Hexcel Highlights Thermoplastics Breakthrough At Paris Air Show With HELUES Project, A Multi-Partnership Demonstrator

STAMFORD, CT — June 17, 2025 — At Paris Air Show today, Hexcel will spotlight its latest advancements in thermoplastic composite technology by showcasing a highly innovative PEKK/carbon thermoplastics component developed as part of the HELUES project.

In 2018, Hexcel and Arkema have signed a strategic alliance to develop thermoplastic composite solutions for the aerospace sector combining the expertise of Hexcel in carbon fiber and that of Arkema in PEKK.

At the Paris Air Show, the HELUES project perfectly illustrates thermoplastic solutions with a new demonstrator, a complex structural component for an overwing emergency exit door, and is the result of a multi-partner collaboration aimed at revolutionizing how aerospace components are manufactured for the next generation of high-rate aircraft production.

“The HELUES demonstrator is a milestone in aerospace thermoplastic composites,” said Thierry Merlot, Hexcel President Aerospace Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa & Industrial. “By eliminating autoclaves and enabling functional integration in a single step, thermoplastics are opening the door to truly scalable aircraft production.”

As global demand surges for more efficient and scalable aircraft manufacturing, particularly for single-aisle jets, Hexcel and its HELUES partners are helping OEMs address critical production challenges through new material and process innovations.

The HELUES project, funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs and supported by the German Aerospace Centre, brought together Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH, Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH, Siebenwurst GmbH & Co. KG, INCOE International Europe, ARKEMA and Hexcel to pioneer a new manufacturing process using high-temperature thermoplastics.

At the core of the HELUES technology is a one-step forming and injection overmolding technology that utilizes HexPly® unidirectional (UD) carbon fiber-reinforced Kepstan® PEKK tapes in conjunction with Kepstan® PEKK injection molding compounds. This integrated approach enables the rapid creation of a fully formed, structurally complex component, including reinforcing ribs and functional elements, in less than two minutes.

Thermoplastics technology offers aerospace OEMs three key advantages:

  • Dramatically shortened cycle times – from hours to minutes – to meet production targets of up to 80-100 jets per month.
  • Greater design flexibility and weight savings, thanks to thermoplastics’ ability to be reshaped and welded rather than fastened.
  • Enhanced sustainability and recyclability, as thermoplastics can be reprocessed and reused

The HELUES demonstrator directly replaces a traditionally assembled door structure with a single, integrated part, reducing component count and assembly steps by up to 90%. Early-stage testing confirmed excellent material bonding between molded ribs and thermoformed laminates, even under complex process parameters, further supporting the part’s viability in demanding aerospace environments.

With the commercial aviation sector preparing for a future defined by high-rate production and more automated, sustainable assembly lines, thermoplastics are gaining momentum as a material of choice. By reducing reliance on energy-intensive autoclaves and enabling robotic manufacturing processes, solutions like the HELUES component demonstrate how composite innovation can unlock both performance and production scalability for the next generation of aircraft.

Posted: June 17, 2025

Source: Hexcel Corporation

OurPlasticsJourney: BASF To Showcase The Sustainable Future Of Plastics At K 2025

LUDWIGSHAFEN, Germany — June 17, 2025 — As the world’s leading trade fair for plastics and rubber returns to Düsseldorf this October 8th to 15th, BASF is again on board – just as it has been since the very first K-Fair in 1952.

“This year, we manifest our commitment to the plastics industry, and we continue our commitment to sustainability and innovation through our global campaign, #OurPlasticsJourney. More than just a tagline, it reflects our ambition to transform the plastics industry. This journey takes time, but the destination is clear: a circular economy of plastics,” emphasizes Martin Jung, President of BASF Performance Materials.

At the K-Preview  press conference on June 17, BASF has unveiled a first glimpse of what visitors can expect at K 2025: innovative applications tailored to customers’ needs and showcasing real progress in circularity across various businesses and industries.

A product portfolio evolving toward a lower carbon footprint.

At K 2022, BASF introduced its LowPCF and ZeroPCF portfolios as solutions to reduce the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) by a minimum of 30%, through the use of renewable electricity, low-emission steam and renewable raw materials, in a mass balance approach. A current example for a ZeroPCF product innovation is VAUDE’s bike bag using Ultramid® ZeroPCF, the first polyamide 6 in the industry to achieve a CO2 footprint of net zero.

