The three companies have started collaborating in response to a major challenge facing the textile industry: An increased demand in high quality and fine ring spun cotton yarns with a higher proportion of recycled fibers. Unveiled during ITMA 2023 in Milan, their partnership aims to meet this requirement which opens new possibilities for yarn production.

By combining Recover’s mastery of the latest recycling technology, Rieter’s expertise in spinning systems and machines, and Polopiqué’s textile manufacturing proficiency, the three companies have created a high-quality sustainable garment. It is made from a high-quality Ne 30 compact yarn that contains an impressive 40% of recycled post-industrial fabric waste in the yarn. Typically, a recycled fiber content of only 20% is used when producing recycled ring yarn.

Removing unwanted fibers with the comber

The ring spinning process used for this project incorporates the Rieter comber and the Rieter compacting device COMPACTdrum. Recover’s high-quality recycled cotton fibers were blended with virgin cotton at a 50/50 ratio. When combing the blend, undesired very short fibers and neps are effectively removed, resulting in a significant enhancement in yarn quality and improved running performance of the ring spinning machine. Furthermore, the fibers removed by the comber are perfectly suited for processing in the Rieter rotor spinning machine. With these advantages in place, the process aims to be GRS Global Recycling Standard certified.

As demand for recycled cotton continues to grow under the pressure of regulatory requirements, the partnership between Recover, Rieter, and Polopiqué serves as a catalyst for change. The three key players will continue to collaborate and explore new opportunities, reinforcing their commitment to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in the industry.

Franziska Häfeli, Head Sales and Marketing, Business Group Machines and Systems at Rieter, stated: “We’re proud to team up with Recover and Polopiqué in a breakthrough effort that will pave the way toward a more sustainable future. Our specialized expertise in spinning recycled fibers will help achieve our shared goals so together we will make recycling mainstream.”

Alfredo Ferre, CEO at Recover commented: “Recover is thrilled to collaborate with Rieter and Polopiqué in this partnership that is spearheading a new era of sustainability in the textile industry. By increasing the percentage of the recycled content in the yarn and final product, we can achieve our goal to scale the adoption of sustainable fibers, like Recover, and make a lasting positive impact on the environment.”

Eduardo Guimarães, Weaving Director at Polopiqué, said: “Polopique’s mission to continuously test, develop and create new and exciting products, through the use of cutting-edge technology and new and innovative raw materials, is and has been achievable through the partnerships created over the years. Being able to come together with Rieter and Recover™, both long-standing partners of ours, is a privilege, especially considering the aim and focus for this project. Coming together and sharing knowledge and know how has allowed us to reach our collective product objective, and excitement for the impact that this will have on our industry.”