The presentations will be presented in alphabetical order.
Why ITMA is the greatest show on earth
Analysis by Cornelia Buchwalder, Secretary General of the Swiss Textile Machinery Association
Zurich, Switzerland, 17 March 2023 – In the world of textile manufacturing, ITMA is really the ‘greatest show on earth.’ It’s where the progress of textile and clothing technology is measured and benchmarked against previous years, and vital contacts are made between customers and suppliers worldwide. Swiss companies are renowned for their innovative spirit and commitment to the four-yearly exhibition series. Looking ahead to ITMA 2023 in Milan (June 8-14), this interview with Cornelia Buchwalder, Secretary General of the Swiss Textile Machinery Association explores the real importance of ITMA as a driver of global textile progress.
TextileFuture: How important is ITMA 2023 for Swiss Textile Machinery member companies?
Cornelia Buchwalder: Not only for us, but for the visitors from the textile manufacturers, ITMA is vitally important, and a major element in the overall development of the industry worldwide.
The 2023 ITMA is fully booked – clear evidence of its continued appeal as the essential marked place for textile machinery. And its importance is underlined by the participation of more than 50 Swiss exhibitors, most of which are members of the Textile Machinery Association. We will be there in Milan, because we know it’s the perfect opportunity to show the world what we offer.
Our Association is a major player in textiles. Established in 1940, it now includes 44 member firms, covering the entire textile value chain. Together, these companies have a total of more than 4,000 years of experience, and an unrivalled international reputation for innovation and quality.
TextileFuture: Is ITMA really still a focus for the timing of major innovations in technology?
Cornelia Buchwalder: That is certainly the way the ITMA shows have been viewed in the past. Today it’s not the only forum for innovation, which is now more of an ongoing process of collaborative effort between machinery companies and their customers. But ITMA remains a four-yearly milestone in technology, where industry visitors rightly expect to see the best and latest ideas from their suppliers. It’s increasingly interesting to evaluate how innovations fit into the wider textile value chain, rather than in a company’s own specialized branch of the sector.
TextileFuture: Obviously, Swiss Textile Machinery companies will want to use this big event to grow their business and expand sales. Are there other motivations for exhibiting at ITMA 2023?
Cornelia Buchwalder: Yes, that’s a primary goal for sure. But we don’t underestimate the superb networking opportunities it will bring, fostering shared knowledge and experience with both new and existing partners. Significantly, 2023 will be one of the first really major shows for textiles since the coronavirus pandemic put a stop to personal business interactions. It will be great to enjoy face-to-face meetings again this time. We have a lot to talk about!
For our member firms, it’s also a chance to focus on how our products, components and services stack up against competitors’ offerings, and gauge the reaction from visitors to our booths. It’s good to be able to review and compare our own performance in the spotlight of a massive event like ITMA.
TextileFuture: What actual innovations and novelties can we expect in Milan?
Cornelia Buchwalder: We will certainly be ready with a strong display of new Swiss developments, as each company presents its latest innovations. For the specifics, individual members companies will be delighted to provide more detailed information – and maybe even some surprises at the show itself.
TextileFuture: What would the Swiss Textile Machinery Association aim to achieve at ITMA?
Cornelia Buchwalder: One of our key goals would be to assure visitors that Switzerland is seen in the vanguard of progress in both sophisticated digital solutions and sustainable solutions. Sustainability has a double meaning for us: the ability to offer continuing benefits and enduring performance for our customers, while embracing every aspect of sustainable production to the highest standards of environmental responsibility.
We achieve these standards through significant investments in R&D – a major slice of revenue for most of our members – and by close cooperation with experts in the leading products, components and services. ‘Innovation is in our DNA’ is more than a slogan: we have the history of achievements to prove it.
TextileFuture: What is it that makes Swiss machinery so special?
Cornelia Buchwalder: Of course, there are respected textile machinery suppliers in other countries too! Switzerland though has the reputation, earned over many decades, of the highest levels of excellence and precision in all aspects of manufacturing and engineering. Textile machines, components and services rightly share that status. Our in-house production systems are cutting-edge and sustainable. Customers say it for us: with Swiss companies, quality is guaranteed.
TextileFuture: Why should textile industry visitors go to ITMA 2023?
Cornelia Buchwalder: Couldn’t they just stay at home and get the info they need online? Well, maybe, but there is nothing quite like seeing a new machine or an exciting innovation up and running in the bustling halls of a major show. Live demonstrations at timed intervals are often crowded with eager visitors – for a good reason. It’s the way to be inspired, and find solutions that could literally change your business outlook, and actually grow your profits.
ITMA 2023 will also give visitors a chance to speak personally with the experts from machinery companies, to ask those ‘difficult’ questions and get the full story behind a vital innovation. How will it fit into an existing production environment, will it help to reduce waste, will it help to improve profitability…?
Then there are the big questions, about investment costs and funding. Big deals are started at ITMA, and contracts are often finalized – admittedly sometimes as a publicity boost. Visitors can also compare offers from different providers. Obviously, we hope the choice is for the Swiss option!
Ultimately, ITMA is a celebration of the achievements of the global textile community, and an opportunity to foster the kind of innovative developments that future generations will be proud of.
Autefa: Sustainability at forefront with innovative solutions
AUTEFA Solutions is a leading global supplier of innovative and high-performance machines and systems. The company operates in four business areas: Nonwovens Technology, Baling Technology, Woollen/Worsted Technology and Automation Technology. Overall, AUTEFA Solutions is committed to providing innovative and high-performance machines and systems that meet the evolving needs of its customers around the world. With a focus on growth and expansion, the company continues to invest in research and development, as well as the expansion of its worldwide manufacturing facilities to better serve its customers and drive future success.
