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Perfect Partners for Filament Yarn Producers Worldwide

2012-02-06T04:22:00.000-08:00

Global demand for synthetic fibers is at an all-time high, with more than 80% capacity utilization and a production total of almost 50 million tonnes expected for 2011, following a strong recovery in 2010. Mass variation as well as strength and elongation are the essential quality characteristics for this big business. The USTER® TESTER 5-C800 and TENSORAPID 4-C are the indispensable and specialized testing instruments for filament yarn producers.

Reflecting the filament industry’s needs leads to the conclusion that two USTER® testing instruments offer what is necessary to ensure requested quality standards: The USTER® TESTER 5-C800 – part of the renowned USTER® tester family – is tailor-made for this industry and has become a synonym for unevenness measurements. The USTER® TENSORAPID 4-C measures the key quality parameters of force, elongation and tenacity, using software specially designed for filament yarns. Both systems can test a wide range of counts across all the main filament yarn types, including polyester, polyamide, polypropylene, viscose and aramid. Gabriela Peters, Product Manager Yarn within Uster Technologies says: “Our long expertise in this area means we understand that the testing of monofilament or multifilament is not as simple as it looks.” In fact, it can be a complex process, requiring the specialized know-how, hardware and software that is integrated into the USTER® instruments. “We work with filament producers to keep pace with fast-moving changes in manufacturing technology and new demands on yarn characteristics as competition intensifies through the textile sector, including high-volume applications such as polyester for apparel, sport textiles and home textiles,” explains Peters.

Read entire post Perfect Partners for Filament Yarn Producers Worldwide @ Technical Textile

Binani buys Belgian fibreglass company 3B

2012-02-02T04:32:00.000-08:00

Binani Industries Limited, the holding company of USD 1.6 billion Braj Binani Group, today announced the acquisition of 3B-The Fibreglass Company, a Europe-based major in fibreglass products and technologies. Binani Industries Limited is one of India’s leading global diversified business houses, with interests in cement, zinc, glass fibre, composites and ready-mix concrete.

The Braj Binani Group has acquired a 100 per cent equity interest in 3B from Platinum Equity.

Headquartered in Battice, Belgium, 3B is Europe’s leading manufacturer of fibreglass for reinforcement of thermoplastics and thermoset polymer applications, and is a preferred supplier to global leaders in industries including automotive and wind energy.

This acquisition is part of Braj Binani Group’s strategy to expand its footprint in the global fibreglass market. It further augments the Group’s technological and marketing capabilities in the fibreglass business.

Read entire post Binani buys Belgian fibreglass company 3B @ Technical Textile

New opportunities for Indian customers from Trutzschler Nonwovens

2012-01-23T00:23:00.000-08:00

Trutzschler Nonwovens offers customized solutions for manufacturing of hygiene and medical applications like cotton pads, cotton roll, zigzag cotton, ear buds, cotton balls & tampon production etc., based on bleached cotton & its blends with viscose.

The unique benefits offered over the existing system are less number of machines resulting in space, power, and labor saving with better quality.

Trutzschler Hygiene Card TC07H, comes with product specific attachments, these product and attachments and its result are-

Read entire post New opportunities for Indian customers from Trutzschler Nonwovens @ Technical Textile

In Technical Textiles Sector Gujarat to tap USD 400 mn investment

2012-01-18T22:54:00.000-08:00

The state of Gujarat is expected to receive around Rs 20 billion (USD 400 mn) in fresh investments in the burgeoning technical textiles sector, said a top official of the Ministry of Industry in the Gujarat government.

“This amount is expected to be invested in the technical textiles industry as well as the converting industry (Those who convert technical textile goods into final products)”, said Dr Chandan Chatterjee, Director - Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb).

There are more than 1,000 technical textile units functioning in Gujarat. They are mostly woven-fabric based units. However now, the Gujarat government plans to focus on development of the nonwovens sector.

To make this a reality, Gujarat will launch a first-of-its-kind state-level initiative called – ‘Mission Technical Textiles’, which will help in research and development activities for new product development and also help entrepreneurs source raw materials.

As part of the initiative, Gujarat will allocate Rs three billion (USD 60 mn) for the promotion of the sector of which, the government will make provision for Rs 500 million (USD 10 mn) in the first year, Rs 1 billion (USD 20 mn) in the second year and Rs 1.5 billion (USD 30 mn) in the third year.

Read entire post In Technical Textiles Sector Gujarat to tap USD 400 mn investment @ Technical Textile

GreenFields helps deliver 2012 Olympic legacy strategy with dual use artificial turf pitch

2012-01-17T22:27:00.000-08:00

As part of the 2012 London Olympics and 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games legacy strategy, GreenFields have installed a new dual use artificial turf pitch certified for both Rugby and Football usage. Following the legacy strategy, pitches can still be used after the Olympic Games. The new pitch, which is only the third of its kind in Scotland, will serve the local rugby and football clubs as well as providing access for numerous smaller community clubs and local schools.

Highest certified standards

With competing requirements from both Haddington Athletic Football Club and Haddington Rugby Club, East Lothian Council decided that the most practical and cost effective solution was to opt for a dual usage artificial turf pitch. Any concerns that a dual usage pitch might lead to compromises were eliminated by choosing the GreenFields solution. This option guarantees the highest quality standards for both sports. The new pitch is both FIFA 2 Star certified, the highest standard achievable, and IRB certified to Regulation 22, the recognised standard that allows matches up to International Standard to be played on the surface.

Read more about GreenFields helps deliver 2012 Olympic legacy strategy with dual use artificial turf pitch @ Technical Textile

PSG College of Technology to host a National Conference on Technical Textiles

2012-01-17T03:45:00.000-08:00

PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore in association with Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA), Ghaziabad will host the National conference on January 24, 2012, which will focus on Industrial & Protective Textiles, a wider category of Technical Textiles. Technical Textiles holds an immense scope for the developing world in terms of employment, new industry, research and exports.

Since Technical textiles research in India is now at growing stage, this conference will provide a National platform for product development through the knowledge and technology sharing and will create awareness amongst participants about the importance of research in this area. The technical sessions of the conference consists of invited lectures by eminent speakers, oral and poster presentations by researchers.

Recently Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India has sanctioned one time grant of Rs 25 crore to NITRA and IIT, Delhi to set up Centre of excellence (COE) on PROTECH-Protective textiles with NITRA as lead partner. Also Ministry has funded PSG College of Technology for setting up COE on INDUTECH-Industrial Textiles.

Read more about PSG College of Technology to host a National Conference on Technical Textiles @ Technical Textile

James Heal Introduces newly designed Universal Strength Tester

2012-01-12T21:49:00.000-08:00

Titan4 features intelligent, easy-to-use TestWise Test Analysis Software, an extensive range of specimen grips and a comprehensive library of International standards and retailers’ own test methods.

