Timmer Restructures The Vacuum Lifting Technology Segments And Launches Further-Developed Product Line tim®LIFT

NEUENKIRCHEN, Germany — February 22, 2021 — Restructuring in the vacuum lifting technology segment: The existing Timmer GmbH product portfolio has been extensively further developed and is now available in a new design as the tim®LIFT product family. The timLIFT products are significantly more ergonomic and quieter in operation. Moreover, customers benefit from faster delivery times, thanks to the lean processes, and the extended service offering from project planning to aftersales. In addition, Timmer is providing additional capacity for onsite product demonstrations at the customers’ facilities. timLIFT includes three model ranges: quickLIFT (one-hand operation up to 50 kg), lightLIFT (two-hand operation up to 50 kg) and heavyLIFT (two-hand operation up to 270 kg).

“Our solutions are primarily lifting aids for employees that take the strain off the back, and thus they are an important part of a plant’s occupational health and safety. They not only help reduce absences due to illness, they also play a crucial role in employee recruitment and employee loyalty given the growing awareness of the advantages of healthy working environments”, pointed out Timo Determann, product specialist at Timmer. The restructuring of the hose lifters is a result of the continuous optimisation process of our own product portfolio. In this regard, further development, as well as long-term expansion of the entire vacuum lifting technology segment, are consistently in line with customer needs. To gain a precise picture of the requirements and desires in the plants, Timmer conducted an extensive market analysis and multiple customer surveys.

The new timLIFT product family meets the desires for greater ergonomics and lower noise emissions through key optimisations in the product design. “A lot of technological know-how and experience has been incorporated in the development, so that we can offer our customers products that are even more viable for the future”, stated Determann.

Customers are getting hose lifters that are not only convenient and easy to operate, they also reduce noise emissions by as much as 30 percent. Thanks to in-house production Timmer streamlines its process chains and is working even more closely with its suppliers. This considerably reduces delivery times.

“Thanks to faster delivery of our hose lifters, we offer our customers the possibility of compensating for illness-related effects — for example when an employee can no longer execute lifting tasks on his own,” emphasised Determann.

Service expansion and customer-specific special solutions

As part of the restructuring Timmer is expanding its service capacity and thus is reducing the response time for customer inquiries. A fixed contact person is available to the customer from project inception until delivery. In addition, Timmer offers extensive aftersales services. Along with maintenance of our own systems and external systems, this also includes assistance for all relevant safety tests. Moreover, the company is expanding its vehicle fleet for product demonstrations, so that customers can flexibly test the devices in their own company facilities.

Among the great advantages offered by Timmer are customer-specific special vacuum lifting technology solutions, such as rotary pallet lifters or systems for particularly heavy loads weighing more than 5 tonnes. Through the restructuring, this area will also be significantly strengthened and expanded so that specific solutions can be implemented more quickly. Determann emphasises the high flexibility and solution competence of the company: “Basically we are only limited by the laws of physics — everything else we can map in our own design.”

Posted February 24, 2021

Source: Timmer GmbH

YKK Highlights Sustainability With Digital Spring/Summer 2022 Showcase

LONDON — February 23, 2021 — YKK will present its collection digitally, in response to the ongoing global pandemic. The format will include new features such as a 3D and color options simulator, alongside virtual previews, and online presentations.

At the heart of the YKK spring/summer 2022 collection is an offering of sustainable solutions: Natulon®, AcroPlating® and Vislon® Nylon tackling the ecological footprint issue in a very concrete manner.

“We are designing materials and manufacturing processes, not just colours and shapes,” explained Saki Uesugi from the Products Innovation Team, YKK Italia S.p.A. “While keeping the appearance familiar, we are building various technologies to realise them with more sustainable materials and manufacturing methods.”

YKK Vislon® Nylon, the first recycling friendly zip

As we know now, recycling is neither simple nor cheap, and a zip is a complicated accessory, made up of multiple elements that are difficult to separate. Furthermore, the zip itself is not easily separated from a garment.

For easier recycling YKK is now offering a mono-plastic material zipper, Vislon Nylon: due to the almost entirely polyamide structure, the zip can be easily recycled together with the Nylon garment on which it is sewn, without the need for prior removal.

AcroPlating®: Snaps and Buttons with an environmental friendly finish

AcroPlating snaps and buttons use a new and exclusive YKK plating technology. Studies in partnership with Peterson Projects and Solutions has shown a “significant reduction in the environmental impact,” compared with any conventional plating. The environmental benefits with AcroPlating include the significant reduction in the use of chemical consumption, GHG emissions, sludge generation, thermal energy and water use.