Building on this, BASF has now launched a reduced PCF product range, rPCF, aimed at PCF improvements using renewable electricity and steam alongside the production process. The offering is now available in BASF’s Engineering Plastics and Thermoplastic Polyurethanes sustainability toolbox. It follows BASF’s achievement of completely switching all its European Performance Materials plants to renewable electricity powered by solar and wind energy. “With rPCF, we are giving customers flexibility to customize their products’ carbon footprint by opting for renewable energies in our production process. This is a logical next step in both their green transformation and ours,” adds Alexander Weiser, Senior Vice President, Head of BASF Performance Materials Europe.

Make becomes circular

While technology and processes are major levers of transformation, the use of alternative raw materials is equally essential. At K 2025, BASF will showcase products for which fossil resources are replaced with renewable feedstock at the beginning of the production process using the Biomass Balance approach. This helps reducing the carbon footprint of:

  • Siemens circuit breaker SIRIUS 3RV2: Ultramid® BMB and Ultradur® BMB
  • Certified compostable and soil-biodegradable biopolymers: ecovio® and ecoflex® BMB
  • ZARA bodysuit: Ultramid® BMB

Additionally, BASF replaces fossil resources with feedstock from the chemical recycling of plastic waste in a mass balance approach for its Ccycled® portfolio:

  • KASK safety helmet: Neopor® Ccycled®
  • Oysho sports leggings: Ultramid® Ccycled®

Transformation is not only about materials, but also about data. As the industry moves toward greater transparency and accountability, digital tools become essential to enable and accelerate the green transformation. To support this, BASF offers the PACIFIC app that provides standardization and interoperability in PCF data exchanges of plastic materials. Designed for ease of use, the PACIFIC app is seeing growing adoption across stakeholders in the value chain.

Use of plastics’ strengths

Plastics bring unique benefits to many applications that often extend their lifespan. This is particularly important for future technologies, such as the production of green hydrogen. For example, Ultrason® S3010 (PSU: polysulfone) enables the production of larger, more robust and durable parts like frames in stacks for alkaline electrolyzers developed by Stargate Hydrogen.

In high-performance household appliances like the latest Thermomix by Vorwerk Elektrowerke, BASF’s engineering plastics, Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), and testing capabilities support complex applications. Several parts are made of either Ultramid® Advanced N (PPA: polyphthalamide) or Ultramid® A (PA66: polyamide 66), selected for their high temperature stability and mechanical strength respectively.

In the eMobility sector, BASF has developed a next-generation battery demonstrator featuring advanced plastic material solutions to enhance lightweighting, thermal management, safety and performance.

Recycle is the new Make

As part of its commitment to a circular plastics economy, BASF is scaling up complementary recycling technologies to give waste a second life. Across various industries – packaging, furniture, appliances, textiles and vehicles – new solutions demonstrate how recycling becomes an engine of innovation.

To support efficient recycling processes, BASF subsidiary trinamiX provides a handheld tool for fast and reliable identification of different plastic and textile types. The trinamiX Mobile NIR Spectroscopy Solution facilitates cleaner sorting and improved recycling outcomes.

For paper-based food packaging, BASF extends the end-of-life options to organic recycling. Its tailored certified home and industrial compostable ecovio® allows coating on paper food articles to achieve necessary barrier properties, especially for liquid and fatty ingredients.

As a leader in the polyurethanes (PU) business for more than 60 years, BASF is committed to demonstrating PU’s versatility and recyclability:

  • Together with its long-standing partner Vitra, BASF is showcasing the world’s first economically recyclable flexible foam for furniture.
  • In collaboration with Krauss Maffei, Rampf and Liebherr, BASF is also developing an efficient chemical recycling process to return polyurethane to the same material cycle. In a stable, continuous industrial depolymerization process, recycled polyols are produced, which can be used to manufacture new PU rigid foams as insulation material in refrigerators. By using post-consumer waste from end-of-life refrigerators as feedstock, the consumption of fossil resources can be significantly reduced.

Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) also enter the circular economy: the new Elastollan® RC grades include up to 100% recycled content with close to virgin performance by re-using post-industrial and post-consumer TPU waste.

With loopamid®, BASF has developed an innovative solution to improve circularity in the fashion industry and recycle post-industrial and post-consumer polyamide 6 textile waste over multiple times.

Finally, BASF is advancing numerous projects in the recycling of automotive plastics via mechanical recycling, solvent based recycling, depolymerization and high temperature recycling such as gasification.

Join the conversation

BASF’s booth at K 2025 will also host live sessions such as #OurPlasticsDialogues — bringing together industry voices, partners, and customers to explore challenges and opportunities ahead.

This year’s K-Fair theme, “The Power of Plastics!”, aligns perfectly with BASF’s vision to lead purposeful transformation across the plastics value chain.

