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Archive for the ‘Materials’ Category

Milliken & Company Partners with MMI Textiles to Offer Tegris Thermoplastic Composites

Wednesday, January 18th, 2023

BROOKLYN, OH – January 13, 2023 – MMI Textiles and Milliken & Company announced today a commercial market partnership that allows MMI to supply Milliken Tegris® Thermoplastic Composite fabric. MMI will be able to offer Tegris® at less than case quantities, effective immediately.

Milliken Tegris® Thermoplastic Composite fabric is designed for heavy-duty, often dangerous work. A breakthrough material that provides excellent protection against fragment, projectile or blast threats, it is engineered specifically for applications that need high stiffness, like plate carriers and belts. The fabric features a lighter total weight than traditional thermoplastics and composites without sacrificing protection.

“We are thrilled to partner with an iconic, global, textile supplier in Milliken and offer their proven Tegris® product line to our vast customer base. Our team looks forward to a growing partnership with Milliken to provide the very best solutions to our warfighters and many other markets that we serve.” Amy Bircher, CEO & Founder of MMI Textiles.

“Being able to offer Tegris® and partner with a leader in the textile industry like Milliken further illustrates MMI’s commitment to provide innovative products to the end customer, especially those that protect our warfighters. We continue to focus and expand our range of products to support customer needs and participate in new market segments.” said Director of Business Development of MMI Textiles, Joey Smith.

Milliken worked closely with MMI to provide a comprehensive education on the product that positions the distributor as an expert on Tegris®. The partnership is uniquely designed to improve customer experience and provide an opportunity for partners to access Tegris® at quantities that were not previously offered.

“Our commitment to the military industry means that we’re always on the lookout for ways to better serve and bring opportunities to advance the market,” said David Smith, president of Milliken’s Textile Business.

“We’re excited to partner with MMI and know they’re an ideal partner to help us ensure that anyone looking to develop the next generation of performance protection has the best materials, like Tegris®, at their disposal,” Bruce LaFlam, vice president of sales and marketing for Government Defense at Milliken.

INVISTA Launches New Navy Blue CORDURA TrueLock Fabric at SHOT Show 2023

Saturday, January 14th, 2023

In partnership with HLC Industries, CORDURA® Advanced Fabrics will debut new nylon 6,6 Navy Blue Solution Dyed (SDN) CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric that provides unparalleled lot-to-lot color consistency plus long-lasting color durability and Stewardship benefits for Military, Tactical and Law Enforcement Markets

Kennesaw, GA, USA –January 13, 2023 Set to propel and underscore its commitment to best-in-class solution-dyed nylon 6,6 fiber technology innovation and its commitment to developing the durable, sustainable fabric solutions of tomorrow, the exclusive new Navy Blue CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric offered by Pennsylvania based HLC Industries, a premium long-term supplier of CORDURA® Advanced Fabrics will debut at SHOT Show Supplier Showcase in Las Vegas (January 16-17, 2023).

This new CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric offering leads the pack of the brand’s next generation of solution-dyed nylon 6,6 (SDN) colors and answers the call for expansion of navy colorway options into Military, Tactical, and Law Enforcement applications. If you are visiting the show, stop by both the CORDURA® Advanced Fabrics (#52400) and HLC Industries (#51700) booths.

CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric is engineered with high-tenacity nylon 6,6 multi-filament fiber that locks in the color at the molten polymer extrusion level to create deep, durable color throughout the entire fiber structure. CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric has excellent color fastness, UV-fade and abrasion resistance, extended UV strength stability, and long-lasting color vibrancy.  Color consistency is crucial when pairing fabric with other materials such as webbing and elastic to create uniform garments and gear.

A summary of the fabric’s tangible benefits include:

• Excellent resistance to abrasion, tear, and tensile strength 

• Lot-to-lot and multi-component color consistency (fabric, webbing, cordage, and trims)

• Locked in color – resists “frosting” under abrasion 

• Dull Matte – non-shiny appearance

• Inherent low NIR reflectance capability

• Resists color loss after UV exposure or washing 

• Retains strength after extended UV exposure 

• 100% high tenacity nylon 6,6 filament fiber

Additionally, compared to conventional level acid piece dyeing to SDN, the process used to make CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric uses less water, energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases*.

“Throughout our 55-year brand journey, we’ve worked to establish a foundation built on durable and long-lasting fiber technologies, including our legacy of solution dyed, high-performance nylon 6,6 offerings. As we advance on this journey, we continue to invest and expand our capabilities to include solutions that are not only durable but step lighter on the path to sustainability”, explains Cindy McNaull® brand business development director.

“The launch of our latest Navy Blue CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric is a testament to the strength of supply chain collaboration between INVISTA and HLC Industries – together listening to the voice of our customers, identifying unmet needs, solving problems and inventing cutting-edge solutions; designing with true purpose,” explains Tina Rogers, CORDURA® strategic military account manager.

