Posted September 8, 2014

 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Nonwovens manufacturer Polymer Group Inc. (PGI) announced that it has expanded its Spinlace® technology in its Benson, N.C. manufacturing facility.

 

The new Spinlace line, the second such line in the Benson plant, adds more than 300 million square meters of manufacturing capacity in the facility and is expected to be commercial in late Q3 2014. This new line and additional capacity will enable PGI to better serve its global customers and support the continuing growth of its global business as part of the company's ongoing mission to create a safer, cleaner, healthier world.

 

PGI's Spinlace technology is a critical component of its growth in the specialty materials business, as it enables the company to produce and deliver innovative nonwovens to customers across multiple market segments, the company said. These segments include home and personal care wipes, commercial wipes, hygiene and healthcare.

 

PGI said it is committed to continued investment in new technology to enable more efficient production of higher-quality materials that serve customers around the world.

 

"The specialty materials industry is highly competitive, and PGI continues to lead the market through an unparalleled combination of innovation and quality," said J. Joel Hackney, Jr., CEO, PGI. "Whether they serve consumer or industrial users, our customers know to expect the best quality nonwovens developed with the most advanced technology available."

 

The Spinlace technology utilizes a highly efficient process that incorporates almost limitless material inputs, including pulp, with high-speed hydroentanglement. Additionally, the process uses PGI's proprietary Apex™ technology to impart customizable three-dimensional images directly into the fabric to impart both functional and aesthetic attributes. The process results in stronger and higher performing materials at typically lower weights and with a better value proposition than traditional manufacturing methods.

 

"This multi-million-dollar investment in new Spinlace technology helps ensure that we continue to provide a diverse and innovative array of specialty products to our customers across the globe," said Hackney. "Anchored with strong customer support and developmental agreements, it is a key step in our broader strategy for global growth, as we continue to extend our position as the leading nonwovens manufacturer in the world."

 

PGI has 24 locations in 14 countries and employs about 5,000 people.