Aurora Specialty Textiles Announces the Opening of A New Manufacturing Operation

In response to the growing demand for digitally printable textiles, Aurora Specialty Textiles Group (ASTG) has announced the opening of a new manufacturing operation in Yorkville, Illinois, that includes a new ultra width coating and finishing line. This state-of-the-art line will dramatically expand Aurora’s production capacity as well as coating and finishing capabilities. It will also allow ASTG to manufacture all print media textiles at widths of up to 130 inches, allowing for optimization of operating efficiencies while maximizing economies of scale. “We are excited about our new manufacturing capabilities, along with our ability to provide an expanded range of products customized to perform in all the major print technologies including latex, solvent/eco-solvent, UV, dye sublimation transfer and direct dye sublimation,” said Mark Shaneyfelt, Director of Sales and Marketing, Print Media. “Our expanded operations also make it possible for us to customize products that best meet our customers’ performance and optimal roll size requirements.” An example of ASTG’s commitment to provide textile print media that optimize performance on today’s latest digital print equipment is their ColorPRO partnership with HP. ASTG recently launched the Premium Poplin LX W/ ColorPRO product, a luxurious premium polyester fabric perfect for retail soft signage, banners and trade show applications. Premium Poplin LX W/ColorPRO has been optimized for use with HP latex printers to ensure ideal ink saturation, color sharpness, print durability and scratch resistance. The partnership with HP underscores one of the advantages of working with Aurora Specialty Textiles Group for print media. As a manufacturer, ASTG has the flexibility to support customers with the customized products they require to meet specific project requirements. ASTG’s new equipment and plant represent a significant, multi-million dollar investment and include the EHWHA ultra wide width coating and finishing line. The EHWHA works with fabrics up to 130 inches wide (3.4 meters) and fabric weights from 85 to 407 grams per square meter. The EHWHA also has a finishing pad, weft straightener, Matex Coating Head with high precision knife over roll and knife over air coating and a reverse roll coater. Functional capabilities include bleaching, fabric preparation, singeing, sanding, finishing, coating, calendering, slitting, dyeing and sheeting. Topical finishes include, but are not limited to, flame retardants, water-repellents, non-wicking agents, release coat agents, soil and stain release agents, antimicrobials, a full range of starches, prepare-for-print, crease-resistant finishing and wrinkle-free finishing. Overall, the EHWHA enhances Aurora’s ability to serve both current and new customers, including those in the print media industry.