10/02/2026 – Hall 12.0/B79 — auf Deutsch lesen

Karl Mayer at Techtextil: New warp-knit advances and a dedicated Innovation Center

Karl Mayer presents advanced textile structures, reinforcement fabrics and functional apparel solutions at Techtextil, alongside the parallel opening of its Textile Innovation Center in Obertshausen.

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Technical warp knits are full of surprises and innovative potential, as the hollow fibre mats produced by Karl Mayer warp knitting machines with weft insertion demonstrate. © Karl Mayer

 
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Warp-knitted fabrics for stylish and functional footwear: the shoe collection highlights the design potential of Karl Mayer’s high-performance warp-knitting machines. © Karl Mayer

 

Across many industrial sectors, permeable textile structures are gaining importance for processes requiring controlled transfer of gases or liquids. At Techtextil, Karl Mayer illustrates how warp-knitted hollow-fibre constructions address these needs. Produced on warp-knitting machines with weft insertion, the structures demonstrate roles ranging from oxygenating blood outside the body to supporting ink purification and carbonating beverages. Their characteristics make them particularly relevant for filtration, where performance and consistency are essential.

During the company's Opening Week in Obertshausen, visitors can examine the efficient production of these fabrics. The relevant machinery will be running live, offering a direct look at process behaviour and throughput.

Multiaxial reinforcements with precise fibre alignment

Reinforcement fabrics from Karl Mayer's multiaxial systems form another part of the presentation. These machines produce geotextile and composite relevant structures through controlled fibre placement. The company will outline potential application areas on its 60 m2 stand, enabling visitors from sectors such as construction, mobility and industrial textiles to evaluate possible integration into their own product portfolios.

Functional textiles for protection and comfort

The company is also showcasing textile solutions for defence, workwear and sun protection applications. For outdoor use, dedicated UV tested articles have been developed, and the corresponding test results will be presented in Frankfurt. Additional examples include shoe uppers for sports and fashion, demonstrating the aesthetic and functional range achievable with high performance warp knitting equipment.

Innovation Center opens parallel to the exhibition

A major development accompanying the trade fair is the launch of Karl Mayer's Textile Innovation Center in Obertshausen. The facility combines archival developments, current prototypes and a machine hall for processing trials. For manufacturers aiming to assess new textile pathways, the centre provides opportunities for technical dialogue and hands on evaluation during Opening Week.