#Spinning

2025-10-08

UHMWPE fibres – FET’s game changer for the biomedical market

FET is launching the FET-500 Series of gel spinning systems in a move that could revolutionise the research and development of UHMWPE fibres.

Fibre Extrusion Technology Ltd (FET) of Leeds, UK, has built a reputation in medical fibre extrusion technology and innovations, designing and delivering high-performance equipment for a range of precursor medical products, including bespoke extrusion systems for the production of both resorbable and non-absorbable sutures. FET’s equipment supports small-scale, adaptable production and rapid new product development.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for R&D of UHMWPE fibres. These fibres are prized in many industries due to their extraordinary properties. However, current production processes are complex and focused on the large-scale output of existing fibre grades. This rigid supply chain has stifled innovation in this untapped product market.

The FET-500 gel spinning systems will address this gap in the market. The FET-500 enables a flexible and consistent process, able to produce quality fibres with less than 100 grams of polymer, while avoiding the harsh processing chemicals that were historically associated with gel spinning. The key to unlocking this lab and pilot scale flexibility is the use of supercritical carbon dioxide as a green solvent in a patent-pending process.

Gel spinning starts with extrusion, but the additional washing and drawing technology to produce finished yarn is critical to the overall performance characteristics. An example of the wide range of features and benefits can be shown in the Washing process, with Patent Pending technology using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide:

Extract carrier oil without using toxic, environmentally harmful chemicals such as Hexane and DCM

+++ CO2 is green, cheap, abundant, and significantly safer to work with

+++ CO2 efficiently dissolves carrier oils without affecting the polymer yarn

Reduced operational costs

+++ 9-Vast reduction in solvent use (CO2 vs Hexane/DCM)

+++ Comprehensive oil recovery and recycling

+++ Zero solvent waste is generated, unlike the hexane route

Compact and efficient batch washing system

+++ Recipe controlled plug and play technology

+++ Scalable and adjustable to customer needs

+++ Carrier oil is recovered and fed back to the extrusion process

+++ 80% reduction in factory footprint vs hexane route

FET’s Fibre Development Centre is critical to the inception and success of the FET-500. Having this facility located in Leeds where the manufacturing takes place allows FET to offer a gateway to de-risk, develop and demonstrate the system’s capabilities. FET houses a full demonstration line of the FET-500 to allow customers, existing and new, to visit and experience the system operating from start to finish. We can also aid in developing new products and operating parameters through R&D trials, giving you the confidence and knowledge to transfer a new product offering onto a production line.

FET prepares for final exhibition of 2025

Fibre Extrusion Technology Ltd (FET) of Leeds, UK has completed its second major exhibition of 2025 at ITMA ASIA in Singapore, which is aimed at the textile and garment industry in South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Once again, this trade show proved to be a successful one for FET, with considerable interest from several countries surrounding China.

Temco launches a new DTY all-in-one solution

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DIENES at Techtextil 2026: Flexible pilot lines for bio-based fiber development

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KARL MAYER strengthens partnerships in the composites industry at JEC World 2026

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ABB and Syre partner to explore technologies for industrial-scale textile recycling

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From Nature Performance to Circular Economy: Techtextil 2026 focuses on the future market for technical textiles

Alternative materials and recycling technologies are one of the most important future segments and drivers of innovation in technical textiles. Sustainability goals and regulatory requirements increase their relevance, while advances in performance and economic viability enhance their market competitiveness. Taking place from 21 to 24 April 2026, Techtextil reflects this key industry trend with a growing number of specialised exhibitors. With the new “Nature Performance” label, the leading global trade fair bundles relevant market offerings and facilitates access to new solutions – from natural fibres and yarns to bio-based materials and circular approaches.