Mimaki Launches Most Productive Tiger600-1800TS Dye Sublimation Printer To Boost Adoption Of Digital Textile Printing

DIEMEN, Netherlands — June 6, 2023 — Mimaki Europe, a provider of industrial inkjet printers, cutting plotters, and 3D printers, is debuting the new Tiger600-1800TS, Mimaki’s most productive sublimation transfer printer, on its stand (H7-C304) at ITMA 2023. This latest high-speed, compact and robust roll-to-roll inkjet printer has been designed to accelerate the analogue to digital transformation within the textile printing industry.

The Tiger600-1800TS boasts a maximum printing speed of 550 m2/h (143% faster than the previous model) owing to the renovated high-speed printhead and Mimaki’s proprietary image quality enhancement technologies. The printer’s size has also been halved compared to the previous system, with the paper mounting and winding system both located at the back of the machine. This smaller footprint enables customers to easily install multiple units to meet fluctuating demand, whilst also increasing overall production capacity.

“All of these latest and innovative developments ideally position the Tiger600-1800TS to compete with analogue textile operations and support the move to digital print production,” explained Arjen Evertse, General Manager Sales, Mimaki Europe. “The benefits of digital printing are wide-ranging compared to lengthy, complicated and unsustainable analogue production methods. Digital printing offers a seamless, cost-effective solution for producing smaller quantities that can be adjusted to fit varying demand. It also enables greater design flexibility and reduces environmental impact by enabling local production, minimal inventories and therefore, wasted products, as well as completely cutting out the wastewater that results from the analogue process.”

A further environmental benefit of the Tiger600-1800TS will be the imminent bluesign® (1) certification of its MLSb510 series sublimation transfer inks. This certificate, expected to be awarded in June 2023, will provide assurance that these inks are of highest quality combined with due consideration for the safety of consumers and print operators, and environmental conservation, and therefore, contributing to the sustainability of the textile industry.

Mimaki’s renowned expertise in developing reliable, easy-to-use and efficient solutions has also not faltered in the development of the Tiger600-1800TS. The printer’s ink tanks can be replaced without interrupting the printing process, minimising down time. Maintenance of the printer is also reduced with its roller paper feeding method eliminating the need for the application of adhesives onto a belt.

“The Tiger600-1800TS captures the needs of our customers and prospects perfectly with all of its advanced engineering and practical, user-friendly features. We’re confident this new addition to the Mimaki portfolio will further promote the shift to digital textile printing, thereby supporting this inspiring industry to be quicker to adapt to changing production requirements, whilst also being more environmentally conscious,” Arjen concludes.

Posted: June 6, 2023

Source: Mimaki Europe B.V.

Epson Announces Two New SureColor Dye Sublimation Printers

BANGALORE, India — June 6, 2023 — Epson, a world supplier of digital and printing solutions, today announced the launch of two new 44-inch, dye-sublimation products. Designed for low to medium-volume printing, the SureColor SC-F6430 4-colour and SureColor SC-F6430H 6-colour are ideal for applications such as textile production, personalised products, and high-end photo reproduction. The printers offer a range of significant improvements, including increased productivity and reduced wastage.

Based on Epson’s revolutionary Micro TFP PrecisionCore technology, which is designed to deliver exceptional image quality, both printers offer different advantages, depending on the needs of the user. The SC-F6430, increases productivity by 20% compared to its predecessor the SC-F6330. The SC-F6430H provides an extended colour gamut by offering the use of CMYK, plus a choice of either Fluorescent Pink and Fluorescent Yellow, Light Cyan and Light Magenta or Orange and Violet. As Epson’s first 6-colour 44-inch dye-sublimation printer, the SC-F6430H opens the door to an expanded range of potential applications for both textile and rigid substrates. This enhancement will aid the users in the production of fashion, home wear, sportswear, soft signage and promotional items, and much more.