Customers looking for a key supplier for their nonwoven technology needs. AUTEFA’s state-of-the-art technology includes carded-crosslapped needle punch lines, aerodynamic web forming technology, thermobonding lines and spunlace lines. As the market leader in staple fibre and tow baling presses, the company offers everything from fibre transport to the baler to bale handling and storage. And if you’re in the market for OCTIR woollen carding sets for high quality weaving and knitting yarns, we’ve got you covered.
Be sure to visit AUTEFA Solutions at ITMA 2023 in Milan from June 8-14, where we’ll be showcasing our innovative solutions and expertise in advanced materials, digital future, innovative technologies, and sustainability, and see how AUTEFA Solutions can help take your production to the next level.
The textile industry faces many challenges and sustainability is one of the most pressing. Our industry needs to reduce its carbon footprint, water consumption, recycling, circular economy, and energy savings are key to achieving these goals and innovative solutions need to be developed to meet these challenges. Another key challenge is the changing workforce. As the industry continues to grow, there is a need for more skilled personnel and talent to operate and maintain the complex machinery used in the manufacturing process. Digitalization and automation are also transforming the industry, and companies need to invest in new technologies to keep up with the pace of change. With our innovations, however, we can provide solutions to these challenges. As a result, the industry can continue to grow and prosper while contributing to a more sustainable future.
At ITMA, we are excited to showcase our latest innovations and technologies that cater to the needs of our customers while also minimizing their impact on the environment.
Our advanced Airlay technology delivers heavy and thick fibres mats by using natural or recycled fibre for the growing acoustic and thermal insulation market. Our energy-saving Spunlace technology is designed to maximize efficiency while minimisIn ing energy consumption. Our Needle Exchanger technology reduces downtime and increases productivity, making it a valuable addition to any production line. We also offer automated bale warehousing solutions that optimize space and streamline operations. And with our unmatched customer support, you can count on us to be there every step of the way.
But it’s not just about business – we are also committed to reducing our carbon footprint. Our innovations and technologies are designed to minimize waste and energy consumption, making them a sustainable choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. Join us at ITMA to learn more about our solutions and how they can benefit your business and the environment.
As sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration in the fashion industry, we are witnessing a significant increase in the demand for textile circularity, with consumers and companies alike seeking solutions to recycle fast fashion; in response to this trend, AUTEFA Solutions offers a range of innovative solutions designed to process and reuse various types of fibres, including reclaimed, natural, and man-made materials. Our Airlay KV12/K12 aerodynamic web forming machine in combination with Stylus Needle Loom or HiPerTherm Oven meets all customer requirements for maximum productivity and consistent high quality.
The re-needling of needle boards in needle punching nonwovens production has to be simple, safe, and efficient to avoid long downtimes and extend the service life of the needle boards. AUTEFA Solutions has developed an innovative solution, the Needle Exchanger, to address these challenges. This machine replaces the physically tiring and risky manual process of needle insertion, exchange, and removal with an automated process that removes the risk of operator injury and minimizes the risk of board damage. The Needle Exchanger provides a great return on investment and is the most economic service machine for needle exchange in nonwovens production.
With the Automatic Needle Exchanger AUTEFA Solutions offers a unique service machine. The machine is efficient and equipped with an adapted software system, so that reproducibility and safety at every needle exchange are of utmost importance. According to the customer’s requirements the re-needling of the needle boards has to be simple, safe, and efficient, in order to avoid long downtimes and to extend the service life of the needle boards. The Needle Exchanger is the most economical way to perform this service in a nonwoven production line. Even if there is enough manpower for a service workshop, there is a high risk of board damage due to manual needle exchange. The Needle Exchanger is our innovative solution that replaces the manual process with a machine engineered to replace needles without damaging the needle boards. The automated process also eliminates the risk of operator injury and provides a high return on investment.
The cooperation between AUTEFA Solutions and PAMA Paper Machinery offers the best of two worlds – the nonwovens world based on fibre-based web forming, consolidation and drying technology combined with the Wetlaid technology commonly used in the paper industry. Wetlaid – Spunlace is the technology of choice to produce sustainable and cost-effective nonwovens from 100% cellulosic raw material such as cellulose pulp, viscose or Lyocell fibres. This collaboration provides the machine technology to produce sustainable and biodegradable products for a world with less plastic. With the enormous challenge of rising raw material and energy costs, producing sustainable products with energy saving and innovative Wetlaid technology is the answer. The process improves the bulkiness and feel of the final product through AUTEFA carding and spunlace technology. Compared to the classic Wetlaid inclined wire.
technology, we are focusing on innovative paper machine solutions with even better performance, especially for CP products. The use of this technology reduces the amount of pulp fibres and energy required. Further savings in power and water consumption are achieved with AUTEFA Solutions’ V-Jet technology for hydroentanglement, our most effective dewatering with V-shaped suction slots, and the highly efficient SQ-V square drum dryer technology. Our technology is designed to create a uniform pulp layer for optimal fibre distribution with the lowest fibre consumption. We are proud to offer our customers the technology to produce the highest quality and quantity of Wetlaid – spunlace product.
Automated warehousing can provide a wide range of benefits, from space savings, lower building costs, improved productivity, more efficient material flow, fewer people, and safer operations, to reduced inventory, lower operating costs, better ROI, and lower life cycle costs. As the market leader in fibre baling presses for man-made fibres, we have expanded our service offering to include all production steps, including warehousing. We are pleased to announce that our latest project with a customer in Turkey is about to start. During the ITMA, you will have a sneak preview of one of the largest PET fibre bale logistics centers in the world. The warehouse and logistics center of AUTEFA Solutions will organize, press, form, package, strap, identify, label, stack, sort and prepare the enormous fibre output of six new polyester staple fibre lines with specific fibre know-how for storage and further logistical actions.
