06.08.11
Accumotion Control Technologies, Keene, NH, has introduced a low cost linear displacement winder built by Allied Converting Technologies. The new winder targets spunbond, melt blown, air laid and needlepunched nonwoven applications.
Hillside, NJ-based Accurate Products Co. has supplied a 40-inch melt blown die system to Kobelco, Tokyo, Japan, for its pilot line in Harima, Japan. The start-up of the SMS pilot line took place in early June and combines Accurate Products’ melt blown technology with Kobelco’s spunbond know-how. The companies have an agreement to supply SMS machines while incorporating each others’ propri- etary nonwovens technologies.
New products from AccuSentry, Marietta, GA, include the “Sentry 9000-D” diaper inspection system, which now includes a complete reporting system integrating statis- tics, machine information and inspection results for production machine enhancements. AccuSentry has also introduced the new “Sentry 9000-AD” adult incontinence inspec- tion system using virtual camera technology to inspect adult products with twice the resolution in half the space.
American Textile Machinery, Athens, GA, has recently sold two complete unidirectional lines to Mexican company Padsa. The machines are designed for saturation and thermal bonding. Furthermore, several Polish companies are build- ing a “4 Doffer” card (designed by ATM president Harry Walczyk) and a “Carousel Spreader.”
A new web formation system from Bematic, Prato, Italy, and a double belt oven from Bombi Maccanica, Mugello, Italy, can process any kind of fibers including shoddy, polyester, cotton, wool, coconut and jut. These fibers can be mixed with grinded paper and wooden fibers and polyurethane foam for application in many applications. Advantages include lower costs, higher produc- tion rates and minimal space.
Bettarini & Serafini, Prato, Italy, has developed the “Bemaformer.” The system is considered the third generation in nonwoven production after traditional carding and air laid. Features include simplicity, economical investment and the pos- sibility of processing all kinds of fibers at production speeds up to 3500 kilograms per hour.
BHT-Bicma, Basaltweg, Germany, has been steadily developing new features for its high speed panty shield, sanitary napkin and diaper machinery. In the last year, BHT- Bicma has supplied air laid equip- ment to the feminine hygiene and diaper markets. These machines reform ultra-thin, binderless cores, which offer high efficiency and raw material cost savings.
Biax-Fiberfilm, Greenville, WI, has implemented a new procedure for manufacturing spinnerettes. The company can now make a higher hermetic seal on each of its nozzles and can rebuild its spinnerettes and individually replace damaged or plugged nozzles. The company has also developed a dual bank die, which will bring the capacity to 400 nozzles per inch. A spunbond attach- ment and a filter cartridge machine are expected to be complete soon.
Cavitec AG, Munchwilen, Switzer- land, has added direct knife coating plants, hot melt coating and lamina- tion lines, powder, paste and double dot coating lines, horizontal and ver- tical impregnation plants and scat- ter coating systems.
A. Celli, Porcari, Italy, has expand- ed its production capabilities with the acquisition of a 10,000-square- meter building in Tassignano, Italy. The new facility, which will be equipped with numeric controlled tooling machinery and a new erec- tion and testing department, is expected to begin operation at the beginning of 2002. The company also opened a branch office in Shanghai, China in June. A. Cellidevelops air laid winders, slitter- rewinders and laminators for the nonwovens industry.
Northbrook, IL-based Chicago Cutting Die now offers thungsten carbide and powdered metal rotary cutting dies in addition to its already popular tool steel dies. All tooling can be configured as seg- ments, sleeves or as solid shafts. The company’s new CCD Cutting Module allows all grades of dies to perform at maximum machine effi- ciencies. Standard features include integrated steel construction, preci- sion machine and ground, precision manufacture wear resistant alloy steel bearing housings, high preci- sion, high capacity and long life bearings.
Busto Arsizio, Italy-based Comerio Ercole specializes in producing high speed calenders for thermal and spunbonding. Most recently the company has introduced a process for embossing and laminating polypropylene and polyester plastic film with nonwoven webs.
Goddard, KS-based Contech’s sheeter/ slitter/rewinder offers accuracy and versatility. The system uses micro- processor controls, servo increments and electrically driven cutter sys- tems to feed materials from single or multiple unwinders. The company also offers stacking machinery.
Corfine, Muncie, IN, has developed a unique die cutting system that allows simultaneous die cutting and edge sealing capabilities. The sys- tem mechanically and/or thermally seals the edges of a die cut part.
New from Dell ’Orco, Capalle, Italy, is a blending system called “Dyna- mix,” which allows the continuous feeding of different components of a blend, the precise control of quanti- ties of each component, the careful opening of each component and the blending of the single fibers in an air flow. The system includes two to six feeding stations as well as a central computerized position for the man- agement of data and the control of percentages of single components.
With research and development cen- ters in the U.S., Germany and Hungary, Dienes Group, Vilkerath, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of slitter tooling and slitting sys- tems. The fully automatic and com- puterized Dienes positioning system “Module IV” achieves the most pre- cise positioning accuracy as well as the fastest strip width adjustment. The company’s “Elite” knife holders feature patented vertical and hori- zontal guidance in conjunction with individual motorized bottom knife stations.
Dilo System Group, Eberbach, Germany, has new air laid cards for hygiene products featuring batts with random fiber orientation and an even MD/CD strength ratio. The new “Turbocard” model series combines a roller card section for opening to sin- gle fiber with a turbo-roller for aero- dynamic web forming on a suction conveyor. Furthermore, the compa- ny’s “Hyperpunch” needling can reduce weight variations below 1% when used with the Autefa profiling crosslapper.
The two piece “MCP-2000” core plug from Double E, West Bridgewater, MA, is a lightweight solution for handling large rolls. Offering strength and durability, the MCP- 2000 is light enough to be lifted and maneuvered into place with little effort. Once in place, the activating shaft is inserted to expand the gripping cage.
Tension control manufacturer Dover Flexo Electronics, Rochester, NH, has released a special option for idler-roll tension transducer pairs. This integrated interface/amplifier outputs a 10 volt DC signal propor- tional to tension, eliminating the need to install an extra transducer interface/amplifier card when purchasing a pair of tension transducers.
Now available from Dukane, St. Charles, IL, is the “DLSM 360-20” ultrasonic sewing machine. Typical applications for the DLSM are dis- posable booties, gowns, wipes and hair nets.
ECC Platt s.a., Roubaix, France, a specialist in metallic wire for roller cards, is launching a new wire gen- eration. The “Sirolock” wire and the “Weblock” wire are both patented wires designed for better fiber con- trol. It significantly improves the average fiber height by reducing the fiber recycling on cylinders.