“Epson has earned a powerful reputation for providing comprehensive printing solutions that cater to businesses’ unique needs, delivering exceptional quality, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Our strong presence in the Indian market further bolsters our commitment to supporting businesses with top-notch end-to-end printing solutions. These new printers are perfect examples of our commitment to listening to market needs and delivering timely and effective solutions,” said Satyanarayana P, Director – Sales and Marketing (VP/LFP/RS)

The SC-F6430 and SC-F6430H offer several other advantages to business users including new, higher-capacity ink packs that contain 45%* more ink (1.6L), reducing replacement frequency and waste. The ink packs only need to be shaken and inserted, no more pouring and stirring, which can create a mess. The printers also feature a new 4.3-inch touch screen which is 30% larger than the previous model. Simplified maintenance routines minimize downtime and software bundles are included to help businesses run more efficiently and better analyze costing and profitability. Both products offer users a complete solution including hardware, software, printhead, ink, sublimation papers, warranty, plus the SC-F6430H includes a bundled take-up reel.

Posted: June 6, 2023

Source: Epson India Pvt. Ltd.

Manufacturing Solutions Center Offers Hosiery 101/102 Training On June 20-21

CONOVER, NC — June 5, 2023 — The Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) will present its two-day Hosiery 101/102 training course on June 20-21 at the MSC in Conover, NC.  The Hosiery 101/102 course is intended for all types of people involved with the hosiery and sock industry, including buyers, retailers, suppliers, supervisors, quality control personnel, manufacturing personnel, designers, and new employees in the industry.

The Hosiery 101/102 course covers the basics of hosiery/sock knitting, as well as the dyeing, finishing, and quality testing processes involved in the manufacturing process.  Topics such as stitch formation are also covered.

Class size is limited.   For more information about the course and program costs, visit www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org or contact Rick Small at rsmall@manufacturingsolutionscenter.org.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: The Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC)

Stylex Reimagines Workspaces With Six New Product Launches At NeoCon 2023

DELANCO, NJ — June 5, 2023 — Stylex, a leading manufacturer of beautifully designed commercial furnishings, announces the debut of an impressive range of new products at NeoCon 2023 taking place in Chicago from June 12-14. The exciting lineup includes a dynamic banquette system that can be customized by the inch, two innovative seating options designed by LucidiPevere and Martin Ballendat, and three line extensions.

The reimagined Stylex showroom, located on the third floor of TheMART (#337), serves as a showcase for the new launches, providing an immersive experience of inspired hubs designed to promote productivity, creativity, and community in workplace and hospitality landscapes. With an emphasis on rich colors, soft lines, and natural elements, Stylex continues to expand its portfolio of modern furniture pieces, further solidifying its position as an industry leader.

“We are thrilled to unveil our latest products and line extensions at NeoCon,” said Randi Pastrovic, Vice President Customer Experience at Stylex. “Our team has worked tirelessly to develop a wide range of dynamic and flexible solutions for today’s evolving workplace that are as functional as they are beautiful”.

OKO

The Oko lounge chair is inspired by the curves of a cocoon. It has a pillowy seat and backrest that invites you to sink in, while a rigid back panel supports the shape and doubles as a decorative element. Sophisticated material combinations, including fabric, leather, and wood enhance the design’s versatility. Designed by Italian duo LucidiPevere, Oko lends a residential feel to corporate and hospitality environments, including lobbies, hotels, and executive suites. With longevity in mind, the seat and back cushions are engineered to be easily removed and reupholstered, making it easy to keep the chair looking its best for years to come. Available September 2023.

LUNA

Luna is banquette seating specified by the inch, allowing for symmetry and fit, even in the most unusually sized spaces. Segments range from 25” to 60”; they can be running or stand-alone and ends open or finished with a half-moon-shaped arm. Designed by Anthony Land, Luna’s rounded edges and generous lift ergonomically support the body, while the seat’s upholstery and base options tailor it to a diversity of office and hospitality environments. Designed for seamless integration with Stillscreens, the Luna collection is available with a high or low back, and includes optional planters and a trio of accessory tables. Available September 2023.

EASE UP

Ease Up is a comfortable and affordable stacking chair. It is made from a single piece of high-density polypropylene, with no connection points visible between its supple back, seat pan, and c-shaped legs. An upholstered seat pad adds texture, contrast, and comfort to the chair’s smooth frame. Designed by Martin Ballendat, Ease Up stores compactly, stacking up to twelve chairs high, making it ideal for cafeterias, conference centers, and anywhere that overflow seating may be needed. Available June 2023.