For over seven decades, BASF’s booth at K has been a central hub for materials, innovations and co-creations and a platform for personal exchange. This year, BASF will be present with six different teams: Performance Materials, Monomers, Styrenic Foams, Plasticizers, Plastic Additives and trinamiX.

Posted: June 17, 2025

Source: BASF

Textile Coater And Finisher NOVA Textil-Beschichtung GmbH’s Unique Monforts MONTEX Business Gets A Full Upgrade

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — June 17, 2025 — As a highly specialized company with a focus on excellence in the provision of fabric coating and finishing services, NOVA Textil-Beschichtung GmbH (NTB) has recently benefited from an extensive Monforts modernization program.

NTB’s relationship with Monforts dates back to the company’s formation, with the 1999 installation of a first MONTEX stenter at its plant in Grefrath, Germany – just 30 kilometers away from the Monforts HQ in Mönchengladbach. At that time, the NTB team consisted of just three people at a 1,000 square meter site.

The new management team at NTB (clockwise from top left): Rainer Hurtz, Bastian Schreurs, Lampros Kampas and Oliver Hurz.

Twenty years later, by 2019, the company had grown to a 40-strong workforce operating three MONTEX lines at two adjacent plants covering over 3,500 square metres. NTB sales that year exceeded €8 million for the first time.

Forward momentum

NTB’s initial focus was on the coating of mainly glass fibre fabrics and awnings and sun protection products for outdoor furnishings, as well as breathable membrane film laminations for sportswear.

The latest Monforts MONTEX stenter at NTB

“We had a great customer who was providing us with so many orders that by 2005 we took the decision to order a second MONTEX stenter, in a special configuration,” explains managing director and founder Rainer Hurtz. “This also allowed us to enter the market for blackout and digital printing fabrics.”

Another important development for the company was its approval by the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) for the supply of vector protection clothing and equipment. NTB’s special finishing technology is essential in shielding military personnel from insect bites and vector-borne diseases which can be prevalent and deadly in many areas of the world. In 2023, Germany’s Ministry of Defence subsequently granted NTB an exemption for the processing of permethrin for its vector protection services, in the interest of national defence.

Covid-19 resilience

In 2015, a third MONTEX production line with a working width of 3.4 metres was installed to meet ever-increasing demand, but inevitably, the company’s forward momentum was set back somewhat as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite a sudden 70% drop in sales, NTB was nevertheless able to retain all its staff and in 2020 founded Gorilla Protect GmbH, as a distributor of advanced anti-viral face masks.

Post-pandemic, regular business has resumed and the company celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024.

It is now in the process of a generational change, with Rainer Hurtz stepping back and management of the company being transferred to his son Oliver as Commercial Director, along with Technical Director Bastian Schreurs and Sales and Development Manager Lampros Kampas.

“I will accompany and support them as long as it makes sense,” says Rainer Hurtz. “The company’s goal has always been to understand how processes work and to continuously optimize them. As such, our current focus is on process data acquisition and analysis, a high degree of digitalization, actively implemented quality management and the introduction of an energy and occupational safety management system. If you stop getting better, you’ve stopped being good.”

Digital affinity

Technical Director Bastian Schreurs – who was NTB’s first-ever trainee – has worked closely with Monforts specialists on the modernization project and is in full agreement.

“Our goal is to be able to offer a high level of quality and service, with our business under constant price pressure from our Asian competitors,” he says. “We see this modernization project as an opportunity to further establish ourselves and thus retain our customers. It is also important to continue advancing our digitalization, firstly, to better understand our processes, and secondly, to remain attractive as an employer. Young people have a strong affinity for digital things and while we can always buy the best machines, without well-trained specialists to operate them, it’s impossible.”

He adds that the electronic controls of the two older MONTEX stenters particularly needed updating, as sourcing spare parts, most notably of the frequency converters, had become increasingly difficult.

Updated system

Monforts has subsequently installed new control cabinets and Qualitex 800 technology to the two older MONTEX stenters at NTB, along with programmable logic controller (PLCs) process visualization and 24-inch TFT multi-touch color screens at the stenter frame infeeds.

The outfeed, padder and calender have further been equipped with seven-inch touchscreen control panels and all frequency inverters for the drives used to transport the textiles have been updated.

Overall control is via a Siemens TIA 1500er F portal and a Gateway server/client OPC/UA interface.

