#Technical Textiles

2026-09-03

RDJ 6/2 in E 32: Finesse in Motion

More drive for design and performance: filigree mesh looks and maximum comfort for high-performance sports footwear

Shoes from the fabric (ai generated) © 2026 KARL MAYER

The appearance of sports and casual shoes is as diverse as their applications, ranging from sporty to stylish and from functional to fashionably practical. In particular, spacer fabrics produced on highly flexible KARL MAYER double needle bar raschel machines with Jacquard technology are in high demand for manufacturing these trendy shoes. These efficient production machines enable attractive designs with integrated multifunctional zones on one or both fabric surfaces, such as breathable mesh structures. Flexible in size and positioning, these features enhance both aesthetics and wearing comfort.

The extensive range of design possibilities has now been expanded by another member of KARL MAYER's RDJ family: the RDJ 6/2 in the new E 32 gauge.

More pattern effects and exceptionally uniform surfaces

Thanks to its fine gauge, spacer textiles can be produced with an unprecedentedly soft hand feel, fine and dense structures, and particularly smooth surfaces. Pattern designs appear exceptionally delicate and clean, as the smaller loop heads provide sharper contours and more clearly defined motifs. The resulting overall appearance is uniquely uniform and refined.

Another advantage is that the RDJ 6/2 operates with two Jacquard guide bars controlled wirelessly. This enables more complex patterning, additional design effects, two-color designs, and both equal-lap and counter-lap patterning. Counter-lap patterning, for example, can be used to create breathable pore zones with nearly round openings, as well as surfaces offering greater structural variety. Everything is possible, from lightweight and thin constructions to bold designs featuring pronounced pattern effects achieved with thicker materials.

An EL pattern drive ensures quick pattern changes.

Maximum productivity, durability and operating efficiency

In addition to its flexibility, the RDJ 6/2 also excels in economic efficiency. It impresses with very high production speeds while maintaining outstanding fabric quality and unique operational reliability. This makes it a dependable machine for high-volume production.

The RDJ 6/2 also stands out in terms of durability and ease of operation. Handling is extremely simple, requires minimal personnel resources, and is supported by intelligent features, including the wireless Jacquard control system. This not only expands patterning capabilities but also simplifies yarn threading and improves overall accessibility and clarity.

Furthermore, specially designed trick plates tailored to the fine gauge make the adjustment of fabric thickness particularly convenient. The fabric spacing can be flexibly adjusted between 2 and 5 mm.

The RDJ 6/2 in E 32 is available with a working width of 138".

KARL MAYER will present its latest innovations at ITMA ASIA in Shanghai: for warp knitting in Hall 4.1/C18 and warp preparation in Hall 3/A24.

KARL MAYER invites the Global Textile Industry to celebrate its 90th anniversary at its German Headquarters in 2027

KARL MAYER is turning its anniversary year 2027 into a milestone for the textile sector. To mark its 90th anniversary, the industry leader is inviting customers, partners, and experts from around the world to a unique event series in September aimed at pushing boundaries, unlocking new opportunities, and jointly setting the course for a new era in textiles – just as KARL MAYER has done throughout its history. The company’s headquarters in Obertshausen, near Frankfurt, is the place to be.

3D designs with a wow factor made on HKS 4-M EL ECO: When crepe, ruffles, and sheer fabrics redefine fashion

Seersucker, flip-flap items, Fırfır, or crepe materials: structured fabrics have long been more than just a passing trend. They lend timeless looks depth, dynamism, and an exciting tactile dimension. Whether classic striped patterns or modern solid-color interpretations, these versatile pieces pair perfectly with casual and business-casual outfits and effortlessly create a modern look.

Cinte Techtextil China 2026 wraps up successfully, setting stage for next-gen advancement across key applications

Asia’s premier trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens delivered a vibrant and productive edition this year, bringing together key players from around the world. Featuring over 300 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions across 32,000 sqm, the platform drew nearly 19,000 visits from an increasingly diverse international audience spanning 86 represented markets.

Selenis acquires Polisan Hellas assets and expands specialty copolyester production to more than 200,000 tonnes by 2028

Continuous polymerisation joins Selenis’ existing lines in Portugal, Italy, Tunisia and the United States. Customers get the same grades from more than one site, supply from within their region and the cost base of continuous production for high-volume grades. Priority markets: shrink sleeves, film and sheet, healthcare, 3D printing filaments and textile to textile recycling.

PERFORMANCE DAYS introduces Digital Design Journey with CLO and VIZOO

PERFORMANCE DAYS will introduce a new Digital Design Journey at its upcoming edition in Munich, connecting physical fabric sourcing with 3D product development. Supported by CLO and VIZOO, the installation will demonstrate how real performance fabrics can be digitized and incorporated into virtual garment development workflows.

Dutch court orders Shanghai Port Star to stop sales of HMPE link chains in EU

The District Court of The Hague has ordered Chinese supplier Shanghai Port Star to stop selling and distributing certain synthetic fiber link chains in the European Union after finding that the products infringe EU design rights held by Avient Corporation. The ruling concerns link chains made from high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) fibers for marine and industrial applications.

ITMF names three winners of the Sustainability & Innovation Award 2026

Three projects from the UK, Korea and China have been selected as winners of the ITMF Sustainability & Innovation Award 2026. The projects address textile-to-textile recycling, chemical recycling for automotive textiles and a regenerative approach combining silk production with ecological restoration.

Durak Maxibalance thread supports users’ movement and balance comfort

Durak Tekstil, a leading brand in its industry, has developed Durak Maxibalance, a new product engineered with bio-ceramic and FAR IR technology. Ushering in a new era for sportswear, activewear, and medical textiles, this technology offers features designed to support balance and movement comfort by reflecting the energy absorbed from the body back into it.