The TestWise Test Analysis Software is a new addition to Titan4, inspired by our Textile and Technical Experts, and you can start testing in just ‘Three Clicks’..TestWise has an extensive library of preloaded National and International standards, as well as Retailers’ test methods. Standards can be found easily using the search filters and favourite standards can be saved.

Titan4 operates, as standard, in both tension and compression and has an extensive range of tool-free, interchangeable specimen grips. A choice of three load cells - up to 3000N (approx 300kg) are available, which are supplied in cartridge form to improve protection and to facilitate safe handling and storage.

Read entire post James Heal Introduces newly designed Universal Strength Tester @ Technical Textile

ComforJet yarns license for Hermann Bühler

2012-01-12T01:03:00.000-08:00

The spinning company, Hermann Bühler AG, in Switzerland has acquired the Rieter license for ComforJet® yarns. The official handover of the certificate took place at the ITMA in Barcelona. On the Rieter stand in the presence of numerous visitors, Reto Thom, Rieter’s Head of Sales, presented the certificate to Mr. Dr. Beat Denzler, Chairman of the Board and Mr. Martin Kägi, CEO Hermann Bühler AG.

The spinning company, Hermann Bühler AG, with headquarters in Winterthur-Sennhof, Switzerland, produces yarns for customers with the highest demands. With innovative products, top quality and a perfect customer service, the spinning plant sets standards. Always interested in the latest technology, Hermann Bühler AG has been involved from the start in the development of the Rieter air-jet spinning machine. Consequently, the company is also one of the first certified suppliers of ComforJet® yarns.

Read entire post ComforJet yarns license for Hermann Bühler @ Technical Textile

Range of KARL MAYER Warp Preparation Machines for Technical Textiles Sector

2012-01-10T22:53:00.000-08:00

The textile and clothing industry is continuing to pin all its hopes on technical textiles, especially in the highly developed world. According to the Industrieverband Veredlung, Garne, Gewebe, Technische Textilien, IVGT (Industrial Association for Finishing, Yarns, Fabrics and Technical Textiles), their share of total sales in the textile industry currently amounts to more than 50%, which represents an increase of more than 25% over the last ten years.

The growth potential of these functional textile materials is due to their wide range of different end-uses. They are used in a wide variety of different industrial sectors and are benefiting from a relatively strong growth in demand. /1/

In order to take the best advantage of the opportunities on offer, the entire manufacturing process must be as efficient as possible.

KARL MAYER’s warp preparation machines win maximum points in terms of productivity and versatility. This complete provider of preparatory machines for the weaving and warp knitting sectors can supply a wide range of machinery for producing technical textiles, and these can be combined to create customised solutions. The Opt-O-Matic sectional warping machine and the MULTITENS yarn tensioning system are both worth a special mention here.

The count of technical yarns presents a particular challenge. Yarns having a count of above 1,100 dtex are usually heavy, require high processing forces, and tend to form large yarn balloons during take-off at high speeds. If the yarn ends fall down in an uncontrolled manner, this can also result in unwinding of the entire package. Stiff yarns run the risk of jumping out of the yarn guides and thick yarns do not adhere securely to the package because of their relatively small area in relation to their large circumference - and these are just some of the factors that have to be taken into account when processing technical yarns.

Read entire post Range of KARL MAYER Warp Preparation Machines for Technical Textiles Sector @ Technical Textile

New TruSoft Fiber delivers Wow Factor

2012-01-09T04:23:00.000-08:00

INVISTA Surfaces, a division of INVISTA Performance Surfaces & Materials and maker of STAINMASTER® carpet fibers, complements its constantly expanding portfolio with a new fiber innovation designed to “wow” consumers looking for the ultimate in softness, beauty and performance.

STAINMASTER® carpet with TruSoft™ fiber will make its debut at the SURFACES tradeshow, and is being promoted as ‘the softest STAINMASTER® fiber yet’! This new soft nylon 6,6 fiber -- which can be manufactured in many colors, styles and patterns – will help carpets stay soft, durable and beautiful, while delivering the consumer-expected benefits of STAINMASTER® carpet stain and soil resistance. STAINMASTER® carpets with TruSoft™ fiber will become available beginning late in the first quarter of 2012.

“We continually challenge ourselves to look for opportunities to improve upon our offerings to help create differentiated value for our customers,” said Steve Griffith, chief marketing officer, INVISTA Surfaces. “Our market research continues to confirm that consumers want carpets that are both durable and soft. Through extensive testing, our R&D team has struck the optimum balance of soft fiber design with our proprietary stain and soil resist technologies to create a soft fiber platform on which we are proud to hang the STAINMASTER® brand name. And, if the reaction from our customers is an indication of success, we are very excited because they’ve been amazed by how great it feels.”

Tom Levi, owner of Levi’s 4 Floors, a long-time STAINMASTER® Flooring Center, added, “These carpets can sell themselves with one little touch. This product is going to be a game changer. Its fantastic, soft touch combined with the proven durability of STAINMASTER® products is going to influence the way people select their new carpet.”

Read entire post New TruSoft Fiber delivers Wow Factor @ Technical Textile

Thwing Albert Introduces Redesigned Tool for Measuring Water Vapor Permeability of Nonwovens

2012-01-06T22:52:00.000-08:00

Thwing-Albert Instrument Company has redesigned the Vapometer Cup for easier sample setup in the lab. No more individual screws to tighten! The original design of the Vapometer Cup used six knurled head screws to secure the flange in place. Now, customers can find relief with the elimination of the securing 6 individual screws. Thwing-Albert's new 68-3000 EZ-Cup design consists of a light weight aluminum cup and an aluminum threaded flanged ring with two neoprene gaskets with a Teflon seal that hold the specimen in place. This design was specifically created to eliminate edge leakage and to provide fast secure sealing of the specimen between the gaskets. Specimens are easily loaded and sealed in place by twisting the threaded upper aluminum flange in place.

Thwing-Albert Vapometer Cups comply with the ASTM E96 standard. Samples up to 3 mm (1/8 in.) thick can be tested with this Vapometer model. The cups are 63.5 mm (2.5 in.) wide and 50.8 mm (2 in.) deep. This model will save operator time and increase productivity by cutting the setup time in half. Serialization has been added to the Vapometer to allow test administrators to easily track results of multiple samples.

The Vapometer is used for determining the water vapor permeability of sheet materials such as wipes, specialty paper grades, polyethylene, building material, leather, weatherproof clothing, vinyl, foil, laminates and other thin sheet materials. This property is essential in determining if a material is moisture proof or has the ability to protect contents from the transmission of water vapor.

Read more about Thwing Albert Introduces Redesigned Tool for Measuring Water Vapor Permeability of Nonwovens @ Technical Textile

Ingeo Resins, Nonwovens, and Fibers at Innovation Takes Root

2012-01-05T23:19:00.000-08:00

Innovation Takes Root 2012 will bring together those vitally interested in the latest technical, market, and regulatory aspects of biopolymer resins, nonwovens, and fibers. Innovation Takes Root will be held February 20-22 at the Omni Orlando Resort, Orlando, Fla.

