Latest Technical Textiles News and Articles for Indistries

Zweave Launches Zdesign Desktop for Fashion Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 09:31:00 +0000

Zweave Inc, the leading solutions company for collaborative Product Lifecycle Management based in New York City is launching the latest product in its Solutions suite called “Zdesign Desktop” on April 7th at Material World Miami Beach. With the introduction of Zdesign Desktop, Fashion companies will now have available to them all the benefits of a professionally managed computer desktop. The Zdesign managed desktop solution provides a cost-effective, outsourced alternative for business applications, and Design applications through a seamless browser based interface.

“Zdesign Desktop can manage the a suite of desktop applications and selected applications necessary to keep the workforce of product development focused organizations productive and connected to their most important product information”, according to Laura McCann-Ramsey, CEO. “Small and medium size organizations require desktop support to manage software maintenance and upgrades, networking, server and file share management, data back up and day to day technical and administrative support.”

As a leader in delivering On-demand solutions to the fashion industry Zdesign Desktop is aligned with Zweave’s mission to provide desktop applications and support, how you need them, when you need them for each member of the organization. Zdesign desktop supports traditional office applications but also Photoshop, Illustrator and Indesign applications commonly used by design teams. The result is a first class IT environment for a fraction of the cost of these services managed by hired staff or consultants at your location.

“Small and large organizations when implementing PLM look at their information management practices with more scrutiny. What we often find is that members of the product development team have inconsistent and inefficient access to product data. When working with their external partners, file compliance from one version of a software product to another is a challenge as well as the ability for the business team to see design output in native file formats.

When traveling having access to all files and directories remotely is a capability that few companies can offer with the proper security and access and a huge benefit of our managed desktop” said David Buck, CTO. “Zdesign Desktop supports these organizations in gaining control over their product information. Often this is the first step to a successful PLM project.”

Zdesign Desktop is powered by MRK Hostwindow a leader in remote desktop management and services.

Source: TenLinks Inc

Eastman acquires Tennesee company

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 09:27:00 +0000

Eastman Machine Company, a 120 year-old manufacturing company specializing in cutting equipment, announced that it has acquired privately-held, Nashville, Tennessee-based Saber Industries, LLC.

Saber Industries, LLC., a manufacturer of fabric spreading machines since the 1930’s, will relocate operations to Eastman’s downtown Buffalo, NY location by the end of March. The acquisition further enhances Eastman’s position as an equipment supplier to fabricators that utilize flexible material goods (apparel; upholstered furniture; composite materials; technical textiles) and complements its line of existing cutting room technologies.

“Eastman and Saber Industries each use modern technology to maximize customers spreading and cutting production and share a long history in the industry,” said Robert Stevenson, Eastman’s president and chief executive officer. “We are excited about the acquisition of Saber Industries for a number of reasons, including their market-leading presence, and we look forward to collaboratively growing our business. Introducing additional models and capacities of spreading equipment to the existing line will emphasize Eastman’s role as a complete resource for material handling, spreading and cutting equipment.”

In addition to Eastman’s line of single-ply cutting systems, a summer release is anticipated for a new multi-ply cutting system. The reciprocating, straight-knife cutting system is capable of cutting up to 5 cm (2”) of compressed material. The Saber line of systems will allow Eastman to offer a comprehensive package for front-end preparation of the fabric, capable of handling up to 2,200 pound rolls of material for spreading, plus a range of cutting and software solutions.

Eastman has been manufacturing manually-operated cutting machines, automated CNC cutting systems, CAD/CAM software programs and material handling equipment in Buffalo since 1888.

Source: Eastman Machine Company

Innovations in Fibres, Technical Textiles, Apparel and Machinery - March 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 09:05:00 +0000

In fibres and yarns, Teijin has developed a false-twist yarn with longlasting antistatic properties. Fiber Innovation Technology (FIT) is producing a new flame retardant fibre based on GE Plastics polyetherimide resin which meets strict regulations on flame retardance, smoke and toxicity and has good dyeability.

Kufner has invented a novel stretchable yarn with electrical conductivity for heated car seats, and Nicca has come up with a technique for removing oligomers from polyester fibres. TrapTek has developed a new encapsulation technique which protects against the deactivation of performance enhancing particles during melt spinning.

In fabrics, developments include a method for improving cleaning cloths and protective clothing used in industrial clean rooms, and a new material from Malden Mills (Polartec) which employs plaited polyester for moisture transport and a refractory carbide for insulation.

In the field of technical apparel, Kimberly-Clark has invented an incontinence garment which resembles conventional boxer shorts. Phild is incorporating titanium powder in clothing to enhance the health of the wearer. Cedric Brochier has an improved method of weaving optical fibres into fabrics in order to produce luminous clothing.

Improvements in protective clothing include: a siloxane rubber coating from Konversipol which gives dramatic improvements in flame resistance; new, lighter weight garments for the US Army which give protection against armour-piercing bullets; and new military suitings for chemical warfare from Blücher which offer improved flexibility and hence mobility. Greater flexibility has also been achieved in the case of a glass fibre yarn for industrial gloves while a UK company has developed clothing which protects against attack by stun guns.