Elbit Vision Systems, Yoqneam, Israel, offers the “I-TEX” automatic fabric inspection systems. The “I- TEX 1000” is used to inspect greige 100% cotton and cotton polyester fabrics and the “I-TEX 2000” system inspects processed and finished cot- ton and cotton blended fabrics for shirting and bottom wears.
The latest product from Emberte Corporation, Wayne, NJ, “Towers Machinery 440” slitter and winder features a single shaft rewind. The combination of a driven center re- wind and top pivotal cutting/pressure roller assembly prevents interlocking of adjacent cut rolls and provides for minimum downtime without unnecessary lifting and handling.
Enka tecnica, Heinsberg, Germany, is currently completing a capacity expansion to produce long plate spin- nerets and dies. The new equipment will increase the company’s capacity of spinnerets with lengths up to six meters. Two more machines will be delivered later this year.
A supplier of machinery for stacking and packaging hygiene products, Fameccanica.Data S.p.A., Teatino, Italy, has introduced several new machines. The “Model FA-X Superstar H.S.” for the manufactur- ing of baby diapers features enhanced raw material feeding systems. The company manufactures similar machinery for developing training pants. Other new machines include “Model FNL Premium,” “Model FAST,” “Model FIX Evolution,” “Model FA-X Profit,” “Model ROR” and “Model RAD-DUAL.”
Fehrer AG, Linz, Austria, is improving its web forming machin- ery demonstration center. Included in these improvements is a new fiber preparation unit with mixing and opening systems, which will offer customers a complete production chain from bale to finished product that can then be needled and/or thermal bonded.
Fife Corporation, Oklahoma City, OK, has introduced the “SE-38 First*Edge,” a threshold-based edge scan sensor that eliminates the effect of opacity variations in nonwo- ven materials. The SE-38 can detect the first edge of a web and ignores any subsequent material voids or porosity. Additionally, the company’s “SE-31-IS Intrinsically Safe Ultra- sonic Sensor” is designed for haz- ardous areas where safety is the pri- mary issue. This sensor is unaffect- ed by optical variations or ambient light, eliminating the need for multi- ple sensors, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
The “AquaSplit” machine from Fleissner, Egelsbach, Germany, has the ability to split fibers for spunlacing to produce webs with smooth surface, high density and fine porosity. The system can handle man- made and cellulose fibers.
Gaston Systems, Stanley, NC, has expanded its technology portfolio. The company can now provide machinery for healthcare products, carbon fiber substrates and automotive products.
Gevas Verpackungmaschinen, Halle-Westfalen, Germany, has final- ized construction on its U.S. facility in Boynton Beach, FL. The company has also improved its automatic dia- per packaging machines and upgrad- ed options for its bundling and over- wrapping machines.
GreCon, Tigard, OR, has introduced a new online moisture measuring system. The “MWF 3000” provides accurate, real time moisture analy- sis in ambient conditions up to 110°C and is unaffected by irregu- larities in product density or color.
Groz-Beckert, Albstadt, Germany, has received a new needleloom to improve customer service including dynamic penetration for measurements, material analysis and needle evaluation. In addition to basic trials and needle developments, Groz-Beckert is able to achieve product development and project realization as well as optimization of the needling process. The latest development in the fork needle range is Groz-Beckert’s 43 gg nee- dle.
Gualchierani Textile Automa- tion, Greensboro, NC, has devel- oped an innovative bale press which requires low maintenance and low energy costs and can be automated. The bale press is available at a com- petitive price allowing more nonwo- ven producers to justify making their own fiber.
Hastem Transportbander, Nord- lingen, Germany, has improved its slat and needle slat apron manufac- turing program to feature antistatic features. Furthermore, the slat sur- faces were developed to guarantee good web fixing.
Hauser, Spartanburg, SC, offers single or double head quilting sys- tems with frame sawing, automated bag loading and continuous feed. Other offerings include cutting and stacking systems, sheeting and spreading systems, driven un- winders for large rolls and automat- ed sewing systems for air bags and other applications.
Recently introduced by Blackborn, U.K.-based Hollingsworth is the “Enhanced Point” doffer wire. When installed on cards for non- wovens applications, the wire pro- duces more uniform web struc- tures for light- and medium- weight products. The wire allows for wider settings between cylin- ders and doffers on high-production cards.
Ibis International, Hoschton, GA, has introduced an air and fiber reclaim system that is ideal for high speed baby diaper machines. The company has also refined its “Central Vacuum System” for the removal of superabsorbent polymer dust with compressed air.
Idrosistem Energy srl, Bassano del Grappa, Italy, has been involved in water treatment and spunlacing for many years and now operates more than 15 plants around the world. The company’s filter system dramatically reduces consumption of water in a system to nearly zero.
The latest innovation from Independent Machine, Fairfield, NJ, is the “Smartwinders-2000” cube system offering flexibility, high performance and cost savings for spooling a wide range of materials. The Smartwinders-2000 is a com- pletely self-contained computerized cube that can be used alone or with a series of units.
New from Innovent, Peabody, MA, is a hot air bonding system for spun- bonded applications. This patent pending system uses hot air bonding that is directly applied on a web col- lection system. Heated air is passed through the web and drawn through the microporous foil surface of the drum during the lay-down process.
Interweb, Somerset, U.K., is contin- uing the design, development and manufacture of machinery. The com- pany recently developed several needlelooms for specialized applications.
The “Virtual AC” static neutralizer from Ion Systems, Windsor Locks, CT, is capable of powering up to 30 feet of static neutralizing bars. The system’s modular design allows users to connect multiple bars in a daisy chain configuration to achieve the desired length across the web.
New from Italiana Rigenzione, Greensboro, NC, is a system that reopens, cleans and makes fiber out of carpet waste. The fiber is then reused in nonwovens. The company also supplies edge trim and roll good openers for automotive waste.
ITW Dynatec, Hendersonville, TN, has introduced the “Integra SCS” strand coating system, featuring LPT technology for disposable prod- ucts. The Integra SCS includes a complete single port “Dynafiber LPT” intermittent applicator, patented “LPT Omega” nozzle and patent pending precision strand guiding system.
Jossi Systems, Islikon, Switzer- land, has developed a complete line of nonwovens inspection, monitoring and detection products. The compa- ny is represented by Batson Yarn and Fabrics Machinery Group, Greenville, SC, in the U.S.
Kinetik Enterprises, Duncan, SC, has formed a liaison with Mai Heidenheim, a manufacturer of unwinding and rewinding systems. This new partnership allows the company to offer pioneering winding and slitting technology to the non- wovens industry.
KT Equipment International, Winnipeg, Canada, has recently introduced a new line of high speed spooling equipment. This new equipment allows KT to unwind, slit and spool material at 3000 fpm. The equipment also offers improved operating efficiency with an innova- tive design that allows the operator to resume winding on new cores before the completed spools are fully unloaded, minimizing down- time. Each module can be built with two, four or eight spooling positions and arranged in multiple modules to achieve throughput requirements.
