KARL MAYER’s New MULTIPLY BX Targets Wind Power Textiles
KARL MAYER will introduce its MULTIPLY BX biaxial warp knitting machine at its Product Show in Changzhou, China, during ITMA ASIA 2026. Designed specifically for wind turbine blade reinforcement textiles, the machine offers productivity gains of 20–25% compared with the company’s MAX GLASS ECO.
The MULTIPLY BX produces glass-fibre biaxial non-crimp fabrics with a high proportion of longitudinal filler yarns and lightweight weft yarns for transverse stabilisation. This construction supports the predominantly unidirectional reinforcement required in wind turbine blades.
Operating at speeds of 1,600–2,200 min⁻¹, depending on stitch length, the machine achieves output of up to 500 metres per hour. It delivers its full performance potential at stitch lengths of 4–5 mm, using filler yarns of up to 2,400 tex and weft yarns of 100–200 tex.
“When developing the MULTIPLY BX, we consistently focused on the needs of our wind power customers. The starting point was a special fibre reinforcement fabric; the result is a highly efficient machine in its field,” said Dr. Jürgen Tröltzsch, Product Specialist for Composite Machines, KARL MAYER Technical Textiles.
Dr. Jürgen Tröltzsch, Product Specialist for Composite Machines, KARL MAYER Technical Textiles
The machine incorporates the operating concept, selected components and basic laying-system structure of the MAX GLASS ECO, alongside targeted enhancements. Its weft carriage width has increased from 8 inches to 12 inches for parallel weft insertion and 16 inches for cross weft insertion.
An adjusted needle-lift movement helps reduce fish eyes holes created when knitting needles pierce the laid fabric, which can impair the mechanical performance of reinforcement materials. Optimised lever movement also reduces vibration during high-speed operation, supporting smoother running and lower wear.
The working width has increased from 101 to 103 inches, improving material utilisation when fabrics are cut into narrow strips for blade production.
Live demonstrations will take place at KARL MAYER (China) in Changzhou from November 19–21 and on November 23, 2026.