There will be a three hour breakout session, Incorporating Bioplastics into Nonwovens and Fibers, moderated by David Jackson, Senior Technical Leader, Global Nonwovens, Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Roy Holmes, President of INDA, will give a presentation on nonwoven fabric trends. Other speakers at this session include: Joerg Dahringer, Trevira GMBH; Jesse Lee, Chemistry Technology Manager, Schlumberger; Jed Randall, Research Scientist, Ingeo Product Development, NatureWorks; and Ralf Taubner, Research Scientist, STFI e.V.

Other sessions include: Advances in Ingeo Packaging Films, Expanding Ingeo Applications in Durable Products, Growth of Ingeo Lactides and Lactide Derivatives, Driving Economics to Sustainable Commercialization, Opportunities in Food Service and Food Packaging, Emerging Markets and Technologies, and Legislative and Regulatory Issues. There will also be two pre-conference sessions – a 7:30 am to 5 pm seminar, The Future of Bioplastic Feedstock, and a 1 to 5 pm workshop, Adhesives and Key Essentials for Laminating Biopolymer Films into Flexible Packaging. Both of the pre-conference sessions will be held on Monday, February 20.

Read entire post Ingeo Resins, Nonwovens, and Fibers at Innovation Takes Root @ Technical Textile

Taekwang Industrial to produce Carbon Fiber

2012-01-04T22:56:00.000-08:00

Taekwang Industrial Co., a South Korean chemical fiber company, said Wednesday that it will begin commercial production of carbon fiber starting in March of next year for the first time in South Korea.

The company developed the polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fiber in 2009 and has commenced construction for the high-end material in the Ulsan industrial complex on the southeastern coast of the country.

The plant will start commercial operation in March next year with an annual capacity of 1,500 tons of carbon fibers and 3,000 tons of precursors, the key basic building material for PAN-based carbon fiber, said Taekwang Industrial.

Taekwang Industrial has injected 150 billion won ($129.4 million) into the development and the plant.

Carbon fiber is 10 times stronger than steel but only 20 percent its weight. It can be used in the building of airplanes, spaceships, sports equipment, cars and wind power generators.

Read more about Taekwang Industrial to produce Carbon Fiber @ Technical Textile

Study on Geogrids to improve durability of Rail Lines

2012-01-03T22:47:00.000-08:00

Every year, companies that own railroad track across the United States spend millions of dollars maintaining ballast, the crushed rock underneath railroad ties and steel rails. In addition to the high cost, railroads must reroute trains around operations that maintain ballast, delaying the delivery of freight.

Now, research at the University of Kansas may help to extend the useful life of ballast, with the aim of saving time, money and the need to quarry new rock. Investigators in the School of Engineering are conducting a study on the promise of making ballast more durable using “geogrid,” a type of polypropylene netting typically employed in reinforcement of soil.

“Ballast helps to redistribute the load from the trains,” said Bob Parsons, professor of civil, environmental and architectural engineering at KU. “Ballast is composed of large rock, but over time it gets contaminated from finer particles from rock dust, natural dust and coal dust from coal trains. And you have the soils from underneath coming up. So the fine particles fit between the larger stones of the ballast and contaminate it.”

Read more about Study on Geogrids to improve durability of Rail Lines @ Technical Textile

Today’s textile is only technical textiles

2012-01-02T22:00:00.000-08:00

The history of conventional textiles in our country has its own culture and heritage, but consumer textiles are becoming more and more competitive and facing tough competition in exports from China and other neighboring countries. Obviously, many companies producing conventional textiles have to continuously struggle to survive in a highly competitive global market. Now, the time is that traditional textile entrepreneurs should move into the lucrative field of technical textiles, while retaining their traditional textile business.

With this background, textile manufacturers need to consider some emerging factors and redefine their strategies for production and marketing. Technical textiles have been slowly but steadily gaining ground due to one or more reasons such as functional requirement, health and safety, cost effectiveness, durability, high strength, lightweight, versatility, customization, user friendliness, eco-friendliness, logistical convenience, etc.

Technical textile is equally an important emerging area for investment in India. At present, in India the domestic demand for technical textile products are met by imports. While in developed countries the demand for technical textile has reached a maturity level and thus it is aggressively shifting to developing countries, like India which is one of the potential growing markets for technical textiles. Thus, technical textiles on one hand owes competitive strength and pressure and on other side provides tremendous commercial opportunities open to local market and around the world.

Non-woven textiles, within the overall technical textiles are expected to grow globally at an average 8%, while India’s nonwoven consumption is predicted at 13-15% per annum in the coming two decades.

Read more about Today’s textile is only technical textiles @ Technical Textile

Aditya Birla Group to invest $500 million in Viscose Staple Fibre

2011-12-29T22:41:00.000-08:00

The Aditya Birla Group, a $35 billion multinational corporation, unveiled its plans to set up a Viscose Staple Fibre (VSF) plant in Turkey's Adana Organised Industrial Zone. The Group, which is the world's No.1 VSF manufacturer, proposes to invest $500 million over the next five years to set up a 180 ktpa fully integrated VSF plant with a captive power plant, CS2 plant and a sulphuric acid plant. The VSF plant will come up in two phases.

"In the Viscose Staple Fibre sector, we are reckoned as a marquee Group with over 21 per cent of the global market share. For us in the Aditya Birla Group, VSF is a core business. Our aspiration is to significantly ramp up our global market share and our capacities by the turn of the decade. Establishing a world-class plant in Turkey is a step in this direction," commented Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group.

Elaborating, Mr. K. K. Maheshwari, Global Director of the VSF Business, said, "Currently, our VSF manufacturing capacity is 750 ktpa. Our ambition is to raise it to 1.1 million tonnes by 2015. We expect to commission our plant in Turkey by early 2015. This capacity in Turkey will primarily cater to the textile industries here. Currently, 100 per cent of VSF used in the textile and non-woven sectors is imported. Turkey, I believe is the 4th largest consumer of VSF in the world. It is expected to become the 2nd largest consumer over the next five years. So setting up the VSF manufacturing facility here makes imminent sense. We have been much encouraged by the Government's proactive industrial policies and the work ethos."

Read entire post Aditya Birla Group to invest $500 million in Viscose Staple Fibre @ Technical Textile

Top textile machinery manufacturers snap up ITMA ASIA + CITME 2012 exhibition space

2011-12-29T05:16:00.000-08:00

Despite the current global economic slowdown, leading textile machinery manufacturers around the world are still attracted to prospects offered by the world’s largest textile producer - China. This can be seen from the overwhelming response received by the combined textile machinery show, ITMA ASIA + CITME 2012, which will be held at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre from 12 to 16 June 2012.