Over the last ten years, AUTEFA Solution has become an expert in special fibre properties, with fully automated baling systems with enormous capacities, covered and sealed short cut balers, hygienic fibre baling systems, silicon and conjugated fibre baling systems, bale transport with additional strapping, weighing, automated labeling, stacking, and sorting, and storage as a block or rack system.
Our focus is not only on classical mechanical engineering, which aims for higher, faster, further. Instead, through our service offerings, we aim to promote a stable and sustainable production. One example of this is our assessments for thermal systems, where our experts develop individual solutions for our customers and identify high potential energy savings.
When we perform conversions and install new drives and controls for our customers, we consider this to be a sustainable approach. We offer conversions, modifications, and electrification for existing machines, which are updated to be resource-efficient, cost-effective, and compliant with current safety standards for future use. Because most machines worldwide function mechanically flawlessly, we recommend that our customers take advantage of the “low-hanging fruit” potential and invest in upgrades to secure their production for the coming years. We place great emphasis on sustainability and want to help our customers achieve efficient and environmentally friendly production.
Our new AUTFA Loyalty programs convey our commitment to sustainability and your focus on extending the lifespan of older machines, which aligns with the goals of many environmentally conscious companies. To promote our program, we highlight the benefits of keeping older machines in operation, such as reducing waste, preserving valuable equipment, and saving money on replacement costs.
AUTEFA Solutions has set itself the goal of becoming CO2-neutral by 2035 and being perceived as a sustainable company in the industry. To achieve this goal, we are focusing on renewable energies and resource-saving production. Since August 2022, our plant in Friedberg, Bavaria, has been producing electricity from solar cells installed on the roof of the plant. In August 2023, the plant in Linz, Austria, will commission a biomass heating plant and a photovoltaic system. This will enable AUTEFA Solutions to produce in a CO2-neutral manner, making an important contribution to the decarbonization of supply chains. We are proud to make our contribution to climate protection and offer our customers sustainable production. We will continue to invest in renewable energies and innovative technologies to improve our environmental performance and achieve our sustainability goals.
CORPORATE PROFILE
Benninger is a global leader in the development, design, manufacture and service of
technologically advanced, highly developed textile finishing and tire cord solutions for the
global textile, chemical fibre, tire and conveyor belt manufacturing markets.
MISSION
Customised
With innovative and reliable products as well as comprehensive knowledge in textile
process engineering, Benninger always supplies tailor-made process solutions based on
close cooperation and coordination with our customers.
Textile
Our approach is always driven by the textile applications of our customers. Thanks to many
years of experience and in-depth textile competence, Benninger creates sustainable added
value for its customers. Benninger has a large number of reference installations for the
individual application processes.
Solutions
Benninger operates as an integrated solution provider. We plan and implement
technologically optimised and individual process and system solutions. We are a
trustworthy and reliable partner for our customers throughout the entire life cycle of the
plant.
BENNINGER ITMA Milano 2023
Hall 18, Booth A201
Road to net Zero with the leader in continuous wet processing and
jet dyeing technology.
Benninger aims to become the complete system supplier with leading technology for
continuous wet processing, discontinuous dyeing and remain the leader for solutions for the
tire cord industry. We take seriously our responsibility towards sustainable textile production
and have always stood for textile finishing plants that are particularly resource efficient.
We supply overall solutions for all important textile wet finishing processes, and we
specialize in the continuous open-width treatment of woven and knitted fabrics, technical
textiles as well as jet dyeing machines, jiggers, along with the complete and integrated dye
house supply systems such as liquid dispensing, salt and soda ash distributing systems as
well as dye staff distribution systems. Our portfolio also includes caustic soda recovery
plants and waste-water heat recovery systems. Thanks to our comprehensive process
know-how and deep engineering understanding we offer high quality installations with
excellent customer service.
With our solutions, producers will make a huge contribution to Decarbonizing Textile.
At this year’s ITMA Milano, BENNINGER will be presenting its latest developments:
The new Benninger jet dyeing machine Fabricmaster, with unmatched water
consumption figures. It is the most sustainable way of discontinuous dyeing today. Fast,
cost effective and on the road to zero footprints.
The chemical dispensing system, CDS, serves all kind of discontinuous and continuous
machines in an accurate, unbeatable, and fast way.
The new Benninger-Küsters CPB dyeing station for knitwear, the only salt-free cold
dyeing process.
The new Benninger singeing machine, SingeRay, ensures perfect singeing effects, cost
efficiency and uniform quality.
The sustainable way of discontinuous dyeing with the new Fabricmaster – fast, cost
effective and zero footprints.
Benninger has produced the fastest, most versatile, and economic Jet dyeing machine of
the industry and which ensures dramatically shorter process times. The Fabricmaster is not
only a robust and reliable system, but the benchmark of the industry in future. Its harmonic
versatility is the beacon to conquer new markets. Our passion for perfect fabric quality
makes sure that you produce the widest range of fabrics at lowest cost and unmatched
water consumption levels.
Benninger Fabricmaster
Salt-free dyeing of woven fabrics and knitwear
Salt-free dyeing without the use of energy is only possible using the cold pad batch (CPB)
dyeing process. This process is also becoming increasingly popular in tropical and
subtropical regions, which is reason enough for Benninger-Küsters to adapt the CPB
systems even more effectively to the climatic conditions. The heart of our CPB system is
the BENNINGER KÜSTERS DYPAD, which we will also be presenting again this year at
the ITMA Milano. BENNINGER is the only textile machine manufacturer with the know-how
of the original S-roller technology, which is synonymous with an even dyeing result across
the entire fabric width.