The AcroPlating Snap and Buttons are available in six different color variations and are suitable for all market segments, thanks to their strong resistance to corrosion and dry cleaning.

Natulon®

The Natulon series aims to reduce the use of petroleum-derived materials, emission of greenhouse gases, and disposal of plastic waste by using recycled polyester yarn for the tape material.

Alongside NATULON Ocean Sourced® and GreenRise® a partially plant-based zipper, these three options are all part of YKK’s commitment to sustainability through facilitating the recovery of materials and help reduce the consumption of virgin raw materials to limit the use of precious resources.

Posted February 24, 2021

Source: YKK Europe

AATCC Introduces Skew & Shrinkage Template

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — February 23, 2021 — Efficient fabric quality control testing requires the proper tools. AATCC now offers the Skew & Shrinkage Template for use in measuring the dimensional change of fabrics. Designed in metric units, this user-friendly scale provides a measuring experience with versatility in fabric and garment measurement.

Measure Shrinkage

When fabrics are expected to undergo repeated laundering, evaluating the shrinkage or growth is key in acceptance testing. Using the Skew & Shrinkage Template, lab technicians can perform  AATCC TM135, Test Method for Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home Laundering  to measure shrinkage of fabrics in length and width directions.

The Skew & Shrinkage Template can be used to measure shrinkage in garments using AATCC TM150, Test Method for Dimensional Changes of Garments after Home Laundering.

Percent Shrinkage Scale

A precise percent shrinkage scale is featured on the bottom of the scale for direct calculation.

Measure Skew

Skew happens in garments when a fabric twists from its original state. AATCC TM179, Test Method for Skew Change in Fabrics After Home Laundering, is the industry preferred method for determining the change in skew. Using the Skew & Shrinkage template provides a purpose-made tool for marking and measuring.

Universal Measuring Tools

In addition to performing these specialized AATCC methods, lab personnel can use this template for general measurements. Featured on the sides of the dimensional template are built-in utility rulers in both metric and standard units.

BONUS: Indelible Marking Pen Included

For the first ten orders of the Skew & Shrinkage Templates, a complimentary AATCC indelible marking pen is included for precise marking of the fabrics for testing! Place your order today to take advantage of this valuable offer.

Product Name: 68377A: Skew & Shrinkage Template

Product Description and Link: https://members.aatcc.org/store/skew-and-shrinkage/3215/

Posted February 23, 2021

Source: AATCC

 

Benji Bagwell Joins Textile Division At Milliken & Company, Named Vice President Of Specialty Interiors 

Benji Bagwell

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — February 23, 2021 — Milliken & Company is pleased to announce that Benji Bagwell has been hired as vice president of sales and marketing for the specialty interiors business within the Textile Division. Joining the company from UltraFabrics, Bagwell is now responsible for leading the specialty interiors business growth strategy and alignment with Division initiatives.

“Benji’s career visibility into multiple business functions combined with his commercial and residential contract fabric expertise and their applications make him an invaluable asset to our Division’s leadership team and our specialty interiors business,” said Chad McAllister, executive vice president of Milliken & Company and president of the Textile Division.

With 25 years of industry experience through leadership roles at Glen Raven and UltraFabrics, Bagwell brings a diverse perspective and wealth of knowledge across manufacturing, business development, business operations and environmental initiatives.

Bagwell received his B.S in Textile Engineering from Clemson University and holds patents in Australia, Europe and the United States.

Posted February 23, 2021

Source: Milliken & Company

Lenzing Unveils TENCEL™ Modal Fiber With Indigo Color Technology To Help Elevate Sustainability In The Denim Industry

LENZING, Austria — February 23, 2021 — The Lenzing Group is enhancing sustainable offerings for the denim industry with TENCEL™ branded modal fibers with Indigo Color technology. The pioneering Indigo Color technology behind this new market offering incorporates indigo pigment directly into TENCEL branded modal fibers using a one-step spun-dyeing process. This delivers superior color fastness relative to conventional indigo dyeing whilst using substantially fewer resources. This innovative offering is awarded with the EU Ecolabel1, a label of environmental excellence awarded to products meeting high environmental standards throughout their life cycle2.

Development of Indigo Color technology to enhance denim sustainability

The denim industry’s demand for eco-responsible alternatives is growing rapidly, as brands and supply chain partners seek greater sustainability. Lenzing has been working closely with such partners to counteract environmentally harmful denim production processes via the botanic origin of its raw materials and responsible production processes.