At the close of space application, some 130,000 square meters gross of exhibition space in 11 halls has been booked by leading industry names from some 30 economies. Although the space application deadline has passed, the show owners are still being besieged with late applications, including several applications for very large booths.

The exhibition is expected to feature some 1,300 local and international textile machinery makers who will showcase cutting-edge solutions, as well as sustainability and energy efficient machinery and processes.

Chinese exhibitors make up the biggest country group, booking around 50 per cent of the total exhibition space. Besides China, the top participating countries in terms of space applications are Germany, Italy, Japan and Switzerland.

Read entire post Top textile machinery manufacturers snap up ITMA ASIA + CITME 2012 exhibition space @ Technical Textile

LYCRA fibre has been chosen by Speedo for Fastskin Swimsuit

2011-12-28T02:57:00.000-08:00

INVISTA, one of the world’s largest integrated producers of fibres and polymers, announces that its LYCRA® fibre has been chosen by Speedo for the revolutionary Fastskin³ swimsuit collection unveiled on 30th November 2011, during an exclusive global launch. With a heritage spanning more than 35 years of helping swimwear fabrics provide exceptional fit, form and function for the water, the LYCRA® fibre brand has a natural alliance with the world of swimming, and INVISTA has a long history of providing Speedo with its premium fibres.

The Speedo FASTSKIN³ collection comprises three tiers of technology that are tailored to the requirements of swimmers of differing abilities. LYCRA® fibre has been used across all three levels of the Fastskin³ collection.
The FASTSKIN3 Super Elite Swimsuit uses the highly innovative HYDRO-K ZONE 3D FABRIC. INVISTA’s premium fibre for swimwear - Xtra Life LYCRA® fibre - has been incorporated into this pinnacle product. The varying decitexes of LYCRA® fibre knitted throughout the fabric help to create the graduated compression across different body zones.

For female swimmers, Speedo has developed an innovative Arm Hole Entry system which makes the garment easier to get on and off, yet still providing maximum coverage of fabric over the body, and thereby optimising hydrodynamic performance. The high LYCRA® fibre content helps to create the extreme stretch and recovery required for the athlete to physically fit into the suit through the armhole!

Read entire post LYCRA fibre has been chosen by Speedo for Fastskin Swimsuit @ Technical Textile

Gujarat Nonwoven Manufacturers Association launched

2011-12-27T00:34:00.000-08:00

Stakeholders of the Gujarat nonwovens textile industry have got together and formed the Gujarat Nonwoven Manufacturers Association- GUJNON. Dr Chandan Chatterjee, Director - iNDEXTb, Govt of Gujarat, formally launched GUJNON in Ahmedabad on December 24, 2011.

The objective of GUJNON is to promote consumption of nonwovens, to work for hike in applications of nonwovens, increase presence of nonwovens in day-to-day life and educate on the benefits.

The mission of the association is to bring awareness of manifold benefits of nonwovens usage in daily life & thereby develop Gujarat as the largest manufacturer and converting base for nonwovens in India.

The challenges before the association is to create demand for nonwovens, make the industry profitable, which is incurring huge losses in its infancy stage and make people aware that nonwovens is not plastic.

Read entire post Gujarat Nonwoven Manufacturers Association launched @ Technical Textiles

USD 200 million Polyester Film Plant to be built in Bahrain

2011-12-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

Information Affairs Authority -- The Ministry of Industry and Commerce announced that a new contract has been signed to establish a Polyester Film Plant in Salman Industrial City at an investment of 200 million USD. Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakroo, Minister of Industry and Commerce, signed the contract with the delegation headed by Mr. Cheerag Arya, CEO of JBF which was founded in 1982 and has its headquarters in Mumbai.

The contract with JBF covers the establishment of the large industrial project in Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP) to build on the allocated site measuring 65,000 square meters. The plant will produce polyester films used in packaging of electronics and food products, and will be mainly marketed in the European Union and the United States in order to benefit from the free trade agreement with USA. Construction of the project is expected to start in the beginning of 2012.

JBF is a publicly listed company employing a total of 2,500 people globally. It has achieved a yearly turnover of 1.5 Billion USD. The new plant is expected to provide 300 jobs with a production capacity of 90,000 tons in the first phase, which can be expanded and diversified at a later stage.
JBF's CEO appraised the strategic location of Bahrain as a unique investment destination in the region due to the exceptional incentives and facilities offered to the investors from around the world.

Read entire post USD 200 million Polyester Film Plant to be built in Bahrain @ Technical Textile

Clariant is named Pigment Supplier of the Year by Sitivesp

2011-12-23T23:18:00.000-08:00

Promoted by the Union's Raw Materials Department, the Sitivesp Supplier of the Year Award highlights the work done by companies that promote continuous improvements in the products and services offered to the paint and coatings market. “Clariant continuously invests in research and innovation, in the improvement of its processes and the development of environmentally friendly products, with the objective of providing clients with the optimum solutions for their needs. This recognition proves that we are on the right path, from the stand point of quality and customer service,” states Pieter Hermens, Clariant’s Head of Business Unit Pigments to Latin America.

The selection process included votes from all Sitivesp associated companies. In all there are 75 companies, which together make up 70% of the Brazilian paint and coatings market. In the secret and voluntary vote, the members took into consideration factors such as relationship between company and supplier, pre- and post-sale service quality, timely delivery, commercial policy, process, product quality and technological innovation.

Read entire post Clariant is named Pigment Supplier of the Year by Sitivesp @ Technical Textile

Water management solutions at WETEX

2011-12-22T22:27:00.000-08:00

As a result of increased interest in its Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF®) technology from companies in the Middle East, Technical Absorbents (TAL) will exhibit in this region for the first time in 2012. It will take a stand at WETEX, which will be held at the Dubai Convention Centre between 13 and 15 March.

WETEX is positioned as the ideal platform for progressive organisations and professionals in energy, water and environment management, to share and exchange ideas that can transform the future of communities, economies and nations. It is expected that over 1,000 companies will participate and attract over 15,000 visitors.

TAL will have a booth on the UK pavilion, which is being organised by British Water and has a prime site at the venue. It will use the event to promote its technology as a water management solution, with particular focus on water barrier fabrics.

TAL will be showcasing a number of existing and new development products, including its SAF®-based water blocking membrane fabric technology. The fabric offers a high performance water-blocking function in an easy to handle and install fabric format.

Read entire post Water management solutions at WETEX @ Technical Textile

Integration of Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical and Asahi Kasei Medical

2011-12-22T04:46:00.000-08:00

Asahi Kasei Corp. will integrate its two core operating companies in the medical devices-related field, Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical Co., Ltd. and Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd., as of April 1, 2012.

As previously announced in our release dated August 3, 2011, Kuraray Co., Ltd. will transfer the entirety of its 7% holding in Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical to Asahi Kasei Corp. on April 1, 2012. Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical will thus become a wholly owned subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Corp. on that date.