Brand new Singeing machine “SingeRay” – the first choice to upgrade your fabric, whilst
saving gas.
The “100% made in Germany” singeing machine is equipped with 2 burners and a double
nozzle strip. The silicium carbide burning chambers ensure complete combustion, and a
constant burner temperature thanks to 4 cooling channels. Low gas consumption and a
perfect flame will increase the scope of your fibres and blends.
“Come and visit the leader in continuous wet processing and jet dyeing.”
We look forward to welcoming you at our Booth A201 in Hall 18.
bluesign® system
Managing inputs – responsible actions
The bluesign® system focuses on resources, people and the environment. With its holistic approach
based on Input Stream Management, the bluesign® system reduces the impact on people and on the
environment, ensures responsible use of resources and guarantees the highest level of consumer
safety. The most stringent criteria and monitoring of on-site implementation encourage companies
along the entire textile value chain to improve their sustainability performance.
What makes the bluesign® system so
unique? By using the Input Stream Management
approach, harmful substances are
eliminated from the very beginning. Other
standards certify !nished products by end
sample testing, notwithstanding the fact
that the chemical products used and the
production conditions are unknown. Within
the bluesign® system all chemical input
undergoes a risk assessment based on best
available technique (BAT) and advice is
given to the industry to minimize the risk
to people and the environment. On-site implementation
ensures the right use of the chemical products as well as the protection
of people and the environment. As a result
the risks for end consumers are minimized
too. Therefore the bluesign® system is a
working chemicals management system to
minimize risks in a systemic way.
Sustainability performance
Beside minimizing the risks, the bluesign®
system encourages the system partners to
continuously improve safety during the use
of chemicals, optimise processes regarding
resource consumption and change the product
design in terms of environmental impact.
Therefore the bluesign® system is used to
improve companies’ sustainability performance.
Business advantage
In the future all companies are required to
demonstrate their sustainability performance
and provide proof of the minimal
impact on people and the envi ronment,
as consumers are increasingly concerned
about environmental damage. The shared
use of the bluesign® system therefore
ensures conformity and lowers costs at the
same time. This is a real business advantage
for chemical suppliers, textile and accessory
manufacturers as well as brands, which
makes the bluesign® system an e”ective
solution for the industry.
bluesign® system
Business advantage
In the future all companies are required to
demonstrate their sustainability performance
and provide proof of the minimal
impact on people and the envi ronment,
as consumers are increasingly concerned
about environmental damage. The shared
use of the bluesign® system therefore
ensures conformity and lowers costs at the
same time. This is a real business advantage
for chemical suppliers, textile and accessory
manufacturers as well as brands, which
makes the bluesign® system an e”ective
solution for the industry.
bluesign® system
Managing inputs – responsible actions
The bluesign® system focuses on resources, people and the environment. With its holistic approach
based on Input Stream Management, the bluesign® system reduces the impact on people and on the
environment, ensures responsible use of resources and guarantees the highest level of consumer
safety. The most stringent criteria and monitoring of on-site implementation encourage companies
along the entire textile value chain to improve their sustainability performance.
bluesign® system
The bene!ts for system partners
The bluesign® system partnership o”ers the following bene!ts for chemical suppliers,
textile and accessory manufacturers as well as brands.
Bene!ts forchemical suppliers
- Homologation and rating of chemical
products with the bluesign® bluetool and
dedicated support in product stewardship
- Transparency regarding compliance of
the chemical products with common
“Restricted Substance Lists” (RSLs) and
with the SVHC candidate list from REACH
- The bluesign® system substance list (BSSL)
as a comprehensive list of restricted
substances that takes common RSLs into
account.
- Wide acceptance of the bluesign®
approved chemical products by business
partners and brands
- Access to bluesign® blue!nder, an internet
platform to promote bluesign® approved
chemical products to manufacturers
Bene!ts for manufacturers
- Enabling the manufacturers to successfully
manage complex environmental issues
and regulations
- Implementation of Input Stream
Management to minimize risks
- Compliance with most common
“Restricted Substances Lists” (RSLs)
- Access to bluesign® blue!nder, a search
engine for approved chemistry, and the
bluesign® blueguide to promote your
approved component
- Products can be labeled as
bluesign® approved.
Bene!ts for brands
- Sound sustainability performance in the
supply chain which includes elimination
of critical substances in the supply chain
and from !nal products
- Chemicals management system concerning consumer safety issues, currently
approx. 900 chemical substances covered
by the constantly updated bluesign®
system substances list (BSSL) to minimize
consumer safety risks
- Implementation of Input Stream Management
in the supply chain on mill level
- Access to the bluesign® blueguide, the global sourcing tool for fabrics and
accessories which meet the highest criteria regarding protection of resources,
people and the environment
- Added value by use of the bluesign®
product label.
bluesign® system
Become a system partner
Join the most stringent environment, health and safety system and improve your sustainability
performance. The procedure for becoming a bluesign® system partner is as follows:
Bluesign System Partner
Partnership is open for chemical suppliers,
textile and accessory manufacturers as
well as brands who want to give a strong
commitment to sustainability.
Interested? Then !ll out the partnership
application on http://www.bluesign.com or
contact us for more information or your
individual quotation: Phone +41 71 272 29 90
bluesign technologies ag
Headquarters: Moevenstrasse 18, 9015 St.Gallen, Switzerland
Phone +41 71 272 29 90, info@bluesign.com, http://www.bluesign.com
bluesign technologies germany gmbh
Am Mittleren Moos 48, 86167 Augsburg, Germany
Phone +49 821 74 77 544, Fax +49 821 74 77 545
bluesign technologies china limited
Room 1105, 11/F, Manhattan Centre, 8 Kwai Cheong Road, Kwai Chung, N.T., Hong Kong
Phone +852 24 25 16 00, Fax +852 26 37 00 20
Crealet – Beyond customised warp systems
Crealet presents individual and comprehensive solutions at ITMA 2023
Wald, Switzerland March 17, 2023
Sophisticated warp feeding technology and tailored solutions will be presented by Crealet at ITMA 2023 – exactly as the Swiss company’s customers would expect. But there will be more: innovations in warp feeders for ribbon machines and the latest ECR control systems should be highlights for visitors – while the main attraction, as always, will surely be access to valuable first-hand knowledge from Crealet experts in both weaving and knitting applications.