In the case of other textile products, an Italian firm has developed a chemical-free glove for household dusting while Albarrie has come up with a novel textile barrier for containing oil and petroleum spills. BMW, meanwhile, has patented a fabric which offers an alternative to metal vehicle body panels and which has wide-ranging possibilities.

In the coloration and finishing field, Padaluma has overcome the difficulty of dyeing glass fibres for nonwovens while Polymer Group Inc (PGI) has developed a nonwoven fabric with improved softness for use in diapers and feminine hygiene products, and Hills has a method of spinning polymer fibre mixtures for use in the manufacture of nonwoven filters.

Source: Research and Markets

Making the Transition from Traditional to Technical Textile Markets

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 09:00:00 +0000

Technical textiles provide scope for firms in industrialised countries to achieve sustainable growth and escape from the tough competitive environment faced by manufacturers of traditional textiles. Technical textile products are used principally for their performance or functional characteristics rather than for their aesthetics. Consequently, markets for these products tend to be less price sensitive, and greater importance is attached to technical skills, and specialised knowledge, materials, processes and equipment.

End uses served by technical textiles are numerous and diverse. Messe Frankfurt, which organises the trade fair Techtextil, has grouped those end uses into 12 broad categories: agriculture and horticulture; architecture, building and construction; clothing technology; geotextiles; functional textiles for the home; industrial textiles; medical and hygiene; transportation; environmental; packaging; safety and protection; and sports and leisure. Also, a new category is emerging in the form of smart and intelligent textiles.

However, companies looking to enter the technical textile sector must understand the key differences between technical textiles and the traditional industry in which they are used to operating. Customers look for products with highly specific performance attributes and functions, and they are often willing to pay a premium for these features.

In return, manufacturers need to use approved testing methods to convince customers and others in project teams that their products meet the required specifications. Technical textile products belong to niche rather than mass markets and those niche markets are often characterised by small runs. Manufacturers therefore need to be flexible and able to switch production from one product to another product which might be quite different.

Machinery too may have to be adapted for more flexible and smaller production runs. Would-be technical textile manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the quality and technical standards which the application demands. In some cases products must satisfy certain legal requirements. Innovation is often vital so firms must be willing to invest in research and development (R&D) as well as equipmentwhich means that they need to be able to raise the capital required.

And to defend their investments in R&D, they need to understand the laws about intellectual property rights (IPR). Overall, cooperation is needed at all stages of the supply chain so that products meet the exact needs of customers, especially if they are to command a price premium.

Source: Research and Markets

NuMetrex and lululemon athletica Premier New Heartbeat Running Tank Top

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 08:53:00 +0000

NuMetrex, a Textronics, Inc. brand, and lululemon athletica have teamed up to create a technically advanced running tank top that monitors heart rate.

Made of quick drying nylon/Lycra fabric, the Heartbeat Tank contains patented fabric sensors in the inner shelf bra giving the wearer direct feedback that includes the time spent exercising, calories burned, and heart rate performance. A small pocket for a compatible snap-in transmitter is also in the shelf bra relaying the information to a compatible watch or cardio machine.

“This seamless garment is constructed for the athlete who is looking to monitor their heart rate without the traditional strap,” says Deanne Schweitzer, lululemon athletica Product Manager, “The tank top offers moderate bust support, wicking knit construction for moisture management and a smooth next-to-skin-fit that helps to prevent chafing making a more comfortable exercise experience.”

A high performance garment, the Heartbeat Tank maintains a feminine shape thanks to a mesh pattern designed from the lululemon athletica logo. Available in 3 colors (peacock blue, anise and black), the tank retails for $74.00 USD in lululemon athletica stores. Watches are also available for purchase.

Source: Textronics Inc

National Safety Apparel Announced The Launch Of FR Performance Wear

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:32:00 +0000

National Safety Apparel, a leading manufacturer and innovator of safety apparel and accessories, announced the launch of state-of-the-art technology called “FR Performance Wear”. National Safety Apparel has included this cutting edge fabric in T-shirts, in the liner of its Arc Flash Hoods and balaclavas as well as other innovative items.

The Introduction to FR Performance Wear brings many advantages and is the next generation of protective clothing. The technology behind FR Performance Wear is the anti-microbial fabric that consists of extraordinary properties that help improve the protection and hygiene of safety apparel. The anti-microbial fabric prevents the buildup of odor-causing bacteria.

With the moisture wicking technology, any perspiration that is released from the skin is immediately transported to the outside of the fabric, allowing you to stay fresh, energized and odor-free in more situations over a greater range of activities. Finally, FR Performance Wear is fire resistant and provides an added layer of protection for the wearer.

FR Performance Wear is NSA’s response to the ever changing safety apparel industry as well as worker’s continued desire to have increased comfort on the job. “National Safety Apparel is dedicated to innovation and is always looking to create new custom solutions for the safety industry”, said Duane Siders, VP of Marketing & Sales.

