#Nonwovens / Technical Textiles

2020-07-30

Duvaltex launches highly innovative protective face mask

Duvaltex, a North American leader in medical and technical textiles, launches a highly innovative, non-medical protective face mask using a 3D-knit technology. Made in the United States at Duvaltex’s facility in Grand Rapids, MI, the washable X7 mask provides maximum comfort, making it easy to breathe. More information at knit.duvaltex.com. (CNW Group/Duvaltex)

Duvaltex, a North American leader in the development and production of medical and technical textiles, is proud to announce the launch of a highly innovative, non-medical protective face mask. Using a unique 3D-knit technology, the new X7 mask provides maximum comfort while minimizing the risk of contamination and transmission of viruses, such as COVID-19. It contributes to sustainability by being machine washable and reusable, and is made entirely in the United States at Duvaltex's facility in Grand Rapids, MI.

Significant investments made at Duvaltex's facility in Michigan to produce millions of masks using 3D technology for optimal comfort

Duvaltex, a North American leader in medical and technical textiles, launches the production of a non-medical protective and washable face mask at its Grand Rapids, MI, facility. The company has the capacity to produce millions of masks thanks to its recent investments in 3D knitting equipment. More information at knit.duvaltex.com. (CNW Group/Duvaltex)

"We are continuing to leverage our extensive experience in the development and production of medical and technical textiles for the healthcare industry to help protect people and limit the spread of viruses, such as COVID-19," said Alain Duval, Chief Executive Officer of Duvaltex. "We have made significant investments in new equipment at our plant in Michigan, developed special anti-microbial textiles, and used unique 3D-knit technology to bring these innovative masks to market in record time. All of our employees are proud to be contributing to the protection of Americans in today's new reality by preventing the spread of viruses."

The X7 protective mask was developed by Duvaltex's Knit Innovations center of excellence in Grand Rapids. Designed for all-day use, its air-chamber 3D-knit design ensures it fits the face perfectly and allows air to circulate freely, making it easy to breathe and limiting condensation. The mask features specifically engineered yarns that resist odor and combat microbe-causing bacteria for an additional level of protection. The yarns also allow the mask to be washed with a bleaching solution while preserving its color and shape.

Investing in the U.S. to promote local production and sustainability

Duvaltex made substantial investments in new 3D knitting equipment at its Grand Rapids facility to provide it with the capacity to produce millions of X7 masks. It also bolstered the facility's 3D knitting technology capabilities with a view to producing advanced products for a range of other applications, both medical and otherwise. "In keeping with our commitment to sustainability, the technology allows us to eliminate waste in the production process and ensures our products are reusable, protecting our planet for future generations," noted Mr. Duval. He added that with the promising growth prospects supported by 3D-knit technology and the unique expertise of its Grand Rapids knit team, Duvaltex is confident about bringing more innovative products to market.

Duvaltex's new X7 protective mask complies with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations regarding face coverings and masks. It comes in different sizes for optimal face contouring and all adult face shapes. The mask is available in bulk quantities for large businesses as well as the retail, hospitality, and service sectors, or individually, through a dedicated e-commerce platform at knit.duvaltex.com.

“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.

ANDRITZ sets focus on textile recycling and durable nonwoven production technologies at ITMA Asia 2025

International technology Group ANDRITZ will be presenting its innovative nonwovens production and textile solutions at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2025 in Singapore, from October 28 to 31, 2025 (Hall 2, D106). ANDRITZ will showcase its MMCF production plants, textile sorting and recycling, bast fiber processing, needlepunch, airlay, and life-cycle service technologies, with a focus on sustainable solutions. Discover how these innovations can grow your business opportunities and support a greener future.

OUTLOOK™ 2025: Charting a sustainable and innovative future for the Nonwovens Industry

EDANA concluded its flagship event, OUTLOOK™ 2025, last week, marking it as a major success and addressing the biggest questions facing the industry. The three-day conference highlighted the urgent need for a unified approach to sustainability, regulation, and innovation in the absorbent hygiene and wipes sectors.

Global Nonwovens Alliance unveils Inaugural Board, advancing collaboration and growth worldwide

The Global Nonwovens Alliance (GNA), a tax-exempt federation jointly founded by INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, and EDANA, the Voice of Nonwovens, announces the appointment of its founding Board of Directors. This group of leaders represents some of the most influential executives across the nonwovens value chain and reflects GNA’s mission to foster global collaboration, innovation, and growth in the industry.

Rieter sees Barmag integration on track as orders and sales rise

The first half of 2026 was shaped by the successful completion of the largest acquisition in Rieter’s history. The Man-Made Fiber Division enables entry into the growth segment of man-made fibers and sustainably strengthens Rieter’s market position in the Asia region. The expanded Group is now the world’s leading system supplier for the processing of natural and man-made fibers. In the first half of the year, initial cost savings in material costs and operating expenses have already been realized. The targeted synergies are expected to amount to at least CHF 20 million by the end of the 2028 financial year. Due to the completion of the acquisition on February 2, 2026, the first half of the year for the Man-Made Fiber Division only amounts to five months.