The Asahi Kasei Group is focused on the further development and expansion of its health care operations, and determined that the integration of Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical and Asahi Kasei Medical would establish the optimal configuration. The newly integrated company will further solidify its position as a leading global company, leveraging the world-class medical technologies of the two companies.

As a top-tier manufacturer of blood purification systems, the newly reborn Asahi Kasei Medical will continue to expand operations in artificial kidneys, therapeutic apheresis devices such as separators and adsorption columns, Sepacell™ leukocyte reduction filters, and Planova™ virus removal filters, while advancing the development of new products and promoting the widespread adoption of innovative therapeutic technologies.

Read more about Integration of Asahi Kasei Kuraray Medical and Asahi Kasei Medical @ Technical Textile

Lenzing Group and smartfiber AG Intensify their Cooperation

2011-12-21T04:24:00.000-08:00

Lenzing AG, world market leader for man-made cellulose fibers and the German company smartfiber AG/Rudolstadt are expanding their cooperation. In the future Lenzing will exclusively produce the lyocell specialty fibers smartcel™ and SeaCell® developed by smartfiber at the Lenzing site in Upper Austria.

In 2007, Lenzing already granted smartfiber a license for the pilot production of new types of lyocell specialty fibers. Moreover, smartfiber and Lenzing have been cooperating for several years to develop fabrics and on various research projects.

For reasons of profitability, the pilot plant of smartfiber is being relocated from Rudolstadt to Lenzing in order to be able to rapidly move ahead with the commercial exploitation of smartcel™ and SeaCell® fibers in spite of rising energy and raw material prices. The integration of the facility in Lenzing, the world’s largest cellulose fiber production site, will enable a significantly better cost structure. Moreover, the smartfiber pilot plant had recently reached its capacity limits due to the continually increasing order volume, which no longer made it possible to optimally coordinate incoming orders and accept large orders. smartfiber will continue to be responsible for the sales and marketing of smartcel™ and SeaCell®.

Read entire post Lenzing Group and smartfiber AG Intensify their Cooperation @ Technical Textile

High Strength Cotton for Technical Textiles Needs Development

2011-12-20T05:06:00.000-08:00

The potential for cotton as a raw material for technical textiles will be enhanced if the strength of cotton is improved.

Speaking to this scribe on the sidelines of the 7th edition of the Advances in Textiles, Machinery, Nonwovens and Technical Textiles, international conference organized by Texas Tech University, USA and Coimbatore, India based Kumaraguru College of Technology in the textile city, Coimbatore, India octogenarian Mr. Arunachalam Subramaniam, veteran textile consultant with over 60 years of experience in the textile field advised that the cotton industry should look at developing high strength short staple cottons for industrial applications. Such cottons with staple length of 25.4 to 27 mm with tenacity of 30 g/tex will be ideal for technical textiles. He mentioned that high strength extra-long staple and short staple cottons will find premium use and sale values.

Read entire post High Strength Cotton for Technical Textiles Needs Development @ Technical Textile

Firefighters put fabric technology to the test

2011-12-19T02:52:00.000-08:00

Technical Absorbents (TAL) recently visited the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue training facility to catch up with firefighters who are testing prototype tabards made from its Super Absorbent Fibre® -based KoolSorb fabric technology. The garments are being worn under their PPE during intensive training sessions at the RAF Waddinton site.

Fire trainer Mick Burrows has been running the sessions, which include tackling flames with breathing apparatus and rigorous search and rescue operations. During these exercises the instructors can spend around an hour in temperatures of up to 500°F.

“It is the perfect environment in which to gain valuable feedback on this innovative patent pending coolant fabric technology,” explains TAL Business Development Manager Dave Hill, “and initial feedback has been extremely positive.”

KoolSorb fabric has been developed to be worn under heavy clothing next to the skin, by personnel working in challenging environments such as fire, search and rescue, and the military.

The fabric stimulates the dissipation of heat and moisture through the absorption and containment of body sweat and affords the wearer a cooling effect – directly reducing the risk of heat-stress. The material in touch with the skin remains relatively dry and conducts heat away from the hot areas of the body.

Read entire post Firefighters put fabric technology to the test @ Technical Textile

Sandler among the top ten nonwovens manufacturers worldwide

2011-12-17T01:34:00.000-08:00

Nonwovens Industry magazine ranked the 40 largest nonwovens producers worldwide again this September. Our industry’s largest and most important magazine is being read with great interest not only by nonwovens manufacturers but by companies along the entire supply chain – from equipment manufacturers and raw material suppliers to producers of finished goods. Sandler AG, too, is regularly featured in the magazine.
Since the early 1970s, Nonwovens Industry has been listing the industry’s largest players, if only on a national scale during the first few years. Since 1989, our company has been represented among the largest European producers. In 1990 Nonwovens Industry published the first international ranking which rated the companies based on their turnover of the previous financial year. Ever since, this ranking has been the editorial of each September issue. Among the companies listed are renowned manufacturers such as Freudenberg, Dupont or Kimberly-Clark as well as Sandler AG. In 2009, we moved up seven positions to rank 13 of the largest nonwovens manufacturers worldwide owing to a 33% year-on-year increase in turnover in 2008. And in this year’s ranking, we took yet another important step.

The companies’ total sales in 2010 formed the basis for the rating. For firms that do not only manufacture nonwovens, only the sales volume in this business segment was taken into consideration. In order to have a uniform basis of comparison, the sales figures are converted into US dollar. With an annual turnover of 203 million Euros in 2010 – which represents a 21% year-on-year increase – Sandler AG managed to enter the top ten in 2011 and now ranks 10th among the world’s largest nonwovens manufacturers. „This result puts us in the highest league of our sector“, says CEO Dr. Christian Heinrich Sandler. „We can be proud of this achievement.“

Read entire post Sandler among the top ten nonwovens manufacturers worldwide @ Technical Textile

Freudenberg premiers new Viltec® brand

2011-12-14T21:57:00.000-08:00

The new generation of interlinings under the brandname of Viltec® is the response to all market demands in the menswear segment for more quality, sustainability and cost-efficiency. Freudenberg Nonwovens is commencing the global market launch of this innovative product, and with this patented production process is opening doors into a new dimension for interlinings. Front-ranking pilot customers are supporting the market launch.

The child has a name and a face: Viltec® is the new brand under which Freudenberg’s products for elastic fiber-based interlinings are developed. Inconspicuous, but by no means invisible – Viltec® satisfies all known requirements for menswear applications, while responding at the same time to the call for enhanced cost-efficiency and sustainable resource-economy.

With a weight advantage of 20 % compared to conventional woven and knitted fabrics, and thanks to the high volume and the exceptional elasticity in the weft direction, Viltec® meets all customer requirements for quality. Viltec® products are not made from yarns, but are based on staple-fiber technology. This makes it possible to have a single-stage production process of extreme efficiency, protected by multiple patents.

