2022 Machinery & Equipment Review

A.Celli Nonwovens

A.Celli Nonwovens, a current leader in its market, has been manufacturing nonwoven machinery for over 75 years.

The Italian company offers, under the E-WIND brand, a comprehensive range of Master Roll Winders & Slitter Rewinders featuring state-of-the-art solutions for the production of spunbond, spunmelt, spunlace and airlaid reels, with a special focus on lightweight fabrics and high-speed production. Finishing & reprocessing lines, flexographic printers, Industry 4.0 software applications and solutions for the automation of roll handling and warehousing operations complete the machinery range.

Specifically, R-WAY is the product family dedicated to the automation of intralogistics. A.Celli’s AGVs, available in numerous configurations, can conveniently perform repetitive, exhausting and hazardous tasks faster, more efficiently and for extended periods, while a company’s skilled personnel can focus on higher value-added activities. The immediate advantages of their adoption include:

• Reduction of personnel, energy and rental costs
• Higher productivity and flexibility
• Greater speed and precision
• Increased operator safety
• Guaranteed integrity of goods during handling
• Elimination of accidental product contamination

All this goes hand in hand with A.Celli’s Automated Warehouse systems, modular solutions designed according to a customer’s needs to further increase reliability and efficiency of processes such as storage, picking and handling of goods.

Finally, A.Celli R-WAY Integrated Solutions ensure full traceability of inventory by utilizing several technologies of data collection systems, namely vision systems and RFID tag readers, integrated with MESs, ERPs and proprietary software.
www.acelli.it

Absolut Manufacturing

An American manufacturer fast-tracked the development of a new machine to solve the critical need for canister wipes, which have been in short supply during Covid-19.

Earlier 2021, Absolut Manufacturing successfully launched the Absolut WiNDR, a coreless slit rewinder that creates medical and industrial wipes used for cleaning and disinfecting. Invented in partnership with C. G. Bretting Manufacturing Co., Inc., the breakthrough technology of the WiNDR offers an effective solution for converters. 

“We are excited to provide a world-class offering capable of outperforming all others in this arena,” says Ricky Bretting, engineering manager at Absolut Manufacturing. “As with all Bretting companies, Absolut is committed to delivering on our promise to provide the gold standard of support and service to the marketplace.”

Along with the great support and service, the WiNDR is the fastest slit nonwoven rewinder on the market, running 800 fpm.
In 2019, Absolut Manufacturing established a 30,000-square-foot facility in Iron River, WI, that allows it to design, manufacture, and assemble in the heart of America. The manufacturer makes wet wipe, napkin, tissue and towel machines in addition to other dry and wet substrates converting machines, interfolders and rewinders. It’s backed by the 130-year-old, fifth-generation family-owned American business C. G. Bretting Manufacturing Co., Inc.
www.absolutmfg.com

Air Systems Design

Air Systems Design is a leader in the nonwovens industry for pneumatic conveying and material handling. ASDI has been serving the industry for 40 years and its goal is to design the most efficient pneumatic conveying systems to meet or exceed its customers’ needs. ASDI offers complete turn key system, design of the system, engineering, fabrication, installation and startup.

ASDI’s typical nonwoven system will have source capture hoods, duct work, fans and filtration equipment. The dust hoods will capture the fiber, dust and waste product at the machine. The company installs high slot velocity hoods on Air Laden Lines and other types of converting equipment, such as unwind stands, back stands and winders. The dust and materials are captured at the hoods and conveyed in the duct work with the use of fans. The fiber, dust and materials are separated from the air with a dust filtration system. ASDI’s filtration systems are designed to separate the larger fibers and materials from the air stream then filter the fine particulate (dust) out of the air up to 99.9% efficient. The dust filtration is done with wet scrubbers and dry filters such as cartridge collectors, bag houses and drum filters. The guidelines by the National Emphasis Program in cooperation with the NFPA, FM and OSHA can alter the decision toward the type of filter. The need for explosion venting and chemical suppression is required on most filters systems except drum filters. ASDI’s drum filter system is designed to eliminate the need of these safety protocols.  

The company also designs and install trim and scrap systems. It captures edge trim at the machine with its high-efficient hoods, convey the material to an inline chopper, chopper fan, and/or a shredder. The trim and scrap are then separated out of the air stream for baling or briquetting for resale or disposal. 

ASDI strives to provide competitive pricing while offering the best available equipment (including hoods, fans, ductwork, filters, shredders, and balers) with the best warranty from one source. 
www.airsystemsdesign.com

Alliance Machine and Engraving

Alliance Machine and Engraving’s core competencies include industrial roller engraving, which is centered around pattern design, analysis, enhancement and etching, and the manufacture of calendaring, thermo-bonding and embossing machinery. Headquartered and produced in the USA, known for their simple, robust designs, Alliance machines have provided thousands of hours of trouble-free use in the most demanding environments. Their technicians, averaging 24 years of experience each, provide on-site specialized servicing integral to keeping lines up and running. Plus, by utilizing domestic components and stocking spares, they have managed to mitigate overseas transportation issues. Now as the exclusive distributor and fabricator of Sirtres brand heavy wall nylon rolls, they offer polyamide shell options for a unique combination of resilience, heat resistance, fine finish and wearability. Thanks to an investment in the latest generation Keyence scanning technology, Alliance can measure and quantify surface topography down to micron level. Which translates in accurate geometries, land areas, volumes and quality control.

What makes Alliance different? For starters, you’re more likely to find the president Tom Greenberg working on the shop floor or assisting with a machine commissioning than in the front office. Secondly, they’re small enough to react quickly and be flexible. Case in point is the recent project for which they designed and built several large turret calenders/thermo-bonders. Their customer wanted to minimize line down time while being able to run three different configurations for three different accounts. Instead of a shift long changeover process, Alliance designed and built a system to switch bonding patterns in a matter of minutes.

With roots going back to BF Perkins, Alliance Machine and Engraving continues to grow by following a simple credo: To be the most trusted and preferred supplier in the markets it serves.
www.alliancemachineandengraving.com

Andritz

Andritz Nonwoven is one of the world’s leading suppliers of technologies for the nonwoven and textile finishing industry. Its key competences lie in technologies for air-through bonding, airlay, needlepunch, spunlace, spunbond, wetlaid/Wetlace, converting, textile finishing, recycling and bast fiber processing.

With the acquisition of Andritz Laroche SAS, Andritz has enlarged its product portfolio to include airlay and recycling technologies as well as bast fiber processing technologies. One focus of this product range is complete recycling lines for post-consumer and industrial textile waste to produce fibers for re-spinning and/or nonwoven end-uses. Customer awareness and regulations are pushing clothing brands to recycle their textile waste in their own products. Recycled fibers can also be used in the nonwovens industry for various applications, such as automotive, insulation, mattresses and furniture felts.

Andritz Laroche offers a complete process range of tearing lines, from 50 up to 3000 kg/h, applicable to almost all types of pre/post-consumer waste textiles with the aim of maintaining the nature of the original fibers by, with cotton for example, maximizing fiber length, strength and feel. To support its customers, a process know-how team is at customers’ disposal to conduct customized trials in its advanced technical center located at its facilities in Cours, France.
www.andritz.com

ATI Corporation

ATI provides the North American market with a state-of-the-art laboratory and on-line testing machinery, as well as spare parts and consumables for all product lines. The ATI Technical Department performs and schedules calibrations and service for all instruments.

ATI’s products include testing equipment for air permeability, water resistance, tearing strength, abrasion, tensile strength, package integrity, as well as basic laboratory equipment. ATI instruments are used throughout the world in the nonwovens and packaging industries. 

