ShanghaiTex Review: Tsudakoma Unveils New Concept Loom

ShanghaiTex Review
Textile World Asia Special ReportTsudakoma Unveils New Concept LoomJapan-based Tsudakoma Corp.’s big presence at the show was matched by the constant crowd gathered around its three main attractions: the ZW408 water-jet loom, the ZAX-N air-jet loom and the yet-to-be-named air-jet concept model.The ZW408 is the company’s widest waterjet loom to date. With three nozzles, it is capable of weaving a wide range of fabrics, from general apparel fabrics to thick, value-added fabrics to double fabrics. The unit at the show was set up to weave curtain shade fabrics. The machine runs at 800 revolutions per minute.

ShanghaiTex was the first public showing of Tsudakoma’s newest model — the ZAX-N (Navi) air-jet loom equipped with the Weave Navigation System. Takeshi Kokura, deputy general manager of the sales department, said the loom is designed for denim and runs at a speed of 1,000 (picks per minute) ppm. The Weave Navigation System has a new algorithm that automates settings and monitors looms in operation for the best weaving conditions. Other new features of the ZAX-N (Navi) include completely new electrical components as well as a land-area network (LAN) for networking with a host computer. According to Kokura, the ZAX-N (Navi) was originally scheduled to make its first appearance during ITMA 2003.The concept air-jet loom, shipped directly from the company lab to the show floor, is what the company said will represent its next-generation products. Features of the loom include high productivity (1,900 ppm), low energy consumption and versatility. “We want people to see what point we are aiming and toward what direction we are developing [our products],” said Kokura. Takeshi Kokura said Tsudokama is satisfied with ShanghaiTex.
Spring 2004