Read entire post Freudenberg premiers new Viltec® brand @ Technical Textile

Kerala wants defence ministry to buy coir geotextiles

2011-12-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

The Kerala government proposes to ask the defence ministry to buy coir geotextiles produced in the government and the cooperative sectors in the state.

'We will approach the defence ministry to buy geotextiles from the state government organisations and also cooperative societies that produce this material which is used for making roads and preventing soil erosion,' Coir Minister Adoor Prakash told reporters here.

Rani George, special secretary, department of coir, pointed out that currently the defence ministry sourced all their requirements of coir geotextiles through the Coir Board, a government of India organisation.

'Currently the rule is that all defence procurement is based on certain guidelines and hence we cannot directly supply to them,' she said.

Coir geotextile is knitted fibre, either woven or non-woven, taken out of coconut husks and used for various geotechnical, civil engineering and soil conservation applications.

Read entire post Kerala wants defence ministry to buy coir geotextiles @ Technical Textile

Reifenhäuser closes business year 2010/2011 with record results

2011-12-12T22:20:00.000-08:00

The year 2011 that saw the 100th anniversary of the Reifenhäuser group is also its most successful business year of all time. Record results achieved in 2010/2011 both in terms of order income and turnover were perhaps the best anniversary gift the manufacturer of machinery and equipment could give himself.

Compared with the previous record year in the company’s history, sales revenues increased by twelve percent. An even more significant growth could be recorded in terms of new orders obtained in 2010/2011: The record figures of the previous period were exceeded by more than 50 percent. High double-digit growth rates could be achieved by the Reifenhäuser group for almost all of its product groups.

These are pleasing results, especially after the crisis year 2008/2009 that was difficult for Reifenhäuser and the whole mechanical engineering industry. Ulrich Reifenhäuser, member of the Reifenhäuser management board says: “We wanted to emerge from the crisis stronger than before and there is no doubt that we have accomplished this goal. The Reifenhäuser group’s flexibility to respond to specific market situations has proven very successful in these dynamic times thanks to a strong focus of our independent companies on a product-oriented approach. The record results show that we have taken the right decisions.“

Read entire post Reifenhäuser closes business year 2010/2011 with record results @ Technical Textiles

India can be net exporter of technical textiles in long term - Mr Anuj Bhagwati, A.T.E

2011-12-07T22:33:00.000-08:00

On a recent visit to Ahmedabad, the team of technicaltextile.net caught up with Mr Anuj Bhagwati - head of the multi-faceted textile machinery group - A.T.E Enterprises Pvt Ltd.

A.T.E., was set up way back in 1939. Apart from interests in the conventional textile machinery industry, A.T.E has an impressive line up of machineries for various applications for the technical textiles and nonwovens sector.

It offers a complete range of products to make technical textiles - warp knitting machines, stitch bonding machines, needle lines, thermo bonding lines, spun lace lines, coating and finishing lines, etc from reputed global producers like Karl Mayer, Monforts, Erko Truetzschler, Fleissner, FALU, Bastian, Luwa and O.R.V Manufacturing.

"Since, we in India, have a low penetration in the technical textiles sector, I expect nonwovens in particular to grow faster than traditional textiles. I am also very optimistic about the technical textiles side of the A.T.E business," Mr Bhagwati informed.

He added, "When I joined A.T.E way back in 1994, I realized that the penetration of technical textiles is very low in India. So, we started learning about these areas and are working in this segment since 1995-96. We have been trying to create awareness on technical textiles in the Indian textile industry since then and interest is growing".

Read entire post India can be net exporter of technical textiles in long term - Mr Anuj Bhagwati, A.T.E @ Technical Textile

New President for Autoliv Asia

2011-12-07T03:49:00.000-08:00

Autoliv Inc - the worldwide leader in automotive safety systems-today announced that it has appointed Mr. George Chang new President for the region Autoliv Asia. He will succeed Mr. Gunnar Dahlen who will retire in July next year.

Mr. Chang is currently President of Autoliv China, an operation that under his leadership has grown its sales from $10 million in 2000 to more than $1.1 billion this year. He joined Autoliv in 1997 as Regional Purchasing Manager for Autoliv Asia Pacific. George Chang holds a Bachelor Degree in Mechanical (Aeronautical) Engineering from the University of Technology in Malaysia and an MBA from the Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was born in 1964 in Malaysia. Mr. Chang will assume his new position on April 1, 2012 and become a Vice President of Autoliv Inc. and member of the executive committee of the Autoliv parent company.

Gunnar Dahlen, who this year turned 65, will retire after 23 years service with Autoliv. He started as the Company's first president of the South East Asian region when Autoliv had only two subsidiaries there (Autoliv Australia Ltd. and Autoliv New Zealand Ltd.)

With currently more than 13,000 employees and 28 plants, Autoliv Asia is expected this year to account for more than 30% of Autoliv's global sales of more than $8 billion.

Read entire post New President for Autoliv Asia @ Technical Textile

Filtration 2011 Brought The World of Filtration Together in Chicago

2011-12-06T01:17:00.000-08:00

One of the largest and most successful filtration events ever filled Chicago’s Navy Pier late last month as suppliers, customers and end users from around the world took part in three days of education, new products and networking at the Filtration 2011 International Conference and Exposition.

Living up to its billing as the largest and most important filtration industry event in the world, Filtration 2011 drew a near-record 1,670 attendees to Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, November 15-17, 2011. This attendance figure is up 20% over Filtration 2010 last year in Philadelphia.

Filling the exhibit hall at Navy Pier, Filtration 2011 featured a total of 132 exhibitors from 16 countries. 20 of the exhibitors were first-time participants at the Filtration Conference & Exposition.

“The strong attendance and impressive number of exhibitors confirm the important role that Filtration 2011 plays in the business of filtration,” says Rory Holmes, President of INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, organizer of the annual event. “The Midwest location proved very attractive for both attendees and exhibitors from around the world.”

“Attendees at Filtration 2011 were able to see and touch the latest developments in raw materials, machinery and finished products from both established and new companies from everywhere filtration products are made and used,” Holmes adds.

In addition to the Exposition, the well-attended three-day Filtration 2011 Conference focused on vital topics to the business of filtration in 2011 and beyond. “The conference this year highlighted such topical issues as interior air quality, control of airborne illnesses and industrial efficiencies, in addition to the latest product technology,” says INDA’s Director of Technical Affairs, Steve Ogle.

A highlight of the conference was a session called “Twenty Years of Progress - Looking into the Future.” Executives from four leading filtration companies - Ahlstrom, AAF, Flanders and Hollingsworth & Vose - shared a brief historical perspective of progress and market developments, their current view of the filtration marketplace, and a focused look to future trends and dynamics in the business.

