Uster’s new chapter in sustainable textiles

Textile tester and quality control specialist Uster Technologies is to include the processing of recycled fibres in its latest report on benchmarking. This eco-centric approach is seen as an industry first and was announced at a press event organised by Swiss Textile Machinery in Bern.

‘Spinning yarn blends of virgin and recycled fibres is a much bigger challenge than any other commonly used blend but the results can still be acceptable with comprehensive quality testing, know-how and experience,’ says Uster’s business development specialist Sivakumar Narayanan. ‘Assessing textile quality was once a matter of opinion. Today it’s a matter of fact.’

A crucial milestone in the quality control of yarn was the launch of the Uster Tester in the early 1940s. It helped spinners measure textile slivers, rovings and yarns and the prototype is on display at the company’s headquarters. Later versions extended measurement capabilities with specially developed sensors and advanced software and it has become one of the most key instruments in the textiles sector. Connectivity with other Uster systems during processing has created a quality management platform for the entire mill.

Detailed data regarding spinning best practice is listed in the Uster Statistics publications, which now include a chapter on textiles recycling. ‘Spinners today have the power to analyse every element of their processes and select the best options for their own profitability and their customers’ complete satisfaction,’ the company notes.

Uster believes its 75^th anniversary as a good moment to foster more innovation and sustainable growth across the textiles sector.