Denim remains an important market for Lenzing, and the introduction of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is designed to help reduce the ecological footprint of denim fabrics and garments. Produced in Austria, predominantly from beech wood derived from sustainably managed wood sources, this new offering has been designated BioPreferred® by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Innovation is at the core of what we do, from sustainable fiber sourcing through industry leading features and production processes, with the ever-present goal of safeguarding our environment,” said Florian Heubrandner, vice president, Global Textiles Business at Lenzing AG. “By upending traditional manufacturing processes and implementing our pioneering technology along with renewable and eco-responsible materials, TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology sets a new benchmark for indigo application and sustainability in the denim industry.”

Among early launch collaborators for TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is Adriano Goldschmied, founder of House of Gold, who is widely regarded as the “Godfather of Denim” for his progressive vision in denim development. “The TENCEL brand is leading revolutionary change for the denim industry and it has always been one of my go-to eco-fibers for my collections,” stated Goldschmied. “We are thrilled to collaborate and launch the ‘Seed of Joy’ concept capsule with woven, circular and sweater knit fabrics using TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology, in partnership with mills such as Blue Diamond and In The Loop, as well as machinery producer Shima Seiki.”

Indigo Color technology elevates production standards and significantly reduces waste

Indigo Color technology builds upon the strong credentials of TENCEL Modal fibers with new benefits. Compared to conventional indigo dyeing, the color retention of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology is superior through dry and wet crocking and rubbing. Despite resistance to home-laundry fading, wash-down effects for denim products can be achieved using commercial laundry techniques. TENCEL Modal fibers with Indigo Color technology are inherently versatile and enable implementation in a range of multi-fiber blends.

Compared to water and energy intensive conventional indigo dyeing, this technology provides indigo coloration with substantial water, chemical and electricity savings, along with less wastewater produced, and no heat energy used. In addition, a specially commissioned indigo pigment from dyestuff manufacturer DyStar®, ensures that TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology can be certified with STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, guaranteeing ultra-low levels of aniline. Günther Widler,head of Technology, Denim of DyStar, said: “This specially commissioned indigo pigment is based on more than a decade of our working experiences on Indigo Synthesis in Germany. Twenty-five years ago, we invented the most eco awarded DyStar® Indigo Vat 40% to meet the demand for sustainable manufacturing and production.”

To make the commercial launch of TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology possible, Lenzing has partnered with leading supply chain partners including denim mills Candiani and Cone Denim.

“With driving sustainability at our core, we look forward to a fruitful collaboration with the production of this eco-responsible fiber type,” says Alberto Candiani, global manager of Candiani. “TENCEL Modal with Indigo Color technology also represents a great product to expand denim’s performances and aesthetics around sustainability itself.”

Steve Maggard, president of Cone Denim, added: “Lenzing has long been an industry leader in sustainable fibers. With consumers being more eco-conscious, the denim industry has to evolve and innovate in smarter materials to stay efficient and competitive. We are proud to partner with the TENCEL brand to launch Indigo Color technology for modal fibers and promote greater sustainability for denim.”

1 Please note that LENZING™ fibers are certified with the EU Ecolabel Standard for textile products. Single use end products are NOT included in this Standard. Single use end products made of LENZING fibers can only be labelled or marketed as EU Ecolabel certified if they are certified as compliant with applicable standards, such as the EU Ecolabel Standard for PCPs and AHPs.

2 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/index_en.htm

Posted February 23, 2021

Source: Lenzing

Integrated Fiber Solutions Announces $30 Million Expansion In Rome, Ga.

ATLANTA — February 16, 2021 — Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Integrated Fiber Solutions (IFS), a manufacturer of synthetic bulked continuous filament (BCF) yarns for the carpet, rug, and automotive industries, will invest $30 million in expanding its operations in Rome, Ga., to meet growing demand. This expansion will bring approximately 40 additional jobs to Floyd County.

“It’s always gratifying to see family-owned Georgia businesses continue to expand and create opportunities in their home state,” said Governor Kemp. “I’m grateful to Integrated Fiber Solutions for continuing to invest in northwest Georgia and creating great manufacturing jobs for hardworking Georgians in Floyd County and throughout the region.”

Integrated Fiber Solutions was established in 1986 to serve the man-made yarn needs of multiple carpet and rug industries in Georgia. With locations in Rome, Dalton, and Lafayette, the company employs approximately 600 people in northwest Georgia.

“We are very pleased to announce the expansion of Integrated Fiber Solutions Rome manufacturing facility. IFS is adding additional capacity to continue to meet the demand of our customers in multiple market segments. The Rome-Floyd community has supported our efforts for many years, and now we have the opportunity to add jobs and opportunities for workers to grow as our business grows,” said IFS COO Mark Cook. “IFS will be investing over $30 million for an expansion of multiple phases spanning the next five years, with the addition of approximately 40 new jobs over the course of the project.”