“The clamping frames of the stenters are now equipped with the latest drive and control technology as well as visualization and thanks to the OPC-UA interface, data can now be read out directly from the PLC and analyzed by a customer’s EAP system,” explains Monforts Area Sales Manager Thomas Päffgen. “Our machines are known for their robustness and long service life, but the retrofitting of specific modules with new control and drive technology – going far beyond the basic replacement of spare parts – can have a significant impact on the performance of an existing line.”

Quality

“Our goal was to be able to produce all fabric orders on any of the three MONTEX lines, and we naturally chose Monforts for this project,” adds Bastian Schreurs. “We didn’t have to do anything mechanically apart from updating the safety devices, which speaks volumes about the quality that Monforts has been delivering to us for 26 years now. I would like to once again praise the Monforts service department headed by Volker Gingter and our own workshop staff, because not only the scheduling, but also the implementation of this project was virtually seamless. It is very important for us to have competent and always available partners and unfortunately, as we have repeatedly experienced, this is not a given these days.”

“We’ve had a great ongoing relationship with Monforts from the beginning,” concludes Rainer Hurtz.

Posted: June 17, 2025

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG

Textile Machinery At High-End Fabrics And Accessories International Trade Fair Milano Unica

MILAN — June 17, 2025 — At the next edition of Milano Unica, an  international trade fair for high-end fabrics and accessories, scheduled to take place at Rho Fiera Milano from July 8 to 10, ACIMIT (the Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers) will participate for the first time with an institutional booth.

Through this initiative, ACIMIT aims to foster connections between its member companies, exhibitors, and buyers attending Milano Unica, while also promoting greater awareness of the cutting-edge technological solutions that define the Italian textile machinery industry—particularly in the areas of sustainability, circular economy, and digitalization.

Marco Salvadè, President of ACIMIT: “I believe it is essential for our Association to be present at such a significant trade event. The synergy between Italian excellence in textiles and textile machinery has always been, and continues to be, a key factor in strengthening the leadership of the entire Italian textile supply chain.”

General information on Italy’s textile machinery sector

ACIMIT represents an industrial sector that comprises roughly 300 manufacturers (employing around 12,500 people), which produce machinery for an overall worth of around 2.1 billion euros, of which 86% are exported. Creativity, sustainable technology, reliability and quality are the hallmarks that have made Italian textile machinery worldwide leaders.

Posted: June 17, 2025

Source: The Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT)

Trützschler Spinning: Overcoming Labor Shortage In Vietnam — Tra Ly Hung Yen Spinning

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — June 12, 2025 — It’s hard to find skilled operators for spinning mills in Vietnam. Rapid industrialization is creating competition for young talents and many workers choose roles in other industries. Customer Tra Ly Hung Yen has found a partner in Trützschler to help mitigate the effects of this labor shortage and enable successful operations.

From left to right: Benjamin Mund (Regional Sales Manager at Trützschler), Do Thi Lan Phuong (Director of Tra Ly), Nguyen Van Trai (Equipment Coordinator at Tra Ly), Nguyen Van Binh (Trützschler Technician), Do Manh Nhan (Mill Manager) and Dinh Van Loi (Trützschler Sales Agent).

Traditionally, yarn manufacturers need many experienced and qualified workers. However, it is difficult to attract and retain these operators. In addition, raw material fluctuations add extra challenges for all spinners. In order to produce yarn with consistent quality, it is necessary to make precise adjustments to the processing system – and this requires trained employees. A major headache for businesses in quality- driven markets like Vietnam!

Tra Ly is one of those businesses. The company’s success is built on a longstanding reputation for quality, so labor shortages generated a potential threat to its future. The family-owned company mainly produces carded and combed cotton (Ne 20 to Ne 40) through standard and compact spinning methods. It has a production capacity of 60 tons per day, with half of that output exported to China, Pakistan or Bangladesh. To find a solution to its labor shortage, the Tra Ly team contacted its trusted partners at Trützschler.

Traly operates numerous Trützschler carding machines. Recently, the TC 19i completed Tra Ly’s portfolio.

The answer from Trützschler: Highly automated, self-optimizing machinery that helps to maintain consistent quality – even when processing raw materials of varying qualities. This reduces the need for manual intervention. As Do Thi Lan Phuong, Director of Tra Ly, points out: “Innovations from Trützschler offer efficient handling that frees up time for our employees. In this way, we are able to cope with labor shortages. These machines enable higher productivity, improved sliver evenness and more energy-efficient manufacturing. And working together with Trützschler is always a great experience because of their deep expertise, can-do attitude and positive energy.”

