#Technical Textiles

2026-09-03

RDJ 6/2 in E 32: Finesse in Motion

More drive for design and performance: filigree mesh looks and maximum comfort for high-performance sports footwear

Shoes from the fabric (ai generated) © 2026 KARL MAYER

The appearance of sports and casual shoes is as diverse as their applications, ranging from sporty to stylish and from functional to fashionably practical. In particular, spacer fabrics produced on highly flexible KARL MAYER double needle bar raschel machines with Jacquard technology are in high demand for manufacturing these trendy shoes. These efficient production machines enable attractive designs with integrated multifunctional zones on one or both fabric surfaces, such as breathable mesh structures. Flexible in size and positioning, these features enhance both aesthetics and wearing comfort.

The extensive range of design possibilities has now been expanded by another member of KARL MAYER's RDJ family: the RDJ 6/2 in the new E 32 gauge.

More pattern effects and exceptionally uniform surfaces

Thanks to its fine gauge, spacer textiles can be produced with an unprecedentedly soft hand feel, fine and dense structures, and particularly smooth surfaces. Pattern designs appear exceptionally delicate and clean, as the smaller loop heads provide sharper contours and more clearly defined motifs. The resulting overall appearance is uniquely uniform and refined.

Another advantage is that the RDJ 6/2 operates with two Jacquard guide bars controlled wirelessly. This enables more complex patterning, additional design effects, two-color designs, and both equal-lap and counter-lap patterning. Counter-lap patterning, for example, can be used to create breathable pore zones with nearly round openings, as well as surfaces offering greater structural variety. Everything is possible, from lightweight and thin constructions to bold designs featuring pronounced pattern effects achieved with thicker materials.

An EL pattern drive ensures quick pattern changes.

Maximum productivity, durability and operating efficiency

In addition to its flexibility, the RDJ 6/2 also excels in economic efficiency. It impresses with very high production speeds while maintaining outstanding fabric quality and unique operational reliability. This makes it a dependable machine for high-volume production.

The RDJ 6/2 also stands out in terms of durability and ease of operation. Handling is extremely simple, requires minimal personnel resources, and is supported by intelligent features, including the wireless Jacquard control system. This not only expands patterning capabilities but also simplifies yarn threading and improves overall accessibility and clarity.

Furthermore, specially designed trick plates tailored to the fine gauge make the adjustment of fabric thickness particularly convenient. The fabric spacing can be flexibly adjusted between 2 and 5 mm.

The RDJ 6/2 in E 32 is available with a working width of 138".

KARL MAYER will present its latest innovations at ITMA ASIA in Shanghai: for warp knitting in Hall 4.1/C18 and warp preparation in Hall 3/A24.

3D designs with a wow factor made on HKS 4-M EL ECO: When crepe, ruffles, and sheer fabrics redefine fashion

Seersucker, flip-flap items, Fırfır, or crepe materials: structured fabrics have long been more than just a passing trend. They lend timeless looks depth, dynamism, and an exciting tactile dimension. Whether classic striped patterns or modern solid-color interpretations, these versatile pieces pair perfectly with casual and business-casual outfits and effortlessly create a modern look.

Reducing development times for technical textiles by accelerated thermo-oxidative aging in a high-pressure autoclave

Synthetic polymers used in technical textiles can be effectively protected against degradation caused by heat, oxygen, and water through the use of stabilizer systems. This enables service lives of several decades, extending to more than 50 years. As the use of durable technical textiles continues to grow, so does the demand for reliable methods to predict their service life within economically feasible testing periods. For the first time the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) developed methods for robust service life prediction for textiles in an IGF research project.

Cinte Techtextil China 2026 has opened today, bringing global innovations and resources to Shanghai

As Asia’s premier platform catering to the evolving needs in technical textiles and nonwovens, Cinte Techtextil China has opened today at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, gathering over 300 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions. Across Halls W3 to W5, this edition will create chances for fast-growing sectors and emerging trends – such as Mobiltech, Medtech & Protech, Indutech and more. The curated zones, pavilions, and fringe programme are designed to better connect exhibitors with targeted buyers from across China, Asia-Pacific, and further afield. Meanwhile, the Association Village will gather international industry associations to foster even more global collaboration.

Dornbirn GFC 2026 expands conference program with new thematic sessions

For 65 years, Dornbirn GFC has stood for innovation and is one of the world’s leading conferences in the fiber industry. From September 16 to 18, 2026, the international fiber community will meet in Dornbirn, Austria, to discuss current trends, technological developments, and forward-looking solutions. More than 600 experts from industry and academia from over 30 countries are expected to attend. With around 100 presentations by renowned speakers, a 2,5-day conference program, and three parallel presentation rooms with moderated sessions, Dornbirn GFC provides a first-class platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and international collaboration. Together, participants will generate ideas and impulses that will sustainably shape the future of the global fiber industry.

PERFORMANCE DAYS announces new focus topic & forums for October 2026

With its upcoming October 13–14, 2026 edition, PERFORMANCE DAYS is placing the spotlight on one of the textile industry’s most important transformations: “Bio-Based Materials – From Fiber to Fabric”, a two-part Focus Topic exploring the future of bio-based innovation across the textile value chain. Part 1, presented in October 2026, will focus on fibers and next-generation material developments, while Part 2 at the March 2027 edition will shift the perspective toward dyeing, finishing, additives, and processing technologies.

SHIMA SEIKI to showcase flat knitting and digital design solutions at Egypt Stitch & Tex

Leading Japanese computerized flat knitting technologist SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, together with its sales representative in Egypt, TTS (EL MASRIA FOR TRADE & TECHNICAL SERVICES), will participate in the upcoming 24th International Exhibition for Textile & Carpet Machineries, Printing Technologies and Accessories (Egypt Stitch & Tex) to be held in Cairo, Egypt this month.

Coats Digital launches AI-powered GSD RealMotion for motion analysis

Coats Digital has launched GSD RealMotion, an AI-powered solution designed to provide apparel manufacturers with greater visibility into factory-floor operations. By analysing shop-floor video and applying Coats Digital’s GSD methodology, the solution turns video recordings into structured, motion-by-motion method studies.