Read entire post Filtration 2011 Brought The World of Filtration Together in Chicago @ Technical Textile

COMFORJET - A New Yarn with Convincing Properties

2011-12-02T22:00:00.000-08:00

ComforJet® is the brand name of yarn spun on the new Rieter air-jet spinning machine. In close cooperation with representatives of three process stages, the spinning machine manufacturer Rieter AG, the spinning company Hermann Bühler AG and the knitting machine manufacturer Santoni, the yarn properties and thereby the behavior in downstream processing could be optimized. End products made from ComforJet® yarn exhibit excellent wear and tear characteristics. These were convincingly demonstrated to visitors at the ITMA on the various booths.

What is ComforJet®?

ComforJet® is the brand name for the yarn spun on the Rieter air-jet spinning machine. The air-jet spun yarn exhibits a completely new yarn structure. Typical features are the very low hairiness, the smooth yarn surface and the associated soft and voluminous yarn character. How does the spinning principle work? The air-spinning machine is fed with slivers. The sliver is specifically drafted and fed to a spinning nozzle. By means of an air stream, the outer fibers are twisted around the inner yarn core.

The ComforJet® yarn brings many advantages, not only in downstream processing but also in the end product and opens up new areas of application.

Read entire post COMFORJET - A New Yarn with Convincing Properties @ Technical Textile

Teijin to Establish Worlds First CFRTP Pilot Plant

2011-11-30T04:26:00.000-08:00

Teijin Limited announced today that it will establish the world's first pilot plant for fully integrated production of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) components from carbon fiber on the premises of its Matsuyama Factory in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. The new plant will feature Teijin's unprecedented mass production technology for CFRTP components, which significantly reduces cycle times required for molding composite products to under a minute, enabling rapid production of various prototypes and performance evaluation tests.

Construction of the new plant will begin shortly, with operations expected to commence in mid 2012. The new plant will enable Teijin to further accelerate its commercialization of CFRTP components for mass-produced automobiles and other industrial uses. Capital expenditure for the establishment of the pilot plant will total over two billion yen.

Teijin's proprietary mass production technology for CFRTP enables the integrated production of carbon fiber to composite products within one minute, the ideal tact time required by automakers for mass-produced vehicles. The technology, which promises to realize revolutionary weight-reduction, is expected to find a wide range of applications in addition to automobiles, where certain levels of structural strength are required. CFRTP components are also highly recyclable, as technically its thermoplastic resins can be converted into desired shapes when heated.

Read entire post Teijin to Establish Worlds First CFRTP Pilot Plant @ Technical Textile

Govt policies can help boost technical textiles sector – Mr Jariwala

2011-11-29T04:01:00.000-08:00

“Growth in the technical textiles sector will come, only when government of India frames policies which will help the growth of the industry”, said Mr Arun Jariwala while speaking to technicaltextiles.net at the recently held manmade fibre textiles conference.

One example he gave was to make use of medical hospital disposable products like gloves, mask, gown, etc. mandatory, like in western countries. Mr Jariwala is a noted textile expert and also the Chairman of Surat Art Silk Cloth Manufacturers Association (SASCMA).

“The concept of technical textiles was put up to the government by a committee which was advising on framing a textile policy way back in early 2000’s and it mentioned that, it is the only segment which can prove to be a saviour for the Indian textile sector in the future.

“This was also put up in the presence of our Prime Minister – Dr Manmohan Singh by Mr Shankarsinh Waghela, the textile minister at that time at a seminar held by the ministry. However, little progress has been made in the last few years.

Read entire post Govt policies can help boost technical textiles sector – Mr Jariwala @ Technical Textile

Teijin Fibers to Launch RFID Smart Shelf-management System

2011-11-28T21:56:00.000-08:00

Teijin Fibers Limited announced today it will commence full-scale sales on December 19 of a digital smart shelf-management system incorporating CELL FORM, Teijin's two-dimensional data-communication sheet, UHF radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and compatible tags.

CELL FORM enables a secure connection to read the RFID identification tag via electromagnetic waves on an ultra-thin, flat smart sheet that is placed on top of shelves. The system uses the UHF band because of its superior characteristics for long-range signal detection between the sheet and the RFID tags. As a result, the system's two wireless technologies ensure stable communication over both short and long read ranges.

RFID is a technology for transmitting data via radio signals to and from a contactless IC chip. Applications include the identification and management of merchandise fitted with RFID tags, which send signals via the UHF band. CELL FORM smart sheets placed on each shelf detect the signal of each identification tag on the merchandise item and transmit information about the items from the smart sheet, making CELL FORM ideal for a variety of real-time inventory-management and security applications, including library books, medicines in retail stores, business documents and much more.

Teijin's shelf-management system comprises up to eight antenna-equipped CELL FORM smart sheets; a read/write module supplied by Convergence Systems Limited (CSL) of Hong Kong; software; and 400 RFID IC tags.

The system is already used in a university library and an educational resource information center in Japan. Teijin Fibers is now developing a global market for the system together with CSL, as an overseas partner, and local system integrators.

Read entire post Teijin Fibers to Launch RFID Smart Shelf-management System @ Technical Textile

Braskem supports launch of global-scale Acrylic Complex

2011-11-26T01:53:00.000-08:00

Braskem will supply propylene and other inputs for BASF's project in Bahia Braskem, the largest producer of thermoplastic resins in the Americas and the global leader in the production of biopolymers, will be present today, November 24, at the launch of the Production Complex for acrylic acid, butyl acrylate and superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in Camaçari, Bahia. With investments of around US$30 million, Braskem will be BASF's main strategic partner in the project, being responsible for supplying the new complex with propylene and soda.

Once the facility comes on stream, scheduled for 2014, Braskem's propylene and soda output will be routed to the domestic market, thereby reducing the surplus allocated to exports. This will benefit Brazil's trade balance by replacing imports, as well as favoring the entire acrylic acid production chain due to the project's production capacity and the size of the investment.

Read entire post Braskem supports launch of global-scale Acrylic Complex @ Technical Textile

Americhem to Present at Decorative Automotive Plastics 2011 Conference

2011-11-25T01:38:00.000-08:00

Americhem Inc., a global provider of custom color and additive masterbatches, will provide an expert view on masterbatches for automotive trim during the inaugural Crain conference Decorative Automotive Plastics 2011 from November 30 – December 1, at the NH Frankfurt City Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany.

Martin von Wolfersdorff, Americhem’s sales & marketing director EMEA, will present on color harmony and material property enhancements with masterbatch. He will give recommendations for ensuring color consistency and also show case innovation themes like piano black mould-in-color, second generation scratch additives, light-weighting with chemical blowing agents, nGrain® woodgrain effects and natural fiber fillers.

“The current globalization of OEM programs and individualization in trim colors make color-at press an attractive and cost-efficient solution,” says Martin von Wolfersdorff. “ Ensuring color harmony across parts, programs, resins and regions is a challenge, but it can be accomplished through the company’s specialized experience with automotive partners, specification at OEM or tier 1 level, correct use of standards and supporting software tools like vDesign®.”