ATI’s goal is to provide the marketplace with the most sophisticated state-of-the-art testing equipment available for today’s stringent quality control needs.
www.aticorporation.com

Autefa Solutions

For years, the nonwovens industry has been trying to reduce the weight while maintaining physical properties, providing savings in material costs and increasing operating speeds. Customers require machines and lines that are able to produce light weight fabrics without any compromises regarding material strength. Furthermore, growth in needlepunching technology remains very strong, a good example is Artificial Leather, also in terms of sustainability. Autefa Solutions serves the growing demand for applications such as filtration, paper maker felts and artificial leather that is also very important in terms of sustainability which is the main topic worldwide. With the increasing environmental awareness, the demand for renewable textiles is also growing day by day which causes geometric growth especially in the wood pulp technology segment.

Autefa’s customers are increasing the use of replacement fibers like recycled PET fibers, carbon fibers, reclaimed fibers as well as various natural fibers such as flax and hemp. Therefore, Autefa Solutions needlepunching machines have special options like optimized bed and stripper plates, advanced needle patterns with conical bed plate holes, and optimized feeding system for pre-needle looms. A dust extraction system is available and recommended when processing recycled and natural fibers, glass and short fibers, carbon and mineral fibers.

Autefa Solutions needlepunching lines distinguish themselves by easy operation, less energy consumptions/gsm, excellent and reliable product quality with reduced operation costs. Autefa Stylus needlelooms can process all fiber types. The needlelooms are designed to suit the required output and speed by adjusting the number of the drive modules. Autefa’s needlepunch lines produce an even and homogenous lightweight fabric with outstanding technical performance in terms of tensile strength and evenness (MD/CD ratio). A needlepunch production line consists of several steps such as opening & blending, carding, crosslapping and needling. The performances of such a line and the quality of the product in terms of appearance, evenness and mechanical characteristics depends on all steps. As a full line supplier, Autefa Solutions has worked for a long time to increase the performance and quality of each component and step of the line. As a result of this long-term work and the combined experience of its brands exceeding 100 years, Autefa is able to produce much higher quality lines.

An improved and even surface quality has been set as a key target by the customers. Therefore, for needlepunched nonwovens products, Autefa offers the service of a customized needle board pattern. The needling simulation software i-Point 3.0 increases the capacity and the quality of needlepunched fabrics. This customized design of needle pattern, which also takes in to consideration the  draft and shrinkage, reduces the process optimization time on customer site.  The latest development was designed for a high needle density and for faster production speed with almost no needle marks on the felt surface. 

Autefa Solutions is specialized in the manufacturing of single and double belt dryers and thermobonding ovens for all nonwoven processes. Autefa Solutions HiPerTherm ovens are parts of carding lines, carding/crosslapping lines, airlay lines, wetlaid lines, airlaid (pulp) and spunlaid lines as well as lines for chemical bonding. Customers benefit from Autefa’s expertise and knowledge, to optimize their processes with an “Assessment for Thermal Systems.” The company’s team of experts provide advice on energy efficiency, potentials for increase in production capacity and improvements in product quality. Autefa draws up heating and energy concepts, identify potential savings in a customer’s existing production and if necessary, point out worthwhile alternatives.

The common goal: optimize existing facilities and as a result, make operations more resource-efficient and more profitable.
www.autefa.com

AZCO Corp.

Flexibility is an important key to success. AZCO Corp.’s building blocks of automation system offers customers flexibility and options to design a machine configured to meet their needs. Modules can be quickly and easily installed or removed, based on customers’ requirements. Customers can seamlessly integrate unwinds, cut to length, slitters & traveling knife assemblies, accumulators, laminating and perforating stations, and rewinds to handle all types of films, nonwovens, paper products, absorbent materials, foils, laminated materials, or high-performance materials. Customers can make changes to their machine and start making product in minutes.
At the foundation of this system is a SMARTFRAME which is designed for ease and convenience, and which has the capability to handle many different modular units. Modules are easily slid into place and mounted onto the frame. The frame is pre-wired and includes quick-connect connectors for power and air so users can just plug in and begin using. A master control panel monitors the entire process and gives users control over the system, including the ability to add and subtract modules as needed.

With the building blocks of automation, customers get a machine configured to meet their requirements, for both current and future applications. As a business changes and evolves, the building blocks of automation gives customers the flexibility and options to grow and expand. It enables customers to be proactive and ensures that their success is firmly in their own hands. 

AZCO Corp. is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company with over 38 years of experience developing solutions for a wide range of feeding and cutting applications. Made in USA.
www.azcocorp.com

Balemaster

A market leader in the baler industry since 1946, Balemaster provides innovative solutions based upon solid engineering, expertise and experience.

As nonwoven baling needs have changed over the years, Balemaster has continually responded by offering products capable of cost-effectively meeting any automatic waste handling challenge. Whether a customer bales diaper trim or personal care products, airlaid, drylaid or wetlaid, a baler from Balemaster can be outfitted to best suit a customer’s specific requirements. Its goal is to make customers’ baling processes more profitable.

Balemaster’s E-Series balers are a perfect match for this industry. The E-Series is the flagship of the Balemaster auto-tie baler line. These balers are fully automated so man-hours are kept to a minimum, allowing workers to concentrate on other things. The heavy-duty automatic wire-tier completes the tie-off cycle in less than 30 seconds. Balemaster’s unique bale density control system automatically and continuously regulates the tensioning pressure and creates the proper squeezing force to achieve the highest bale density possible. No adjustments are required.

Add to all of this, energy efficient hydraulic power packs available up to 225 horsepower that meet any capacity demand, along with a comprehensive touch screen controller, and customers have a baler equipped with the features and benefits to keep up with any demand the industry has to offer.
www.balemaster.com

Boschert

Since 1948 Boschert Safety Chucks have been manufactured and assembled with precision. Since that time, Boschert has added brakes, aluminum cones, journal ends and custom application parts. Quality and service are at the forefront of Boschert business. Boschert technicians and engineers provide customers the best and safest solution for their application. With over 60 years in the converting industry, Boschert understands and addresses its customers’ needs.
www.boschertllc.com

BTSR International

Coming from the last 20+ years of experience in providing high-tech solutions for elastic yarns control in the hygiene sector, BTSR is constantly committed to innovation and new advanced solutions released with effective improvements in the diaper process lines.

Following the previous and successful ‘DUO-LOOP Control’ System, hygiene sector customers demand is now constantly shifting to the new ‘Trio-Loop Control Loop’ System (BTSR Patent) Function, which further ensures the precise desired fiber feeding tension value in the machine fiber insertion point.

The ‘Trio-Loop Control’ System Function is based on TMS Sensor ‘Tension and Metering’ control technology. TMS sensor comes with a new design which results in minimization of static contacts, significant reduction of spandex stress and spandex breakages and machine stops drastically decrease.

The TRIO-LOOP System is easily retrofittable on current MATRIXCUBE Systems installed in the factories by delivering a concrete technology upgrade with concrete results in the production efficiency and quality and a measurable ‘return on investment.’

In addition, BTSR has recently developed PC-LINK WEB DIAPER, a web-based software solution providing accurate production data monitoring and collection capability. PC-LINK WEB DIAPER is a unique Industry 4.0 remote programming monitoring & evaluation tool. All traced data can be stored either on a local or on a company database and then utilized for internal strategic and operational evaluations in production management.

Last but not least, the new system comes with the brand new MATRIX TOUCH touch-screen terminal display for easy programming and real time monitoring of production process status also in graphical form.

“We are proud of these ultimate innovations resulting from our long-term R&D division experience,” says Angelo Rizzo, sales general manager of BTSR International S.p.A. “Thanks to the TRIO-LOOP Solution and PC-LINK DIAPER factory-based software tool, BTSR confirms its leadership as a technological partner in providing smart and innovative solutions in the hygiene sector.’’
www.btsr-hygiene.com 

Bunting Magnetics

Fitting a large square peg in a small circular hole cannot be done without either damaging the peg itself or disrupting the hole into which the peg is attempting to fit. So, we adjust. We adapt. We use the right tools to get the job done.

