Uster Panel Explores Challenges And Tech-Driven Solutions For Recycled Yarn Spinning
Producing high-quality yarn from recycled fibers poses unique technical and process challenges, as highlighted during a recent panel discussion hosted by Uster Technologies at its headquarters. The event brought together experts from Rieter, Säntis Textiles, Otto Yarns, and TVU, who emphasized the importance of technology, data, and collaboration in achieving sustainable spinning solutions.
The consensus among the panelists was clear: spinning with recycled fibers requires more than just advanced machinery. It demands a complete rethink of processes, a willingness to adapt to new standards, and an ecosystem where AI, automation, and data-driven insights play an integrated role.
Andreas Merkel, CEO of Otto Yarns, noted that while machinery ensures reliability, differentiation comes from innovation. Otto has re-engineered its Spin-Knit system – initially built for cotton – to handle technical fibers by customizing drafting systems, showcasing how machinery can be adapted for recycled materials.
Stefan Hutter of Säntis Textiles stressed the urgent need for new industry standards specific to recycled fibers. He called for Uster to lead this standardization effort, ensuring that performance and quality are both measurable and trusted. Panelists agreed that collaboration across the value chain will be crucial to establish customer confidence in recycled yarns.
Michael Will of Rieter highlighted the need for spinners to revisit the fundamentals of yarn production. With recycled inputs being variable and inconsistent, he argued that producers must adopt a trial-based, data-intensive approach, tailoring processes from the ground up. He also pointed to the challenges in automating spinning for small batch sizes, suggesting that machine-level automation can help balance flexibility with efficiency.
On the digital front, AI and data integration are increasingly central to sustainable spinning. From sorting and cleaning during recycling to ensuring traceability and quality control, intelligent systems are helping optimize both material recovery and downstream reliability. “Trust in certification is vital, especially for processes like dyeing,” said Thomas Franz of TVU, reinforcing the role of digital traceability.
The discussion concluded with a shared belief, future success in recycled yarn spinning will depend on strong partnerships between technology providers, spinners, and standard-setting bodies. The Uster-led event served as a key step toward this collaborative future, paving the way for innovation-led sustainability in spinning.
The panel discussion (Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLgmyPprjNk) is available in full to those interested in more details.