National Safety Apparel (NSA) is a leader in the design and manufacture of superior-quality protective clothing and safety apparel for high-heat environments, glass-cutting applications and electric arc exposure. NSA is registered to ISO 9001:2000, with design, guaranteeing that the company’s various electrical, heat protection, and cut-resistant clothing lines are fabricated to exact standards and production methods.

Source: National Safety Apparel

Techtextil North America Increases Frequency of Technical Textiles and Nonwovens Trade Show

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:26:00 +0000

Techtextil North America (TTNA), North America’s premier trade show for technical textiles and nonwovens, announced today that it is increasing the frequency of its trade show. The event, previously held only on even years in Atlanta, Ga., will now be held each year, alternating locations between Atlanta and a Western region site.

This year’s event will be held April 1-3 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta. The 2009 Techtextil North America is scheduled to take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, April 21-23, 2009.
“The Western region features a significant concentration of manufacturers and customers in important growth markets,” said David Audrain, president of Messe Frankfurt, USA. “By offering Techtextil North America annually in two U.S. regions, this event will be accessible and beneficial to significantly more buyers, and make it even more valuable for our exhibiting companies.”

The Western Region
Responding to the growing demand for technical textiles and nonwovens across the U.S., Messe Frankfurt, the show’s organizer, conducted an in-depth analysis of the attendee opportunity across the Western region. The research, focused on general technical textiles, agricultural, transportation, industrial and medical sectors, identified nearly 90,000 companies in the Western region as potential participants.

The Western U.S. has proven itself to be a strong consumer of high-performance fibers and textiles with new innovations and technologies emerging over the past several years. Offering the largest concentrations of potential attendees in focus sectors, forty-one percent (41%) were found to be in California, twenty-one percent (21%) in Texas, eight percent (8%) in Washington and seven percent (7%) in Colorado. The Las Vegas location for Techtextil North America 2009 was strategically chosen as most accessible to each of these key Western states.

Opportunity Analysis
The analysis found good opportunities for the expansion based on the companies identifying themselves in the focus sectors of agriculture, transportation, industrial and medical, and based in the Western region. Aside from the general textiles classifications which accounted for seventy percent (70%) of the opportunity pool, agriculture and transportation have been identified as increasingly promising. The agriculture sector represented eighteen percent (18%) of the total companies, while the transportation sector (including aerospace) accounted for seven percent (7%). The industrial sector opportunities represented three percent (3%), while the medical sector accounted for two percent (2%).

Agriculture Sector
As detailed in a report by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Textile Management, the agricultural sector accounted for eight percent (8%) of total consumption of technical textiles in 2000 in volume terms, but only six percent (6%) in dollar value. Consumption is projected to nearly double in this decade (2000-2010) from almost 1.4 million tons to just under 2.0 million tons.

Agrotextiles are viewed as being one of the fastest growing and most important markets in the future. The growth in agrotextiles relates to an increase in population worldwide, including the demand for more and better quality foods in soil that is often compromised. As a result, varieties of agrotextile products have been developed for specific purposes such as energy efficiency, type of crop, land, forest or animal needs and geographic location.

Transportation Sector
According to research by David Rigby Associates, the transportation sector of the technical textile category represented the single-most valuable world market for technical textiles at $25.6 billion in 2000. It is one of the largest users of "engineered" nonwovens. Although only modest volume growth and even slower value growth are forecast in the longer term, Mobiltech will remain the most valuable application area and is predicted to reach $29.3 billion by 2010.

In a Fall 2004 International Nonwovens Journal article, William C. Smith noted that the average car uses over 33 square meters of textile fabric of all types for interiors alone – nonwovens represent just over ten percent (10%) of that with about 3.64 square meters per vehicle. Add the "working" fabrics under the hood – filtration, sound absorption and the like – and the usage is much greater.

“We are continually looking for ways to enhance the experience and engage new participants in Techtextil North America,” said Stephanie Everett, the show’s manager. “TTNA 2009 promises to deliver a new mix of global decision makers and suppliers, more innovation and increased opportunities for all participants, and demonstrates Messe Frankfurt’s continuing commitment to the growing technical textiles industry.”

Source: Messe Frankfurt Inc

VistaPrint Sprawl Its Range From T-Shirts With More Colors And Styles

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:03:00 +0000

VistaPrint Limited, the world leader in the graphic design and print customized products of high quality for small businesses and individuals, announced the launch of new colors and new styles for its range of T-shirts printed. VistaPrint now offers T-shirts with short sleeves black, gray and white, as well as T-shirts with long sleeves black and white which can be customized with photos, logos, messages, text, and images. These T-shirts in color are of high quality but cheap are available in five sizes.