Textile production generally moves large sheet materials which are not conducive for small openings. Not using the right tool up front can be dangerous and costly to downstream production equipment. Proper metal detection systems are essential. There is a risk small pieces of metal, like staples and broken needles, can go unnoticed and have a damaging result to a product and the expensive equipment along the way. It can also harm a company’s reputation. Prevent that with the profiLINE.

The profiLINE metal detector safely detects metal contamination in sheeted materials, webs, fabrics, textiles, paper, films, or products packaged on a roll. Easy to install and operate, the profiLINE is a flat coil metal detector with superior sensitivity and is available up to 40 feet wide. The profiLINE 05 is a single coil and the profiLINE 04 is a segmented coil with multiple segments 300mm wide. The sections enable the profiLINE to pinpoint the location of small ferrous, non-ferrous, and stainless steel contaminants for better, more accurate result.

Now, the large peg may still not squeeze into the small hole, but no longer need to try. Work smarter, not harder.
www.buntingmagnetics.com

Chase Machine and Engineering

Since 1954, Chase Machine and Engineering has been designing and building custom converting equipment to process films, foils and woven/nonwoven/knit fabrics, while controlling speed, tension and guidance. It specializes in integrating technologies such as ultrasonics, impulse welding, hot air welding, adhesive dispensing, RF welding, band sealing, extruders and CO2 lasers.

Chase Machine manufactures unwinds, rewinds, slitters, laminators, traverse winders, cut-to-length machines, festooners, accumulators, ultrasonic sewing machines as well as custom machines. Its equipment is utilized in the manufacturing of consumer products such as face masks, wipes, safety vests, air/liquid filters, medical devices and hygiene products. Chase Machine uses its 68 years of web handling experience to benefit customers in the filtration, medical, packaging, automotive, textile and geotextile market segments.
www.chasemachine.com 

Curt G. Joa

Curt G. Joa, Inc. began over 90 years ago with the belief that there’s no such thing as an impossible idea. It was this mindset that inspired its founder Curt G. Joa to create, patent, and introduce the world to the first ever automated disposable hygiene machine. His groundbreaking invention led to the creation of the first feminine sanitary napkin machine and set the standard for industry excellence. Since day one, Mr. Joa’s mission wasn’t to simply build machines, but rather design solutions for complex production problems based on customer goals. It’s a tradition of innovation that improves efficiency while producing high-quality products. Decade after decade, that spirit of innovation has carried the company to new heights.

Nearly a century of experience coupled with a commitment to and passion for long-term relationships drives its customers to trust in Joa machines, services, and engineers time and time again. Joa’s world-class engineers and state-of-the-art instrumentation allow it to solve the industries toughest product and process challenges. When customers purchase from Curt G. Joa, Inc., they aren’t just receiving a machine—they’re receiving a partner who is fully committed to their success and growth. Today, in its fourth generation of family ownership, Joa continues its heritage of treating customers like family—collaborating closely, sharing exciting ideas, and traveling across the globe when help is needed. Joa’s belief that no idea is impossible is why customers continually trust them for all their converting technology needs.
www.joa.com

Davis-Standard

Quality hygienic products begin with exemplary films made on reliable, high-output machinery. Davis-Standard’s leadership in cast film, blown films and extrusion coating technology for nonwoven applications spans decades and continues to grow with sustainable solutions that reduce scrap, use more recycled content, and promote energy efficiency. Global experience in food, personal care and consumer products allows Davis-Standard to leverage learnings from diverse applications to hygiene products.

Single-source responsibility is one of the greatest advantages Davis-Standard offers its customers. The company’s international team understands the interaction of desired structures with machine design and layout. This is evident with innovative solutions in terms of overall line layout, MDO (machine direction orientation) unit, control systems, extrusion systems, high speed in-line slitting winders of thin gauge structures with minimal waste, embossing and process support.  

In all cases, Davis-Standard’s engineers collaborate with customers to address desired film structure properties, coating considerations and production outputs. It customizes its machine solution to ensure it fits a customer’s current converting and product requirements. It is also upgradable to new structures and enhanced brand owner requirements.

All machinery, even non-Davis-Standard brands, is augmented by a well-established Aftermarket department. Customers can take advantage of 24/7 customer service, R&D capabilities, an extensive spare parts inventory and regionally-focused technical support. Technicians are available to provide emergency breakdown assistance, equipment performance audits, and a range of upgrade services to improve speed and productivity. Machine repurposing, process modifications, die reconditioning, high-output feedscrews, and advanced control systems are just a few ways Davis-Standard helps customers achieve operational goals. 
www.davis-standard.com

DiloGroup

In the nonwovens sector additive manufacturing could gain importance when fiber material savings are in the focus. Two areas of application seem to have a promising potential to realize fiber cost reductions. The 3D-Lofter of DiloGroup uses a series of individual web forming units in an array across the working width. Individual fiber feeds by tows create on a plain of a preneedled felt of constant thickness a three-dimensionally shaped fiber mass with variable thickness and fiber mass in cross and longitudinal directions. This three-dimensional fleece can be processed to become a deep molded car component which is light in weight since the added fiber material is placed precisely on areas where it is needed to compensate strain from deep molding or stress when forces are induced in local areas; an example could be an arm rest in the door panel of a car. Many more applications are imaginable for bandages and cushioning in the medical area, for applications of cushioning in the garment sector or in the field of upholstery or mattresses. Additionally, the sports shoe sector, back packs as well as various technical applications could be envisaged. Since tow to feed the individual web forming units is available from different fiber material as well as in different colors, patterning capabilities in the floor covering sector are also an area of application.

Whenever the potential of fiber savings is to be identified, card feeding by flock mats requires special attention because all including sophisticated card feeding units with segmented controls of the feed leave much to be desired when it comes to a high degree of evenness and homogeneous fiber mass flow. The flock mat in many cases provides invisibly mass variations in longitudinal and cross direction. With the IsoFeed method, fiber mass valleys in the flock mat’s plain can be filled up in order to reduce the fiber mass variations. Thus, the whole card feed gets more constant and as a consequence, the mass uniformity of the carded web as well as of the final product is improved. As a result, the average mass in the plain of the fleece can be reduced without harming the overall quality as far as the strength is concerned. IsoFeed and 3D-Lofter are therefore units to provide additive textile manufacturing capabilities in order to create fiber savings.
www.dilo.de

Dukane

Dukane offers rotary ultrasonic and rigid mount sonotrode technology for nonwoven bonding applications.  

Dukane patented a process where elastic strands are entrapped between the two layers of nonwoven materials using ultrasonic energy. Ultrasonic Energy produces clean bonds next to the elastic strands that directly entraps tensioned elastic within the fabric.

Tensioned elastic strands pull the nonwoven material down into the very small grooves that are created with the entrapment pattern on the anvil. When bonded material leaves the process, the strands retract and become larger in diameter; therefore, are entrapped in that very small area.

The elastic strands are firmly secured between the nonwoven substrates without adhesive. The resultant fabric (composite) is robust to temperature, time and end used emollients maximizing product performance.

The process offers improved elastic functionality and performance (retraction) versus any other means of attachment. It maximizes fabric softness by eliminating the stiffening effect of adhesive from the composite.

The process eliminates nonvalue added complexity by directly attaching the tensioned elastic to the film/nonwoven substrate, no adhesive material, complex and expensive adhesive delivery systems.

Increase machine uptime and lower converting waste through process simplification and robustness. Highly efficient, proven and reliable Dukane ultrasonic bonding technology offers:

• Low maintenance design
• High durability / low wear / high service life components
• Totally robust to process and web upsets such a web splices, elastic splices and machine start / stop events
• Automatically self-threading during full speed run if strand breakage occurs with Dukane’s patented process

Elastic Entrapment Applications have been operating commercially since 2019 on four continents.