Larson-Burton, Loves Park, IL, offers a new style of lap splice that is extremely innovative and gener- ates higher profit margins. This new lap splice offers a knife/tape lap splice with no leading edge to dis- turb the production process and waste time.
The new “SVS-2000XF” with Eagle Eye Camera from Lasor Systro- nics, Norcross, GA, provides photo quality images of defects. The modu- lar system combines superior defect inspection and visualization and the open architecture allows real time inspection information.
M&J Fibretech, Horsens, Den- mark, offers a machinery process that forms a ply of air laid cellulose fibers on a multicarded web and then bonds the web with a spunlace process. The company has supplied this process to at least three roll goods producers.
Among the machinery offered by Magetron SrL, Greensboro, NC, are batt compression units for pack- aging and transporting soft roll goods. This system can reduce space requirements up to 50%.
From Mahlo GmbH, Donau, Germany, and Mahlo America, Spartanburg, SC, is a new version of the “QMS-10A” quality control sys- tem to ensure the quality and process efficiency of nonwoven pro- duction ranges. The new platform is modular in design and can be equipped to provide real time, pre- cise measurement of weight, thick- ness and moisture.
McBride Machine Division of McGuckin & Pyle, Downington, PA, has added a lab-sized film lami- nator to its facility and product line. The laminator can run 15-60 ypm and will run up to 32-inch web widths. The company has also added a hot oil laminator to its line-up.
Portland, ME-based Montalvo’s new line of “SKL Safety Chucks” are designed for easy installation and long service life. The chucks provide a safe and effective way of coupling torque devices to shafted unwinds or rewinds.
Luigi Moroni, Vanzago, Italy, has introduced a line for the production of cellulose and/or ultra thin sani- tary napkins with a production speed of 500 pieces per minute. The line is easy to run, economical and produces competitive end products, meeting the demand for more sophisticated lines. The online surface inspection systems from NanoSystems, Bochum, Ger- many, can detect defects such as spots, gels, contaminations, black specks and holes. Defect images in photo quality allow the user to find the cause and the occurrence of the defects.
NDC Infrared Engineering, Irwindale, CA, has unveiled “AccuProbe,” a slimmed down, low cost version of the popular gamma gauge that accurately and continu- ously measures the basis weights of nonwoven and textile web products. It can be used in spunbond, melt blown, carded, air laid, wet laid and needlepunched nonwovens as well as in textile applications.
Newco Enterprises, Fairburn, GA, is an authorized rebuilder of Nordson, J&M Labs and Meltex equipment. The company is also a national dis- tributor of high performance roll coatings for the nonwovens industry.
New from Nippon Nozzle, Kobe, Japan, are spunlaced jet strips with capillary diameters of less than 0.1 mm. Nippon Nozzle’s new thin-plate spinneret manufacturing technology allows for smaller orifices in spun- laced strips while maintaining the quality of the waterjet produced.
Nonwoven Technologies, Oyster Bay, NY, has developed new melt blown row spinneret dies. The com- pany expects the new stainless steel dies to open up opportunities in the medical, pharmaceutical and filtration industries.
Nordson Corporation, Norcross, GA, has expanded its line of adhesive appli- cators with the “Summit” applicator and the “ES400” electric applicator and driver. The Summit applicators pre- cisely apply adhesive fibers for elastic attachments and laminating applica- tions using four radially tangential air jets to oscillate a single fiber.
Nordson Fiber Systems, Dawson- ville, GA, supplies equipment tech- nology for production of mono-compo- nent and bi-component melt blown, spunbond and composite substrates. This equipment can produce a full range of disposable and durable products. Development of the “Center of Excellence,” including a 1.117 meter SMXS bi-component composite line, demonstrates the Nordson commit- ment to the fibers industry.
Ommi SpA, Greensboro, NC, pro- duces more than 10 types of openers for the nonwovens industry. The company’s “VFO/CL” can open sili- conized polyester fibers withoutstressing and the “Fearnaught” can open 200 denier, eight inch fibers.
O.R.M.A. SpA, Rufina, Italy, has created a new material for manufac- turing rotary dies. This material can offer reliable and efficient rotary dies at reasonable prices.
The “Phoenix Composite Filter System” from Osprey, Atlanta, GA, is designed for the innovative use of fil- ters to further enhance the perform- ance of the company’s rotating drum design. The system uses a specialized multi-stage filter sequence to achieve the ultimate in air purification.
Among the products manufactured by ORV SpA Engineering Division, Padova, Italy, are spun- bonding machinery and coating lines. The company’s goal is to meet the needs of its customers.
Paper Machine Converting Com- pany, Green Bay, WI, has patented a clipper link technology that allows the company’s “Clipper Series Wipes System” to cut changeover time up to 75%. This versatile system produces wet or dry wipes in clips which are linked together. The system can change over 20 (instead of 80) count rolls and can run a large range of different wipe configurations and folds. Additional features include: quicker changeover, versatile sheet counts, interfolded and non-interfolded, production of pop-up wipes and modular design.
Parkinson Technologies, Woon-socket, RI, has added 20,00 square feet to its facility to provide space for its Marshall and Williams Plastics Laboratory. The expansion is expect- ed to be complete by early October.
B.F. Perkins, Rochester, NY, has completed its laboratory/demonstra- tion calendering facility, which is available for use by customers to run product development trials. Capa- bilities include four roll configura- tions, higher speeds and pressures, laminating, advanced web tension control systems and rapid roll change.
Pneumafil Corporation, Charlotte, NC, is introducing the “Everclean” module system for the separation, recycling and filtration of cellulose fibers and superabsorbent polymers from conveying air streams. The self- cleaning rotary pleated belt filter cleans online and is fitted with high efficiency PTFE filter media.
P+S Mako, Michelbach, Germany, has a new converter for nursing pads. The production line system offers integrated pulp defibration, filter units, unwinding, drum form- ing and SAP application capabilities.
Quickdraft, Canton, OH, is apply- ing its “QMR” air/material separator to systems supplied to the nonwo- vens industry. This compact, cylin- drical unit is designed specifically for indoor installation.
Rieter Perfojet, Montbonnet, France, has introduced a spunlace/air laid combination machine designed for the high speed production of wet wipes. The “Airlace 3000” system fea- tures uniformity, lower energy requirements for bonding, softness, absorption, cost effectiveness and a short return on investment. The com- pany also offers the “Jetlace 3000” spunlace system and “Perfobond 3000” spunbond machine.
