#Index 2017

2017-03-24

Netting solutions for a world of nonwovens

Conwed, the leading plastic netting manufacturer in the world, will share its latest innovations at INDEX 17. Recently acquired by Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. – SWM, Conwed brings 50 years of netting innovation to the SWM Advanced Materials and Structures (AMS) division.

This division focuses on resin-based rolled goods and has been formed with three recent acquisitions: DelStar Technologies, acquired in 2013, Argotec, acquired in late 2015, and Conwed Plastics acquired in 2017.

Conwed netting is an essential component in hundreds of industrial and consumer products in many different industries worldwide. From automotive, filtration and medical applications to hygiene, disposable and consumer products, manufacturers, OEMs and converters incorporate the netting to achieve lightweight reinforcement and stretchability.

Uniquely designed for hygiene and apparel applications, Conwed manufactures Flat Rebound, an elastomeric netting with flat joints to create smooth and highly breathable nonwoven composites. It is used in composite form with nonwovens and other substrates acting as an alternative to spandex, films and stretchable nonwovens. In hygiene products, it is used in waistbands and side panels in adult incontinence briefs and underwear and in baby training pants.

Conwed netting is also used to create superior composites by incorporating netting with other substrates using different techniques, such as extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, thermal lamination, ultrasonic welding, wet and dry adhesive lamination and diverse nonwoven processes. For a complete overview of how to incorporate Conwed netting in different production processes, visit the step-by-step section called Plastic Netting 101.

As part of SWM international the customers gain access to a complete line of films, paper, nownovens and value-added netting for diverse industry applications.

“Production is a product”

From technical textiles and AI-driven robotics to the limitations of textile circularity: Professor Dr Thomas Gries looks back on more than two decades of development at ITA Aachen. In the interview, he explains why production technology remains a decisive success factor, discusses international collaborations and innovation ecosystems, and shares his views on the transformation of production landscapes and the challenges facing an increasingly regulated industry.

“We need to move away from the price trap and return to a value-driven mindset.”

With its new Textile Innovation Center, KARL MAYER is sending a strong signal for innovation, collaboration, and the future of textile applications. In this interview, Karl Josef Mayer discusses new opportunities in warp knitting, the processing of staple fibres, recycling, the changing role of machinery manufacturers, and why the textile industry must once again focus more strongly on the value of textiles. by Oliver Schmidt

“Innovation, resilience and international experience remain the great strengths of the Swiss textile machinery industry”

Geopolitical uncertainty, growing competitive pressure from China, new free trade agreements and the shift towards a circular economy are currently reshaping the global textile industry. In this interview, Cornelia Buchwalder discusses the current mood within the Swiss textile machinery sector, the industry’s distinctive innovative strength, new market opportunities in India and Asia, and the technological trends that could shape the upcoming trade fair cycle leading up to ITMA 2027.

Bremen Cotton Exchange: Fritz A. Grobien re-elected as President

The members of the Bremen Cotton Exchange have re-elected Fritz A. Grobien as President during the association’s 152nd General Assembly on June 18, 2026. The election confirms the organization’s commitment to maintaining its role as a leading international platform for the cotton and fiber industry amid a period of geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Organic cotton at the crossroads: Ideology, evidence, and the road ahead

Organic cotton occupies one of the most contentious spaces in global agriculture. While praised by brands and consumers for its environmental ideals, it also faces persistent questions about yield stability, certification integrity, and scalability. The current edition of The ICAC Recorder cuts through the ideology to deliver a rigorous, evidence-based assessment of both sides of the debate.

New spinning package with two-step filtration for recycled yarns and more

At the ITM in Istanbul, BB Engineering unveiled its new, patented ValuePack spinning package for the first time, which features a two-stage filtration system. This is particularly beneficial for re-cycling processes. Until now, spinning packs have used either metal powder (“sand”) or filter candles as filter media. Both options are suitable for differ-ent applications, and each has its own specific advantages and dis-advantages.

ITMA 2027 gains strong momentum

In line with the theme "Co-creating the future of textiles", ITMA continues to strengthen its support for start-ups, recognising their role in driving innovation and shaping the future of textile and garment manufacturing. Through the Start-Up Valley, emerging companies gain access to a global marketplace where they can connect with industry leaders, potential partners, investors and customers.