HLC Industries Marnie Landau, Executive Vice President added: “Navy Blue is one of the most commonly used colors in law enforcement, military, tactical, and workwear applications. This new addition to the CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabric portfolio offers shade uniformity across the components of apparel and gear, and durable enough to stay true after exposure to the elements and intense military/outdoor missions.  Partnering with the CORDURA® Advanced Fabrics team to develop a crucial high tenacity, solution dyed nylon 6,6 navy blue offering was the natural choice.”

“The launch of CORDURA® Navy Blue TrueLock™ fiber is a major milestone for INVISTA’s Camden, S.C. facility which we have expanded with new equipment in recent years to increase U.S. capacity of high-tenacity, nylon 6,6 specialty fibers for Military, Tactical, Law Enforcement, Workwear and Outdoor end-uses,” explains Erik Walker, Global Military Segment Leader.  “Together with HLC Industries we are dedicated to meeting the evolving needs in critical protective applications such as ballistic vest covers, bags, packs, and outerwear.”

In addition to Navy Blue, Berry Compliant CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fabrics are also available in Desert Sand, Tan-499, Coyote-498, Ranger Green, Camo Green-483, Wolf Gray and Black**.

Learn more at CORDURA® – TrueLock™ Fabric.  

 *2013 LCA study based on the average comparison of conventional level acid Piece Dyeing to SDN at 3 independent/3rd party dyeing and finishing mills.

** Numbers denote US Military color specification.

HLC Industries and INVISTA Engineer 2 New Solution Dyed Nylon Cordura Shades

Thursday, January 12th, 2023

For years, law enforcement, security forces, and first responders in the USA and abroad have dealt with the inconsistency of conventionally dyed nylon (“Piece Dyed”) fabrics. Additionally, these piece dyed nylon fabrics fade significantly just hours after exposure to UV light.

The manufacturers of law enforcement and police gear turned to HLC Industries to provide a solution.

In a cooperative effort, HLC and industry partner INVISTA engineered two new solution dyed nylon CORDURA® shades:

FORCE BLUE™
BLUE 9™

FORCE Blue™ is a very dark navy, common in law enforcement uniforms and vests.
BLUE 9™ is a traditional navy, to be used in numerous commercial, tactical and workwear applications as well as some law enforcement equipage.

Both shades will be added to the family of In-Stock solution dyed CORDURA® nylons (500D & 1000D) and sold exclusively by HLC Industries.

FORCE Blue™ and Blue 9™  feature the CORDURA® TrueLock™ Fiber and will share all the added benefits of solution dyed nylon:

• Abrasion resistance
• Lot-to-Lot color consistency
• Locked in color
• Resistant to UV exposure

For samples, please contact HLC, Sales@HLCIndustries.com  

www.hlcindustries.com

Curv Tactical at the 2023 SHOT SHOW

Wednesday, January 11th, 2023

Propex, the manufacturer of Curv Tactical™ is excited to join our partners and exclusive North American distributor, Ocean State Innovations, at their Supplier Showcase booth #52240. 

Curv® is a self-reinforced thermoplastic composite material that does not require thermoset resin, glass, or any other support structure to maintain its strength or impact resistance. Discover and explore how you can use Curv Tactical™ as a durable lightweight stiffener in protective vests, MOLLE attachments, belts, harnesses, holsters, backpacks, ballistic vests and a range of other equipment pieces. The unique mono-construction of Curv Tactical™ allows it to be sewn, glued, laser-cut or thermoformed for precise fitment. High stiffness, high tensile strength, superior impact resistance and formability with extremely low density are all highlights of Curv Tactical™.

We are looking forward to greeting you at booth #52240. Learn more about Curv Tactical™ and discover our newest advancements.

Murdock Webbing Invites You to Their SHOT Show Booth

Wednesday, January 11th, 2023

Murdock Webbing is your source for narrow woven webbing. Visit us at SHOT Show 2023 at Booth #31000. Bring your ideas and challenge us. We can provide the textile solutions that will separate your product from your competitors.

We look good for our age. Since 1936, Murdock Webbing has been an industry leader in manufacturing narrow woven fabrics. We are committed to excellence, creating new innovative technologies, and continuously improving our product lines. All our manufacturing is done in the USA, and equipped with needle, shuttle, and specialized jacquard looms.

As a small family-owned business, we are able to work closely with our customers. Together we can create innovative woven products that meet your needs. We have industry leading design experts specializing in visual, and technical constructions for optimal textile performance. We also provide services such as prototyping, light assembly, hot cutting, dyeing, and finishing. We are backed by a certified quality assurance lab, and skillful, committed employees. We’re here for you.