The Decorative Automotive Plastics conference, expected to attract 80 participants, brings together key industry leaders, designers and material engineers from the entire automotive supply chain for decorative automotive plastics, who will discuss automotive strategy, opportunities, design, manufacturing processes and products.

Read entire post Americhem to Present at Decorative Automotive Plastics 2011 Conference @ Technical Textile

INDA Announces New CAB 2012 Conference

2011-11-23T22:49:00.000-08:00

Recognizing a need for an inclusive conference to service the needs of multiple production and bonding technologies and the converter segment, INDA, the leading Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, will hold their new CAB™ 2012 Converting and Bonding Conference from April 17-19, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, S.C.

CAB™ 2012 is an expansion and replacement of INDA’s highly successful Needle-punch® Conference. The new conference will encompass the full range of nonwoven bonding technologies, including needle-punch, chemical, spray, foam, powder, stitch, thermal, through air and ultrasonic, plus the latest in converting technologies and applications.

“Our Needle-punch conference served the industry well for many years. However, to respond to industry needs, the conference was expanded to include all other bonding technologies and converting,” explains INDA President Rory Holmes. “We expect CAB™ to be valuable information and networking event for a wide range of nonwovens producers, converters and their customers.”

Read entire post INDA Announces New CAB 2012 Conference @ Technical Textile

Foss wins New Hampshire High Technology Council 2011 Product of the Year

2011-11-23T01:11:00.000-08:00

Foss Manufacturing, a leading innovator and pioneer in the specialty fibers, Nonwoven and needle-punch fabrics industry, announced today that the SpectraShield™ 9500 Surgical N95 Respirator Mask won the New Hampshire High Technology Council's 2011 Product of the Year honor.

The mask's antimicrobial effectiveness is powered by Fosshield® featuring Sciessent's Agion® antimicrobial technology - a first-of-its-kind, safe and natural antimicrobial. The SpectraShield™ mask has FDA 510K clearance and NIOSH approval, making it the first and only antibacterial respirator mask of its kind to achieve FDA clearance in the United States.

Unlike antimicrobial agents that are applied via topical chemical coatings or include actual metals, the patented, non-leaching and non-metallic anti-microbial technology in Fosshield® is blended right into the fabric. Fosshield® fiber is the first and only antimicrobial technology to successfully use a balance of silver and copper ions in a fiber.

The key to the respirator mask's effectiveness is the unique combination of silver and copper ions in Fosshield ®. The Fosshield ® ions are given a positive charge to bind to a microbes' ion charged surface. Thus, Fosshield® ions attract any microbe that may be present on the fiber and disable their critical functions (metabolism, respiration, and reproduction).

With this silver and copper ion fiber system, the Nexera Medical, Inc. SpectraShield™ mask has also gained European CE clearance as an FFP2 and FFP3 antiviral respirator offering 14 days of reusability opposed to the three to four hours offered by other masks currently available on the market.

Read entire post Foss wins New Hampshire High Technology Council 2011 Product of the Year @ Technical Textile

Focus of China-Japan Hygiene Entrepreneurs Joint Meeting

2011-11-22T01:36:00.000-08:00

Representing member companies at the China-Japan Hygiene Entrepreneurs Joint Meeting, Pierre Wiertz, General Manager of EDANA, stated that, “As emphasized yesterday at the APEC summit by Chinese President Hu Jintao, the solution to the current global economic challenge lies in determined action from both emerging and developed countries, recommending more rigorous economic policy and continued innovation in developed markets on one hand, and more emphasis on growth of domestic consumption in emerging markets-who have high savings-on the other hand.”

EDANA believes that increased cooperation and trade are required to improve the global economic situation, not protectionism, and it is in this spirit that the Board of EDANA has decided to further raise the international profile of EDANA and to take initiatives to support the growth of nonwovens and related industries globally.

In 2011, EDANA has been present in international industry meetings such as the China-Japan Hygiene Entrepreneurs Joint Meeting in all 4 BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China), and are also expanding our offer of international conferences including Filtrex Asia (in the area of filtration) next month, and others for the next two years in Turkey, Russia and India again.

Read entire post Focus of China-Japan Hygiene Entrepreneurs Joint Meeting @ Technical Textile

ITMF Releases Q3 Report on Global Yarn and Fabric Production

2011-11-21T01:19:00.000-08:00

The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) has released its third quarter trade report on global yarn and fabric production. According to the association, the strong global recovery in yarn and fabric production continued into the third quarter of 2010, after hitting their low point in the first quarter of 2009. Both global yarn and fabric production rose compared to the second quarter of 2010 as well as to last year’s third quarter. Output increases of yarns could be observed in Asia and North America while Europe and South America recorded reductions. Fabric production grew in Asia and South America but shrank in Europe and North America.

Global yarn stocks rose in the third quarter of 2010 as compared to the previous quarter, even though Asia’s yarn inventories fell slightly. Compared to the third quarter of 2009, yarn stocks worldwide increased as a result of much higher stocks in South America and despite lower stocks in Asia and Europe. Global fabric inventories came down in the third quarter as compared to the previous one mainly due to lower stocks in Asia and Europe and despite higher stocks in North and South America.

Yarn orders fell both in Europe and Brazil compared to the second quarter of 2010. When comparing to the third quarter of 2009 Europe’s yarn orders were higher while those in Brazil dropped significantly. Fabric orders in Brazil grew compared to the previous quarter, while Europe’s were slightly lower. In comparison to previous year’s third quarter Brazil and Europe recorded higher yarn orders.

Read entire post ITMF Releases Q3 Report on Global Yarn and Fabric Production @ Technical Textile

UPM has Started Pre-commercial Production of Fibril Cellulose

2011-11-17T02:31:00.000-08:00

UPM has started pre-commercial production of fibril cellulose and is currently developing new fibril cellulose applications with industrial partners.

UPM initiated the fibril cellulose product development process in 2008. Pre-commercial production began this autumn at Otaniemi, Espoo, Finland. UPM is now able to provide different types of fibril cellulose for extensive customer testing. UPM's objective is to create the preconditions needed for industrial-scale production of fibril cellulose.

"Fibril cellulose is part of UPM's renewal and our Biofore strategy. We are currently focusing on commercializing fibril cellulose. The first stage mainly consists of developing products used in paper and packaging materials and the concrete and paint industries. We are also looking for new partners to develop new applications," says Esa Laurinsilta, Director, UPM Fibril Cellulose.

The production process used by UPM for fibril cellulose is the result of long-term development. The fibres in the most finely grained products are fibrils measured at the nano scale. The rougher products consist of micrometer fibres. UPM has protected the results of the development work with comprehensive patents that cover the manufacture of fibril cellulose and the applications.

Fibril cellulose can be used in a wide range of applications. UPM's fibril cellulose provides new properties and design opportunities for traditional materials; it can be used to make products tougher, lighter or thinner, depending on the application.

Read entire post UPM has Started Pre-commercial Production of Fibril Cellulose @ Technical Textile