“Automation Is King, Not Only In Spinning But Also In Weaving”
The demand for reliable testing standards for recycled materials is rising quickly, avers Joachim Maier, Head of Marketing, Uster Technologies AG
Uster Technologies AG, the global leader in textile quality measurement, is showcasing innovations focused on automation, digitalization and sustainability at ITMA Asia, reinforcing its leadership in precision from fibre to fabric.
“We are proud to celebrate 150 years of Uster,” said Joachim Maier, Head of Marketing at Uster Technologies AG. “Our journey reflects how we have evolved from a traditional product provider to a complete end-to-end solutions partner. Automation is king, not only in spinning but also in weaving.”
At the event, Uster highlighted its transformation from selling individual instruments to offering integrated digital solutions. Central to this new direction is the Uster 360Q platform, a web-based system that unites measurement, intelligence and expert support. “With 360Q, we help customers not just measure but also predict potential issues,” explained Maier. “It connects data from fibre to winding, giving mills full visibility of their production and quality.”
The 360Q platform features AI and machine learning capabilities, allowing users to forecast performance trends and optimize raw material laydowns. The system also links with Uster’s Quantum Clearers, providing correlations between fibre mixes and yarn quality. Offered through a subscription model, 360Q gives customers access to ongoing updates and Uster’s deep textile expertise.
A key highlight at the booth was the Uster AFIS 6, showcased for the first time in Asia. The instrument now measures cotton, man-made and recycled fibres, offering new possibilities for sustainability-driven mills. “The AFIS 6 is an important step forward,” said Maier. “Recycled materials have higher variation, and our system helps customers maintain consistency and quality while supporting circularity.”
Recycling and sustainability also resonated strongly with visitors. “When we released our new application report on recycled fibres two months ago, it became our most successful communication post,” Maier shared. “The demand for reliable testing standards for recycled materials is rising quickly, especially from retailers who want transparency in what they buy and sell.”
Another major attraction was the Uster Fabriq Vision 2, a next-generation automatic fabric inspection system. It uses new spectral sensors and AI-based Uster Intelligence to detect finer defects while simplifying machine adjustments. “Fabric inspection automation is just taking off,” Maier said. “Our solution makes it easy for mills to start, reduce over-detection, and minimize yield losses.”
Reflecting on the event, Maier said, “Day one was surprisingly strong. We were skeptical given the market situation, but the turnout was excellent. Singapore has been a great venue with easy accessibility and high-quality visitors.”
From fibre to fabric, Uster’s ITMA Asia showcase demonstrated how 150 years of expertise is now driving a new era of smart, connected and sustainable textile manufacturing.