RML Services, Lugano, Switzerland, provides fully renovated adult, baby and sanitary napkins converting lines. The company has recently signed a contract to promote new con- verting lines of same range of prod- ucts. The company’s construction technology is based on a reduced num- ber of components and high reduction of maintenance and spare parts costs with high machine efficiency.
Robo Products, Nederland, The Netherlands, offers products for the online cleaning of spray cabin wires for the air laid industry. The “Smart Cleaner” washes fabric while the “Slitter Units” use high pressure water.
Roehlen Engraving, Rochester, NY, has upgraded its old world craftsman- ship by adding state-of-the-art digital technology. This technology includes new scanning, three-dimensional laser, wax jet and CNC capabilities that match current specifications.
A new concept for the production of baby diapers has been developed by Sanimac S.r.l. The company’s machines feature robustness, sim- plicity, efficiency, flexibility and modularity.
Due to a recent takeover of new technology, Schaetti AG, Walli- sellen, Switzerland, now offers a comprehensive range in the dry and wet laminating sector. For instance, the newly developed “Flatbed- Laminating Line” offers consider- able simultaneous bonding.
The NSC nonwoven activity division of the NSC Group (Schlumberger) will soon unveil the technological launch of a new generation of machin- ery/process. This technology completes the one which is successfully used in “Isoweb” (lines, composed of cards, crosslappers and drafters). The princi- ple behind the machine called “AirWeb” is based on the judicious con- trol of a very high air flow which per- mits the optimization of the output and efficiently concentrates a pre- determined fiber mass. AirWebÆ can produce webs or fiber batts ranging from 35 to 150 g/m≤ under special MD and CD result conditions as well as elongation under load.
SDF, Monheim, Germany, offers high speed fold machines for wipes and napkins and rotary cross cutters for place mats, washing cloths, head rest covers and hospital sheets. The widths of the machines are 500, 660 and 860 mm and the suction cylinder folding principle makes it possible to convert a wide range of different raw materials.
Sierem, Comines, France, offers inte- grated packaging solutions with its stacker and bagger machinery. The lines can process up to 60 bags per minute of adult and baby diapers and up to 70 bags per minute of adult incontinence products. Sierem is now represented in the U.S. through Roger C. Daigel Corporation, Salem, NH.
Singer Spezilanadelfabrik, Aa- chen, Germany, offers hard wear coating and chromium bases for sig- nificantly enhanced needle life. The process increases the lifetime of the needle for both die pressed and con- ventional barb systems.
Sonobond Ultrasonics, West- chester, PA, has expanded its “SeamMaster” line of ultrasonic bonding equipment to include spe- cialized bonders for specific applica- tions. The new machines, including “SeamMaster 86,” “SeamMaster 10,” “SeamMaster with Flying Cutter” and “SeamMaster Modules,” allow manufacturers to choose equipment that best meets their requirements.
Spintec, Greer, SC, now offers melt blown coreless filter cartridge mak- ers as well as a service for existing melt blown machines to cut down energy consumption. In spunlace technology, the company offers major components such as jet mani- folds, water handling, pumping and recycling systems, web supporting drums and water filtration systems.
A manufacturer of equipment for high speed dispensing of hot melts, cold adhesives and fluids, Spraymation, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, offers “Electro- matic” applicator heads for ply-bonding and laminating applications. New CD timing control units including digital display are adjustable in 0.1 millisec- ond implements.
SSP & Technology, Garlasco, Italy, has made strategic alliances in the machinery manufacturing industry including acquiring an interest in suppliers Laben and BMA. The com- pany has also consolidated its joint venture with Germany-based BHT- Bicma for the manufacture of pro- duction lines with five units current- ly under assembly and testing. SSP is also developing a new machine to produce an elastic baby pant and an adult product featuring an integral waist band as well as a machine to produce a winged adult diaper.
Stork Brabant, Boxmeer, The Netherlands, has developed a hot melt screen unit for applying hot melt on web materials such as thin elastic membranes, nonwovens, tex- tiles and foam. Advantages of the unit include good application unifor- mity, simple operation and high uptime of the machine.
N. Tonawanda, NY-based Taber Industries’ “Model 6000-Wear Photometer” is a light transmission wear analyzer. Used in conjunction with standard abrasion testers, the instrument measures the amount of light transmitted through a sample allowing users to quantify wear point for a variety of nonwoven materials and other textile mill products where durability and abra- sion resistance is needed.
The “Model ATS-600” from Thwing Albert Testing Systems, Phila- delphia, PA, provides accurate, repeat- able, operator independent absorbency test results for the nonwovens indus- try. The system uses a highly accurate and reliable optical sensing system rather than an electronic balance to provide absorption and desorption rates and capacity measurements.
“Performance Series” knifeholders from Camas, WA-based Tidland are designed to provide web operators the quickest, most accurate and reliable set ups resulting in remarkably increased productivity. Features include a modular mount, great flexi- bility and a removable blade cartridge.
Varemac, Marnate, Italy, has devel- oped a spunbond plant for fine denier yarn with higher working speed and output. In general, production ranges from 14-150 gpsm for spunbond materials for sanitary applications, clothing, agriculture and upholstery. British Columbia, Canada-based
Voith Paper’s “Fibron 3000” system is a conveyor threading system that incorporates a revolutionary, high power, internal drive with a fully inte- grated control system. The system provides complete threading system automation, performance logging and remote trouble shooting capabilities.
“Basic Design” from W+D Mach- inery Company, Neuwied, Germany, reaches a production speed of 175 meters per minute when producing simple, straight forward panty shields. The machine can also pro- duce sanitary napkins and light incontinence products.
Webex, Neenah, WI, now offers three separate lightweight, low-inertia rolls designed to optimize the handling of nonwoven webs by running wider, lighter webs with low tensions or min- imal wraps at higher speeds. The three rolls are dubbed “FeatherLight,” “UltraLight” and “LightWeight.”
Werner Mathis U.S.A., Concord, NC, has introduced a laboratory air through dryer for drying, hardening and thermal bonding wet laid non- wovens. The sheet unit handles sam- ples 11 by 14 inches and has a maxi- mum dryer temperature of 482°C.
New from WTI, Rockford, IL, is a newly designed “Jumbo Roll Rewind System” for all types of nonwoven sub- strates. The new center-wind rewind systems can accommodate rolls up to 72 inches in diameter, web widths to 86 inches and speeds to 2000 FPM.
Yorktown Precision Techno- logies, Yorktown, IN, manufactur- ers rotary tools for the nonwovens industry. Offerings include wet blast finishing on embossing rolls, equipment rebuilds and reverse engineering.
New from Zima/Küsters, Spar- tanburg, SC, is the Küsters Thermobonding Calender which has been purchased by a key play- er in the worldwide roll goods industry.
