The FusionTwister sets the benchmark for the cost-effective production of two-for-one twisted staple fibre yarns. In order to achieve this, we have taken into account the three main factors affecting our customers’ profitability, namely energy, economics and ergonomics.
The machines’ reliably low energy consumption is an important characteristic for decision-makers to take into account. Achieved by means of an optimised spindle drive as well as a great variety of spindle and feeding sizes for all kinds of applications, it is the main element in the equation of production costs. Power consumption and costs are closely related, with energy efficiency positively influencing the return on investment, since it is daily challenge to process the maximum feeding weight while keeping electricity usage at a comfortable level. The machine’s short set-up times, fast air threading and easy handling were key considerations with regard to optimising ergonomics.
With the computer-controlled servo drive system, customers have a high degree of flexibility to wind the yarn onto cross-wound packages with a large variation in shapes and density. This vital factor enables them to be successful in a fast-changing market environment. Other features adding to the FusionTwister’s versatility are the software upgrade and newly designed computer panel. This results in better readability and more flexibility, while creating the base for the Saurer mill management system Senses.
We look forward to meeting our customers and industry professionals at ShanghaiTex 2019 so that we can provide visitors with in-depth information on the upgraded FusionTwister.
Saurer’s Contribution to Mankind’s Giant Leap: The Moon Landing
Using Saurer’s 2S-55, the most advanced embroidery machine of the time, Lion Brothers produced the mission patch for Apollo 11, the mission that resulted in two astronauts reaching the moon. Fifty years ago, people around the globe watched in awe as a human being stepped onto the moon’s surface for the first time. We have a little-known connection to this occasion, which marked the start of a new chapter in space exploration.
On 20 July 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the moon. As the world commemorates the 50th anniversary of this event, we consider the small but significant contribution our company made to this momentous occasion, made possible through the expertise of our customer.
Saurer’s partnership with apparel branding innovator Lion Brothers, based in Owings Mills, Maryland, USA, lasted seven decades. Already in 1967, the company had become the first to supply the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with embroidered mission patches, starting with Apollo 1. Using Saurer’s 2S-55, the most advanced embroidery machine of the time, Lion Brothers produced the mission patch for Apollo 11, the mission that resulted in two astronauts reaching the moon.
“We are proud to have made a contribution to this pioneering mission. Superb quality has always been a distinguishing feature of our customers’ products,” states Efthimios Katsidis, General Manager Saurer Embroidery.
Apollo 11 Mission Patches
At the time, punched tape was used to program embroidery machines. An image six times the size of the design, called the enlargement, was produced. The puncher then recorded the X and Y coordinates on the paper tape by punching holes into it. In the case of the Apollo 11 mission patches, the US government contract with Lion Brothers dictated that all enlargements and punched tapes had to be destroyed once production was complete. This means that any such patches produced subsequently are copies.
“As science and technology keep developing, we are eager to see our customers pushing boundaries and using our machines to serve clients in new industries and in unprecedented ways,” says Efthimios Katsidis. “Who knows, perhaps embroideries or technical textiles created on Saurer machines will play a role in the first manned mission to Mars.”