"Our range of promotional products, including T-shirts, caps and pens, are very popular, allowing us to diversify the scope of options. Our clients have asked us more choice of colours and styles, and we met, "said Tiffany Price, product marketing manager at VistaPrint." Black T-shirts, for example, can really make out the message or images of our customers. The T-shirts with long sleeves are also ideal throughout the year, particularly during the months of winter. "

Companies seeking an affordable and easy opportunity for their marketing can download their logos and slogans to increase their visibility and promote a special event. The T-shirts are black and white the perfect wedding gift for her and his custom of a downloaded picture of the couple and a message tailor. The possibilities are almost infinite. You can customize your T-shirts for the annual barbecue of the family, the carnival of the school, a charity or a sports match committee of the company.

Thanks to the advanced technology of VistaPrint, personalised items can be printed double-sided color. The images are sharp and well defined and important messages and slogans emerge on the background color. Customers can choose from more than 300 models in color professionally designed and set up their T-shirt. All T-shirts are 100% cotton prélavé high quality and available in different sizes, including S, M, L, XL, and XXL. As with most products VistaPrint, T-shirts can be designed, ordered and received a minimum of 3 days and it is possible to 'order that one.

In addition to T-shirts, VistaPrint offers a number of other products of high quality, among other things, business cards, brochures, pens, personalized postcards, magnets, stamp pad and much more. All these products are custom printed in color on high-quality archival paper and available at very cheap. All products are custom printed with text, within as to the outside or double-sided, and customers can download their photos or images and incorporate them into the layout of their products.

Source: VistaPrint Limited

IFAI to host advanced textiles symposium in Berlin

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 07:40:00 +0000

The Industrial Fabrics Association International has announced its first international symposium in Germany: IFAI Advanced Textiles 2008, June 12-13, 2008, in Berlin.

The goal of the symposium is to unveil market-ready innovations which open up new business horizons for U.S. and European companies, increasing and facilitating U.S.-European business cooperation for IFAI's international member companies.

The 1.5-day symposium will present outstanding material developments and applications in the major areas of technical textiles. The conference will focus on the latest breakthrough solutions which also fill the practical, user-oriented daily requirements of the industry today. Topics to be covered include the major fabric application areas: from functional garments for lifestyle, active sports or professional use, health care and medical applications, architectural use and construction and the application of advanced materials in the automotive and geotextiles sectors.

"Our mission is to provide IFAI members and their business partners with the resources they need to stay ahead of competition, and we are going to supply them with the appropriate tools for today and tomorrow's borderless networking," IFAI president Stephen M. Warner says. "The advanced textiles conference in Berlin is a key part of this objective."

The international operating consultancy and communication agency IHofmann, based in Wiesbaden, Germany, is planning and organizing the conference. IHofmann operates in the niche market of technical textiles and applications and has a broad and multi-disciplinary experience in this field.

"Technical textiles in their various application areas are by far the fastest-growing sector in the textile industry, and Germany and the U.S. are the world market leaders in advanced textiles," Isa Hoffmann, CEO of IHofmann, says. "New user markets are emerging in Europe, the U.S. and Asia, and there is a wave of innovation in new materials, technologies and development of smart solutions.

"Interdisciplinary knowledge transfer has accelerated the pace of innovation and overcome existing barriers. IFAI's ambitious inaugural conference will illuminate the fascinating world of textile materials and their multiple uses in everyday life and industrial applications."

Source: Industrial Fabrics Association International

Celanese Opens New Technology Center in Houston, Texas

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 07:35:00 +0000

Celanese announced the opening of its Houston Technology Center (HTC) for the emulsion polymers and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) businesses. The 31,200-square-foot facility, which will house both the R&D and technical services groups, includes both analytical and application testing laboratories for a wide range of industrial and consumer end-use products. The HTC is the newest addition to the businesses’ technology network, with additional locations in Frankfurt, Germany, and Shanghai, China. The HTC is also a result of the revitalization of the businesses’ technology group which was announced last year.

Commitment to Innovation in North America:
Alongside various business leaders, Doug Madden, executive vice president of Celanese, explained during his opening ceremony address that technological advancements are vital components in the success of the company. “Our investment in the Houston Technology Center underscores the impact that technology and innovation have on our business, and emphasizes our continued commitment to our North American customers and the global markets they serve. Celanese invested in this state-of-the-art facility, and in the professionals who work here, to fulfill our goal of supplying high-performance products and innovative solutions to North America,” Madden said.

Rising to the Challenge:
A tour of the new facility featured demonstrations of many pieces of analytical and application testing equipment. But, it was clear that the stars of the day were the chemists and technical staff. Dr. Barry Snyder, global technology director for Emulsions & PVOH, said, “Celanese has invested in more than just a new facility and lab equipment. We have invested in people with strong industry knowledge and technical expertise in the fields of paints and coatings, construction, papers, packaging films personal care, adhesives and nonwovens, to name a few, who can analyze the data and translate it into customer solutions.” The qualified staff includes a staff of chemists and chemical engineers with in-depth industry experience along many points in the value chain.