Applications include panel construction, cuff construction, cuff attachment and tack down, waistband construction and attachment, leg elastic construction and attachment, outer cover barrier layer to topsheet lamination, and diaper ear attachment and construction.
www.dukane.com

Elsner

Elsner has earned a worldwide reputation for manufacturing automated and robotic converting machinery and production lines for a wide range of industries including paper, film foil, medical nonwoven disposables, filtration and wipes production. With over 3000 machines in over 60 countries, Elsner is U.S.-based, offering sales and service support of its equipment in the U.S., Europe and Asia.

Elsner has an industry-leading line up of automated wipes converting machinery, starting with its ENR-Series automatic perforator rewinders. Now they’ve added perfectly integrated downstream equipment. The ERS-180 Canister Roll Stuffer and the ERB-350 Roll Bagger address pain points its customers have been experiencing when it comes to connecting the rewinding to the stuffing. Elsner offers ancillary productivity-boosting machinery including the Mill Roll Splicer, the Reject Conveyor and its patented ultrasonic tail tie option.

For filtration, Elsner automates the process of manufacturing spiral wound filters. It works with a variety of applications including desalination, food, beverage, dairy, biotech and pharmaceutical. From filter assembly and rolling to trimming the element, Elsner’s solutions help customers increase output and ensure consistent quality.

Elsner designs and engineers custom, complex machinery that removes manual processes. From surgical drapes and gowns to canister wipes and spiral-wound filters, Elsner’s automated and robotic solutions help its customers keep up with demands and grow.
www.elsnereng.com

Enka Tecnica

Enka Tecnica is a global leader in the manufacture and supply of high-quality precision spinnerets, die tips and jet strips found in many fiber and nonwoven production processes. In addition to new spinnerets and dies, Enka Tecnica also offers an extensive repair and refresh service for spunbond spinnerets and meltblown die tips. This service returns the used plates to near new condition allowing the nonwoven producer to gain improvements in quality and on-stream life. Enka Tecnica also produces a complete line of meltblown die bodies giving nonwoven manufacturers the opportunity to upgrade older lines by replacing the complete die with a new high performing unit. All Enka Tecnica products are manufactured in one of two factories located in Germany.  
https://reifenhauser.com/en/lines-components/components/spinnerets-and-microcomponents

Fagus GreCon

The processing of fibers can create an environment where sparks and embers are quickly transported through conveying systems and can ignite product and waste dust causing fires and explosions.

Common causes of fires include heat, sparks, embers, and hot particles. One of the most efficient measures to prevent fire or dust explosion is the early identification of the ignition source.

GreCon Spark Detection & Extinguishing Systems provides excellent preventive protection; it does not wait for an actual fire or dust explosion to erupt. The GreCon system prevents the development of these hazards by early detection and elimination of the ignition source. IR detectors monitor the conveying paths and activate high-speed water extinguishing within milliseconds. Diversion or shut-off of product flow is also an option if extinguishing with water is not possible for the application.

Fagus GreCon now also has a new more advanced spark detector, the new GreCon DLD 1/9 Spark Detector which offers additional protection to industries with new intelligent detection technology (IDT). IDT not only identifies hazardous moving ignition sources before a fire breaks out, but the DLD 1/9 detector is also able to differentiate between dangerous sparks or harmless incidence of extraneous light due to leaky/damaged pipes or an opening of an inspection flap.

GreCon Spark Detection Systems are Factory Mutual Approved and can reduce the risk of fires and dust explosions in transport and collection system as outlined in NFPA 69, 654, and 664 standards.

Since 1911, Fagus-GreCon has created innovative technology to maximize production. Its goal is to assist its customers by providing technologically advanced equipment to ensure safer facilities, optimized production and verifiable product quality.
fagus-grecon.us

Hansa Mixer

Whether it’s for mattresses and home textiles, carpets and artificial lawns, or medicines and toothpaste, Hansa Mixer’s foam mixers, in-line compounding systems and other systems offer maximum material savings and consistently high product quality. The secret of its success is in its custom in-line processes, for example for mixing and foaming of chemicals such as polyurethane, latex foam, acrylates and others. Hansa’s foam mixers, in-line mixing systems, etc., are integrated into existing systems based on detailed analysis of the local conditions and requirements. This is the only way in which it can realize all savings potential and guarantee rapid return on investment.
www.hansamixer.de

Hastem

Hastem is the OEM developer and producer of slat conveyors and modular belts found on most needlepunch and airlay nonwoven lines. For more than 45 years the name Hastem is synonymous with innovation, design and construction of slat transport aprons and pinned aprons in fiber opening and web conveying. Based on patents and unique solutions, Hastem aprons provide reliable and durable solutions in demanding applications. All Hastem aprons can be installed and maintained without dismantling the fiber opening/blending machine or crosslapper. The installation time is quick with simple overlapped drive belt junctions resulting in a long lifetime and high return on the investment.
www.hastem.de

Herrmann Ultrasonics

As a leader in technology, Herrmann Ultrasonics developed the Thread Anchoring (ETA) Sonotrode. Herrmann’s ETA offers an innovative way to simplify the complex process of fixing elastic threads in hygiene products.

Until now, the majority of applications used adhesive or, if an ultrasonic solution was involved, the threads were guided over an elaborately engraved and therefore costly anvil roller. Thanks to a unique and sophisticated geometry on the surface of the ETA sonotrode, for the first time elastic threads can now be guided directly into the bonding area without needing to align on a fixed anvil groove. The innovative process creates a tunnel between the two layers of nonwoven in which the stretched elastic thread is guided. By using ultrasonics, specific bonding areas are created in which the thread is partially anchored, and after cutting the product the thread relaxes and is clamped by the weld spots. A wide range of material combinations, thread counts, diameters, elongations and production speeds have been successfully tested. This anchoring process can be executed intermittently or continuously. Another advantage of this development is the easy positioning of multiple threads.

The technological advancement made with the ETA Sonotrode in the end makes the process simpler, safer and more sustainable. Adhesive is no longer required and the risk of thread breakage is significantly reduced.
The technology behind Herrmann’s ETA Sonotrode received recognition by being awarded the prestigious IDEA Equipment Achievement Award 2022. With this prize, the nonwovens association INDA honors the best technical developments in the industry.
www.herrmannultrasonics.com

Hills, Inc.

Hills, Inc., a respected supplier of fiber extrusion equipment since 1971, is a world leader in development and commercialization of extrusion equipment for high value specialty fibers and nonwovens. Hills equipment is in operation throughout North America, Europe and Asia. Customers may work in Hills’ and various partners’ laboratories to develop multicomponent and nanofiber meltspun products. Hills’ core technology is its proprietary method of creating precision polymer flow passages to extrude exquisitely complex fiber cross sections containing multiple polymers. Hills offers R&D support, extrusion equipment (for spunbond, meltblown, staple, filament and monofilaments), upgrades of existing extrusion machines, and small-scale, high-value fiber and fabric contract manufacturing. Hills is also a world leader in supplying lab scale fiber extrusion equipment for customers’ use in their own laboratories.

Hills is working on a number of programs in the field of sustainability. Hills was a pioneer in supply of extrusion equipment for customers using recycled PET in fibers. Other sustainability programs that Hills is working on include: 1. Joint development programs that are developing starch additives that create PP biodegradability. 2. Development of easy split spunbond fibers. This process will limit energy required to produce micro fibers. 3. Micro and nano fibers in filtration. This process has higher filtration with less fabric weight and lower pressure drop. 4. Hills’ patented lofty spunbond process that produces lofty nonwovens in one-step and can optionally be made to loft at site of use which reduces shipping and storage resources in insulation, filtration, etc. 5. Hills patented self-set carpet fibers (no heat setting required of cable/twisted yarns). 6. Self crimping fibers that make fabrics with less fabric weight. 7. Patented instant color change technology to reduce waste when changing melt colors. 8. Hills is also working on numerous other continuous developments in Hills In-House fiber labs with customers developing various biologic, recycle, and other sustainability technologies.  

