clean out. Units
are available as single inlet loaders or as dual inlet ratio loaders that load pellets and regrinds
proportionally and convey them simultaneously.

March 2005

Picanol Streamlines Organizational Structure

The Picanol Group, Belgium, has restructured its organization around two core divisions and has
integrated former Global Textile Partner (GTP) activities into these divisions.

The Technologies division comprises Proferro and BUMAC casting and mechanical production
activities; Mechatronics; and GTP Accessories including frames, heddles, reeds and insertion
technology. It supplies parts and system solutions to original equipment manufacturers.

The Weaving Machines and Services division comprises air-jet and rapier, which develops and
produces weaving machines; weaving machines customer relation teams, which handle machinery sales;
and after-market sales and support, which provide additional products and services.

March 1, 2005

Sara Lee To Spin Off Branded Apparel

Chicago-based Sara Lee Corp. has announced it will spin off its Winston-Salem, N.C.-based
Branded Apparel, Americas/Asia, business into a publicly traded, independent company. The move is
part of a comprehensive transformation plan intended to improve Sara Lee’s performance and
long-term growth prospects, and focus its portfolio on its core food, beverage and household
products.

The announcement follows news that Sara Lee is exploring the sale of its $1.8 billion European
apparel business.

Sara Lee Branded Apparel, a business that includes the Champion®, Hanes® and Playtex® brands,
registered an 11.6-percent increase in operating segment income for the first half of fiscal 2005,
according to C. Steven McMillan, chairman and CEO, Sara Lee Corp. The business employs more than
50,000 people globally including 14,500 in the United States. The spin-off is expected to be
completed in 12 to 18 months.

“With approximately $4.5 billion in annual sales, we would become a Fortune 500 company and one
of the largest apparel companies in the world,” said Lee A. Chaden, CEO, Sara Lee Branded Apparel.
“The management of Branded Apparel is very excited about this move,” Chaden said. “Our business
today is very healthy. And, given our scale, the strength of our brands and the quality of our
people, we are fully confident that we can accelerate our growth curve as an independent
enterprise.

“We will remain in Winston-Salem, which has been our home since two Hanes brothers created
companies 104 years ago,” he added.

Richard A. Noll, currently CEO of Sara Lee Bakery Group, has been named president and COO of
Sara Lee Branded Apparel.

March 1, 2005

Monforts Certifies First Swiss Manufacturer

Christian Eschler AG – a warp and circular knitting manufacturer of fabrics for workwear,
sportswear, technical textiles; and basic fabrics for lingerie and embroidery – is the first
company based in Switzerland to receive Monforized certification by Germany-based A. Monforts
Textilmaschinen GmbH and Co. KG.

The certification is granted only to mills using Monforts equipment maintained according to the
manufacturers’ standards. According to Monforts, it assists textile buyers in recognizing the
quality of fabrics dyed and finished using Monforts equipment. Monforts also has certified 10
textile producers in China, one each in Belgium and Italy, and two in Germany.

March 2005

Fiber Production Sets Record In 2004

A preliminary report released by Saurer Management AG, Switzerland, indicates 2004 fiber
production totaled a record 67+ million metric tons a 6.7-percent increase over 2003 output. Of
this total, man-made fiber production represents 56 percent, or 37.9 million metric tons. Cotton,
wool and silk together represent 36 percent, or 24.1 million metric tons.

Polyester (PES) output led the growth in man-made fibers, increasing by 9.7 percent to 24.5
million metric tons. Cellulosics output rose by 8.1 percent to 3.2 million metric tons. Polyamide
(PA) yarn production was up by 5.3 percent; staple fiber output was unchanged at 0.5 million metric
tons. Polypropylene (PP) output rose by 2.7 percent to 3.1 million metric tons. Acrylic (PAN) fiber
output was up 1 percent to 2.7 million metric tons.

Much of the increased production is attributed to China which grew its PES staple fiber output
by 21 percent and filament output by 22 percent, contributed to an 11-percent rise in Asian PA
production, and increased its PAN production by 5 percent. The United States registered increases
of 0.9 percent in staple polyester fiber, and in industrial and carpet PA yarn output 9 percent and
5 percent, respectively; while showing decreases in textile PA yarn output. Western European PA
production also showed gains in industrial and carpet yarns 5 percent and 10+ percent, respectively
and declines in textile yarns. The region also grew its PP production by 8 percent, while seeing
declines of 6 percent in PES filament and 1 percent in PAN output.

Turkish output increased by 10 percent in the PES filament and PAN sectors. Brazil and Mexico
also registered increases in PES filament production, while Korea lost ground in that sector. In
PES staple, India saw a 10-percent gain and Mexico experienced a significant decline.

March 2005

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