“Innovation is the key to not only meeting, but exceeding, customers’ needs and marketplace challenges,” Snyder said. Celanese has a long history of innovation and strong customer partnerships, including pioneering low-VOC architectural coatings more than a decade ago with a European paint manufacturer. The HTC will be instrumental in the continuing development of VAE and vinyl resins for the environmentally-friendly, low odor paint segment in North America. “Celanese Emulsions and PVOH has become the recognized industry leader by providing innovative solutions and delivering distinct competitive advantages to our customers’ products,” Snyder said.

The Houston Technology Center will also be the venue for joint Celanese and customer innovation sessions for new products. “We look forward to inviting customers to the HTC to discuss exciting new opportunities and projects for 2008 and beyond,” Snyder said.

Source: Celanese Corporation

Techtextil North America 2008 – Focusing on Innovation!

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 16:09:00 +0000

The fifth edition of Techtextil North America will be held April 1 – 3, 2008, at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, GA.

As the most comprehensive North American trade show and symposium for technical textiles and nonwovens, the world’s leading companies in the industry will meet for education, networking and business development.

The 2006 event had record numbers in both attendance and exhibitor participation.
Following this success, Techtextil North America will return in 2008 highlighting the higher performance areas of technical textiles and continue to grow and attract an eclectic collection of researchers, manufacturers and product specifiers.

It is the only trade show that assembles all vertical aspects of the technical textile industry. From research and development, through raw materials and production processes and finally ending in conversion, further treatment and recycling.

Held in conjunction with the show, the Techtextil-Symposium North America will offer several lectures, covering most application areas, focusing on the latest in research and emerging technology.

Source: Messe Frankfurt Inc.

INNOtex Stuttgart exhibition from 26th Feb

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:56:00 +0000

Out of the Denkendorfer Colloquium “Coating and Surface functioning of Technical Textiles”, the exhibition panel INNOtex emerged, which for the first time will take place on the 26th and 27th of February, 2008, at the New Exhibition Grounds at Stuttgart, Germany.

The topics of this fair are coated textiles and the surface functioning of technical textiles for the automotive and vehicle industry, for the textile building, functional clothing, and medical textiles.

These are areas in which flocking again and again finds new applications. Together with two other associations, the flock association had the convenient opportunity to organise a collective booth. There, we will show the manifold applications of flocking in all proper areas.

The association of the flock industry Europe was founded at Büdingen, Germany, in the year of 1981. Flock manufacturers of flocking machinery, flock tow, i.e. the raw, material to produce fibres, flock adhesives, flock fibres, substrate material.

The flock industry consists of a wide-spread trade structure. Members are not only large companies resp. their flock divisions but also handicraft enterprises and small scale companies.

Source: Fibre2fashion.com

Business meeting on technical textile

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:45:00 +0000

12th International Business Meetings on Technical Textiles will be held on 23rd & 24th April, 2008 at Troyes, france.

The Business Convention Citext Europe has been gathering together for 12 years more than 300 international companies, producers and contractors for technical textiles.

Citext became a important international meeting for the Technical Textiles Industry and nearly 2000 companies already benefitted from the many opportunities offered by 2days of intensive meetings.

The organisation of private meetings between participants is the principal objective of the convention. The rigorous operations permits each participant to have a planning of meetings, targeted and personalised, perfectly adapted to their activity.

Citext is made for international companies involved in technical industries.

Citext gathers over 2 days the best suppliers and major contractors looking for news products.

The quality of Citext meetings relies on the accurate selection of participants which depends as much on their power as a decision maker as their potential for business.

There at differnt types of Skills and Activities included: Aerospace/Weaponry, Automotive, Clothing/Apparel, Construction, Food Industry, Medical, New applications, New materials, Protection/Security, Sport/Hobbies, Transport etc...

Citext allows to meet a maximum number of companies over 2 days. These meeting were very enriching and constructive resulting in concrete follow-up. » - Céline Colombet, Head of Technical Fabric, BEL MAILLE

« Though our technical needs were very specific, we found via professional contacts made at Citext the answers to our questions and solutions living up to our criteria. Today we are pleased to collaborate with professionals motivated by our product development projects. » - Céline Gadzinski – Head of Products – CARLY S.A.S.

« Citext 2005 enabled us to meet several new suppliers with whom we are in the phase of finalizing products. Two convention days compared to months of prospecting! What a savings in time ! » - Stéphanie Gierens, in Charge of Quality and Innovation, ASP

« Excellent organization and meeting scheduling. » - Sylvain Nicolet, Sales Manager, Ideal Felt

« Very interesting, rich in contacts with good business prospects. » - Grégory Marchant, Technical Engineer, IMATTES INTERNATIONAL / UTT

« Citext has become a sure bet for us. » - Herbert De Breuck, R&D Technico-Commercial Manager, LUXILON INDUSTRIES NV

« A large spectrum of technologies and suppliers; well organised, thus an effective concept. Certain conferences are not to be missed. » - Pierre Roman – Head of International Purchasing Service - BMW FRANC

Source: CITEXT/ADHESION GROUP

SEL plans Rs 650-cr technical textile facility

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:42:00 +0000

Ludhiana-based SEL Manufacturing Company Ltd has decided to foray into technical textiles including products like hygienic surgical gowns, gloves, masks, geo-textiles, upholstery, artificial leather, carpets, insulation material, wipes, baby diapers and bandages among others.