UMO coffee table

Umo is a collection of solid wood tables that combine geometry and form to create sculptural objects that add utility and visual warmth to any space. The collection has been expanded to include a coffee table, which complements the existing side tables in oak, maple, walnut, and opaque black. Line extension available June 2023.

COVE 4-leg wood base for lounge and ottoman

Cove lounge chairs are comfortable, visually striking, and functional pieces of furniture that are perfect for personal meetings, focused work, or simply relaxing. They are available in a low-back and high-back version, and have been updated to offer a new 4-leg wood base for both the chair and ottoman. Line extension available June 2023.

YOOM wood tables, round elements, wide arm

The Yoom modular lounge collection is defined by its soft, simple forms and unrestricted configurability. The line extension adds half- and quarter-round seating components, two sizes of integrated tables, and a new arm width. The additions are available on both Yoom and Yoom Soft. The products’ feet can be fitted with plastic glides or casters, and power can be integrated into the base as a technology-friendly solution. Line extension available October 2023.

In addition to these exciting launches, Stylex is delighted to announce its collaboration with TheMART by furnishing the exclusive NeoCon Press Lounge, an area that will offer both a place for relaxation and productivity to those who visit.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: Stylex

Exhibitors Drawn To Cinte Techtextil China 2023’s Resurgent European Zone

HONG KONG — June 1, 2023 — With four months until the technical textiles and nonwovens show opens its doors, floor space booked by international suppliers is already more than double the area of the previous edition, which attracted 366 exhibitors from eight countries and regions. Taking place from 19 – 21 September 2023 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, this year’s fair will see the European Zone return to the fairground. The high-traffic zone is set to welcome a number of new and returning exhibitors eager to showcase their products to a business-hungry domestic market.

Speaking at the fair’s previous edition in 2021, Mr Roberto Galante, Plant Manager of FMMG Technical Textiles (Suzhou) Co Ltd, said: “The Chinese market is a big opportunity for everybody, because every day the market is demanding more. The potential here is incredible, and there is more demand for overseas brands. These brands are known for their very high quality, and while China’s industry has developed very well in the past few years, it still needs support from overseas brands with high quality products. This fair is good for us, and we exhibit here every year.”

Multiple domestic and international exhibitors have confirmed their participation at Cinte Techtextil China 2023, with the European Zone playing host to FMMG and other key industry players. Several are highlighted below:

  • Bekaert, Belgium: the metal fibre producer will be showcasing Bekinox®, its wide range of conductive yarns and micro cables. Available as 100% stainless steel or blended with cotton and polyester, applications include smart textiles, heatable textiles, protective clothing, and RFID tags.
  • Fil Man Made Group, Italy: with divisions in Italy and China, this company specialises in the manufacture of quality staple yarns, which are commonly utilised for environmental protection, filtration, healthcare, home textiles, safety, transportation, and many other industries.
  • SANITIZED, Switzerland: the Swiss company and its subsidiaries in China, France, India, and the US provide hygiene and material protection functions to textiles, as well as treatments for polymers and coatings. Its range of antimicrobials can be widely applied, to products such as tents, construction membranes, rain coats, and more.
  • SCANTECH, France: specialising in the manufacture of X-ray online measurement and control systems for nonwoven film and sheet, SCANTECH has almost 2,500 such systems installed in China. Their equipment is used to monitor the effective production of synthetic leather, glass fibre, adhesive tape, and many other nonwoven materials.

Outside the European Zone, additional international suppliers will showcase their diverse product applications at the fairground, with categories including Coating & Bondtec (Stahl); Fibre & Yarn (Barnet); Nonwovens Equipment (Dilo); Technology & Machinery (Picanol); and Testing Equipment & Certification (TESTEX). Other European exhibitors in these categories include Autefa Solutions, Reifenhauser Heinsberg, Reifenhauser Reicofil, and SICAM.

