Technologies

The "one-dimensional" yarn is usually the starting material for a textile two- or three-dimensional structure. It can be described by a multitude of parameters, which together determine the product properties. For the yarn finishing process (twisting, winding or cabling), we research combinations of materials for novel yarn characteristics. This enables us to develop modern products and textile structures with novel properties.

The aim of our research and development in the field of tufting technology is to improve the reproducibility and the flexibility of the process. We also want to open new, technical areas of application for tufted 3D structures. To this end, we are developing new machine elements and applying modern materials such as fibre-reinforced plastics. We demonstrate our results on our laboratory equipment and pilot tufting machines. In close cooperation with our industrial partners, we transfer these solutions to commercial production.

Shearing of tufted textiles with cut pile is an important step in the production process. The aim is to create an even, visually appealing surface. This technology is very demanding. Errors in process control or temperature development lead to an uneven fabric appearance and thus to rejects. At TFI, for example, it is analysed how the decisive parameters affect the shearing result. Thus, conditions for a precisely fitting, significantly improved process reliability and a visually flawless product are created.

The coating of a product has an impact on its durability, functionality and quality. In our coating laboratory, we coat the back of tufted products such as carpets, for example, to bind the pile and apply secondary backings. This coating ensures the durability and stability of textile surfaces. With our squeegee system we test additional features such as stain and flame protection or antistatic agents against electrical charge.

In the field of surface modification of textiles, heat treatment (calendering) is an essential process step that has a significant influence on the function and the desired application. We analyse and optimise existing process windows and develop innovative products based on new material combinations.
The implementation and testing is carried out on our pilot plant in close cooperation with users and machine manufacturing companies. This enables a timely transfer of research results into industry.

Recyclable and sustainable products require new and innovative (adhesive) materials and joining technologies, especially for composite systems such as floor coverings. Therefore, TFI researches and develops both in questions of wet coating and thermally activated adhesive joints. The results are tested in our laboratories and pilot plants together with industrial partners and transferred into industry.

For numerous industrial applications, textile semi-finished products must be formed or pressed, for example for floor assemblies in cars. We develop new material combinations and structures, which we test in our pilot plants and check for functionality and the degree of their formability. This results in material and design recommendations for industrial production that meet the requirements.