Automatized and optimized

Tra Ly now operates the following advanced technologies from Trützschler:

  • T-SCAN TS-T5: High-quality foreign part separation
    • This foreign part separator uses state-of-the-art sensors and image-processing technology to detect foreign parts like stems, leaf fragments or other waste – and then automatically ejects them to minimize fiber loss. The highly efficient machine is also easy to clean and maintain, even when production is running.
  • The intelligent card TC 19i with T-GO
    • Tra Ly is also benefiting from the TC 19i with T-GO, which is the world’s only proven automatic gap optimizer for carding machines. It increases quality and flexibility by self-adjusting to ensure the best possible carding gap settings in real time, even when raw materials or other production conditions fluctuate.
  • Autoleveller Draw Frame TD-10
    • Automated functions like AUTO DRAFT and OPTI SET enable this draw frame to ensure excellent yarn quality by self-optimizing the break draft and drafting point in real time. These innovations help machine operators to adapt settings for various raw material types.
  • Boosting productivity: The 12-head comber TCO 21XL
    • This machine increases productivity by about 50% because it operates 12 heads instead of a typical eight head setup, while delivering the same excellent quality. Features like COUNT MONITORING perform automatic checks on sliver count variations from a given limit, thus contributing to consistent quality.

Local expertise and fast support

Trützschler’s local team of technical experts, along with its well-stocked spare parts inventory and repair facilities in Vietnam, ensure that Tra Ly maintains high levels of productivity with reliable quality. This expert team provides fast responses based on indepth knowledge. As a result, Tra Ly can rely on outstanding customer service – and downtime is kept to a minimum. The team from Trützschler is even available to suggest process improvements and potential digital optimizations.

Fit for the future

Tra Ly recently installed My Mill, Trützschler’s mill monitoring system. Based on real-time data from My Mill, Trützschler experts can conduct digital audits to provide on-site guidance, training and troubleshooting. Trützschler is looking forward to continuing to support Tra Ly. The Vietnamese company is excited about the ongoing collaboration, too. “Working together with Trützschler is always a great experience because of their deep expertise, can-do attitude, and positive energy,” says Do Thi Lan Phuong, Director of Tra Ly.

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: The Trützschler Group SE 

Textiles Recycling Expo Makes Successful Debut In Brussels 

BRUSSELS — June 12, 2025 — The first Textiles Recycling Expo took place in Brussels on 4-5 June 2025 and has been heralded as a landmark gathering for the industry, bringing together key stakeholders and promoting discussion, collaboration and innovation.

The event attracted 126 exhibitors and 3,336 visitors from 67 countries, making it the largest ever meeting focused on textiles recycling. The audience came from across Europe and beyond, with 12% travelling from Africa, Asia and America.

Attendees represented the complete supply chain, from major waste management organisations and pioneering recyclers through to textile manufacturers and leading clothing and retail brands. The latter included sustainability specialists from companies such as Aldi, Burberry, C&A, Chanel, Decathlon, Diesel, Gucci, H&M, Hermes, Ikea, Lidl, M&S, Nike, Oxfam, Patagonia, Primark, Puma, Tommy Hilfiger, Uniqlo and Zara. With leading brands, innovators, and policymakers converging under one roof, the expo emphasized the need for collaborative action to promote sustainability, adopt effective recycling technologies, and build a circular economy.

Aurel Ciobanu-Dordea, Director for Circular Economy at the European Commission, gave the opening presentation and remarked on both the energy of the event and the impressive technologies on display. The buzz at the expo was reflected in numerous comments on LinkedIn and social media, including attendees describing it as “bustling, energetic and full of momentum”, and as “a breakthrough week for circular fashion”.

Event Manager, Zied Chetoui said: “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to the first-ever Textiles Recycling Expo. The enthusiastic participation certainly demonstrates the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. This event has undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for the future of textile recycling and set a high standard for what we can achieve together.”

The exhibition featured a global array of suppliers of cutting-edge technologies and services to increase textiles recycling rates. Highlights included live demonstrations of innovative sorting systems by Valvan and NewRetex.

Another popular feature was the conference theatre, which was packed out throughout the two-day event. More than 50 expert speakers discussed the latest developments in regulations, technologies, recycling projects and practical ways to increase waste recovery rates.

The exhibition benefited from the widespread support of key industry associations, organisations and consortia, including ReHubs, EURATEX, Accelerating Circularity, Fedustria, Denim Deal, EuRIC and the Textile Recycling Association. Several took part in the expo’s Industry Alliance Hub, which provided a lively meeting place for promoting discussion and collaboration.