Hills has completed its move into new manufacturing space tripling its manufacturing space. This will support larger customer projects and more projects simultaneously. Hills in-house nonwovens lab facilities are being expanded to include hydroentangling and thru-air bonding in addition to calender bonding as well as in line lofting of spunbond fabrics, and patterning of lofty spunbond fabric. The lab includes multicomponent meltblown, spunbond and filament yarn capability.
www.hillsinc.net

Hyperion Materials & Technologies

Hyperion Materials & Technologies is a global leader in developing hard and super-hard materials for a wide range of applications, including custom engineered and manufactured rotary cutting solutions used to make a variety of products from web materials, including those in the hygiene, personal care and medical industries.

Hyperion continues to expand the capabilities of IQUT, its intelligent rotary cutting solution that enables customers to measure, monitor and visualize the parameters that directly impact cutting performance in real time, benefiting preventive maintenance and optimizing cutting unit productivity. Because not all companies handle data in the same way, Hyperion’s engineering team has designed additional solutions to match IQUT with a range of information technology (IT) capabilities. In addition, a newer and relating offering, KitQUT, enables some of the same industrial internet of things (IIoT) functionality of IQUT by retrofitting sensors into older cutting units.

Some of Hyperion’s other equipment advancements include Micro, a small and versatile unit that is easy to integrate into existing lines; EEZY, a versatile unit that excels in medical and packaging applications while also being a notable upgrade from traditional steel cutting solutions; and Sleeve, a quick-change module that drastically reduces downtime when changing cutting dies and anvils. In addition, world-renowned precision manufacturer Crafts Technology is now part of the Hyperion family of companies, which expands Hyperion’s offering of straight blades and other implements used in additional markets that involve a rotary cutting function, such as disposable medical supplies, wound care products, and a variety of packaging, automotive and aerospace applications.
www.hyperionmt.com/rotary-cutting-solutions

IMA Ilapak

IMA Ilapak has launched on the market the full electric flowrapper: the new Delta WW OF-HSX. An innovative and sustainable HFFS machine that drastically reduces energy consumption the faster the machine operates.
Thanks to its ground-breaking features, the full electric machine was nominated for the Sustainability Award 2022 by SPS Italia, in the category “Excellence Award: Best project for sustainability,” as it aims at energy savings thanks to the absence of pneumatic applications. Not only does it save energy and money, but it also shows a far better performance than a standard pneumatic machine.

IMA Ilapak’S Delta WW OF-HSX is a first-class, high-speed flow wrapping platform with open frame structure, specially designed to meet the wet wipes industry needs.

The Delta WW OF-HSX can be configured as a full ATEX compliant machine, ISO cleanroom featured, of course 100% electric and equipped with ultrasonic longitudinal sealing system and last generation sealing head with special profile jaws suitable for new generation sustainable materials.

This solution is capable to ensure with the same configuration of the sealing elements, up to 170 ppm with traditional laminated films and up to 130ppm with fully recyclable materials.

Comparing the Delta WW OF-HSX to a standard flow wrapper and considering the same operating hours and speed – 170ppm - in one year, the Delta consumes 1.500 kWh, whereas a standard machine is 27.400 kWh (Including air network losses). This project leads to less energy consumption, sustainability, less environmental impact, and less business costs, while at the same time gaining a better performance and a greater efficiency.

This innovation falls under the Group’s IMA ZERO project, which is declined in four main categories: LOW (Low-impact Program) and NOP (No-Plastic Program)—which inspired this new flow wrapping platform—and also E-MOB (Sustainable Mobility) and YOU (Human-Centric Program).
www.ilapak.com

IMA Teknoweb

IMA Teknoweb is a leading company providing complete solutions for wet wipes production, covering the entire transformation cycle, from raw material processing to packaging and end-of-line. Ultra-fast, flexible and innovative lines are the company’s hallmarks.

IMA Teknoweb’s longstanding expertise belongs to designing and manufacturing complete production equipment for wet and dry wipes, including raw materials and process phase management. The last innovations in this matter are dedicated to the development of complete lines from converting through packaging, running dispersible plastic-free materials at the same speed as traditional lines.

One of the most interesting innovations is the new MULTI50 bundler, a handle applicator for wet wipes multi-bags: this solution, compared to pre-formed bags, allows a considerable saving of plastic used, since the packets are held together by a single 38 mm strip of material instead of being totally wrapped.

Catching the skyrocketed market request for disinfectant wipes after the Covid-19 pandemic, IMA Teknoweb developed a complete product line capable to work with IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) and guarantee health and safety of line operators and minimize risks for the plant, thus featuring all the requirements a certified ATEX (explosion-proof) converter for IPA wipes must have.

Recently IMA Teknoweb expanded its machine range entering the personal protection equipment (PPE) market, with high-speed converting and packing machines for surgical face masks and respirators.

After the quick development and delivery in 2020 of FACE 400 (fully automated, high-speed complete line for converting and packing surgical face masks), the company further developed this technology into FACE 400D: a fully integrated line dedicated to manufacturing and packing FFP2/3/N95 respirators, with or without exhalation valves.
www.ima.it/tissueandnonwoven/teknoweb

IMA TMC

For 20 years, IMA TMC has been offering the most innovative solutions to handle and solve the complexities related to the packaging and handling of tissue and personal care products.

In the nonwovens sector, IMA TMC introduced a complete solution after the converter dedicated to the primary and secondary packaging of baby & adult diapers, light incontinence and underpads.

D-NAMIC is a stacker & bagger for absorbency products packed in wicket bags.

Its high-speed (up to 1200 pads/min and 75 bags/min) and the range of dimensions are a complete response to the demands in the absorbency packaging market. The packaging process is carried out by D-NAMIC ensuring optimal quality products.

The modular concept and a wide range of options allows extensive variety of product configurations. The performance of D-NAMIC can be upgraded at any time with a dedicated kit. Dual lane configuration is also available for the highest performance with low counts. Quality gate sensors at the infeed and smart solutions allow continuous production and maximize the efficiency of the line, while size changeover operations are reduced to the minimum and made easy thanks to the great accessibility and design. D-NAMIC is a future-proof packaging machine: it can process sustainable paper-based and fully recyclable polyethylene films. The packaging line is completed by D-BUND: completely automatic high-speed bundling machine. It includes all features to transfer, collate and overwrap diaper bags in neat, tight, completely sealed bundles for transport and distribution. D-BUND covers a great range of formats thanks to its flexibility and accommodates a huge number of bundle configurations with high performance and bundle tightness, in different dimensions enough to cover all current and future requests that come from the worldwide market.
www.ima.it/tissueandnonwoven/tmc

International Cutting Die

International Cutting Die is a state-of-the-art operation respected for its innovation, customer service and relentless commitment to quality. Its 42,000 square-foot manufacturing facility hosts the most modern machinery in the industry, and its team of experts provides superior technical and troubleshooting know-how coupled with knowledge on the usage of the most advanced techniques and materials.

International Cutting Die’s latest innovation is its patented Anti Bounce die cutting system. Using unique inboard pressure technology, innovative ICD die systems provide customers the ability to fully eliminate costly bounces over extended service periods. Rotating bearings smoothly and securely allow inboard pressure to be maintained lot after lot for a reliable production experience. 

Vacuum actuated trim removal systems are now available on the die station, providing efficient inline scrap collection. 

In addition to designing dies and complete cutting systems utilizing a customer’s product drawing, or through reverse engineering their existing equipment, International Cutting Die also offers full-service die maintenance, rebuild and re-sharpening, as well as reconditioning of dies and anvils from any supplier.

