#ITMA-Asia + CITME-2014

2014-07-23

The HKS 2-M, with an optimised cost:benefit ratio, is premiered

The HKS 2-M on the visitor’s focus at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2014 in Shanghai

Two-bar, high-speed tricot machines can now produce plain warp-knitted textiles even more efficiently. KARL MAYER launched the HKS 2-M onto the market at this year’s ITMA ASIA + CITME fair in June, thus presenting a machine that is roughly 20% faster than its predecessor.

At a working width of 180", the HKS 2-M can reach maximum speeds of 3,200 min-1. The version with a width of 210", which can operate at up to 3,000 min-1, is setting new standards. This increase in speed has been achieved by optimising the knitting motion and making the bars even lighter.

The HKS 2-SE is one of the models equipped with lighter knitting elements and was unveiled at the ShanghaiTex trade fair last year. In addition to increasing the speed, KARL MAYER’s engineers also focused on reducing the cost. Thanks to a number of clever modifications to the construction, the HKS 2-M is being offered at an attractive price. The 210"-wide machine is likely to be particularly well received by the market, thanks to its perfect cost:benefit ratio.

This flexible, medium-stroke machine is especially suitable for producing non-stretch fabrics with a low stitch number, loose yarn running, and gauges of up to E 32. These mainly include technical and semi-technical textiles, for example, mattress covers, velour fabrics for the furniture industry, nets, sports goods, shoe fabrics and printing grounds. But tulle, stylish, open mesh fabrics and plain fabrics for the clothing sector can also be produced on the HKS 2-M.

This all-round machine is also user friendly and operates reliably and accurately. This is due to its well-thought-out construction and its tried-and-tested components, such as the KAMCOS® computer platform, electronic speed control of the main drive, and electronic systems for controlling the fabric take-down and yarn feed.

KARL MAYER opens a new TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTRE – a new era of textile innovation begins

KARL MAYER is opening its new TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC), sending a strong signal that it is driving textile innovation forward and opening up new perspectives for the textile industry. The TIC brings together the latest developments in Warp Knitting, Technical Textiles and Warp Preparation – KARL MAYER’s core areas of expertise.

Proven performance, optimised costs – the new RE 6 EL

Nowadays textile companies increasingly need to produce small production runs and respond to market changes with instantaneous pattern changes in order to operate profitably – meaning they require machines that offer maximum flexibility, reliability and cost efficiency. KARL MAYER understands the challenges of the market and is launching its new RE 6 EL. The Raschel machine offers the core strengths of the classic RSE 6 EL and essentially the same performance parameters, but has been further cost-optimised largely due to local production advantages. This makes the newcomer an efficiency champion in production, especially when it comes to frequent pattern changes.

“Action helps us change what we do!”

DAY 0 takes place deliberately before PERFORMANCE DAYS begins. It is conceived as a space for reflection, dialogue and active engagement — a moment to pause before the fair, rethink established systems and address sustainability not as a trend, but as a fundamental transformation challenge. Under the guiding metaphor “Turn the Tap Off”, DAY 0 focuses on root causes rather than symptoms, systemic change rather than isolated solutions, and collective responsibility rather than individual silos.

Pets in fashion: functional and sustainable textiles find new market at Intertextile Apparel

China’s pet economy is booming, especially amongst younger generations, and pet apparel – from designer outfits to functional garments – was a RMB 3.5 billion (over USD 500 million) market in 2024, growing more than 20% annually¹. To help exhibitors harness this trend, Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition 2026 will launch the Pet Boutique, presenting a range of innovative, sustainable materials that prioritise both functionality and comfort for pets.

VAUDE eliminates PFAS from all products

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are now detectable worldwide – in drinking water, soil and the human body. These so-called “forever chemicals” are considered hazardous to health and potentially carcinogenic, as they do not break down and remain in the environment permanently. Despite these risks, PFAS are still used in a wide range of products. More than 15 years ago, VAUDE made a strategic decision to gradually eliminate PFAS from all product categories.

Lenzing AG to become majority owner of TreeToTextile AB and accelerates industrialization of new fibers

The Lenzing Group is taking another strategic milestone by acquiring a controlling majority in the Swedish innovation company TreeToTextile AB. This step strengthens Lenzing’s position as a leading provider of sustainable, wood‑based specialty fibers and expands its innovation pipeline with a highly scalable, patent‑protected technology platform. The transaction is executed through the issuance of new shares.