The Textiles Recycling Expo has not only highlighted the critical importance of recycling in the textile sector but also inspired new collaborations and initiatives aimed at creating a more sustainable future and truly reflects the exciting momentum that is building for the industry

The next Textiles Recycling Expo will take place in Charlotte, NC, USA on 29-30 April 2026, and the European event will return to Brussels Expo on 24-25 June 2026. Spaces at both exhibitions are already filling up fast.

Textiles Recycling Expo USA: https://events.amiplastics.com/textiles-recycling-expo-usa

Textiles Recycling Expo Europe: https://events.amiplastics.com/textiles-recycling-expo

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: AMI

Embraer Recognizes Hexcel As Preferred Supplier In The Category Of Standards And Materials: 50 Years Of Supply Celebrated At Paris Air Show

PARIS — June 16, 2025 — Hexcel Corporation, a global supplier of advanced composite materials, celebrated 50 years of supply to Embraer during a celebration at the Paris Air Show, marked by the signing of a preferred supplier agreement for composite raw materials. This milestone underscores the enduring collaboration and mutual commitment to innovation and excellence in aerospace technology.

“We are honored to celebrate 50 years of supply to Embraer, a relationship that has been built on trust, innovation, and shared vision,” said Tom Gentile, Chairman, President and CEO of Hexcel, during a ceremony at the 55th International Paris Air Show. “Hexcel’s advanced composite materials have been integral to the performance and efficiency of Embraer’s aircraft, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”

“Hexcel has been a key partner in our mission to deliver our aircraft with safety first and quality always,” added Roberto Chaves, Executive Vice-President of Global Procurement & Supply Chain of Embraer. “Their commitment to quality, collaboration and innovation has contributed to the sustainable growth of our businesses. We are excited to recognize Hexcel as a preferred supplier. Through this partnership, we are shaping the future of the aerospace industry.”

Hexcel has been a longstanding provider of a range of advanced composite materials to Embraer, including prepregs, engineered core, and advanced structures. These materials are used in various Embraer aircraft platforms, such as the C-390 military transport, the E-Jet E2 family of narrowbody regional aircraft, and the Phenom 300 business jet.

Hexcel’s history with Embraer is marked by numerous achievements, including the recent recognition as Supplier of the Year in the Standards & Materials Category. This award is a testament to Hexcel’s dedication to delivering high-quality materials and exceptional service.

As both companies celebrated 50 years of collaboration, they reaffirmed their commitment to advancing aerospace technology and creating a sustainable future for the industry through future development and demonstration programs.

“We have had fantastic record of collaboration and excellence over the last 50 years,” concluded Gentile. “Hexcel’s vertically integrated supply chain, global manufacturing expertise, and world-class composites technologies have enhanced the performance and reliability of Embraer’s aircraft, and our commitment is to help Embraer advance the future of aviation for the next 50 years and beyond.”

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: Hexcel Corporation

Gartex Texprocess India Concluded With A Resounding Success: Record Attendance —  Stellar Product Showcase

MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA — June 16, 2025 — Drawing 10,283 visitors from 230 Indian cities and five countries, Gartex Texprocess India 2025 reaffirmed its stature as a key business platform for the Indian textile industry. Featuring 125 exhibitors and covering the entire value chain, the expo served as a robust platform for textile technologies, innovations and sourcing. Organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd and MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, the event also incorporated The Denim Show, Screen Print India – Textiles, and the Fabrics & Trims Show, offering industry stakeholders a unified source for knowledge exchange and business networking.

At the forefront was India’s rapidly transforming textile manufacturing landscape, with automation, sustainability, and innovation steering the conversation. Leading buyers and manufacturing brands engaged in direct sourcing and dialogue with top machinery suppliers and fabric producers.

The expo was inaugurated by Shri Sanjay Savkare, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, who emphasized the state’s focus on strengthening local manufacturing of globally sourced components and machinery. Uttar Pradesh participated as the State Partner, represented by Shri Shashank Chaudhary (IAS), Additional CEO, Invest UP, who elaborated on the textile-centric initiatives by the UP government and presented a dedicated knowledge session for industry stakeholders.

From across borders, the Taiwan Sewing Machinery Association (TSMA) participated with a pavilion of eight companies. Mr Steven Fang, Chairman, TSMA, stated: “We saw a good visitor turnout from all over India. We see a big market here and would like to continue with our participation in the upcoming editions.”

Denim Industry’s Sustainable Shift

The Denim Show attracted major manufacturers and presented a variety of new denim collections, eco-conscious dyes, screen-printing solutions, and accessory lines. More than 30 denim mills showcased at the show, engaging buyers like Aditya Birla Digital Fashion Venture Ltd, Levi’s Strauss India Pvt Ltd, Walmart, The Souled Store, and more.