International Cutting Die serves the medical, nonwovens and paper converting industries and have become industry leaders in die cutting and ultrasonic bonding. It knows its customers are working with ever-larger product sizes, more abrasive materials and higher machine speeds. It can find solutions to even the most challenging situations.
www.icd-inc.com

Investkonsult Sweden

Investkonsult Sweden AB, a world-leading broker of second-hand machinery and production lines within the nonwoven and absorbent hygiene industries worldwide, has been on a hectic schedule during the last 12 months. Among the completed projects are one re-location of a complete spinning line for PP fiber production from Germany to Turkey, one wide width needlepunch line was sold and transferred from Eastern Europe to India, also from Eastern Europe to India was a production line with Struto-technology sold and shipped and the company also successfully fulfilled the exclusive sale on behalf of their Polish client of a complete production line for chemical and resin-bonded nonwoven materials to an Italian start-up company.

Managing director Johan Berlin comments: “Our solid expertise and experience in handling these types of projects have been a safety and assurance for our customers, especially in such difficult times and under the circumstances that have been during the Covid pandemic.”

Investkonsult Sweden has quite a few interesting similar projects in the making, one of the assignments is to find a buyer for a company where the owner is looking for an exit from the nonwoven sector to fully focus on other industrial activities. Berlin continues: “For the foreseeable future, we can not see anything that indicates that the demand for our services would decrease.” The company also sees that since the possibility of traveling to trade shows and for customer visits is now back, there will be good opportunities for further projects to undertake.
https://ik.se

Kansan

Kansan, a leading wet wipe machinery manufacturer, has been providing crucial manufacturing solutions in every aspect of wet wipe production from the flat pack and crossfold converting machines to flow wrappers, lid applicator robots, case packers and palletizers for 30 years. These production systems are highly versatile and designed to process the most delicate nonwovens with ease for manufacturing various types of dry and wet wipes, baby wipes, wet toilet papers, wet tissue, general cleaning wipes, disinfectant wipes and many more. Kansan’s wet wipe converting machines can also work with the new generation flushable and biodegradable raw materials with high efficiency and productivity.

Kansan group has been diligently working on the design and production of a wetlaid line under name of Kansan Materials to answer the increasing demand for sustainable raw materials for quite some time. The idea is to provide a sophisticated yet simple, eco-friendly, cost-effective, sustainable and flexible manufacturing solution for dispersible and biodegradable nonwovens to be used primarily in hygiene and filtration, healthcare, automotive, construction, insulation and defense industries in further applications.

Kansan Materials’ wetlaid production line consists of a headbox unit, hydroentanglement unit, a dewatering system, thru-air dryers and a slitter winder, designed, engineered and manufactured by Kansan Materials. The system has 3,6 meters of working width at the winder with a speed of 220 meters/minute. Each machine of Kansan Materials wetlaid line can be integrated into other nonwoven production processes such as spunlace, CP, SPC and SP.

This state-of-the-art wetlaid line is now ready for industrial tests in the company’s Izmir AOSB facility in Turkey.
www.kansanmak.com

LemuGroup

LemuGroup USA, a manufacturer of high-performance, high-speed converting equipment, is outfitting its latest product lines with the latest automated capabilities. 

LemuGroup’s product range has the potential to accommodate faster line speeds and total uptime while eliminating waste and the usual required non-technical manpower. In many cases, operators are forced to reduce line speeds to account for the slowdown in manpower at the back end of the press. By automating the process, operators can run the press and converting equipment at its maximum speeds. This can free up capacity throughout a manufacturing facility.

LemuGroup’s automation technology allows one operator to control an entire converting system, from unwind to closed, addressed box. In fact, an operator can run two systems. The process involves winding and ejection, whereby a conveyor carries the product downstream to a shrink tunnel or to a collection center. Once there, a robotic arm grabs the rolls and places them into pre-constructed boxes – which are also built through automation. The box is built, taped on the bottom, and the mechanical arm fills the box to capacity with the number of rolls it can accommodate. The box is then sealed, marked with an address label and sent to the palletizer.

The company will often collaborate with its customers to design modular solutions that are tailored to the customers’ individual needs. Lemu Group, which has been in business for 45 years, boasts more than 1100 installations across the globe. Lemu has expanded greatly into the North American marketplace with high speed solutions for maximizing production without the need of additional people.
www.lemugroup.com

Maier America

As a technology leader in rotary joints, Maier can develop individual solutions to meet a customer’s requirements. Its recipe for success for optimal sealing solutions: intensive development combined with testing in the laboratory and in practice - for maximum performance of machines and systems in the most diverse industries.

On-site service by arrangement includes: Service / maintenance, on-site repairs, installation / initial commissioning and troubleshooting.

Maier rotary joints are the optimum solution for all industries and are suitable for both cold and hot water up to 300°C, steam up to 300°C, 40 bar, heat transfer oil up to 400 °C, hydraulic oil up to 350 bar, compressed air up to 40 bar, chemicals, cooling lubricants up to 150 bar, vacuum, high speeds and dry run. Ten standard series are available for nominal diameters from 3 – 500 mm. In addition, Maier offers numerous special solutions for other media and extreme operating conditions.

With its rotary joints, Maier guarantees maximum operating safety and functionality, high performance and a long service life. Competence begins with development and ends with Maier’s attentive service. Maier offers its customers complete support throughout the entire product life cycle. Its highly qualified employees are available as experts on site worldwide.
www.maieramerica.com

Martin Automatic

For more than five decades Martin Automatic has helped nonwovens converters improve their productivity with high performance, state-of-the-art solutions.

Martin supplies high-speed, low-tension roll change automation to wide-web coating and laminating converters of tissue, nonwoven and film, where 900 mpm and 4.5 meter web widths are common. Once these wide-web materials are converted into narrow rolls, other Martin unwind splicers automate the manufacturing of disposable diapers, feminine care products, absorbent pads, sanitizing wipes, medical gowns and face masks. Filter media converters also enjoy the benefits of using similar equipment in the manufacturing of home and automotive filters.

Tailored to each specific process, Martin offers a variety of unwinding and splicing systems. These include shafted, shaftless and cantilevered roll unwinds; and taped or tapeless butt-to-butt and overlap splices. On the most extreme end of the nonwovens spectrum, Martin systems provide non-stop roll change to manufacturers of roofing materials, making hotmelt splices on fiberglass mat web.

Martin Automatic’s reputation around the world is defined not only by the quality and clarity of its technology, but also its original patented designs, such as the inertia compensated dancer and the Airnertia idler roller. The latter offers lowest roller inertia and essentially friction-free rotation, delivering high-frequency response to speed changes in processes running delicate webs.

Over the past two years, the word “essential” was often used, typically to describe a business enterprise. That word also describes Martin’s automatic roll changing: essential to producing and delivering rolls and final products to market. During the pandemic, for example, Martin equipment helped companies increase their production of personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning products. Some splicers, not designed specifically for PPE production, were quickly switched over to converting paper rolls for sanitizing wipes. In-house design, fabrication, controls and assembly capabilities enabled Martin to deliver highly-specialized splicing unwind equipment for N95 face mask components in just three months. And Martin’s extensive service department supported the startups both remotely and in person. Post-pandemic, Martin continues to experience strong equipment sales to nonwovens converters and material manufacturers.
www.martinautomatic.com

Maxcess

Maxcess saves customers time and money by optimizing their peak output performance. Maxcess does this by leveraging the world’s best web handling brands, offering customized end-to-end web handling solutions that helps customers work better, faster and smarter.

Maxcess understands how winding equipment influences tension, tension influence guiding and how guiding and tension together influence a customer’s ability to die-cut and slit the web effectively. Maxcess is actively investing in Industry 4.0 solutions, creating automated systems that help customers reduce dependency on manual labor and minimize human error.
www.maxcessintl.com

Montalvo

Small Scale Tension Centric Machinery - As worldwide leaders in web tension control and web handling Montalvo’s components are utilized throughout a wide range of nonwovens manufacturing processes, providing automated, continuous, and easy to utilize systems that improve production quality while reducing waste. In addition to industry leading components, whether as custom build requests or OEM support builds, Montalvo has built a range of small-scale machines with its tension control systems delivering immediate capability upgrades. Utilizing its standalone tension controllers or PLC based solutions, Montalvo can deliver the automation a customer requires. From re-rolling machines, to unwind stands, to dancer assemblies, to test machines, Montalvo delivers high quality machines that include high quality tension control systems as standard for turnkey maximum results.  