Chinese suppliers set to complement international contingent

A comprehensive range of domestic exhibitors are eager to meet new buyers and renew old business connections at this year’s fair. Well-known players who have confirmed their participation include:

  • Shanghai Shenda Kebao New Materials: with its quality management system ISO 9001-certified, this leading manufacturer of coated functional textiles utilises PVC, TPO, TPU, and more, to produce fabrics applicable to, among many others, tents, boats, and flexible advertising materials.
  • SIJIA New Material (Shanghai): founded with technological innovation and reduced carbon emissions at its core, this company’s functional new materials consist of PVC, with applications such as environmental engineering membranes, double wall fabric, and sun protection material; and TPU, used for high strength tarpaulins, film material, and more.
  • Zhejiang Jinda New Materials: this company closely cooperates with universities to improve its production, education, and research. A range of imported equipment and systems is used to manufacture its core products: coated fabrics for industrial applications, warp knitted geo-synthetic materials, and printable coated materials for advertisements.
  • Zhejiang Hailide New Material: with products including tire cord fabric, polyester technical filament yarn, polyamide technical filament yarn, and its range of sustainable and bio-based yarns, Zhejiang Hailide directs production towards textiles for advertising, vehicles, and new materials.

The fair’s product categories cover 12 application areas, which comprehensively span a full range of potential uses in modern technical textiles and nonwovens. These categories also cover the entire industry, from upstream technology and raw materials providers to finished fabrics, chemicals and other solutions. This scope of product groups and application areas ensures that the fair is an effective business platform for the entire industry.

The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

ITMA 2023 Exhibitor Preview: Sun Chemical To Showcase Digital Textile Inks

SOUTH NORMANTON, UK — May 9, 2023 — On Stand D302, Hall 5, ITMA (8-14 June, Milan Italy), Sun Chemical will demonstrate its complete range of digital textile inks, suitable for printing any textile material.

In line with ITMA’s theme this year of “Transforming the World of Textiles”, Sun Chemical’s campaign for the show will focus on the company’s commitment to digital textiles, sustainability, and the evolution

Following the acquisition of leading digital inks supplier Sensient Imaging Technologies in 2020, Sun Chemical has developed and launched new inks in the major technologies of reactive, sublimation, and pigment printing, with the objective of enhancing performance and improving sustainability credentials, while also improving productivity. Additionally, Sun Chemical will also showcase its range of acid dye inks.

Announcing the launch of Xennia Amethyst Evo RC ink

Sun Chemical announces the launch of Xennia Amethyst Evo RC, which will be highlighted on the stand. This high-quality ink, an evolution of the successful Xennia Amethyst series, has been specially formulated to enhance production and enable customers to achieve their high-volume targets in the fashion and home textile industry, without compromising quality. The innovative formula is designed to improve colour efficiency and strength while optimising properties to enhance colour balance for advanced colour management and sample matching. The ink has received Eco-Passport (from OEKO TEX) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification and is listed as ZDHC Level 3.

Next Generation Pigment Inks

Sun Chemical is pleased to announce the launch of a new series of digital pigment inks for textile, Xennia Sapphire. Initially available for higher viscosity printheads such as Ricoh Gen 5 and Fujifilm Dimatix Starfire, Xennia Sapphire inks provide a step-change in pigment printing with enhanced colour and fastness performance, unrivalled print stability and ease of use. Xennia Sapphire aligns with Sun Chemical’s sustainability goals and has been developed to have a low impact with a no water process, efficient curing and soft hand fell to reduce the need for finishing chemicals.

Xennia Sapphire inks will also be available for Kyocera printhead technology to have a set compatible with the majority of digital textile printers on the market.

Introducing ElvaJet SR342

Sun Chemical will launch its latest sublimation ink to address higher viscosity printheads such as technology from Ricoh and Dimatix. Based on in house disperse dye dispersions, ElvaJet SR342 delivers the purest color shades allowing an extended color gamut combined with the best on printer performance with optimized drying and minimal maintenance requirements.

Simon Daplyn, Product Marketing Manager, Sun Chemical comments: “Sun Chemical’s latest textile innovations have been formed with both a deep understanding of the textile market and extensive experience in digital printing ink development. Additionally, we are fully committed to delivering innovative solutions that are compliant with the latest textile standards. We work with external testing houses to ensure our inks meet the exacting needs of market and brand standards to ensure our customers can be confident in every aspect of ink performance”.

