All hail the power of print, for ITMA didn’t disappoint. This show, which was packed with innovation at every level, proved a great success. There were 111,000 visitors from 143 nations, while the number of exhibitor peaks at 1709 across 200,000 sqm. It was easy to get there, well serviced, and a well-organized venue. Both those who exhibited as well as those who visited rated it a successful event. Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and contributor to WhatTheyThink shares her opinion.
The Mimaki stand at ITMA. Image courtesy of Texintel.
Post-pandemic, the textile industry has faced many challenges, commercial and environmental, but it is the latter where innovation and reform now reside—the commercial aspects will take care of themselves. There must be a way to make textiles more sustainable. You can also find out more about the following: Digital technologies will continue to dominate the manufacturing industry. Digital technologies are a solution to systemic reform. They offer an impressive set of innovations and a bridge towards sustainable manufacturing on demand and at the right time. The number of machines that were sold at the show (Kornit Digital, 25 Prestos!) speaks for itself. The facts speak for themselves.
The future is now, and textile manufacturers across the globe are investing in digital technology for commercial success—success that is tied to environmentally conscious production and sustainable processes.
People interested in textile print were mainly focused on Halls 7 and 5. With so many technologies to explore, it was hard (if not even impossible) to spend time anywhere else. After the pandemic this was the first time the textile industry had gathered on a stage that has now become the global center for innovation in the field of textiles. ITMA was a hive of activity, with cutting edge technologies and AI.
This is just the first of many key messages from the show. More will follow. The ITMA show will be revisited in the following weeks, and we’ll go deeper into each of the innovations and exhibitors that were showcased.
Simplicity—Single-Step Production
There is an increasing trend towards simplicity in the industry. The show featured new iterations in digital technology, all aimed at streamlining production. For example, automating or removing steps for printing textiles, and scaling back ancillary process sizes to provide a more compact, energy-efficient footprint. Kornit Digital’s Presto continued to be a success; EFI Reggiani introduced a BOLT XS, a single-pass printer; new Hyper models that now use pigment inks. Epson also launched a vision of their ML8000 machine with integrated pre-and post-finishing as well as a suite of new innovations in the Monna Lisa Series (printed resin).
All exhibitors at Hall 7 had one common message: keep it simple.
Size vs. Speed—Small and Mighty
The single-pass technology was presented in smaller and smarter versions, with a footprint that is nothing like rotary, but with the same speed as a screen. The single-pass, a small and powerful technology, has evolved with the printheads and inks to provide AI-driven, automated high-speed technology (100mpm).
Inks takes on Hybrid function
Digital inks across all processes have evolved, whether pigment, dye-sub, or reactive—ink is no longer just ink! Ink manufacturers now offer hybrid inks that include pre-coating or post-coating, triggered by heat. These inks can now be purchased from companies like Sun Chemical and are a great way to reduce the cost of both ink and process.
DTF makes a move on DTG
Mimaki has launched their DTF Machine, which continues to create a buzz and excitement around DTF. Print quality for DTF is increasing as the agenda moves forward, and can be seen at STS’s booth. There are many variations in the hand feeling of vendors. Early machines and inks had a synthetic, rubberized feel. It is important to control the white, as well the quality and quantity of adhesive powder after print. DTF plays a crucial role in the garment decoration industry. Keep an eye on this.
AI meets automation
Automation and AI, going back to the beginning and our need for a simplified process and production, are driving new technology and iterations on existing machines. This is all underpinned by the need for efficient, effective workflow automation—human hand and machine—as seen in the newly launched Apollo from Kornit Digital.
AI plays a major role in the management of color, in machine performance and, ultimately, in controlling energy and waste. The new gold is data, and AI can provide the transparency and traceability the textile industry needs urgently to monitor and quantify its environmental impact.
ITMA is a show that was packed full of technology and innovations needed to equip the industry, deliver sustainable manufacturing, and respond to key market changes. More ITMA insights to follow in the weeks ahead…
www.texintel.com