The facility will come up at a capital outlay of Rs 650 crore, proposed to be injected through term loans, internal accruals and equity. SBI Capital Markets has been mandated to do a financial appraisal of the project.

The new facility will come up in Ludhiana and commence operations by December.

SEL Managing Director Neeraj Saluja said the company had been successful in increasing its top line as well as bottom line due to value additions made in the products in the past one year.

The textile company declared an interim dividend of 10 per cent for 2007-08 and reported a 107 per cent rise in profit after tax at Rs 30.08 crore for nine months ended December 2007, compared with Rs 14.52 crore in the same period last year.

The company’s turnover for the period grew 71 per cent at Rs 231.31 crore from Rs 134.79 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal.

Saluja said the export business from Europe, West Asia and Russia provided them cushion against the current rupee appreciation.

The growth had been possible with a mix of expansions and strategic acquisitions, Saluja said.

The company has acquired two readymade garment units and a process house during this fiscal, besides implementing expansions in all the three segments -- readymade garments, knitting and dyeing and spinning. At present, the company is implementing an expansion plan for setting up terry towel capacities, and a captive power plant and enhancing its existing spinning, knitting & dyeing facilities, with a capital outlay of Rs 410 crore.

Saluja said, “With several funds showing interest in the company, the board has decided to issue preferential convertible warrants to certain institutional investors to raise funds for acquisitions and further expansions. With the acquisitions and expansions coming up, we are aiming a top line of Rs 2,000 crore by the year 2010.”

Source: Business Standard Ltd.

Hirsch International Signs Agreement with Kornit Digital to Distribute ''Direct-on-Garment'' Printers

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 07:18:00 +0000

Hirsch International Corp. ,the leading provider of apparel decorating equipment including Tajima embroidery machines, MHM screen printing machines, Seit laser bridge machines, and Pulse digitizing software, has entered into an agreement with Kornit Digital Ltd., Magshimin, Israel, to distribute its line of digital “direct-on-garment” printers.

Under the terms of the agreement, Hirsch will serve as Kornit’s exclusive service and support representative for Kornit’s line of machines, ink, and certain other products in Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Arizona, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Montana, Idaho, New Mexico, Mississippi, and Louisiana. In addition, Hirsch will have the non-exclusive right to market and sell machines in the remaining thirty-seven states. The initial agreement is for a one-year contract, which automatically renews unless either party terminates the agreement.

Kornit is a dynamic, leading-edge company that develops, manufactures, and markets state-of-the-art solutions for the garment and apparel printing industry, including its line of high-speed digital inkjet printing machines, known to be the first digital industrial machines that print direct-on-garment. Hirsch will distribute several of Kornit’s products, including the 931DS, 932NDS, and 933 printers, which are all high production, industrial digital machines capable of printing on both light and dark garments. In addition, Hirsch will distribute Kornit inks and accessories for Kornit printers.

“Kornit’s digital printers present a perfect complement to our existing lines of equipment,” says Paul Gallagher, President and CEO of Hirsch International. “With this agreement now in place, over the next several months we will be laying the foundation to prepare for delivering the printers to market.”

“We expect that our newly expanded portfolio will enable us to further penetrate the decorated apparel market both by adding new customers and through potential cross-marketing opportunities with our existing customers. Kornit provides the perfect product to help transition the decorated apparel marketplace from analog to digital printing processes to take advantage today’s trends in personalization and mass customization. We remain committed to pursuing opportunities and forging relationships, such as this one, that augment Hirsch’s role in the market, reputation for highest quality products with superior sales and support teams, improve our sales, and ultimately serve to build shareholder value.”

Hirsch International serves the apparel decorating industry with twenty-five locations throughout the United States staffed with the most experienced experts in the industry. For more information, visit http://www.hirschinternational.com/; call 800-394-4426; or e-mail: customercare@hirschinternational.com.

Source: Hirsch International

Textronics Brings Innovative Heart Rate Monitor Clothing to Health & Fitness Clubs

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 07:15:00 +0000

Textronics Inc, a leader in the development of wearable sensors for fitness and health monitoring, is reaching out to the health club industry with its innovative NuMetrex brand of heart rate monitoring athletic apparel.

NuMetrex will show its Heart Sensing Sports Bra, Racer Tank, and Cardio Shirt for Men at the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) annual convention and trade show, March 5-8, at the San Diego Convention Center.

Local triathletes will demonstrate the heart rate monitoring capabilities of NuMetrex garments, which feature special sensing fibers that are knit directly into the fabric. The textile sensors pick up the heart rate and transmit it to a wrist watch or exercise machine, via a tiny transmitter that snaps into a pocket in the garment.