A special feature of this calen- der is that the change of the elec- trically heated “Isotherm Roll” roll in hot conditions can be made with- in 20 minutes compared to a total of eight to 10 hours for an oil heated roll.
Hillside, NJ-based Accurate Products Co. has supplied a 40-inch melt blown die system to Kobelco, Tokyo, Japan, for its pilot line in Harima, Japan. The start-up of the SMS pilot line took place in early June and combines Accurate Products’ melt blown technology with Kobelco’s spunbond know-how. The companies have an agreement to supply SMS machines while incorporating each others’ propri- etary nonwovens technologies.
New products from AccuSentry, Marietta, GA, include the “Sentry 9000-D” diaper inspection system, which now includes a complete reporting system integrating statis- tics, machine information and inspection results for production machine enhancements. AccuSentry has also introduced the new “Sentry 9000-AD” adult incontinence inspec- tion system using virtual camera technology to inspect adult products with twice the resolution in half the space.
American Textile Machinery, Athens, GA, has recently sold two complete unidirectional lines to Mexican company Padsa. The machines are designed for saturation and thermal bonding. Furthermore, several Polish companies are build- ing a “4 Doffer” card (designed by ATM president Harry Walczyk) and a “Carousel Spreader.”
A new web formation system from Bematic, Prato, Italy, and a double belt oven from Bombi Maccanica, Mugello, Italy, can process any kind of fibers including shoddy, polyester, cotton, wool, coconut and jut. These fibers can be mixed with grinded paper and wooden fibers and polyurethane foam for application in many applications. Advantages include lower costs, higher produc- tion rates and minimal space.
Bettarini & Serafini, Prato, Italy, has developed the “Bemaformer.” The system is considered the third generation in nonwoven production after traditional carding and air laid. Features include simplicity, economical investment and the pos- sibility of processing all kinds of fibers at production speeds up to 3500 kilograms per hour.
BHT-Bicma, Basaltweg, Germany, has been steadily developing new features for its high speed panty shield, sanitary napkin and diaper machinery. In the last year, BHT- Bicma has supplied air laid equip- ment to the feminine hygiene and diaper markets. These machines reform ultra-thin, binderless cores, which offer high efficiency and raw material cost savings.
Biax-Fiberfilm, Greenville, WI, has implemented a new procedure for manufacturing spinnerettes. The company can now make a higher hermetic seal on each of its nozzles and can rebuild its spinnerettes and individually replace damaged or plugged nozzles. The company has also developed a dual bank die, which will bring the capacity to 400 nozzles per inch. A spunbond attach- ment and a filter cartridge machine are expected to be complete soon.
Cavitec AG, Munchwilen, Switzer- land, has added direct knife coating plants, hot melt coating and lamina- tion lines, powder, paste and double dot coating lines, horizontal and ver- tical impregnation plants and scat- ter coating systems.
A. Celli, Porcari, Italy, has expand- ed its production capabilities with the acquisition of a 10,000-square- meter building in Tassignano, Italy. The new facility, which will be equipped with numeric controlled tooling machinery and a new erec- tion and testing department, is expected to begin operation at the beginning of 2002. The company also opened a branch office in Shanghai, China in June. A. Cellidevelops air laid winders, slitter- rewinders and laminators for the nonwovens industry.
Northbrook, IL-based Chicago Cutting Die now offers thungsten carbide and powdered metal rotary cutting dies in addition to its already popular tool steel dies. All tooling can be configured as seg- ments, sleeves or as solid shafts. The company’s new CCD Cutting Module allows all grades of dies to perform at maximum machine effi- ciencies. Standard features include integrated steel construction, preci- sion machine and ground, precision manufacture wear resistant alloy steel bearing housings, high preci- sion, high capacity and long life bearings.
Busto Arsizio, Italy-based Comerio Ercole specializes in producing high speed calenders for thermal and spunbonding. Most recently the company has introduced a process for embossing and laminating polypropylene and polyester plastic film with nonwoven webs.
Goddard, KS-based Contech’s sheeter/ slitter/rewinder offers accuracy and versatility. The system uses micro- processor controls, servo increments and electrically driven cutter sys- tems to feed materials from single or multiple unwinders. The company also offers stacking machinery.
Corfine, Muncie, IN, has developed a unique die cutting system that allows simultaneous die cutting and edge sealing capabilities. The sys- tem mechanically and/or thermally seals the edges of a die cut part.
New from Dell ’Orco, Capalle, Italy, is a blending system called “Dyna- mix,” which allows the continuous feeding of different components of a blend, the precise control of quanti- ties of each component, the careful opening of each component and the blending of the single fibers in an air flow. The system includes two to six feeding stations as well as a central computerized position for the man- agement of data and the control of percentages of single components.
With research and development cen- ters in the U.S., Germany and Hungary, Dienes Group, Vilkerath, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of slitter tooling and slitting sys- tems. The fully automatic and com- puterized Dienes positioning system “Module IV” achieves the most pre- cise positioning accuracy as well as the fastest strip width adjustment. The company’s “Elite” knife holders feature patented vertical and hori- zontal guidance in conjunction with individual motorized bottom knife stations.
Dilo System Group, Eberbach, Germany, has new air laid cards for hygiene products featuring batts with random fiber orientation and an even MD/CD strength ratio. The new “Turbocard” model series combines a roller card section for opening to sin- gle fiber with a turbo-roller for aero- dynamic web forming on a suction conveyor. Furthermore, the compa- ny’s “Hyperpunch” needling can reduce weight variations below 1% when used with the Autefa profiling crosslapper.
The two piece “MCP-2000” core plug from Double E, West Bridgewater, MA, is a lightweight solution for handling large rolls. Offering strength and durability, the MCP- 2000 is light enough to be lifted and maneuvered into place with little effort. Once in place, the activating shaft is inserted to expand the gripping cage.
Tension control manufacturer Dover Flexo Electronics, Rochester, NH, has released a special option for idler-roll tension transducer pairs. This integrated interface/amplifier outputs a 10 volt DC signal propor- tional to tension, eliminating the need to install an extra transducer interface/amplifier card when purchasing a pair of tension transducers.
Now available from Dukane, St. Charles, IL, is the “DLSM 360-20” ultrasonic sewing machine. Typical applications for the DLSM are dis- posable booties, gowns, wipes and hair nets.
ECC Platt s.a., Roubaix, France, a specialist in metallic wire for roller cards, is launching a new wire gen- eration. The “Sirolock” wire and the “Weblock” wire are both patented wires designed for better fiber con- trol. It significantly improves the average fiber height by reducing the fiber recycling on cylinders.
Elbit Vision Systems, Yoqneam, Israel, offers the “I-TEX” automatic fabric inspection systems. The “I- TEX 1000” is used to inspect greige 100% cotton and cotton polyester fabrics and the “I-TEX 2000” system inspects processed and finished cot- ton and cotton blended fabrics for shirting and bottom wears.
