The machinery and equipment market has not taken a summer vacation this year. In fact, this segment of the nonwovens value chain seems to be working harder than ever. In the past several weeks, we have seen significant innovation in the category, much of which is aiming to make the nonwovens production or converting process more streamlined and more flexible than ever before.  Consider, for example, A. Celli’s latest rewinder. By optimizing production and incrementing line productivity, Tandem—as it’s called—which functions as an additional rewinder external to the production line, manages shifts in volume, diameter and cuttings formats while guaranteeing extra capacity at peak production.
 
A.Celli executives say this new development answers the need for production optimization and increased line efficiency at a minimum investment.

Also, helping its customers cut costs is GDM with its Option Zero platform, which is described as a cutting edge program to limit raw material waste. This series of solutions include programs to eliminate trim waste, defects, glue and even wasted time from manufacturing platforms. According to the Italian hygiene products machinery maker, it is efforts like these that illustrate its commitment to turning sustainability into value. By achieving a 30% raw material savings, a diaper maker not only contributes to its earnings, it also limits the amount of material that ultimately goes into a landfill­—achieving a win-win situation.

The reduction of waste and the streamlining of costs have been two issues plaguing the nonwovens industry since the early days and machinery and equipment manufacturers have been leading the way. Recent factors like raw material volatility, eco-awareness and an ever more watchful eye on the bottom line have only made these issues more important than ever.

In this issue, we present our annual look at activity in the Machinery & Equipment segment (see page 28) and we found that many companies, not just A.Celli and GDM, are working hard to help the nonwovens industry change with the times.

Also, this month we report on the Medical Market, which is rising to a number of challenges. As the global population continues to
grey, the medical community must find new ways to meet its needs whether it be with new solutions for adult incontinence or bed sores or a more effective method of in-bed bathing. Meanwhile, hospital acquired infections (HAIs) and the threat of infectious diseases continues to be a top priority.  The nonwovens industry surely has the tools to help the medical community combat these issues, and many companies are stepping up with new products and strategies for this market. Associate editor Tara Olivo takes a detailed look at the medical market on page 56.

As always, we appreciate your comments.

Karen McIntyre
editor
kmcintyre@rodmanmedia.com