“NuMetrex provides the most comfortable way for people to monitor heart rate for weight loss, general fitness or athletic training,” said Textronics Marketing Director Meg Burich. “We look forward to offering our products to health club members, who are always looking for the latest fitness gear and training tools to maximize their workout.”

For more information about the NuMetrex Health & Fitness Club program, which features turn-key displays and discounts for members of participating clubs, visit www.numetrex.com or contact Anette Barba at 302-351-2160.

Source: Textronics Inc

Textronics receives FDA clearance on textile electrode

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:37:00 +0000

Textronics Inc has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance to market its textile-based ECG Electrode for use in general electrocardiograph monitoring and recording procedures. The company’s heart-sensing fabric offers a comfortable alternative to adhesive electrodes and metal wristbands that are commonly used with most ECG instruments on the market.

“Our textile electrodes can be worn comfortably against the skin, as part of a seamless garment, fabric chest strap or elastic wrist band,” explains Textronics CEO Stacey Burr. “We’re offering the medical community a more comfortable and less cumbersome solution that can improve patient compliance by eliminating skin irritation and other discomforts that are commonly experienced during ECG monitoring, especially in extended wear applications.”

Textronics uses its patented technology to knit conductive sensing fibers directly into stretchy fabrics that can monitor physiological conditions comfortably and accurately. The company’s textile electrode garments, straps and wristbands are also machine washable and reusable. They can be used for a wide range of ECG monitoring and recording applications, including cardiac event recorders, stress testing, Holter monitoring, trans-telephonic pacemaker monitors, and respiration sensing devices.

“We have already reached into fitness and sports markets, where heart rate monitoring is widely used to enhance performance and to ensure safety,” says Burr. “We can now bring our ECG electrode technology to the health care market, where advances in technology are enabling people to monitor their biofeedback from the comfort of their own homes.”

Textronics Inc is a leader in the development of wearable sensors for fitness and health monitoring. The Company’s patented textile sensor systems are capable of capturing comprehensive physiologic data from the body and are designed to be seamlessly integrated into everyday garments. Wearable monitoring allows a comfortable and user-friendly way to obtain body data measurements to assist consumers in managing their top wellness concerns of weight loss, physical health and energy level.

Source: Fibre2fashion.com

Avago's six channel optical encoder for use in textile machines

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:36:00 +0000

Avago Technologies, a leading supplier of analog interface components for communications, industrial and consumer applications announced a new series of extended operating temperature optical encoders for use in a wide range of applications that require lower resolutions. Avago’s AEDS-9240 optical encoder series is ideal for use in applications that utilize brushless DC motors such as industrial printers, textile machines, industrial and factory automation equipment, as well as plotters and tape drives.

With the growing demand for improved drive electronics and motor control to help reduce manufacturing costs, improve efficiencies and device reliability, this trend is driving the wide scale use of brushless DC motors in servo motor applications. The AEDS-9240 optical encoder series, addresses this need by providing designers with an incremental encoder module that provides advanced motion control detection with integrated commutation outputs that are equivalent to those produced by Hall Switches.

Avago’s AEDS-9240 six channel incremental encoder module has also been designed with two-channel quadrature outputs, and a third channel ungated index output. It detects rotary position using a codewheel that has an optical radius of 19.00 mm (0.748 inch) to obtain 360 or 720 cycles per revolution (CPR). The ungated index output is a positive index pulse that is generated once for each full rotation of the codewheel.

Each module consists of a lensed LED source and a detector IC enclosed in a small plastic package. In addition, the encoder module incorporates a highly collimated light source and a unique photo detector array to make the AEDS-9240 extremely tolerant to mounting misalignment.

Features:
•Two-channel quadrature output with ungated index pulse (A,B,I)
•Three-channel integrated commutation output (U,V,W)
•Easy assembly with alignment jig
•Designed to fit into a circular shaped housing
•Up to 150 kHz frequency response
•Operating temperature: -40 to 100-degrees C
•TTL compatible
•Single 5V supply
•Integrated feedback device for Brushless DC Motors
•RoHS compliant

The AEDS-9240 series of incremental optical encoders are priced competitively at $14.50 each in quantities of 10,000 and are available through Avago Technologies’ direct sales channel and worldwide distribution partners.

Avago Technologies is the industry-leading supplier of motion control encoders. These products meet the stringent requirements of precise positioning and velocity sensing in a wide range of applications from printers, copiers and scanners to servo and stepper motors, and robotic arms and wafer-handling machines. Avago offers "one-stop shopping" with its extensive portfolio of optical encoders, decoders and controllers.

Source: Fibre2fashion

Suominen Nonwovens’ innovations at Index08

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:32:00 +0000

Suominen is known to provide products and solutions that bring greater convenience to people's everyday lives; now Suominen can offer also more sustainable products. In addition to Biolace nonwoven, Suominen Sustainable Family’s launch range includes Amerfeel film and environmentally friendly wet wipe lotion. Biolace continues its’ triumph: Suominen Nonwovens’ innovation, Biolace, offers a solution for customers wanting a nonwoven produced solely from natural renewable fibres.