Montalvo’s Applications Specialists are some of the industry’s most knowledgable and experienced and it prides itself on being able to offer customers a higher level of direct support. Whether in the field or over the phone, Montalvo is here to answer questions, provide guidance or recommendations for process improvements, or just be a resource for customers. Montalvo offers a full range of tension control components including load cells, tension controllers, amplifiers, sensors, tension brakes and clutches, range expanders, safety chucks, core chucks and more.
www.montalvo.com

MS Ultraschall Technologie

Quality and reliability are the key to success. Considering that the equipment in the nonwovens processing industry produces 24 hours a day, almost 360 days a year results in the requirements for high reliability of the components.

The increasing demands from the industry for faster and faster production lines then inevitably leads to technical requirements for maximum mechanical precision, high ultrasonic power and fast process control.

The newly developed ultrasonic generator MS sonxGEN PREMIUM, in connection with the adapted ultrasonic converter, is capable of delivering a continuous output of 3.5 kW. This is significantly more compared to other suppliers. The maximum peak power available is 6 kW.

Oscillating systems with rectangular sonotrodes are available in standardized widths from 85 mm to 270 mm and, depending on the application, can be provided with different coatings for wear protection and to prevent adhesion.

Rotating sonotrodes, which are used in various applications to avoid friction on the nonwoven, are available in 30 kHz and 20 kHz, in widths up to 85 mm and at powers up to 2,000 W (30 kHz) and 3,500W (20 kHz). They offer large welding amplitudes with uniform amplitude distribution over the entire width of the sonotrodes.

The special bearing and guide concept of the servo-electrically driven feed unit offers maximum precision for fast and minimal process adjustments without guide friction at the operating point. The basis for this is a solid-state hinge with fatigue-free CFRP spring elements.

The simple and intuitive operable interface of the control system, which can be used to parameterize and control up to 10 systems, offers a wide variety of options for welding process design and control algorithms to adapt to different load cases.

Questions of connectivity, i.e. the simple integration of the systems into superior-level control systems and production data acquisition systems, were the focus of development.

Engraved rolls with complex welding patterns, surface-hardened to increase wear resistance and, if required, vibration-optimized using finite element analysis, enable complete modules to be supplied from a single source. Bale widths of up to 1,000 mm are possible.
www.ms-ultraschall.de

National Jet Company

National Jet Company is a U.S. manufacturer that manufactures and repairs meltblown dies and spinnerettes for fiber producers around the world. NAJET manufactures all type of spinnerettes, including those used for hollow fibers, synthetic turf fibers, spunbond, any many other types. All manufacturing is done in the U.S. National Jet Company has more than 85 years of experience in small hole manufacturing, including shaped holes and round holes, with diameters as small as 25 microns. NAJET utilizes detailed inspection technology to ensure that all holes in a die are accurate, consistent in size and burr free.  

Spunbond and meltblown die repairs include inspecting every hole prior to any work being done; followed by a discussion with the customer about how to proceed. NAJET’s processes remove any carbon buildup in the holes, eliminates any debris, including broken tools and burrs. The process repairs any holes that had been deformed or are out of round. Repairs can be done even on dies that were manufactured elsewhere. NAJET can also repair dies that have split or “zippered.” Most notably, the process makes all holes consistent throughout the die.

In addition to spinnerettes, National Jet Company manufactures breaker bars and air knives, as well as top plates and end caps. NAJET makes jet strips and nozzles with a focus on small holes.  

National Jet Company was founded in 1937 with a focus on small hole technology. Since then, its services have grown to include swiss turning, vertical and horizontal milling, sinker and wire EDM, and of course micro hole drilling. 
www.najet.com

Nordson

Nordson’s Harmony applicators support a great variety of adhesive dispensing ranging from continuous contact or spray to demanding ultra-high-speed intermittent applications.

The Harmony applicators have a high degree of spare parts commonality reducing the cost of ownership for this product family immensely. They deliver performance, flexibility, and improved value to meet and exceed the demands of its customers. This innovative product is aimed to helping its clients enhance their manufacturing efficiency and product quality around the world.

To further expand the Harmony applicator product family, Nordson, the global leader in high precision dispense technology, developed the special Harmony slim applicators. These slim applicators will meet the demand for applications in tight production areas or narrow operator side / drive side mountings and are available as single module (30 mm wide) as well as twin module versions (55 mm wide).

For more information on Nordson Harmony applicator technology, please visit: www.nordson.com/en/divisions/adhesive-dispensing-systems/products/applicators/harmonyapplicators

Founded in 1954 and headquartered in Westlake, OH, Nordson has operations and support offices in more than 30 countries.
www.nordson.com

Rodewisch

Filztuchfabrik Rodewisch is a worldwide operating owner-run manufacturer of high-tech fabrics for nonwoven lines. The company is located in Germany with more than 145 years of tradition and experience.

Since its foundation in 1874 Rodewisch Fabrics has supported the growth and advancement of the paper and nonwovens industry. Working closely with nonwoven manufacturers and machine builders as OEM, Rodewisch ensures fabric performance and reliability. Offering a broad range of forming and bonding fabrics to the customers worldwide, Rodewisch fabrics became a Gold Standard in the nonwovens industry. Magnetic, conductive or heat resistant features just show a small range of the possibilities to meet more diverse needs and rigorous demands of the  industry today. Rodewisch continually innovates with cutting-edge technology, offering a broad range of forming fabrics to the customers worldwide.

Rodewisch manufactures custom belting products for forming, conveying and drying nonwoven webs, along with vacuum belts for diaper machines and several other hygienic vacuum conveyor applications.
Rodewisch manufactures belts and wires used in all common web forming processes: drylaid – carding – airlaid; extruded nonwovens – spunmelt – meltblown; and S/SS/SMS/SMMS/ SAC. Customer benefits: antistatic and dirt resistant forming fabrics; abrasive resistance; non-marking seam performance; fast closing single & double pin seams.

Rodewisch manufactures belts and wires used in web bonding processes: dryers / ovens; airthrough bonding (ATB); chemical spray sections. Customer benefits: magnetic features within a light PPS/ryton material; heat resistance up to 420 F; chemical resistance up to pH 14; fast closing & non marking seams; and maximum lifetime in production. Rodewisch manufactures belts and wires used in vacuum processes: diaper machines; femcare; incontinence inlays; and medical products.
www.rodewisch.com

Saueressig Surfaces

As a leading international supplier along the pre-press stage as well as rotogravure and embossing cylinders, Saueressig Surfaces offers a strong technical expertise in the field of tissue and hygiene products, nonwovens, glass and metal as well as wood, flooring and plastics processing industry.

The requirements for nonwoven fabrics are constantly growing. Designs are becoming more challenging, manufacturing techniques more complex. Saueressig Surfaces is a recognized expert in the field of nonwovens and has established itself on the international market through high quality and the constant advancement of sleeves and embossing rollers.

Saueressig Surfaces’ latest development combines the production of three-dimensional embossed and aperture nonwovens, creating the possibility of adding new special effects to high-quality nonwovens while improving material properties. The process is achieved by using a set of heated rollers with high-precision engraving designs. Such extreme precision is required due to the high processing speed with currently up to approx. 600 m/min. Saueressig Surfaces’ aim is to provide lines or rolls for offline processes.

The application gives nonwoven producers the opportunity to expand their portfolio and diversify in the market with new and unusual designs, enhance product properties as well as adding additional values to their products.