Mr Vasudev Tipre, GM Exports, Suryalakshmi Cotton Mills, shared: “Automation has improved efficiency. We supply leading global brands, with 50% exports to Asia and South America. The exhibition’s blend of fabric and machinery segments makes this a valuable platform.”

Mr Sourav Jalan, Director and Promoter, Syama Denims, noted: “This is a good opportunity to interact with new-age D2C brands who often don’t get a chance to meet mills directly. Gartex always brings customers and suppliers under one roof, and we’ve been happy to return year after year.”

Mr Aamir Akhtar, Group President and CEO, Jindal Worldwide Ltd, added: “We use water-saving technologies in our new premium line, ‘Formula 1,’ and recover used water through a zero-liquid discharge plant. The experience here is very well organised — a benchmark for the Indian trade.”

Mr Harish Agarwal, Owner, Bhagwati Chemicals, stated: “The show gave us strong leads beyond denims. With four decades of experience in supplying dyes and chemicals, this platform proved beneficial to us, especially with deep technical inquiries from buyers.”

Mr B Vinod Kumar, General Manager – Denim & Casual Bottoms, Arvind Fashions, remarked: “Massive machines were showcased, which we usually can’t see outside manufacturing setups. Bringing that to a common platform is a job well done.”

Mr Sreehari Krishnan, Director – Plant Operations & Quality, Bewakoof Brands Pvt Ltd, shared: “We came to explore denims and printing accessories. There are amazing new developments like HD stickers and embroidery, and lightweight dobby denim fabrics perfect for summers.”

Product Technology & Innovation in Focus

Expressing their satisfaction on the show, exhibitors also highlighted breakthrough machinery and processes driving efficiency, sustainability and cost savings in textile production. Mr Nitin Mathur, Regional Sales Manager, IIGM Private Limited: “The exhibition saw excellent footfall and strong interest in automation, even among small businesses, as labour costs rise.”

Mr Sai Navneethan, Regional Head – Sustainable Products, Ramsons Garment Finishing Equipment Pvt Ltd, “Automation is key for high-volume garment finishing. PLC-controlled systems also create more opportunities for women to lead in operations.”

Ms Ujjwala Upadhyay, Brand Manager, Insight Print Communications Pvt Ltd represented Mimaki’s dye sublimation machines. She said: “We are here to connect with potential clients across sportswear, home furnishings, and signage. With growing focus on sustainability, consumers are looking at the ethos of the organisations while buying. This year, we’ve seen strong footfall at Gartex.”

Mr S Eswaran, Product Head-Duerkopp Adler & PFAFF, Mehala Machines presented automation solutions from Duerkopp Adler, Germany, noting significant visitor engagement and interest in their offerings. He stated: “Gartex Texprocess India Mumbai edition was very well organised. The location of our stall is also good as we received a very good visitor turnout. We had also invited many of our potential clients and most of them visited were interested to find out automation solutions.”

Backed by strong industry support, especially from the Denim Manufacturers Association, Gartex Texprocess India continues to evolve as a robust sourcing and innovation hub. This year’s edition welcomed representatives from Aditya Birla Group, Brands and Sourcing Leaders Association, Coreco, Recyclr, Technopak Advisors, TMRW, House of Brands, Walmart Sourcing and WROGN Pvt Ltd, among many others.

The next edition of Gartex Texprocess India will take place from 21–23 August 2025 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi and the Mumbai edition is scheduled from 09 – 11 April 2026 at Bombay Exhibition Centre.

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India

AATCC Releases New Moisture Management Method And Additional Information

DURHAM, N.C.— June 13, 2025 — The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) has launched a new test method, TM217-2025, Liquid Moisture Management: Vertical and Horizontal Wicking — Image Analysis.

The method was developed to support improved understanding of liquid wicking and moisture transport in textile fabrics, aligning with advancements in imaging-based instrumentation. It was created in consultation with textile test instrument designer and manufacturer, James Heal.

The test method employs imaging technology and data analysis to measure, evaluate, and classify moisture movement in textiles both vertically and horizontally. This approach provides a dualistic assessment of performance under wear conditions.

If you would like to drive the industry forward by helping to create innovative new standards through research committee involvement reach out to AATCC Technical Department for more details at standardsmatter@aatcc.org

AATCC Delivers End-to-End Support for Textile Testing with Training, Supplies, and Technical Expertise

AATCC plays a leading role in the development of internationally recognized textile testing standards. Through a collaborative, consensus-based process, AATCC brings together global experts from industry, academia, and government to create rigorous, science-based test methods. These standards ensure consistency, reliability, and innovation in textile quality and performance across international markets.

