Groz-Beckert's GEBECON felting needle for the production of nonwovens, that was among the three finalists, is characterized by an increased stability in comparison to conventional standard felting needles, coupled with high needle flexibility. In the needling process it ensures a uniform fiber compaction, reduces the risk of needle breakage, and guarantees controlled draft even at extremely high production speeds. With its intermediate-reduced working part, the felting needle meets the requirements for a wide range of applications with coarse and fine gauges.

Typical application fields of the GEBECON needle are the production of synthetic leather, the needling of high-tenacity fibers like aramid fibers with high elasticity modulus as well as high-speed and waste-fiber needling with optimized fiber transport.

The “RISE Durable Product Award” recognizes innovations in the sector of nonwoven production. The prize was awarded to Suominen for Fibrella Lite. 

About Groz-Beckert

Groz-Beckert is the world’s leading provider of industrial machine needles, precision parts and fine tools as well as systems and services for the production and joining of textile fabrics. The products and services support the fields of knitting, weaving, felting, tufting, carding and sewing. The family-owned company, founded in 1852, employed around 7,800 people and generated a turnover of around €629 Mio. in 2015. Groz-Beckert operates with agencies, production and distribution subsidiaries in more than 150 countries around the world.