Nonwovens converted with this process have a very soft touch, improved water and air permeability and an increased bulk compared to the raw material. Designed for diapers and femcare, the process is as well suitable for various different applications.
www.saueressig.com

Shemesh Automation

Wipes manufacturers are increasingly transitioning from rigid packaging such as canisters and buckets towards flexible packaging in an effort to reduce carbon footprint and transportation costs. Also, while the initial Covid-related surge in demand for consumer wipes may have settled down post-pandemic, it’s clear that the market for jumbo wipes in flexible packs, commonly used in hospitals and gyms, is still growing apace.

Responding to these emerging trends, Shemesh Automation has developed the perfect solution for manufacturers of wipes in flexible jumbo-sized bags who are looking to enhance their production with fast, space-saving automation: The CITADEL-J.

A stand-alone monobloc unit, the CITADEL-J automatically stuffs jumbo sized (typically in the 600 sheet-count to 1200 count range) nonwoven rolls into premade bags, accurately fills them with liquid (typically 3 to 5 liters) while providing constant support beneath the heavy bag, seals the bags and then ejects the finished product at speeds of 10-15 packs per minute (depending on product-specific variables).

CITADEL-J is designed to connect seamlessly to existing slitter/rewinders, allowing manufacturers to benefit from complete A-Z hands-free operation.
Main advantages:

• Throughput: 10-15 products per minute
• Adjustable rewinder-to-Citadel throughput technology
• Closed bags opening feature
• All welded to pharma sanitary standards using 316/304 stainless steel
• Designed for operational flexibility and ultra-low, tools-free sub 40 minutes format parts changeover downtime
• Industry 4.0 ready
• Advanced QC
• Enhanced, height-adjustable anti-overflow, proprietary designed filler nozzles. Portioning tolerance of 0.5% of filling volume – reducing waste
• Bag inflation: bags are inflated with the exact amount of air needed to facilitate speedy opening and rolls stuffing
• Two-stage filling, minimizing foaming and spillover while achieving a higher throughput
• Air evacuation

www.shemeshautomation.com

Sonobond Ultrasonics

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), face masks and other medical nonwoven items require strong, fully sealed barrier seams that meet regulatory requirements. Ultrasonics is the preferred assembly method for these items, since it utilizes high-frequency sound waves that cause heating and plasticization of nonwoven materials, creating high-quality, regulatory-compliant bonds that eliminate leaking caused by stitch holes and glue gaps.

For ultrasonic assembly of PPE, face masks and other medical nonwoven items, manufacturers most often request Sonobond’s SeamMaster Ultrasonic Sewing Machines. The SeamMaster’s patented rotary operation—similar to a conventional sewing machine – channels the ultrasonic vibrations to create smooth, soft-to-the-touch seams that are also strong, sealed, secure, and ultra-reliable. While ultrasonic “plunge bonding” equipment also produces regulatory-compliant bonds, they cannot provide the rotary “soft seam” assembly that is increasingly preferred as PPE and face masks are being used more frequently and for longer periods of time.

Since SeamMaster Ultrasonic Sewing Machines resemble and operate like conventional sewing machines, minimal operator training is required. In addition, since they are faster and easier to use than other methods, and require no thread or other consumables, manufacturers realize lower production costs and greater production output without sacrificing quality.

Sonobond Ultrasonics has produced a “how to” video for assembling regulatory-compliant face masks in just one minute using its SeamMaster Ultrasonic Sewing Machines.
www.sonobondultrasonics.com

Spoolex

Spoolex is involved in the nonwovens market since the 80s through its well-known Calemard brand, a qualified expert in slitter-rewinders and spooling lines manufacturing.

With the widest range of spooling machines in the world, Spoolex is recognized by the major nonwoven converters as an expert in tension control, offering smart, adapted and customized solutions. It has gained its reputation of leader with its high productive Jumbo spooling lines Pegase that it is constantly improving especially for new materials always bulkier, fluffier and more tension sensitive, such as cellulose natural fibers.

Spooling machine, but not only… Spoolex extends its range of machines: many key players such as CETI and NCSU have trusted Spoolex either for their non-stop jumbo winder or for their slitter-rewinder. Today’s critical period has pointed out difficulties for some companies to continue supporting their customers. Spoolex’s way of being is led by a spirit of service, whatever the situation. For several months now, it has demonstrated its comprehensive vision of the nonwovens market by engineering, manufacturing and supporting its customers all around the world.
www.spoolex.com

Technoplants and Dell’Orco&Villani

Technoplants and Dell’Orco&Villani together provide complete lines for a wide range of applications: textile recycling, nonwoven production for automotive, insulation, hygiene, building, furniture, filtration and others, thanks to their experience and consolidated partnership.

Innovative machineries and controls enable the operators to adjust the production capacity and product characteristics through simple and well-studied touch panels graphics.

Thanks to the tearing lines produced by Dell’Orco&Villani, starting from textile scraps, production leftovers and trims, fiber droppings, secondhand clothing and more secondary products, it is possible to recover fiber to be reused in the spinning process or for the production of nonwovens.

The revolutionary technologies available from Technoplants for nonwovens allow the use of any kind of fiber, natural, synthetic or regenerated to produce rolls and panels of different density and thickness from 10 to 15.000gsm, keeping a high quality of the product, homogeneous and without defects.

The companies have installed two different trial lines, available for customers and visitors who can test the performances of the machinery with their own fibers and products, taking advantage of their expertise to define the best solutions for a customer’s needs.

One laboratory is dedicated to the opening process, where it is possible to work any kind of textile waste and obtain clean and opened fiber for the following transformation.

The second line is at industrial scale, equipped with weighing system and openers from Dell’Orco&Villani and with Multiline Airlay System, thermobonding oven, end of line from Technoplants.

Technoplants and Dell’Orco&Villani will be at ITMA Milan 2023, stand A203 Hall 10.
www.techno-plants.com / www.dellorco-villani.com

Tentoma

At the beginning of the year, Tentoma introduced an XL Power model of the RoRo StretchPack packaging machine. The new model enables 100% waterproof packaging of up to 19m nonwoven rolls. For the packaging of shorter rolls, XL Power can stretch film for even more rolls per packaging cycle, which increases the packaging speed.

The RoRo StretchPack machinery is popular for packaging of nonwoven rolls. The 100% dust and waterproof packaging make it suitable for hygienic nonwovens. Within the geosynthetic industry, RoRo StretchPack is an ideal way to automate the packaging of heavy and wide rolls of geotextiles. This is also one of the reasons behind the introduction of the new XL Power model.

Besides better packaging quality, RoRo StretchPack also provides more sustainable packaging solutions. RoRo StretchPack is stretching the film while packaging, which means that users avoid excessive use of film. Customers have seen a reduction in film consumption by 25-60% compared to conventional stretch film wrapping and heat shrink packaging. The energy-consuming heat shrink process is also removed from the packaging line as RoRo StretchPack packs and seals in one single operation.

RoRo StretchPack is based on well-proven technology for vertical stretch hood packaging of pallets. Tentoma has refined the technology, so it also can be utilized horizontally and integrated into a highly productive production line.
www.tentoma.com

Tokuden

Tokuden’s proprietary induction heating technology enables the Jacket Roll to heat itself over a wide temperature range. The roll surface temperature is controlled within a ±0.5°C deviation by the jacket installed in the roll shell, enabling thermal processing with high accuracy. Induction heating draws on the magnetic field which is produced by the electric current applied to the induction coil. This system provides high temperatures and precise control in 1°C increments from room temperature to 800°C. The heat-pipe principle maintains a uniform temperature both across and around the roll. Temperature profile remains uniform whether or not a thermal load is applied. Since Jacket Rolls use only electricity as their heat source, there is no need for additional facilities or special construction. The equipment requires minimal space and is easy to operate. They are also clean and require low maintenance because there is no oil, vapor or combustible material to leak from the system. The work environment stays clean and safe.
www.tokuden.com