SHOT Show Booth 31000

www.murdockwebbing.com

sales@murdockwebbing.com

Nikwax Introduces PFC-Free Waterproof Down

Sunday, January 8th, 2023

[Seattle, WA, December 19, 2022]— Nikwax, the international leader in PFC-free high performance technical cleaners and waterproofing products for outdoor apparel, footwear and gear, has introduced the world’s highest performing waterproof downs — Nikwax Hydrophobic Down+ (NHD+) and Nikwax Hydrophobic Down Recycled (NHD Recycled). The two PFC-free options offer a more sustainable solution at the highest level of performance available.

The world’s highest performing waterproof down fill.

Completely PFC-free formula

Exceeds 10,000 minutes on the IDFB 18a Shake Test

Responsible Down Certified (RDS)

Available in 650-900 fill powers

Keeps users dry more than 600% longer than competing waterproof down products

Designed for lasting performance with Nikwax aftercare products

The world’s highest performing waterproof recycled down fill.

Completely PFC-free formula

Exceeds 1,000 minutes on the IDFB 18a Shake Test

Global Recycled Standard certification available (GRS)

Comprised completely of recycled down fill

Available in 650-800 fill powers

Keeps users dry more than 900% longer than untreated down

Designed for lasting performance with Nikwax aftercare products

With 45 years of experience in perfecting high performing PFC-free aftercare products, Nikwax is able to deliver the highest performing hydrophobic down products to outdoor industry brands. Nikwax understands its fundamental responsibility to preserve the natural environment while preventing further damage to the planet and its people. The company continues to lead with innovative, sustainable, ethical, authentic, and fair practices.

“Our industry partners have been searching for high performing, PFC-free, sustainable hydrophobic down fill options and we’ve been able to deliver two that are not only PFC-free but perform better than anything else in their respective categories,” said Nikwax North America president, Brian Davidson. “Nikwax is known for being a leader in PFC-free chemistry, sustainability, and performance, and we’re looking forward to elevating our brand partners with these new insulation options.”

 

British Dyer and Printer Pincroft, Makes Strategic Move for Business Growth

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023

Adlington, United Kingdom: Pincroft, a commission textile dyer, printer and finisher, based in the UK, has announced the strategic appointment of Louise Sheridan as the company’s new Business Development Manager, as part of the business’ growth plan for the coming years.

With an extensive career in textiles spanning almost 20 years, Louise’s experience includes nonwovens, contract upholstery and technical textiles with her last role at Waxman Fibres focusing on the technical and business development of flame retardant and antistatic fibres for PPE covering the UK and mainland Europe.

Louise says: “I am very excited to Join the Pincroft team where with my experience of the industry I aim to maximise sales and new business development for all aspects of commission services, including pre-treatment, dyeing, printing and finishing of textiles.

“With Pincroft being a world leader in camouflage printing with a wealth of expert talent, my immediate focus will be on sharing this expertise and know-how with new and existing customers in the defence and military sectors.

Pincroft’s Managing Director, Mike Collins, adds: “The appointment of Louise as our Business Development Manager is a great step forward for the company’s growth plan in the coming years, where we focus on maximising the market’s knowledge of our vast 130 years of expertise in commission dyeing, printing and finishing of fabrics.”

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Wool ACM-WARM 600

Friday, November 18th, 2022

This week, we’re featuring our warmest Merino Wool line in ACM-WARM 600.

The ACM-WARM 600 is FirstSpear’s heaviest weight Merino Wool and provides the greatest standalone warmth. Pair with ACM-BASE 100 and ACM-MID 400 to create an extremely warm and comfortable system to beat the elements.

The Everyday Vest (EDV) is a great addition to the FirstSpear wool line. It utilizes an extremely lightweight 50/50 blend of our American Merino Wool and Polyester and is fully Berry Compliant. This is a heavyweight Merino Wool vest with a soft, brushed fleece interior, designed for the coldest temperatures.

The sleeveless design of the Stalker Vest is a unique feature in the FirstSpear American Wool line with an important benefit. The Stalker Vest has been designed for wear under plate carriers and can be removed without taking the carrier off. Simply open the sides of the Stalker Vest and slide it over your head. With the exclusive design of the Stalker Vest, you can easily adjust body heat retention. Too hot, one the sides for ventilation. Too cold, close the sides. Way too hot, remove the whole vest. All without removing your carrier.

The FirstSpear Woobie’s are 100% Made in America and include the Woobie Full Zip, Woobie 1/4 Zip and the advanced Technical Woobie. Each have their own unique style while remaining the absolute warmest American Merino Wool that FirstSpear offers. If you’re looking for technical apparel thats both warm and functional, a FirstSpear Woobie is definitely the way to go.

Visit FirstSpear to find all the gear and apparel for America’s War Fighter.