Production Process II

Finishing/Dyeing

In the finishing department, knitted fabric is transformed into a functional textile. Washing, dyeing and stabilising give the material its final performance characteristics. Each process step is precisely adapted to the fibre type, fabric structure and intended use. The aim is to achieve a uniform appearance, defined dimensions and a surface that can be processed effectively in the subsequent stages. Modern systems allow precise control of temperature, time and chemical parameters. The result is a fabric that forms the basis for clean garment production.

"Colour, temperature and time are precisely controlled
and documented at every stage of the process."

Washing and Bleaching Line

Before the fabric is dyed, it must be thoroughly prepared. In the washing and bleaching line, residues from production that could interfere with even dye absorption are removed. The fabric passes through several washing stages using the counterflow principle: while the fabric moves forwards, the water moves in the opposite direction. All parameters such as temperature, pH value, water volume and processing time are precisely controlled and documented. For lighter shades, an additional bleaching process is carried out. This prepares the fibres evenly. The result is a clean, homogeneous fabric that provides a stable basis for the subsequent dyeing process and enables even colour results.

Dyeing Process

The dyeing process depends on the material and fibre composition. Cotton fabrics are dyed using the cold pad-batch process. In this method, the dye liquor is applied to the fabric without the use of heat or salt and is then fixed over a defined dwell time. During this phase, the dye bonds permanently with the fibre. To prevent external influences, the fabric is wrapped airtight. Fabrics containing synthetic fibres require a different dyeing process: in high-temperature jet machines, entire fabric batches are dyed at high temperatures so that the fibres open and absorb the dye. Both processes can be controlled precisely and enable reproducible colour results tailored to the subsequent wear, care requirements and intended use.

Stenter

In the stenter, the fabric is aligned with the stitches running straight and adjusted to its final width. It is dried under controlled tension and thermally fixed. This process stabilises the fabric structure and aligns the stitch direction and width for further processing. Additional finishes, such as an easy-care treatment, can also be applied to specifically improve care properties, feel and sewability. The stenter is a crucial step in preparing the fabric for garment production: it ensures that the fabric lies flat and can be processed evenly.

Fabric Inspection

In the sanforising unit, the fabric is relaxed and compacted in a controlled manner. This targeted shrinkage significantly reduces subsequent shrinkage while also improving the feel of the fabric and its sewability. Here, the fabric is inspected using a camera system and any defects are marked with labels for the following production stage (cutting) so that they can be removed accordingly.

In addition, the fabric can be processed in the XETMA raising machine. Special rollers draw fibres to the surface in a controlled manner without separating them. This creates soft, voluminous surfaces, for example for brushed or fleece-like qualities. Both systems make it possible to adapt fabrics specifically to their intended use and to reproduce different tactile properties with technical precision.

In the finishing department, knitted fabric is transformed into a functional textile. Washing, dyeing and stabilising give the material its final performance characteristics. Each process step is precisely adapted to the fibre type, fabric structure and intended use. The aim is to achieve a uniform appearance, defined dimensions and a surface that can be processed effectively in the subsequent stages. Modern systems allow precise control of temperature, time and chemical parameters. The result is a fabric that forms the basis for clean garment production.