#Techtextil 2019

2019-04-04

KARL MAYER is inviting the sector to an exchange of ideas at Techtextil

KARL MAYER is showcasing warp-knitted textiles having an exceptional level of performance in hall 3.0/E 18 at Techtextil 2019 in Frankfurt. On show will be products with integrated electrical conductivity and shaping characteristics from the new TEXTILE MAKERSPACE platform, an extremely efficient textile solution for protecting buildings, and a completely new generation of warp-knitted spacer textiles.

Highlights from the universe of high-performance warp knits

KARL MAYER is also inviting people to attend an in-house show, to be held at the same time as the fair, at its headquarters in nearby Obertshausen. This event is easily accessible by bus transfer and will be premiering a new nonwovens machine for the visitors. KARL MAYER is also a trendsetter in the field of digitisation. This manufacturer has grouped all its digital solutions under the KM.ON brand, and will also be showcasing this system on its stand at the Techtextil.

RAPID TEXTILE– the quick way to new solutions

Textiles with an excellent performance and lower manufacturing costs can be produced by combining the possibilities of additive production with warp knitting technology. Examples of this include warp knits functionalised by 3D printing and these are being presented at Techtextil.

KARL MAYER has grouped together all its activities relating to the use of new technologies and innovative products under the concept of RAPID TEXTILE. They form part of the TEXTILE MAKERSPACE system, a platform that offers the space to try things out, develop new products and think outside the box.

TEXTILE CIRCUIT – the quick way to electrifying designs

Electrically conductive textiles are a hot topic at the moment and can be produced in a variety of different ways. The easiest method is to directly incorporate conductive yarns during fabric production on the machine.

TEXTILE CIRCUIT, another element of TEXTILE MAKERSPACE, shows the potential of warp knitting here. Conductive zones offering maximum flexibility in terms of geometry, dimensions and location can be produced on KARL MAYER’s multibar raschel machines. Examples include inductive charging stations and the remote control of robots, and these are being demonstrated at Techtextil.

Innovative cut-resistant warp-knitted textile (c) 2019 KARL MAYER

New solutions for patterns with plastic effects

Double-bar raschel machines have become firmly established in the production of warp-knitted spacer textiles featuring a variety of designs. A new model is now enabling completely new designs to be produced, i.e. warp-knitted textiles with decorative, relief surfaces. Instead of the spacer layer, three-dimensional design elements are worked on the upper and lower sides. The designs can be shaped and positioned almost without any restrictions, and can be combined with openwork designs. This is opening up a new dimension in near-net-shaped production in particular.

Conductive warp-knitted textile from the TEXTILE CIRCUIT platform (c) 2019 KARL MAYER

Security panels made from weft-inserted warp-knitted textiles – efficient cut protection for buildings and vehicles

Burglars frequently use chainsaws and drills during attempted break-ins, but they can be stopped effectively by a new type of patented security panel with weft-inserted warp-knitted textiles in the core. On contact with the cut-resistant textiles, the rotating tools quickly release large amounts of fibres from the material. These become entangled and the tool is stopped. The highly effective security panels are also very light and can be applied very easily to e.g. security doors, armoured vehicles, vaults and cash machines.

New raschel machine for web bonding – more opportunities on the nonwovens market

A model in the new RACOP-NW series will be demonstrated at an in-house show in Obertshausen at the same time as Techtextil. This efficient nonwovens machine produces stitch-bonded nonwovens from feed webs, a technology that offers many advantages. This process produces nonwovens having textile characteristics, such as elasticity and voluminosity, which is not the case when using chemical bonding agents. Furthermore, much less energy is consumed compared to thermal processes. In addition to these general advantages, the new RACOP-NW model also offers an exceptional cost:benefit ratio. It is also extremely flexible and can, therefore, be used in a variety of applications. A RACOP-NW, 160", gauge E 14, is producing a textile for the application area heating textiles at the in-house show.

More patterns, less effort: the MULTI-MATIC® at Rohleder

Rohleder is one of Europe’s most modern weaving mills. For over 80 years, the family-owned company has been developing and manufacturing premium fabrics for brands, retailers and private customers – 100% Made in Germany. This success is made possible by a consistent focus on design, quality, and functionality, as well as by continuous investment in state-of-the-art production facilities. Rohleder also relies on innovative technologies in warp preparation and has been collaborating with KARL MAYER for many years. As recently as 2023, a MULTI-MATIC® was delivered to the company’s headquarters in Konradsreuth.

The new RJ 4/2 EL revolutionizes body mapping and expands creative possibilities – from smart lingerie to sporty athleisure designs

With the addition of another member to its successful RASCHELTRONIC® family, KARL MAYER is opening up new possibilities for creative product development for warp knitting mills and brands. The RJ 4/2 EL offers with two stitch-forming Jacquard bars entirely new design options for functional sportswear and bi-elastic lingerie. Available in gauges E 28 and E 32, this new model helps manufacturers set their collections apart from the competition. The fine E-32 gauges, in particular, impress with their clean surface, a pleasantly soft feel, and an exceptionally elegant look.

Brazil sets new cotton export record and consolidates global leadership

Brazil ended the 2025/26 commercial year with a new record, consolidating its position as the world’s largest cotton exporter. Between August 2025 and July 2026, the country shipped 3,373,941 tonnes of the fiber, 19% more than in the previous cycle, and reached record revenue of US$5.3 billion. The result represents a milestone in Brazil’s expansion in the international market and reinforces the country’s role as a strategic supplier to the global textile industry.

The LYCRA Company expands its co-creation vision through an immersive Lifestyle District at Intertextile Shanghai.

The LYCRA Company, a global leader in fiber and technology solutions for the apparel industry, is reimagining the trade show experience at Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics Autumn Edition, which opened today in China. Building on the success of last year's ALL IN concept, the company has expanded its co-creation vision into a 356-square-meter Lifestyle District featuring partners Jingzili New Material, JYT Textile, Lianxingfa Knitting, and Trend Textile. The district is part of a larger 895-square-meter pavilion showcasing a total of 19 co-exhibitors. Together, they demonstrate how innovations in fiber, fabric, and garments can be combined to create compelling solutions for both work and play.

Plastic-free stretch technologies drive new direction for denim innovation

As the denim industry looks for ways to reduce its reliance on synthetic fibres, plastic-free stretch technologies are gaining momentum. Developments based on mechanical fabric construction and natural rubber are demonstrating that comfort and stretch can be achieved without conventional elastane, supporting both recyclability and circular product design.