Integrated Fiber Solutions will construct a new facility adjacent to their current plant, which is located at 19 Westside Industrial Boulevard in Rome. New job opportunities include management, operator, and mechanic positions. Individuals interested in careers with Integrated Fiber Solutions are encouraged to email cbaez@intfibers.com for additional information.

“It is always exciting to hear about and support an expansion of one of our existing industries. Integrated Fibers has been a strong employer over the years, and I expect that they will continue to grow with the increased construction demand we are seeing now. Our Authority and community are glad they chose to invest here once again,” said Jimmy Byars, chairman of the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority.

Project Manager Tamara Brock represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce division on this project in partnership with the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority and Georgia Power.

“Integrated Fiber Solutions’ decision to expand in Rome, the heart of the flooring and synthetic fibers industry, proves that Georgia offers everything companies need to grow. From a strong pipeline of skilled talent to market access and a low cost of doing business, the state continues to attract new companies while also supporting Georgia businesses,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “I want to thank IFS for their continued investment as well as our existing industry team for representing Georgia and assisting companies all across the state.”

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Georgia Office of the Governor

Virginia Governor Northam Announces PPE Manufacturer To Locate In Harrisonburg

RICHMOND, Va. — February 10, 2021 — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Valley Guard Supply LLC will invest $1 million to establish a personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturing facility in the City of Harrisonburg. A service-disabled, veteran-owned company, Valley Guard produces three-ply disposable masks that are 100 percent made in the United States and intends to manufacture other types of safety and security gear in the future. The project will create 45 new jobs.

“Domestic manufacturers of personal protective equipment are critical as we battle this global pandemic, and we thank Valley Guard Supply for answering the call right here in Virginia,” said Governor Northam. “The company’s new Harrisonburg operation will play an important role in localizing our supply chain and keeping health care workers and citizens safe. Valley Guard is a veteran-owned small business with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and we extend our gratitude for their service to our Commonwealth and our country.”

Founded by James Madison University alumni, Valley Guard Supply is a new start-up manufacturer of personal protective equipment that launched in April 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic began. The company has leased a facility, is purchasing machinery, and hiring full-time staff to establish its first permanent location in Virginia. Valley Guard has a strong sense of social responsibility and has started working with Harrisonburg officials to donate masks to local nonprofits and community organizations serving families in need.

“We are excited to add this homegrown Virginia company to our roster and thank Valley Guard Supply for creating 45 new jobs in the Shenandoah Valley,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “This project is a great success story of proud JMU alumni with first-hand knowledge of the region’s assets and talent who are committed to the Harrisonburg community and the Commonwealth. We thank Valley Guard for its investment and look forward to our partnership.”

“Without a doubt, talent was the driving force behind Valley Guard Supply’s decision to locate its ‘Made in the USA’ operation in Harrisonburg,” said Andy Perrine, Strategic Advisor at Valley Guard Supply. “James Madison University’s ranking as Virginia’s best school for getting a job and the university’s programs teaching innovation — most notably JMU X-labs — gives the company great confidence that our plans for growth and expansion can rely on a steady stream of top talent.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with the City of Harrisonburg to secure the project for Virginia, and connected Valley Guard Supply with GenEdge, which has since approved the company for the GO Virginia-funded Retooling Virginia Manufacturers for Strategic Industries Program. VEDP will support Valley Guard’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

“We are thrilled to have attracted a ‘Made in the USA’ PPE manufacturer to Harrisonburg,” said Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed. “We love seeing JMU alumni launching businesses in our city, especially when that business is showing its commitment to the health and wellness of our community during a time when that is most needed. It speaks to the impact that the people and beauty of The Friendly City have on students who come to Harrisonburg for college.”

“Thanks to Valley Guard for working in partnership with the Commonwealth and the City of Harrisonburg, we have a veteran-owned small business here in the Shenandoah Valley providing more job opportunities,” said Senator Mark Obenshain. “This project will greatly benefit our region and state with an increase in supply of personal protective equipment, which is critical as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a supporter of small business, I am extremely excited about this announcement.”

“I appreciate Valley Guard Supply’s commitment to Harrisonburg,” said Delegate Tony Wilt. “The pandemic has made clear the need to manufacture personal protective equipment and other medical supplies here in the United States. Having these facilities in our own community is an even greater benefit and a win-win for job creation and public health.”