Produced from varying combinations of natural raw materials, Biolace products have an Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class I certificate. Biolace products are also free of animal derived materials or any harmful substances. Intended to complement Suominen’s other nonwoven products, hydroentangled Biolace is ideal for numerous wipe applications, ranging from baby and personal care to cleaning.

“Since Biolace was launched in April 2007, we have believed that we are on the right path with these products, and the message from the markets indeed confirms our thoughts” says Henri Laitervo, Director of New Business Development and Marketing at Suominen.Natural Wet Wipes: Suominen Codi Wipes is an innovative supplier of wiping products. Suominen’s continuous new product development process results in a wide range of wet wipe concepts for various applications, such as natural baby wipes.

Natural baby wipes are made from sustainable nonwoven, formulations meeting standards of organisations such as BDIH and ECOCERT, and the requirements for Swan label certification. Suominen Codi Wipes also offers complementary packaging options.

Innovative solutions for packaging of hygiene products:
Suominen Flexibles has developed a distinctive Amerfeel film with a pleasant touch and a range of stylish matte films that make perfect compliment to hygiene products and also to Suominen’s organic concept.

The innovative Amerfeel plastic film has unusual laminated matt surface, which gives natural outlook for customer’s product and stands out as a new packaging solution on the shelf.

With different film combinations and printing up to 10 colours, it is possible to pay more attention to the requirements that hygiene products are demanding from its packaging.

Suominen serves customers in three core segments – nonwovens, wet wipes, and flexible packaging. Our production is based at plants in Finland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. The Group’s net sales in 2007 were EUR 215 million and it employs approximately 1070 people.

The names of key personnel who will be available at INDEX 2008:
• Mr. Kalle Tanhuanpää, CEO of Suominen Corporation
• Mr. Sakari Santa-Paavola, vice president and general manager of Suominen Nonwovens
• Mr. Henri Laitervo, director of new business development and marketing at Suominen Wipes and Nonwovens
• Dr. Margareta Huldén, director of product and process development at Suominen Nonwovens
• Mr. Olaf van Stempvoort, sales director at Suominen Codi Wipes
• Mr. Petri Rolig, vice president and general manager of Suominen Flexibles.

Source: Fibre2fashion.com

Morson signs 15-year lease at Lincoln Plaza in Boston

noreply@blogger.com (Andy) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 06:06:00 +0000

International luxury home furnishings retailer The Morson Collection announced the signing of a 15-year lease at Lincoln Plaza in Boston.

Scheduled to open in May, the new showroom will house the company's collection of upscale furniture and accessories from Europe, as well as designer workshops, meetings and special events.

The Morson Collection is not new to Boston, having opened its first showroom in the Park Square Building in 1996. Since the lease expired 18 months ago, the company has successfully maintained its established base of local and international clientele through its Web site and by providing design services.

During this time, The Morson Collection also explored dozens of locations for a new showroom. Caroline Morson, president and co-founder, says she finally found the ideal place near Boston's South Station.

She said, "With the same selectivity and care we take in choosing our finely crafted products, we apply to other areas of our business.

We are very discriminating about where we want our collection to be. Lincoln Plaza's aesthetic appeal, modernity and quality are a true reflection of our merchandise.

Most importantly, it is located in a dynamic, vital neighborhood that is very accessible to our public and trade clients. We look forward to serving them from our new showroom and being part of the local community for many years to come."

The Morson Collection features an extensive array of custom-made contemporary furniture from Italy and Spain, including manufacturing giants Minotti, Molteni & C and Tresserra, to name a few.

It also offers the largest collection of Bauhaus classics designed by master craftsmen and manufactured to original standards.

The Boston showroom comprises 4,100 sq. ft. and features floor to ceiling windows, columns and other modern and classic architectural details reflective of the company's understated elegance.

Doors leading from the interior to an outdoor courtyard with tables, chairs and a fountain will give the store a European flavor.

In addition to fine furniture, the showroom will include items for every room including area rugs, lighting and accessories. The space will also be used for hosting events, receptions and workshops with visiting designers from Europe.

According to building owner Linear Retail Properties, the newly renovated Lincoln Plaza is situated in one of Boston's most exciting locations to emerge from the "Big Dig" construction project.

Fronting the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the building is near South Station, Boston's Financial and Leather districts and the waterfront.

Linear CEO William Beckeman said, "The Morson Collection complements the mix of upscale tenants at Lincoln Plaza perfectly, bringing elegance and sophistication to the building. We are proud to have them as our anchor tenant."

Founded in 1996 by Gregory and Caroline Morson, The Morson Collection is headquartered in Boston, Mass. In addition to showcasing merchandise at Lincoln Plaza, the company offers design and technical services and operates a Web site. Clients include interior designers, architects, business owners and consumers worldwide.

Source: Fibre2fashion.com