Edri Baggi, Business Manager for Sun Chemical’s Textile Inks Business adds “ITMA is the perfect place to showcase our technology and meet with customers from around the world to demonstrate the value Sun Chemical inks can bring to their business, all while ensuring product compliance and improving their sustainability credentials.”

For more information visit https://pgo.sunchemical.com/ITMA2023 or visit Sun Chemical at ITMA on Stand D302, Hall 5.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: Sun Chemical, a member of the DIC Group

Machine Builder Mahlo Holds Workshop With More Than 60 Participants From 29 Countries

SAAL /DONAU, Germany— June 5, 2023 — “Every four years, shortly before the ITMA textile trade fair, it has become a tradition to invite all our representatives to our headquarters for this meeting,” explains Mahlo Managing Director Rainer Mestermann. “This way they can expand their knowledge of our machines and find out about the latest systems.” The programme included intensive training sessions on various machines as well as presentations on focus topics from the industry, such as energy-efficient and sustainable production. With more than 60, mostly long-standing, partners from all over the world, it was much more than a workshop: “It’s a family reunion.”

This is also evident in the organisation. For example, the participants were personally catered for by owner Aura Greenwood-Mahlo. She prepared lunch on both days of the seminar. “For us, this is part of the Mahlo spirit”, says the managing director. Just like a colourful programme after the work was done. A culinary city tour through Regensburg as well as an excursion to the Weltenburg monastery provided entertainment and the opportunity to exchange ideas away from work.

“The workshop has an important meaning for us as a company,” explains Mestermann. Not only because it is an opportunity to meet long-time partners in person again. “But above all for the benefit of our customers. Because they can be sure that their contact person in the target market is up to date with the latest developments, knows the ins and outs and can thus optimally support them in their challenges.” With this network, the world market leader in straightening machines and process control for textile finishing is well positioned for the challenges of the future.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG

Clariant Launches Desi Pak® ECO With New Bio-Based Moisture-Adsorbing Packets

CHARLOTTE, NC — June 5, 2023 — Clariant, a sustainability-focused specialty chemical company, takes a further step to improve the environmental impact of desiccants by adding plastic-free Desi Pak® ECO moisture adsorbing packets to its range of responsibly-mined, highly-adsorbent, natural clay solutions that help manufacturers and distributors protect sealed packaged goods from moisture damage.

The innovative new moisture-adsorbing packets feature bio-based paper made from raw materials that are sustainably grown and use only water-based inks and adhesive. Available in the standard packets size 1-, 2-, 5-, 10- and 33-grams including custom sizes, they are filled with carefully selected granulated high-grade bentonite clay, which is responsibly-sourced, minimally processed, and offers highly efficient moisture adsorption compared to synthetic alternatives in the most common packaging conditions.

“Moisture control has an integral role in the supply chain in preserving the quality and integrity of products sensitive to moisture and humidity. Moisture-related damage has a known environmental impact, creating waste through discarded goods and emissions associated with replacing damaged goods,” comments Ryan Grauer, Head of Sales, Marketing, & Technology, Cargo & Device Protection, Clariant Adsorbents & Additives. “With the increased demand for packaging solutions with a lower carbon footprint, we are excited to offer customers the option of bio-based paper packets that deliver the trusted protection performance of our naturally-occurring highly-adsorbent bentonite clay desiccant.”

New Desi Pak ECO packets, the latest addition to Clariant’s wide range of Desi Pak desiccant packets & bags, carries the EcoTain® label, which recognizes products with outstanding sustainability advantages. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) on the Desi Pak ECO product was performed based on desiccant manufactured in the United States, demonstrating that the responsibly-mined bentonite clay has a lower carbon footprint and less energy consumption compared to synthetic desiccants due to a less complex production process. There is also significantly lower water consumption for raw materials production.