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Virginia Office of the Governor

C&A Tool Reconfigures To Produce U.S.-Made Face Masks

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — February 18, 2021 — In 2020, as the COVID pandemic was spreading across the country, Churubusco, Ind.-based precision manufacturer, C&A Tool Engineering Inc. saw an opportunity to make a difference.

As a contract manufacturer of surgical and orthopedic devices, C&A Tool was able to quickly repurpose its medical-grade facilities and build a brand new Class-7 clean room to begin producing disposable face masks.

“As the situation progressed and we were seeing critical shortages of face masks and other protective equipment, we saw the chance to pivot and do something to help keep our employees safe and also help the public,” said Adam Heller of C&A Tool.

C&A Tool produces the high-quality face masks in its Auburn, Indiana facility using imported materials. The masks are available for sale on Amazon and directly from the company at www.catool.com/masks.

C&A Tool’s Japan-based parent company, MinebeaMitsumi, has been manufacturing face masks for its worldwide employees and the general public since the beginning of the pandemic.

“We’re proud to be able help our community by producing protective equipment that’s safe and high-quality, right here in Indiana,” Heller said.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: C&A Tool Engineering Inc.

2021 Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Webinar Weeks: Focus On Home Textiles

NEUMÜNSTER/REMSCHEID, Germany — February 19, 2021 — Oerlikon Manmade Fibers kicks off the new year with a series of webinars on the topic of home textiles. Traditionally, the company’s event calendar begins with the DOMOTEX trade fair and the supplementary BCF Symposium. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the producer of BCF yarn systems has an alternative event for its customers this year. Those interested can register to take part in the webinars via the Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Division corporate Website.

Manufacturing carpet yarn with the BCF S8 – ‘Experience-based Innovation’

March 3, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

The series of webinars launches in March 3, 2021, with a presentation on the BCF S8 system. Nis Lehmann-Matthaei, sales director BCF at Oerlikon Neumag, introduces the latest development steps in the monocolor variant. Under the ‘Experience-based Innovation’ motto, this system technology sets new standards with never-seen-before spinning speeds, up to 700 filaments and fine titers of up to 2.5 dpf.

BCF S8 Tricolor – a massive step forward for your carpet yarn production

March 10, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

In his webinar, BCF Sales Director Michael Rübenhagen focuses on tricolor yarn production. Thanks to the patent-pending CPC-T unit (Color Pop Compacting), the BCF S8 is capable of manufacturing in excess of 200,000 different shades — from mélange through to strongly-separated.

Heavy-denier applications – WINGS HD and eAFK Big V complete your home textiles portfolio

March 17, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

The carpet yarn portfolio is complemented by a POY-DTY solution for heavy-denier applications: using the WINGS HD and the eAFK Big V, carpet yarn manufacturers can efficiently and economically cater to increasing demand for heavy-denier DTY yarns. The technology is presented by Area Sales Director Oliver Lemke.

Compact spinning system for heavy-denier POY and DTY – what the VarioFil can do for you

March 24, 2021: 2-2.45 CET

In a fourth webinar, Product Manager Ralf Morgenroth unveils the VarioFil R+ compact spinning system for recycled filament yarn, developed and built by subsidiary BBE. The system is available for producing POY.

Register now for our digital events in Q1-2021:
www.oerlikon.com/manmade-fibers/en/about-us/events/

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: Oerlikon Textile GmbH & Co. KG

ASTM International Transitions May, June In-Person Standards Meetings To All Virtual

W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — February 19, 2021 — In light of COVID-19 and ongoing safety concerns for members and staff, ASTM International announced today that all previously scheduled in-person May and June standards development meetings (including D02 and independent meetings) have been transitioned to all virtual.

Last month, ASTM International announced that all April in-person meetings would be transitioned to virtual as well.

These decisions were based on several factors, including, but not limited to:

  • Continued review of information and recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other governmental bodies,
  • Input from ASTM International members whose organizations are increasingly concerned with travel, and
  • Specific information on the projected city restrictions in Toronto, Ontario, and other cities, with input from the hotels.

ASTM International staff will be contacting committee leaders to plan for virtual meetings or other alternatives for conducting committee business.

Looking forward, ASTM International will rely on these and other relevant criteria and input points to assess the status of ASTM’s future standards development meetings.

View the status of your committee’s next meeting by visiting www.astm.org/meetings.

For additional resources — including PDF guides for members participating virtually — please visit www.astm.org/updates/committees.html.

Last year, ASTM International also announced they are providing no-cost public access to a suite of more than two dozen standards used in the production and testing of personal protective equipment to combat the coronavirus public health emergency. For more information, visit www.astm.org/COVID-19.

Posted February 19, 2021

Source: ASTM International

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