In the 20 years since its start-up, Crealet has built a reputation as a global leader in electronic warp feeding systems for both wide and narrow fabric weaving. Warp feeding is a technique that is both complex and vital to successful fabric production, so mills worldwide want a partner which is both innovative and ultimately reliable.
Yarn tension is a big story in warp feeding. Getting it right makes a massive difference to how the warp performs. In recognition of this, Crealet has devised effective solutions which quickly and precisely synchronize the tension of different warp beams – and which connect to an integrated network. “It’s our goal to enable customers to realize their creative ideas now and in future,” says Crealet CEO Andreas Wirz.
Future-minded
Markets are now more dynamic than ever, with the rate of new products and variations accelerating. At the same time, customers have increasingly strict demands on fabric quality. It makes weaving a sector that is getting tougher and more competitive all the time. To make the task even harder, product varieties are expanding and batch sizes are fluctuating.
That’s why weavers need the reliability they get from Crealet, with warp feeding solutions that keep pace with trends and sophisticated technologies to optimize processes. Modern solutions must fit with IOT and Industry 4.0, so Crealet is dedicated to making the warp thread feed reproducible, traceable and reliable.
The new solutions at ITMA
The background to Crealet innovations is a focus on optimizing customers’ end-products and transforming the feeding processes. The newest development is a warp yarn feeding solution for ribbon weaving machines that will be introduced at the upcoming exhibition in Milan. The system features the ECR system for electronic control of rope braking on warp beams in ribbon weaving. Upgrading rope brakes with the ECR control keeps warp tension constant from full to empty beam. This improves fabric quality and reduces labor requirements. Technical benefits are the easy adjustment of warp tension and the monitoring and visualization of warp tension.
Customised warp let-off applications are a big Crealet success story, especially for technical, sophisticated and sensitive fabrics. In fact, smart electronic warp let-offs are now a core business. For high-tech fabrics, customers need warp let-off devices to perform standardized processes at consistently high quality levels. “We are the ideal partner for the many different requirements in warp feeding. We have all the know-how and experience to optimize machine efficiency and fabric quality,” says Wirz.
Meet the experts…
Constant tension throughout the warp is essential for quality end-products, and accurate feeding of warp threads from beams is possible only with impeccable warp beam preparation. That’s where the partnership with COMSAT brings extra value to Crealet customers, with sectional and direct warping machines and creels, as well as inspection machines, batching motions and selvedge thread warpers.
Crealet’s extended customer offering now takes in even more weaving preparation options, through the link with Appalachian Electronic Instruments. This US company has specialized in quality and process control for the textile industry, developing and manufacturing quality assurance solutions in warp knitting and warp preparation.
The big plus for visitors to ITMA 2023 will be the chance to meet Crealet experts face to face. Wide-ranging discussions can extend far beyond customized warp systems into the exchange of comprehensive know-how across the whole field. The Crealet presence at booth B306 in Hall 6 will be a rewarding one-stop shop for unrivaled knowledge in preparation systems for fabric manufacture.
Advanced Performance – New DTJ Jet Insert Generation “AP”
2023.03.09 ITMA 2023 press release pre-ITMA event Berne final
Itema Group at Swissmem Pre-ITMA 2023 Press Conference
Bern (Switzerland) – Itema, the global leading provider of advanced weaving solutions, including weaving machines, OEM spare parts, weaving accessories, and integrated services, participated in the Swissmem pre-ITMA 2023 press conference in Bern on the 17th of March.
Matteo Mutti, Itema Switzerland Ltd Managing Director, first introduced the Group’s 2022 financial results and then focused on ITMA 2023.
In 2022, Itema recorded a sales revenue of EUR 337.6 million, up +10 % over the previous year, thus continuing its path of constant growth.
Mr. Mutti continued by introducing the main highlights of the Itema Group’s participation in the upcoming ITMA 2023: “ITMA 2023 will take place in Milan, Italy, which is our Group home country. Therefore, we are excited to welcome visitors from all over the world and we are working to guarantee to them the best possible experience at the event.”
Itema is present at ITMA 2023 with the target to be a meeting point for the industry. The Itema Group booth in Hall 6 – B105 will offer all the latest innovations in the Itema weaving technology and also premium weaving accessories by the Group companies Lamiflex and Schoch to make the weaving process even more effective, sustainable, smart, and successful.
In Mr. Mutti’s words: “At ITMA, Itema will present a full range of solutions developed to make our customers’ life easier while providing them with tangible benefits in terms of textile mastery, eco-efficiency, digitalisation and easy weaving.”
