BOENNIGHEIM - [08.05.09] German thread maker Amann, which last year took over UK-based Oxley threads, has informed Ecotextile News that it will soon launch a series of new embroidery and sewing threads made from recycled polyester and organic cotton.

Launched under the new Amann ‘Lifecycle Threads’ brand, the company will shortly roll out a textured sewing thread, a multifilament product and an embroidery thread, all made from 100% recycled polyester. And with further research taking place on other natural renewable raw materials and biopolymers, the company says it is also set to launch an organic cotton sewing thread under the same brand.

Applications for the company’s sewing threads range from apparel to automotive textiles have increased, while it reports there is also a growing demand for these types of threads in aircraft construction and other technical textile fields. The company will exhibit its range at the forthcoming Techtextil in Frankfurt to be held in June.

Amann has also outlined its latest investments aimed at boosting the ecological profile of the company’s production processes. Of particular note, is the work done on its dyeing facilities which has seen the total consumption of primary energy reduced by approximately 20% over the last few years, while the use of gas has significantly increased the efficiency of the boilers from 65% to 90% – substantially reducingd emissions. There has also been a 40% reduction in fresh water usage and a 30% reduction in waste water.

Concentration on physiologically harmless dyestuffs, in accordance with Öko-Tex Standard 100, has also seen the company eliminate the use of solvents while its largest site, in Augsburg, now obtains nearly a third of power requirements from its own hydropower plant.