Building on this foundation, AATCC offers a comprehensive suite of products and services that bring these standards to life. From On-site Test Method Training and Textile Testing Fundamentals to the Global Trainers Program, Proficiency Testing, Testing Supplies, and expert Technical Staff Support, AATCC empowers professionals worldwide to implement best practices and maintain the highest levels of material performance. AATCC is the trusted partner for textile professionals worldwide.

AATCC Technical Department: Your Direct Line to Expert Support

AATCC’s Technical Department Staff are available to assist members and customers with questions related to test methods, product usage, and standards interpretation. Whether you’re troubleshooting a test procedure, selecting the right reference fabric, or preparing for an audit, AATCC’s experts are here to help.

Support Services Include:

  • Clarification of AATCC test methods and procedures
  • Guidance on selecting appropriate testing supplies and materials
  • Assistance with proficiency testing and laboratory performance feedback
  • Technical insights into research, development, and compliance

AATCC Services and Products: Trusted Solutions for the Textile Industry

On-site Test Method Training

Hands-on, customized instruction delivered at your facility.  AATCC delivers expert-led, hands-on instruction directly at company facilities. This customizable program allowed organizations to select the date, location, and AATCC test methods most relevant to their needs. With small group sizes, interactive lab sessions, and flexible scheduling, the training offers a tailored learning experience designed to enhance staff expertise and testing accuracy.

Textile Testing Fundamentals

Offered in collaboration with the Zeis Textiles Extension Department of the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University, this on-demand online course is designed for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of textile technology. Whether you’re new to the industry or seeking a refresher, Textile Fundamentals provides accessible, expert-led instruction to build a strong foundation in textile science.

Testing Supplies & Reference Materials

AATCC offers a comprehensive selection of standardized testing materials to ensure consistency and reliability in textile evaluation. These include control fabrics, reference detergents, gray scales for color change and staining, chromatic transference scales, and other essential tools specified in AATCC test methods. All materials are developed or selected to meet the rigorous specifications outlined in AATCC standards, supporting accurate, reproducible results across a wide range of performance tests.

Proficiency Testing Program

AATCC’s Proficiency Testing Programs (PTP) are designed to support laboratory certification and drive continuous improvement. Each program provides carefully selected samples that yield consistent, meaningful results across a range of test methods and evaluation procedures. Participating labs can benchmark their performance, validate accuracy, and demonstrate a commitment to high-quality, reliable testing.

AATCC Global Trainers Program – Expanding Textile Testing Expertise Worldwide

The AATCC Global Trainers Program empowers a network of qualified professionals to deliver standardized, high-quality instruction in AATCC test methods across the globe. Trainers are carefully selected and certified by AATCC to ensure consistency, technical accuracy, and excellence in textile testing education. Through this program, AATCC extends its reach, enabling local access to expert-led training that supports global harmonization of testing practices and promotes continuous professional development in the textile industry.

Together, these offerings provide a comprehensive ecosystem for textile professionals—from education and training to testing, quality assurance, and expert support.

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)

ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 Announces Exhibitor List, Mobile App

SINGAPORE — June 16, 2025 — ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 has released the eagerly awaited exhibitor list on a new mobile app available for users of both Android and IOS devices.

Although the sales application period has closed, new space applications have continued to stream in, signaling strong confidence from exhibitors in the leading textile machinery showcase.

The four-day exhibition at Singapore Expo has attracted over 770 exhibitors from 31 countries and regions. Spanning 70,000 square metres of gross exhibition space, it features 19 product sectors that represents the entire textile manufacturing value chain.

To enhance the visitor experience, ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025’s new companion mobile app enables visitors to curate their own itinerary with a bookmark feature. A built-in wayfinder system lets visitors plan the shortest routes for booth visits with minimal fuss. This is also a handy feature for exhibitors to quickly locate potential partners for networking opportunities.

Currently, the exhibitor listing is only available on the mobile app and an online version will be released on the ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 website in end June.

ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 is owned by CEMATEX (the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers) and its Chinese partners comprising China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA) and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT (CCPIT TEX).

The exhibition is organised by ITMA Services Pte Ltd and co-organised by Beijing Textile Machinery International Exhibition Co., Ltd (BJITME). Japan Textile Machinery Association (JTMA) is a special partner.

Visitors hoping to enjoy the online early bird rates for badge purchases can still do so before 28 September on www.itmaasiasingapore.com.

Posted: June 16, 2025

Source: CEMATEX, CTMA & CCPIT TEX

Sponsors