About Itema
Itema is a leading global provider of advanced weaving solutions, including best-in-class weaving machines, spare parts and integrated services. Sixty per cent of Itema is held by Gianni Radici’s family heirs (the siblings Angelo, Maurizio, Paolo, Maria Grazia and Bruna) and 40% by the Arizzi and Torri families. Itema Group business areas include also industrial and innovation. In fact, in recent years the Group diversified into complementary, high-growth markets through stakes in innovation driven companies, such as Lamiflex®, Schoch® and Itemalab®, the Itema advanced innovation hub created in 2014 that in 2021 evolved into a fully-fledged company dedicated to develop breakthrough textile and industrial solutions. With more than 1.000 employees worldwide, world-class production sites in Italy, Switzerland, China and India (the latter for Schoch products, ndr), Itema features a global presence with commercial and after-sales services in Italy, Switzerland, China, India, Japan, USA, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Türkiye. More information about Itema can be found on the website www.itemagroup.com
TRANSFORMING THE WORLD OF TEXTILES
into a digital and sustainable age
The Jakob Müller Group is the no. 1 supplier of
systems and solutions for the ribbon and narrow
fabrics industry, providing everything from warp
preparation to the final product on a one-stopshop
basis.
Narrow fabric systems and solutions – from single threads
to the final made-up product
ITMA – Pressrelease ITMA Mailand 2023
RETECH Aktiengesellschaft – Switzerland by Ralph von Arx
Retech as expert in drawing your fibres to perfection will be showing innovations in the following fields in Milan.
- IoT in a modern heated godet
- New drive system for (super) slow speeds
- Special machine construction of drawing frames and the making of the blue thread
Godet rolls are essential components in the production of synthetic fibres. These heated, ambient or cooled rolls help achieve the perfect yarn quality for a range of materials and applications when it comes to heat treatment for filament fibre applications. Retech godet rolls have revolutionized synthetic fibre processing by providing unique designs that allow for greater control over temperature, fibre treatment and sustainability. In addition to its innovative designs, Retech also focuses on energy efficiency when it comes to motors and heating equipment. This means all Retech products use less energy than traditional systems—making them more cost effective over time while achieving excellent results.
Retech’s heated godet rolls are designed with two challenging requirements in mind: applying exactly the correct temperature for the material being produced; and maintaining this level continuously throughout the process. To do this, their designs incorporate energy saving technology, using single-zone or multi-zone heating via induction, infrared or resistance. This ensures accuracy and precision when it comes to surface temperature profiles – guaranteeing consistent yarn quality every time. Retech also offers unbeatable value when it comes to cost savings – thanks to its low maintenance requirements meaning less downtime, lifetime bearings meaning no additional lubrication required. As well as its IoT ready monitoring feature which protects against potential damage due to excess temperatures or other issues. This allows producers to produce higher yields at lower costs without risking product integrity or safety issues down the line.
IoTs in a modern heated godet: How to achieve sustainable heated godets?
In addition to the energy-saving motors and energy-optimised heaters already mentioned, a very important part of the Retech godet concept is the long service life and the associated permanent availability, thus reducing machine downtimes and the production of rejects. If a godet fails, there is immediately a great loss, inconvenience and disruption to the production process. Therefore, Retech has equipped its godets with additional measuring elements in order to be able to react preventively to possible damage and subsequent failure. What options can Retech offer its customers and what are the advantages?
Thanks to the sophisticated, innovative and proven temperature measuring transmission system – UTR-6A, which measures the temperatures in the rotating godet and transmits the data to the temperature controller UCR-6 for processing without contact, it is possible to take further measurements, collect data and evaluate them. To protect the godet, the ongoing production and ultimately the sustainability of the entire process and the godet itself.
- Induction temperature monitoring
By means of thermocouples, which are installed in the induction heater per heating zone, the temperature of the induction coil can be measured and monitored. If the temperature exceeds a value based on experience, the coil can be damaged and the service life reduced. If this temperature is exceeded, the system reacts with a warning and simultaneously switches on a cooling function. The operator now has the possibility to determine the cause of the increased temperature and to eliminate it. - Bearing temperature monitoring
If the bearing temperature exceeds a certain value, the bearing life decreases rapidly. The high-temperature grease decomposes and inevitably leads to bearing damage and godet failure. This leads to major expenses, downtimes and production losses. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the bearing temperature and to detect and delay an approaching bearing damage at an early stage until the bearings can be replaced as a precaution during planned maintenance work. Thanks to the possibility of installing, transmitting, displaying and evaluating additional temperature sensors in the temperature measurement transmission system below the bearing points, Retech offers comprehensive bearing failure prevention and monitoring, which represents a great added value for the operators. - Vibration monitoring
In addition to too high temperatures, vibrations can also damage a bearing and lead to bearing failures. If excessive vibrations can be detected and indicated, this would be a considerable added value for operators. This would allow an early and immediate reaction, and the cause of the vibrations could be determined and eliminated. This measurement has also been implemented in the temperature measurement transmission system. At the stator, the vibrations are measured, evaluated via the temperature controller and excessive vibrations are immediately communicated to the operator.
Modern heated Godet from Retech
Of course, all this additional information and measurements are only really helpful if the operator then also takes measures and eliminates the causes. Depending on the process, the customer and his wishes, Retech offers different levels of measures. From a warning mode for a certain time to the shutdown of the godet, there are various options that are defined in detail with the customer. These new possibilities for extending the service life of heated godets are a milestone and a significant contribution to sustainability and reduction of the CO2 footprint.
Today’s demands on godets are not only faster, bigger, longer, which are required by the ever more advanced manufacturing processes and materials. “Slow” can also be a challenge. Certain processes require very slow speeds. The production of carbon fibres is just one of many examples in this field. Speeds of 0.1 – 10 m/min. can be a demanding task. To ensure that such slow speeds with a ratio of 1 : 100 can also be implemented in a stable manner, Retech has developed a new drive system. A central point is the elimination of the coupling that has been common in the industry up to now, which connected the bearing, gear and motor. With the godet generation presented at ITMA, the bearing, the gearbox and the motor are one unit. Depending on the requirements for speed, torque and gearbox angular, a modular system is available, which can be assembled according to the customer’s needs. A highly interesting new product line that Retech can present.