The latest product from Emberte Corporation, Wayne, NJ, “Towers Machinery 440” slitter and winder features a single shaft rewind. The combination of a driven center re- wind and top pivotal cutting/pressure roller assembly prevents interlocking of adjacent cut rolls and provides for minimum downtime without unnecessary lifting and handling.
Enka tecnica, Heinsberg, Germany, is currently completing a capacity expansion to produce long plate spin- nerets and dies. The new equipment will increase the company’s capacity of spinnerets with lengths up to six meters. Two more machines will be delivered later this year.
A supplier of machinery for stacking and packaging hygiene products, Fameccanica.Data S.p.A., Teatino, Italy, has introduced several new machines. The “Model FA-X Superstar H.S.” for the manufactur- ing of baby diapers features enhanced raw material feeding systems. The company manufactures similar machinery for developing training pants. Other new machines include “Model FNL Premium,” “Model FAST,” “Model FIX Evolution,” “Model FA-X Profit,” “Model ROR” and “Model RAD-DUAL.”
Fehrer AG, Linz, Austria, is improving its web forming machin- ery demonstration center. Included in these improvements is a new fiber preparation unit with mixing and opening systems, which will offer customers a complete production chain from bale to finished product that can then be needled and/or thermal bonded.
Fife Corporation, Oklahoma City, OK, has introduced the “SE-38 First*Edge,” a threshold-based edge scan sensor that eliminates the effect of opacity variations in nonwo- ven materials. The SE-38 can detect the first edge of a web and ignores any subsequent material voids or porosity. Additionally, the company’s “SE-31-IS Intrinsically Safe Ultra- sonic Sensor” is designed for haz- ardous areas where safety is the pri- mary issue. This sensor is unaffect- ed by optical variations or ambient light, eliminating the need for multi- ple sensors, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
The “AquaSplit” machine from Fleissner, Egelsbach, Germany, has the ability to split fibers for spunlacing to produce webs with smooth surface, high density and fine porosity. The system can handle man- made and cellulose fibers.
Gaston Systems, Stanley, NC, has expanded its technology portfolio. The company can now provide machinery for healthcare products, carbon fiber substrates and automotive products.
Gevas Verpackungmaschinen, Halle-Westfalen, Germany, has final- ized construction on its U.S. facility in Boynton Beach, FL. The company has also improved its automatic dia- per packaging machines and upgrad- ed options for its bundling and over- wrapping machines.
GreCon, Tigard, OR, has introduced a new online moisture measuring system. The “MWF 3000” provides accurate, real time moisture analy- sis in ambient conditions up to 110°C and is unaffected by irregu- larities in product density or color.
Groz-Beckert, Albstadt, Germany, has received a new needleloom to improve customer service including dynamic penetration for measurements, material analysis and needle evaluation. In addition to basic trials and needle developments, Groz-Beckert is able to achieve product development and project realization as well as optimization of the needling process. The latest development in the fork needle range is Groz-Beckert’s 43 gg nee- dle.
Gualchierani Textile Automa- tion, Greensboro, NC, has devel- oped an innovative bale press which requires low maintenance and low energy costs and can be automated. The bale press is available at a com- petitive price allowing more nonwo- ven producers to justify making their own fiber.
Hastem Transportbander, Nord- lingen, Germany, has improved its slat and needle slat apron manufac- turing program to feature antistatic features. Furthermore, the slat sur- faces were developed to guarantee good web fixing.
Hauser, Spartanburg, SC, offers single or double head quilting sys- tems with frame sawing, automated bag loading and continuous feed. Other offerings include cutting and stacking systems, sheeting and spreading systems, driven un- winders for large rolls and automat- ed sewing systems for air bags and other applications.
Recently introduced by Blackborn, U.K.-based Hollingsworth is the “Enhanced Point” doffer wire. When installed on cards for non- wovens applications, the wire pro- duces more uniform web struc- tures for light- and medium- weight products. The wire allows for wider settings between cylin- ders and doffers on high-production cards.
Ibis International, Hoschton, GA, has introduced an air and fiber reclaim system that is ideal for high speed baby diaper machines. The company has also refined its “Central Vacuum System” for the removal of superabsorbent polymer dust with compressed air.
Idrosistem Energy srl, Bassano del Grappa, Italy, has been involved in water treatment and spunlacing for many years and now operates more than 15 plants around the world. The company’s filter system dramatically reduces consumption of water in a system to nearly zero.
The latest innovation from Independent Machine, Fairfield, NJ, is the “Smartwinders-2000” cube system offering flexibility, high performance and cost savings for spooling a wide range of materials. The Smartwinders-2000 is a com- pletely self-contained computerized cube that can be used alone or with a series of units.
New from Innovent, Peabody, MA, is a hot air bonding system for spun- bonded applications. This patent pending system uses hot air bonding that is directly applied on a web col- lection system. Heated air is passed through the web and drawn through the microporous foil surface of the drum during the lay-down process.
Interweb, Somerset, U.K., is contin- uing the design, development and manufacture of machinery. The com- pany recently developed several needlelooms for specialized applications.
The “Virtual AC” static neutralizer from Ion Systems, Windsor Locks, CT, is capable of powering up to 30 feet of static neutralizing bars. The system’s modular design allows users to connect multiple bars in a daisy chain configuration to achieve the desired length across the web.
New from Italiana Rigenzione, Greensboro, NC, is a system that reopens, cleans and makes fiber out of carpet waste. The fiber is then reused in nonwovens. The company also supplies edge trim and roll good openers for automotive waste.
ITW Dynatec, Hendersonville, TN, has introduced the “Integra SCS” strand coating system, featuring LPT technology for disposable prod- ucts. The Integra SCS includes a complete single port “Dynafiber LPT” intermittent applicator, patented “LPT Omega” nozzle and patent pending precision strand guiding system.
Jossi Systems, Islikon, Switzer- land, has developed a complete line of nonwovens inspection, monitoring and detection products. The compa- ny is represented by Batson Yarn and Fabrics Machinery Group, Greenville, SC, in the U.S.
Kinetik Enterprises, Duncan, SC, has formed a liaison with Mai Heidenheim, a manufacturer of unwinding and rewinding systems. This new partnership allows the company to offer pioneering winding and slitting technology to the non- wovens industry.
KT Equipment International, Winnipeg, Canada, has recently introduced a new line of high speed spooling equipment. This new equipment allows KT to unwind, slit and spool material at 3000 fpm. The equipment also offers improved operating efficiency with an innova- tive design that allows the operator to resume winding on new cores before the completed spools are fully unloaded, minimizing down- time. Each module can be built with two, four or eight spooling positions and arranged in multiple modules to achieve throughput requirements.