To further help customers reduce their own Scope 3 emissions, Clariant extended the sourcing of raw materials with a lower environmental impact to include transport packaging. The carton packaging used to transport Desi Pak ECO is recyclable and made from sustainably grown raw materials. Further, Desi Pak ECO comes packaged with cobalt-dichloride free (CDF) humidity indicator cards.

Desi Pak ECO packets contribute with effective moisture control and the reduction of carbon emissions associated with the production and transportation of packaging materials for a wide range of applications. Examples include clothing and textiles, automotive, machinery, tools, as well as nutraceuticals, and foods. On request, Desi Pak ECO packets are available with clay desiccant that complies with relevant U.S. FDA (21 CFR) and with U.S. Pharmacopeia USP <670> testing requirements for Auxillary Packaging Components.

For more information on Desi Pak ECO moisture adsorbing packets, visit Clariant.com.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: Clariant International Ltd.

YKK Achieves 100-Percent Renewable Energy Purchasing At 31 Sites Worldwide

TOKYO — June 5, 2023 — YKK Corporation announces that the number of YKK locations that have switched 100% of their electricity consumption to renewable energy in fiscal year 2022 has increased by 20 locations from FY2021 to FY2022, reaching 31 locations globally.

Under the YKK Sustainability Vision 2050, a set of sustainability goals to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, YKK is working to achieve the 10 SDGs relating to the five themes of Climate Change, Material Resources, Water Resources, Chemical Management, and Respect People. Regarding the theme of Climate Change, YKK is making efforts to reduce GHG emissions both within the company and in its supply chain in accordance with the SBTi-certified 1.5°C target, aiming for a 50% reduction in Scopes 1 and 2, as well as a 30% reduction in Scope 3 by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline year).

As part of its measures to reduce GHG emissions, YKK is increasing the use of electricity from renewable energy, and as of FY2022, 31 of its locations worldwide have completed the changeover to 100% of their electricity being purchased from renewable energy sources. The company has been installing solar power facilities at each of its locations as part of its efforts to increase the use of electricity derived from renewable energy at the company, including the introduction of solar power facilities following the PPA model* at the Min Hang and Lin Gang Plants of Shanghai YKK Zipper Co., Ltd.

The status of efforts in FY2022 toward achieving the YKK Sustainability Vision 2050, including greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, will be disclosed in the YKK Integrated Report, “This is YKK 2023” (scheduled to be published in August 2023).

YKK will continue to work with local communities and customers to reduce GHG emissions and accelerate efforts to realize a sustainable society.

*Power Purchase Agreement: A model in which a power producer installs solar power facilities on the property of a business at the power producer’s expense and supplies the generated electricity to the business. This model makes it possible to install solar power facilities while reducing the upfront investment for the business.

■ 100% of electricity purchased at all YKK manufacturing bases in China will be generated from renewable energy sources in 2022

YKK Zipper (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. and Shanghai YKK Zipper Co., Ltd. Receive National Green Factory Certificates in 2020 and 2022, Respectively

The YKK Group works with local communities and customers to reduce GHG emissions. In China, all manufacturing sites have achieved 100% renewable energy for purchased electricity. In addition, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology recognizes manufacturing companies that demonstrate excellence in environmentally friendly activity such as energy conservation through its “Green Factory” certification system. YKK Zipper (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. and Shanghai YKK Zipper Co., Ltd. received the highest level of National Green Factory certification in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

■ State of Progress Toward the YKK Sustainability Vision 2050

YKK Corporation’s sustainability goal is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. YKK is working on five themes—Climate Change, Material Resources, Water Resources, Chemical Management, Respect People—and ten SDG goals related to each of these, and each year reports on its state of progress in the YKK Integrated Report, “This is YKK.” https://www.ykk.com/english/corporate/csr/eco/report/index.html

■ Sustainability and the YKK Philosophy of the Cycle of Goodness

YKK is constantly pursuing the creation and realization of a sustainable society through our business. At the core of all our corporate activities is the philosophy of YKK founder Tadao Yoshida, the “Cycle of Goodness.” The idea that “no one prospers without rendering benefit to others” clearly expresses the YKK Group’s corporate spirit of continuing to prosper together with society, customers, related industries, and employees, and is highly compatible with sustainability.