Retech’s godets represent a unique design that enables customers to drive the draw roll allowing for very low speed applications of only a few meters per minutes or even per hour. This helps ensure top performance regardless of how slowly the process needs to run.
As a highlight, Retech shows the making of the blue thread. See live how this happens. By means of a demonstration object, the mentioned news and products can be seen live in action. All IoTs – vibration measurements, bearing temperature display, induction temperature measurement – will be shown. Also the new drive system for slow-running godets. And as a highlight, the innovative creation of the blue thread. For this, Retech will show a modular drawing system, which underlines the competence as a special solution provider for R&D facilities, universities and speciality manufacturers.
In addition to the 3 highlights mentioned above, Retech will also be presenting other innovative products from its range: the yarn tension sensors that have proved quality for years, the proved air-bearing separator rolls ….. true to the motto engineered and produced in Switzerland, we welcome you to our stand B108 in Hall 1 at the ITMA in Milan!
Santex SWISSMEM ITMA Milan 2023 Preview – press release
SANTEX RIMAR AG is the leader in technology for textile finishing of high-quality knitted fabrics, offering comprehensive systems of stand-alone machines for the treatment of tubular and open knitted fabrics. Santex’ goal is to maximise performance with low energy consumption to achieve low residual shrinkage, smoother handle and silk-like appearance. The lines are equipped with various energy saving options, benefiting customers through sustainable production and low CO2 levels.
Many of the world’s renowned fashion houses rely on the expertise of SANTEX RIMAR AG, which was founded in Switzerland in 1982.
With SANTAFRAME and SANTACOMPACT RDA, SANTEX RIMAR AG presents its well-known stenter frame in combination with the felt belt compacting machine for the finishing of high-quality open-width knitted fabrics as well as applicable for woven fabrics.
The outstanding performance and production of the SANTAFRAME is based on continual development using the latest advances in thermodynamics, allied to the changing need of customers.
The heating system is located above the fabric web in the upper part of the 2 m treatment zone. An air circulation fan draws the air from the nozzles and the treatment zone through the filter panels and guides it along a short path to the heat exchanger, from where it is fed into the nozzles.
The arrangement of the heat source on the pressure side of the air circulation fan enables a high air circulation speed and uniform heat distribution over the entire fabric width, thus achieving an unrich drying performance. This technology results in high energy savings and cost reductions in the drying and heat-setting process of textile fabrics.
Visit Santex Rimar Group in Hall no. H18 Booth no. A110 and discover our products which stands for Swiss and Italian innovative solutions based on the real need of the customer and for high productivity and sustainable production.
10.03.2023 Natascha Meier
Stäubli at ITMA 2023 in Milan – Innovation ahead, sustainability inside
Transforming the world of textiles: Under this slogan, ITMA will be returning this year, taking place in Milan from June 8 to 14. Stäubli Textile will be there, exhibiting some impressive innovations. With core competencies in shedding (cam motions, dobbies, and Jacquard machines) and weaving preparation (drawing-in, leasing, and warp-tying machines), Stäubli plays an important role in the design and quality of woven end-products. For over 130 years, Stäubli has been a leading provider of premium quality products and services for sustainable improvements in industry and society. Stäubli’s reliability and stability are based on uninterrupted family ownership, and the company’s technical excellence is the result of a continuous focus on industrial customers. This is all part of one strategic goal: to develop solutions for safer, more efficient, and more economical industrial processes. Stäubli constantly offers new and improved high-performance systems and solutions for processing fabrics for fashionwear, home fabrics, carpeting and automotive, protection, and medical applications, as well as highly complex technical textiles for future applications.
Stäubli Booth A201 / Hall 6
Visitors to Booth A201 in Hall 6 will learn how Stäubli solutions can boost their weaving mills’ performance and overall efficiency. Besides offering a wide range of decisive functional advantages, Stäubli machines promise unsurpassed service life.
Some of the Stäubli products being exhibited in the weaving hall:
- SAFIR S60 automatic drawing-in system –
NEW with Active Warp Control 2.0 (AWC 2.0)
The SAFIR series of drawing-in systems offers unique advantages for efficient style changes. With its Active Warp Control technology, Stäubli has been setting standards in yarn recognition and management for many years. At ITMA 2023, Stäubli will present the next generation of this technology: Active Warp Control 2.0. Visitors to the booth can observe an automatic drawing-in system in operation with this impressive technology.
- Shed formation solutions for frame weaving
Robustness, reduced maintenance & oil savings
Do you need a high-speed weaving solution that offers top reliability and adaptability? Then check out the 1600/1700 series of cam motions and the S3000/S3200 series of electronic rotary dobbies. Stäubli’s broad product range answers the latest market demands and customer requirements and wishes, included reduced maintenance. The design of Stäubli machinery increasingly takes environmental performance into account. For instance, the latest machines offer reduced oil volumes and fewer oil changes. ITMA visitors will learn more about this and other innovations featured in Stäubli’s electronic rotary dobbies and cam motions.
- LX PRO, LXL PRO, LXXL PRO Jacquard machines
Featuring energy savings
The PRO series of Jacquard machines was launched at the end of 2022. These machines have already convinced Jacquard weavers around the world who seek top energy efficiency in the production of flat, terry, or OPW (one-piece woven) fabrics. Available in formats ranging from 4,608 hooks (LX PRO) to 25,600 hooks (LXXL PRO), these Jacquard machines feature Stäubli’s exclusive NOEMI electronics architecture and the state-of-the-art MX PRO module. This combination perfectly integrates the constraints of high-speed weaving, temperature, and the significant number of hooks to be lifted. ITMA visitors will see three complete Jacquard installations in operation producing trendy fabrics and learn all about the advantages and benefits these machines provide.