Larson-Burton, Loves Park, IL, offers a new style of lap splice that is extremely innovative and gener- ates higher profit margins. This new lap splice offers a knife/tape lap splice with no leading edge to dis- turb the production process and waste time.
The new “SVS-2000XF” with Eagle Eye Camera from Lasor Systro- nics, Norcross, GA, provides photo quality images of defects. The modu- lar system combines superior defect inspection and visualization and the open architecture allows real time inspection information.
M&J Fibretech, Horsens, Den- mark, offers a machinery process that forms a ply of air laid cellulose fibers on a multicarded web and then bonds the web with a spunlace process. The company has supplied this process to at least three roll goods producers.
Among the machinery offered by Magetron SrL, Greensboro, NC, are batt compression units for pack- aging and transporting soft roll goods. This system can reduce space requirements up to 50%.
From Mahlo GmbH, Donau, Germany, and Mahlo America, Spartanburg, SC, is a new version of the “QMS-10A” quality control sys- tem to ensure the quality and process efficiency of nonwoven pro- duction ranges. The new platform is modular in design and can be equipped to provide real time, pre- cise measurement of weight, thick- ness and moisture.
McBride Machine Division of McGuckin & Pyle, Downington, PA, has added a lab-sized film lami- nator to its facility and product line. The laminator can run 15-60 ypm and will run up to 32-inch web widths. The company has also added a hot oil laminator to its line-up.
Portland, ME-based Montalvo’s new line of “SKL Safety Chucks” are designed for easy installation and long service life. The chucks provide a safe and effective way of coupling torque devices to shafted unwinds or rewinds.
Luigi Moroni, Vanzago, Italy, has introduced a line for the production of cellulose and/or ultra thin sani- tary napkins with a production speed of 500 pieces per minute. The line is easy to run, economical and produces competitive end products, meeting the demand for more sophisticated lines. The online surface inspection systems from NanoSystems, Bochum, Ger- many, can detect defects such as spots, gels, contaminations, black specks and holes. Defect images in photo quality allow the user to find the cause and the occurrence of the defects.
NDC Infrared Engineering, Irwindale, CA, has unveiled “AccuProbe,” a slimmed down, low cost version of the popular gamma gauge that accurately and continu- ously measures the basis weights of nonwoven and textile web products. It can be used in spunbond, melt blown, carded, air laid, wet laid and needlepunched nonwovens as well as in textile applications.
Newco Enterprises, Fairburn, GA, is an authorized rebuilder of Nordson, J&M Labs and Meltex equipment. The company is also a national dis- tributor of high performance roll coatings for the nonwovens industry.
New from Nippon Nozzle, Kobe, Japan, are spunlaced jet strips with capillary diameters of less than 0.1 mm. Nippon Nozzle’s new thin-plate spinneret manufacturing technology allows for smaller orifices in spun- laced strips while maintaining the quality of the waterjet produced.
Nonwoven Technologies, Oyster Bay, NY, has developed new melt blown row spinneret dies. The com- pany expects the new stainless steel dies to open up opportunities in the medical, pharmaceutical and filtration industries.
Nordson Corporation, Norcross, GA, has expanded its line of adhesive appli- cators with the “Summit” applicator and the “ES400” electric applicator and driver. The Summit applicators pre- cisely apply adhesive fibers for elastic attachments and laminating applica- tions using four radially tangential air jets to oscillate a single fiber.
Nordson Fiber Systems, Dawson- ville, GA, supplies equipment tech- nology for production of mono-compo- nent and bi-component melt blown, spunbond and composite substrates. This equipment can produce a full range of disposable and durable products. Development of the “Center of Excellence,” including a 1.117 meter SMXS bi-component composite line, demonstrates the Nordson commit- ment to the fibers industry.
Ommi SpA, Greensboro, NC, pro- duces more than 10 types of openers for the nonwovens industry. The company’s “VFO/CL” can open sili- conized polyester fibers withoutstressing and the “Fearnaught” can open 200 denier, eight inch fibers.
O.R.M.A. SpA, Rufina, Italy, has created a new material for manufac- turing rotary dies. This material can offer reliable and efficient rotary dies at reasonable prices.
The “Phoenix Composite Filter System” from Osprey, Atlanta, GA, is designed for the innovative use of fil- ters to further enhance the perform- ance of the company’s rotating drum design. The system uses a specialized multi-stage filter sequence to achieve the ultimate in air purification.
Among the products manufactured by ORV SpA Engineering Division, Padova, Italy, are spun- bonding machinery and coating lines. The company’s goal is to meet the needs of its customers.
Paper Machine Converting Com- pany, Green Bay, WI, has patented a clipper link technology that allows the company’s “Clipper Series Wipes System” to cut changeover time up to 75%. This versatile system produces wet or dry wipes in clips which are linked together. The system can change over 20 (instead of 80) count rolls and can run a large range of different wipe configurations and folds. Additional features include: quicker changeover, versatile sheet counts, interfolded and non-interfolded, production of pop-up wipes and modular design.
Parkinson Technologies, Woon-socket, RI, has added 20,00 square feet to its facility to provide space for its Marshall and Williams Plastics Laboratory. The expansion is expect- ed to be complete by early October.
B.F. Perkins, Rochester, NY, has completed its laboratory/demonstra- tion calendering facility, which is available for use by customers to run product development trials. Capa- bilities include four roll configura- tions, higher speeds and pressures, laminating, advanced web tension control systems and rapid roll change.
Pneumafil Corporation, Charlotte, NC, is introducing the “Everclean” module system for the separation, recycling and filtration of cellulose fibers and superabsorbent polymers from conveying air streams. The self- cleaning rotary pleated belt filter cleans online and is fitted with high efficiency PTFE filter media.
P+S Mako, Michelbach, Germany, has a new converter for nursing pads. The production line system offers integrated pulp defibration, filter units, unwinding, drum form- ing and SAP application capabilities.
Quickdraft, Canton, OH, is apply- ing its “QMR” air/material separator to systems supplied to the nonwo- vens industry. This compact, cylin- drical unit is designed specifically for indoor installation.
Rieter Perfojet, Montbonnet, France, has introduced a spunlace/air laid combination machine designed for the high speed production of wet wipes. The “Airlace 3000” system fea- tures uniformity, lower energy requirements for bonding, softness, absorption, cost effectiveness and a short return on investment. The com- pany also offers the “Jetlace 3000” spunlace system and “Perfobond 3000” spunbond machine.
RML Services, Lugano, Switzerland, provides fully renovated adult, baby and sanitary napkins converting lines. The company has recently signed a contract to promote new con- verting lines of same range of prod- ucts. The company’s construction technology is based on a reduced num- ber of components and high reduction of maintenance and spare parts costs with high machine efficiency.