Tadao Yoshida repeatedly shared the essence of this corporate spirit with employees in a variety of ways. His words “business is like building a bridge,” which are connected to the “Cycle of Goodness,” can be understood in terms of the SDGs, as he believed that unless we benefit society as a whole, we will not be able to prosper ourselves. The words “manufacturing like clear spring water” and trash can be a great resource if it is utilized with ingenuity” are linked to environmental consideration, and the words “the strength of a forest is better than a big tree” are linked to respect for human rights and individuality. The circumstances and background today differ significantly from the time when our founding president spoke these words, but a philosophy that is highly compatible with sustainability has nevertheless been at the core of YKK’s management since those early days. It continues to be inherited at the company even today, more than 80 years later.

https://www.ykk.com/english/shared/pdf/corporate/csr/eco/report/This_is_YKK_part03.pdf

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: YKK Corporation (Tokyo)

Lenzing Introduces Industry’s First
 Innovation To Mitigate Discoloration Of Cellulosic-Based Garments During Heat Molding

LENZING, Austria — June 5, 2023 — Lenzing Group, a global producer of wood-based specialty fibers, has introduced a new processing solution that mitigates the yellowing of garments and fabrics made with wood-based cellulosic fibers during high-temperature production processes. With an initial rollout that targets innerwear and subsequently outerwear and ready-to-wear garments, the solution is the first in the industry to address the technical challenge during the garment molding process. Lenzing is also taking on next steps to explore other potential applications, such as in heat seal processes of garments, and seamless stitching processes that involve heat seal adhesive tapes and bonding machines to replace traditional sewing.

“Discoloration has long been a lingering issue for the industry,” said Rex Mok, Vice President of Fiber Technical Marketing and Development at Lenzing. “Through ongoing innovation and close collaboration with fabric mill partners, we have not only addressed a common technical challenge, but also enhanced sustainability in the value chain with the potential to increase usage of botanic fibers across innerwear and outdoor garments. The latest technological innovation also speaks to Lenzing’s efforts to improve and widen the application of cellulosic fibers, such as TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers, which are derived from sustainable wood sources and produced using environmentally responsible processes. This serves as part of our wider commitment to drive the sustainable development of the textile value chain.”

Enhanced product aesthetics will unleash design possibilities with sustainable cellulosic fibers

Discoloring and yellowing issues caused by high-temperature molding have traditionally been inevitable during the garment production process. While chemicals could be used to minimize discoloring issues in synthetic fibers, this method does not work as effectively as it does in wood-based cellulosic fibers. With Lenzing’s proprietary solution, such challenge is mitigated, eliminating the bottleneck fabric mills experience during the production and dyeing of light-colored garments made of wood-based cellulosic fibers.

Leveraging the new innovation, Lenzing’s mill partners can now benefit from the adoption of a broader spectrum of colors and shades, bringing more diversified fabric and garment offerings to consumer brands. Given the diversified needs among different mill partners, Lenzing’s technical experts will work closely with fabric mills to provide a technical analysis of fibers and fabrics, recommendations, and ongoing support through to the end- garment stage.

Li Wei, Product Development Manager, at Yelin said, “Our customers have been positive about the visible improvement of the yellowish issues in fabrics during the high temperature molding process. Lenzing team’s processing solution and technical support have made our lives easier, allowing us to find the sweet spot for different combinations of fabrics and colors.”

Address industry needs, from innerwear to outdoor and other ready-to-wear garments

During the initial phase, the proprietary technology will be used in the production of seamless lingerie and shapewear globally, with a proactive strategy to introduce the technology to outdoor apparel and other ready-to- wear garments thereafter. Waterproof garments, windbreakers, jackets and other weatherproof clothing that are produced using a stitch-free technique or heat seal bonding will also benefit from the increased color and design possibilities.

Posted: June 5, 2023

Source: The Lenzing Group

1...511512513...2,672Page 512 of 2,672

Sponsors

Breaking News

Load more

Digital Issue

2026 Quarterly Issue III

View Latest Digital Issue

FEATURED ARTICLES

© Copyright 2017 Textile Industries Media Group, LLC.