Fabio Kahn, Nilit's Fibers Division Director, says the development “shows Nilit’s continued dedication to innovations in research and development of nylon yarns and our longstanding commitment to protecting the environment. Being aware of our impact on the environment and reducing that impact with a product this original is highly gratifying.”
Nilit has long recycled its yarn waste to produce polyamide chips through a re-melting process. This process reduces the energy consumption compared to fiber spun from virgin polymers, which the Company uses in compounds for plastic applications.
“With increasing demand for eco-friendly yarns and products, “we decided to develop yarn spun primarily from this recycled polymer,” notes Alon Weiser, Nilit’s Research Development and Technical Service Manager.
“We overcame the variability in efficiency and low dye affinity by mixing 90% of the recycled polymer with 10% of our deep dye polymer to achieve a rich color. The yarns have excellent uniformity and color depth, which makes them well suited for seamless apparel, legwear and for other textile end-uses.”
With this development, Nilit has significantly shortened the “technology chain,” especially in high energy-consuming stages such as evaporation. The process does not require the use of autoclaves. As well, it reduces pollution.
This new yarn represents another milestone for the Company in its ongoing commitment to protecting the environment. “At the corporate level, we have a вЂzero waste’ policy,” Kahn states. “This development reinforces our company philosophy to respect and protect the environment. Over the years we have consistently looked for ways to conserve water, reduce emissions, recycle waste, and operate a cleaner enterprise.”
In addition to its recycling yarn waste (in its own recycling facility), Nilit captures and reuses energy from its facilities for use in its manufacturing processes. Company engineers have designed systems to significantly reduce sulfur levels. Low-emission burners have replaced plant boilers. At Nilit corporate headquarters in Migdal Ha’Emek, Israel, employees are active in the National Manufacturer’s Association for the Environment.
