SML has developed an innovative laboratory‑scale spinning line, the Austrofil LABTEX, for the processing of differing polymers, such as PET, PP, PE and PA. The purpose of the new line is to produce small quantities of yarns for testing and R&D purposes. The Austrofil LABTEX features high-quality components such as godets and winders, making it technically equivalent to a full-size industrial line. This line set-up allows for rapid and industry-oriented product developments, thereby reducing the time to market.

Easy switching between FDY and POY mode 
Instant changeovers between FDY (fully drawn yarn) and POY (partially oriented yarn) processes are possible. In FDY mode, the yarn is guided through a stretching module, where it is gently and evenly heat-treated until the required stretch is achieved. Yarns with medium to high-tenacity, as used in the automotive industry for example, are produced in this way. For FDY yarns, the maximum line speed is 4,500 m/min.

In POY mode, by contrast, the stretching unit is bypassed and yarns with lower tenacities are produced. 
POY yarn for subsequent texturizing can be produced up to a maximum line speed of 3,200 m/min. The Austrofil LABTEX has proven its utility in the production of PET-POY yarn for texturizing with flawless and extremely consistent quality.

“The ability to produce both POY and FDY on a single, easily reconfigurable line is a major advantage in R&D for a variety of applications – from home textiles through to the automotive industry”, points out Thomas Pucher, Product Manager at SML. “We also face no challenges in the production of micro-filaments (dpf < 1)”, he continues.

Application in textile recycling 
The Austrofil LABTEX is perfect for material evaluation and development in recycling. In various trials, POY and FDY yarns have been successfully produced from recycled PET and PP.

Redlham, 10.04.2026