Robo Products, Nederland, The Netherlands, offers products for the online cleaning of spray cabin wires for the air laid industry. The “Smart Cleaner” washes fabric while the “Slitter Units” use high pressure water.
Roehlen Engraving, Rochester, NY, has upgraded its old world craftsman- ship by adding state-of-the-art digital technology. This technology includes new scanning, three-dimensional laser, wax jet and CNC capabilities that match current specifications.
A new concept for the production of baby diapers has been developed by Sanimac S.r.l. The company’s machines feature robustness, sim- plicity, efficiency, flexibility and modularity.
Due to a recent takeover of new technology, Schaetti AG, Walli- sellen, Switzerland, now offers a comprehensive range in the dry and wet laminating sector. For instance, the newly developed “Flatbed- Laminating Line” offers consider- able simultaneous bonding.
The NSC nonwoven activity division of the NSC Group (Schlumberger) will soon unveil the technological launch of a new generation of machin- ery/process. This technology completes the one which is successfully used in “Isoweb” (lines, composed of cards, crosslappers and drafters). The princi- ple behind the machine called “AirWeb” is based on the judicious con- trol of a very high air flow which per- mits the optimization of the output and efficiently concentrates a pre- determined fiber mass. AirWebÆ can produce webs or fiber batts ranging from 35 to 150 g/m≤ under special MD and CD result conditions as well as elongation under load.
SDF, Monheim, Germany, offers high speed fold machines for wipes and napkins and rotary cross cutters for place mats, washing cloths, head rest covers and hospital sheets. The widths of the machines are 500, 660 and 860 mm and the suction cylinder folding principle makes it possible to convert a wide range of different raw materials.
Sierem, Comines, France, offers inte- grated packaging solutions with its stacker and bagger machinery. The lines can process up to 60 bags per minute of adult and baby diapers and up to 70 bags per minute of adult incontinence products. Sierem is now represented in the U.S. through Roger C. Daigel Corporation, Salem, NH.
Singer Spezilanadelfabrik, Aa- chen, Germany, offers hard wear coating and chromium bases for sig- nificantly enhanced needle life. The process increases the lifetime of the needle for both die pressed and con- ventional barb systems.
Sonobond Ultrasonics, West- chester, PA, has expanded its “SeamMaster” line of ultrasonic bonding equipment to include spe- cialized bonders for specific applica- tions. The new machines, including “SeamMaster 86,” “SeamMaster 10,” “SeamMaster with Flying Cutter” and “SeamMaster Modules,” allow manufacturers to choose equipment that best meets their requirements.
Spintec, Greer, SC, now offers melt blown coreless filter cartridge mak- ers as well as a service for existing melt blown machines to cut down energy consumption. In spunlace technology, the company offers major components such as jet mani- folds, water handling, pumping and recycling systems, web supporting drums and water filtration systems.
A manufacturer of equipment for high speed dispensing of hot melts, cold adhesives and fluids, Spraymation, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, offers “Electro- matic” applicator heads for ply-bonding and laminating applications. New CD timing control units including digital display are adjustable in 0.1 millisec- ond implements.
SSP & Technology, Garlasco, Italy, has made strategic alliances in the machinery manufacturing industry including acquiring an interest in suppliers Laben and BMA. The com- pany has also consolidated its joint venture with Germany-based BHT- Bicma for the manufacture of pro- duction lines with five units current- ly under assembly and testing. SSP is also developing a new machine to produce an elastic baby pant and an adult product featuring an integral waist band as well as a machine to produce a winged adult diaper.
Stork Brabant, Boxmeer, The Netherlands, has developed a hot melt screen unit for applying hot melt on web materials such as thin elastic membranes, nonwovens, tex- tiles and foam. Advantages of the unit include good application unifor- mity, simple operation and high uptime of the machine.
N. Tonawanda, NY-based Taber Industries’ “Model 6000-Wear Photometer” is a light transmission wear analyzer. Used in conjunction with standard abrasion testers, the instrument measures the amount of light transmitted through a sample allowing users to quantify wear point for a variety of nonwoven materials and other textile mill products where durability and abra- sion resistance is needed.
The “Model ATS-600” from Thwing Albert Testing Systems, Phila- delphia, PA, provides accurate, repeat- able, operator independent absorbency test results for the nonwovens indus- try. The system uses a highly accurate and reliable optical sensing system rather than an electronic balance to provide absorption and desorption rates and capacity measurements.
“Performance Series” knifeholders from Camas, WA-based Tidland are designed to provide web operators the quickest, most accurate and reliable set ups resulting in remarkably increased productivity. Features include a modular mount, great flexi- bility and a removable blade cartridge.
Varemac, Marnate, Italy, has devel- oped a spunbond plant for fine denier yarn with higher working speed and output. In general, production ranges from 14-150 gpsm for spunbond materials for sanitary applications, clothing, agriculture and upholstery. British Columbia, Canada-based
Voith Paper’s “Fibron 3000” system is a conveyor threading system that incorporates a revolutionary, high power, internal drive with a fully inte- grated control system. The system provides complete threading system automation, performance logging and remote trouble shooting capabilities.
“Basic Design” from W+D Mach- inery Company, Neuwied, Germany, reaches a production speed of 175 meters per minute when producing simple, straight forward panty shields. The machine can also pro- duce sanitary napkins and light incontinence products.
Webex, Neenah, WI, now offers three separate lightweight, low-inertia rolls designed to optimize the handling of nonwoven webs by running wider, lighter webs with low tensions or min- imal wraps at higher speeds. The three rolls are dubbed “FeatherLight,” “UltraLight” and “LightWeight.”
Werner Mathis U.S.A., Concord, NC, has introduced a laboratory air through dryer for drying, hardening and thermal bonding wet laid non- wovens. The sheet unit handles sam- ples 11 by 14 inches and has a maxi- mum dryer temperature of 482°C.
New from WTI, Rockford, IL, is a newly designed “Jumbo Roll Rewind System” for all types of nonwoven sub- strates. The new center-wind rewind systems can accommodate rolls up to 72 inches in diameter, web widths to 86 inches and speeds to 2000 FPM.
Yorktown Precision Techno- logies, Yorktown, IN, manufactur- ers rotary tools for the nonwovens industry. Offerings include wet blast finishing on embossing rolls, equipment rebuilds and reverse engineering.
New from Zima/Küsters, Spar- tanburg, SC, is the Küsters Thermobonding Calender which has been purchased by a key play- er in the worldwide roll goods industry.
A special feature of this calen- der is that the change of the elec- trically heated “Isotherm Roll” roll in hot conditions can be made with- in 20 minutes compared to a total of eight to 10 hours for an oil heated roll.