- NEW ALPHA carpet weaving system
Stäubli will be introducing a new carpet weaving system at ITMA. Certain to be a highlight of the booth, the new ALPHA carpet weaving system will be in operation every hour producing rugs. It features numerous newly developed components never before exhibited. Visitors can walk across the weavers’ stand and observe the double carpet production.
- NEW MyStaubli Portal
Stäubli will present its new customer portal at ITMA 2023: MyStaubli. As a new key to machinery solutions, this platform offers personal access to online information about Stäubli’s range of solutions and services. Visitors will learn about the many benefits the new portal offers.
The Stäubli booth will provide a comprehensive overview of the company’s range of solutions for future-oriented weaving mills. That’s because Stäubli is committed to remain in close contact with its customers and meet market requirements as a partner. The Stäubli team looks forward to presenting their latest solutions & innovations and discussing visitors’ individual needs and wishes for cost-effective and highly-productive textile manufacturing.
Recycled yarn – the future reality now
Uster outlines the challenges, and solutions
Spinning yarn blends of virgin and recycled fibres is a much bigger challenge than any
other commonly used blend. But the results can still be acceptable with comprehensive
quality testing, know-how and experience – as well as the new Uster Statistics 2023 edition
as a vital benchmarking tool.
The European Union has defined a strategy for sustainable and circular textile production, to
make the sector greener and more competitive. Part of this 2030 Vision for Textiles calls for all
textile products on the EU market to be durable, repairable and recyclable – and largely made of
recycled fibres. Many leading retailers are also championing the use of recycled materials from
2030 onwards.
The use of mechanically recycled fibres in spinning has specific quality considerations: such
fibres have a higher short fibre and nep content and may often be colored, particularly if postconsumer
material is used. It’s also true that recycled yarns have limitations in terms of fineness.
Officially, a yarn can only be branded `recycled´ when spun with more than 20% recycled fibres.
This is set by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), a voluntary product specification for tracking
and verifying the recycled content of materials in a final product.
Spinning recycled yarns
Blending virgin and recycled cotton together is well known as a challenge for spinners. The
smartest spinners and world-class processes simply can’t overcome the fact that some important
quality parameters will be adversely affected. It’s clear that the use of recycled cotton in a blend
with new fibre will impact on both the overall yarn strength and its CV%. Even the most
sophisticated spinning machinery won’t fix the problem.
Awareness of the risk of yarn quality deterioration with recycled fibre blends means that quality
control is the only way to assure customer satisfaction. Even then, the task is far from simple.
When spinning new materials, Uster strongly recommends taking both numeric test results and
graphic evaluations into account, to eliminate the risk of problems in further processing.
Avoiding fabric defects
Spinners face major difficulties because of the high proportion of short fibres in recycled cotton
(CO-R) and the fact that, when mixing with virgin cotton (CO), the fibre length distribution is
sometimes suboptimal. This results, for example, in incorrect guidance of short fibres in the
drafting system and potential draft errors.
In tests, a Ne 20 rotor yarn of 75 % CO and 25 % CO-R was compared with a 100% cotton yarn.
The values for evenness, imperfections and hairiness were measured and produced a CVm% of
22 % in Uster Statistics, which might appear to indicate excellent quality for the recycled yarn if
relying on numeric values alone. In fact, closer analysis with Uster Tester spectrograms showed a
draft error at the draw frame. In this case, the problem was detected before causing an uneven structure in the subsequent fabric made from the yarn.
Common language for better communication
It is an unavoidable fact that blending virgin and recycled cotton will make some quality
parameters worse. Using recycled fibre is often desirable, but it creates a new reality for the
industry. To cope with the risks, better communication and a common understanding are needed
throughout the textile value chain.
Uster’s common language of quality will be – once more – vital in improving communication
throughout the textile industry. For 66 years, Uster Statistics have been the only globallyaccepted
quality benchmark and the foundation for industry-wide quality improvement. The new
edition, to be launched at ITMA 2023, includes for the first time a section for recycled yarn.
The Uster Statistics 2023 edition features an extended range of fibre data, supporting
sustainability goals. An ideal fibre mix – with or without recycled content – also ensures meeting
quality requirements for least waste. Fibre graphs will be newly available for every process step.
The new reality
Spinners need to find a way to transform their mills to a more sustainable future. The challenge of
spinning recycled yarns must be acknowledged, and the big goal here is to succeed with it.
Spinners already have the tools they need, allowing them to benefit from both laboratory
instruments and quality monitoring systems to optimize quality and productivity. Their experience,
combined with Uster knowledge and latest technology in quality control and analysis systems, are
a promising basis for a sustainable future for the textile industry.
The new reality of the need for closer communication and cooperation will include all players from
fibre to fabric. It’s an essential debate for everyone – and Uster is ready to take the lead.
You don’t want to miss it! Register ((https://analytics-eu.clickdimensions.com/ustercomatddp/
pages/mw1silpwee2dwaisjsbma.html?PageId=206c0d3370baed1183ff0022489b0130 )
) to receive a push e-mail the day the new Uster Statistics 2023 is available in your app store.
This is a free service from Uster Technologies.
About Uster Technologies
Uster Technologies is the world’s leading provider of quality management solutions from fibre to
fabric.
High-technology instruments, systems and services cover quality control, prediction, certification
and optimisation. The portfolio comprises quality management, laboratory testing and in-line
process control instruments for fibres, staple fibre, and filament yarns, fabrics and nonwovens.
Uster Statistics, the unique global benchmarks for textile trading, complement a portfolio of valueadded
services that includes training, consultancy and worldwide after-sales.
The Uster philosophy aims to drive innovation forward by meeting market needs – always with
‘quality in mind’.
